DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

History museum · Washington Park

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

History museum · Washington Park

3

740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637

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DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by MATADOR_NETWORK
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center by null

Highlights

Museum exhibits African-American history, culture, art & military.  

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740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637 Get directions

dusablemuseum.org
@dusablemuseum

Information

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740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637 Get directions

+1 773 947 0600
dusablemuseum.org
@dusablemuseum
𝕏
@DuSableMuseum

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
crowd family friendly

Last updated

Aug 30, 2025

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40 Best Things to Do in Chicago

"A Smithsonian-affiliated museum celebrating Black culture and history in Chicago." - Meena Thiruvengadam Meena Thiruvengadam Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Stree

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/city-vacations/best-things-to-do-in-chicago
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@matadornetwork

Art and Culture in Chicago

"The DuSable Museum of African American History is dedicated to the study of African American history, culture, and art, and the way they have helped shape modern American society today. The oldest and one of very few institutions of its kind, the DuSable Museum houses over 15,000 pieces, among which is memorabilia from the journey of African-Americans towards equality in the US and art from Africa. The DuSable Museum is in Washington Park on the Southside." - MATADOR_NETWORK

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/chicago/art-culture/
View Postcard for DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
@postcardnews

Founded by South Side organizers and artists, the DuSable explores Black history and culture with exhibitions, talks, and collaborations. A Smithsonian affiliate praised by local reporters, it offers free Wednesdays and keeps Chicago’s Black history central to the city’s story.

https://dusablemuseum.org/visitor/
Best Museums in Chicago (2025)
View Postcard for DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

Samantha Peters

Google
Absolutely amazing and beyond worth it. I took the #4 bus south, which dropped me off right near the entrance. The service throughout the museum was warm and welcoming—everyone I interacted with was incredibly kind. I was especially moved by the I.Am.Her exhibit—deeply powerful and affirming. I also loved the bookstore; the attendant there was so helpful and kind. The educational experience overall was a 10/10. A must-visit for anyone in Chicago.

Hannah B

Google
We had a wonderful time visiting the DuSable Museum. The kids area was amazing and way exceed what we imagined. The kids section had a baby area, little jungle gym, great book selection, SALON!, fun stationary bikes, and a restaurant/ grocery area. Our kids (7, 6, &1) enjoyed playing and then enjoyed walking through the exhibit areas. A great mix of pictures, videos, artifacts, and can’t forget the Harold Washington robotic. Staff and security were very kind and welcoming. We spent about an hour here. Would definitely come back.

Autumn Cao

Google
A very cool collection that offers a look into some Chicago black history as well! I really enjoyed the Harold Washington section. The opening exhibit also has lots of amazing artwork. They offer a student discount at $11 per ticket. I thought the kid section that teaches diversity was also very important. Great way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Ben Rotko

Google
Lovely museum with well-curated exhibits. Staff were friendly and eager to share Chicago’s Black history. The museum has something for everyone, whether you are well-informed or a curious beginner in the subject of Black history.

Barbara Bennett

Google
My sorority sisters and I spent MLK Day at DuSable honoring Dr. King. It was great to see so many families of all races coming together, braving the brutally cold weather to pay respect to Dr. King at the DuSable Museum. I was honored with a quick after-hours tour of the children's area. It is a must-see! Go, join, and celebrate Black history, American history.

Teriana Loftin

Google
1st time in Chicago, didn’t know what to expect but we enjoyed it. A smaller museum only 2 floor. We spent about 2-2.5 hours there

Alexia Hamilton

Google
Sometimes I can't take visualizing the horrible, painful, deadly path of my ancestors so this was a breath of fresh air. They did not focus on slavery, the focus was more on accomplishments. They showed African tribal things and tried to portray life in Africa from the eyes of a child. Well worth the visit.

Desiré Findlay

Google
Enjoyed my visit here. The staff were welcoming, friendly, and helpful. I learned a lot in the exhibits, but recommend starting downstairs and then moving upstairs. The lower level has most of the enslavement and Civil Rights history, so it can bring up a lot of emotions. The upper level is different in that it displays art, photography, and prominent figures that tell stories of progress and hope. I went with another adult, but there was a small section for young children on the upper level as well. The museum is not large, it took us about 1.5 hours to go all the way through. I would be interested in going back as exhibits change. There was enough free parking in the lot, but spaces would likely be limited on a busy day.
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Quin B.

Yelp
I had a great time here with my family. There was so much black history and culture rooted in Chicago to learn here. There were many awe inspiring and also tragic events presented. Especially with me not being from Illinois, I learned a lot. A trip to the DuSable museum is definitely worth it!
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Arthur S.

Yelp
I was born in the segregated South, a white guy who continues to puzzle over how such injustice could be done. The DuSable accurately depicts segregation while highlighting black patriots, writers, activists and others. I learned a lot, was treated cordially, and plan to return with my family.
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Tonya J.

