On the seventh floor of Water Tower Place at 835 N Michigan Ave, the Chicago Sports Museum brings together memorabilia from the city’s teams and interactive sports challenges. See artifacts connected to the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls and Blackhawks, then test your skills in simulated games. Some activities let you compare your abilities with famous athletes, including Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. A visit pairs well with a meal at the adjoining Harry Caray’s restaurant, whose diners can receive complimentary museum admission. Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore.
Chicago teams and their memorabilia
The museum focuses on Chicago’s sports history, with artifacts connected to teams including the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls and Blackhawks. The collection includes game-used items and memorabilia from significant moments in local sports. One example is the ball hit for Addison Russell’s grand slam in Game 6 of the 2016 World Series.
The displays also cover athletes and moments that have become part of Chicago sports culture. Cubs fans can explore an exhibit about the team’s famous curse, while other displays bring together stories and objects from the city’s different sports. The collection gives fans a reason to pause between the more active exhibits and look closely at the history behind the teams.
Try the interactive exhibits
Skill challenges and simulated experiences invite you to take part, not just look at objects behind glass. Some activities let you compare your wingspan with Scottie Pippen’s or test your jump against Michael Jordan’s. Other challenges draw on baseball, basketball, hockey and football, with simulations that let you try a sport for yourself.
The museum also has a sports-forensics exhibit that explores mysteries and evidence connected to Chicago sports. One display looks at how baseball construction has changed. Other activities use technology to examine famous sports stories, and a replica broadcast booth gives you the chance to call a game in the style of Harry Caray. The mix of memorabilia and hands-on features makes the visit suitable for adults and children who enjoy sports.
Plan your stop at Water Tower Place
Find the museum on the seventh floor of Water Tower Place, at 835 N Michigan Ave. Its location on the Magnificent Mile makes it easy to pair with a visit to the shopping district. The adjoining Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch is another option for a meal during your stop.
Diners at Harry Caray’s can receive complimentary admission to the museum. Keep your meal receipt to show when entering. Students may also be eligible for a discount with student ID. The museum is compact enough that you can plan roughly 1.5 to 2 hours for the exhibits and activities; if you want to repeat the interactive challenges, leave extra time.
FAQ
Where is the Chicago Sports Museum?
It is on the seventh floor of Water Tower Place at 835 N Michigan Ave in Chicago.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the exhibits and interactive activities.
Can you get free admission with a meal at Harry Caray’s?
Yes. Diners at the adjoining Harry Caray’s restaurant can receive complimentary museum admission. Keep your meal receipt to claim it.
Is there a student discount?
A student discount is available with student ID.
