Chicago Board of Trade Building Museum

The CBOT Museum is an absolute hidden gem in Chicago! It’s incredible how such a cool, beautifully curated space is not only easy to access, but completely free. The museum does an excellent job highlighting the historical significance of the Chicago Board of Trade building—something you really feel as soon as you step inside. One of my favorite parts was the short film that walks through the evolution and transformation of the building over more than a century. I could watch it on loop. The artifacts are equally captivating: the button collection, a classic trader jacket, and the hand-signal book used on the trading floor—all treasures that pull you right into the story of the CBOT and its culture. And the surprises don’t stop there. At the end, you’re treated to free postcards (a lost art!), and you still have the rest of the building to explore. There’s truly a lot to enjoy here. Whether you’re a history buff, a finance nerd, or just curious about Chicago’s past, this museum is absolutely worth the visit!!

The newly opened Chicago Board of Trade Museum is definitely worth checking out for an interesting look back at the importance of the CBOT building to Chicago and the trading floors it once hosted. The creators did an excellent job curating the exhibits, with authentic artifacts, immersive video and first person stories. For anyone with an interest in Chicago history and the markets, it’s a must visit! Plus it’s free and to make the visit complete, you can grab a drink or bite to eat at Ceres restaurant next door.

The new Chicago Board of Trade museum is highly recommended for anyone interested in Chicago's financial history and the legendary CBOT trading floors. The museum was expertly curated with real trading floor artifacts and an immersive video which helps capture the energy of the old trading pits. Free admission makes it easy to drop in as well.