Yelp
Our family loves stopping to explore history visits and immediately made a decision to add this to the top of the list. Glad we did. We are museum members at our home museum which have reciprocal privileges in various states that you can use your membership on. This was one of them. Our admission was free. Parking on the side of the building was also free. Friendly customer service here well. We had a great educational time.
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Rachel W.

Yelp
Had a great day exploring the museum with our Bronzeville The Musical cast as one of our group outings to learn more about our history together. We are looking forward to bringing to life the stories of our ancestors when our musical debuts at The Studebaker Theatre April 5th and runs through April 14th. I also purchased several books from the bookstore for my younger daughter that are great affirmations as well as some beautiful jewelry. The staff were all very pleasant, kind and informing.
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Hunter S.

Yelp
Precursor: Living in the south, I have been to most every major Black history/African American history/civil rights museum, from Montgomery Alabama to Atlanta Georgia to Memphis Tennessee. I've been to the Equal Justice Initiative museum and monument, the Lorraine Motel where MLK was assassinated. Every place I travel to, I seek out black culture and history. The main museum I have not been able to visit as of yet is NMAAH in DC. With this in mind, I knew I might not learn a ton at this smaller museum located in Chicago. But they are doing important work and I am so glad I came. There is plenty of parking on the back side of the building. Entry fee is 14 dollars. Everyone here was so nice! The security guard at the front and the gentleman giving instructions and an overview of the museum started my visit off right--smiling, informative, welcoming. I started off with the March on Washington experience. This is a timed experience that runs on the half hour. It is about 20 minutes in duration. Four people per turn. The first eight minutes is an immersive sound bath of interviews and reflections on the civil rights movement. The last half is a virtual reality experience of the March on Washington and the I have a dream speech. You're fit with a VR headset and get to watch the march and the speech. Is it the most amazing VR experience ever? No. Is it a little like mid 2000s computer gaming? Yes. But it's unique and stirring. Next was a large collection focusing on Black contributions to the military, particularly WWI and the civil war. I learned a lot about important characters that we aren't taught about in school. The bulk of this collection was comprised of the Captain James C. Hall collection. It was moving and emotional to read his personal letters and get to know him and learn of his experience at war in Europe. It was probably my favorite part of the whole museum. There is a section about Harold Washington, Chicago's first black mayor, complete with animatronics. There is a section on African culture and art, where I learned the surprising, yet not surprising fact, that over 90% of artistic objects created in Africa before the 19th century are OUTSIDE of Africa. The security guard in this section was also nice and helpful, telling us about the QR codes on each piece, to tell us more info than what was posted on the placards. There is a really neat activity where you can follow the story of an enslaved young person if he had Instagram during his time. I was really interested in this, but unfortunately the QR code isn't functioning (several of us tried it--it appears altered or damaged, so it won't read). They also have sections on chattel slavery and some more info on the civil rights movement. This museum could use some attention and help. The staff clearly love this place and support the mission, but like many museums focusing on Black history, it is underfunded and doesn't receive the attention it should. As a Smithsonian affiliate, I wish they would step in and help. TLDR: this museum doesn't compete with the biggest museums in the south and DC, but it's important that we support it. It's also a very good starting point for people who might know as much about the topic. If you really pay attention and read, you can spend a couple of hours here.
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Steve A.

Yelp
Get here and learn some black history with collections from around the world and the city. It has quite a few more things than expected and a visit can take a couple hours. The DuSable Black History Museum is on the west side of Washington Park. Can get to it without a car and it saves a bit. You can get pretty close with public transportation. Anyone who wants to know more about black history needs to come here and check out some paintings, sculptures, and other kinds of exhibits. It's not just in February. This is a place to go to all year. Get a cheaper price on certain days. It's for Illinois residents only though. At the beginning of the museum are mostly paintings. There's also sculptures. Good place to learn about the history of those coming from Africa. There's exhibits on African artifacts such as tribal masks. Also more modern history such as about Martin Luther King Jr.'s time in Chicago. There's also exhibits on many race riots. Find out about African Americans in the military. There's also an exhibit on Harold Washington. He was Chicago's first black mayor. There's also lots of information about famous events such as civil rights. Has enough to spend a few hours or so looking around in. It's cheaper if going on a day with free admission but it probably will be pretty busy though. These are listed on the website.
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Meryl F.

Yelp
DuSable Museum of African American History is a hidden gem in Chicago! I highly recommend making your way to this museum even if its a bit further out from the main museum campus and attractions. As a local, I am always in search for other museums in the city where I can learn more about the history and to explore other areas and neighborhoods in Chicago. It's located in the Hyde Park neighborhood and very close proximity to the University of Chicago. If it wasn't so cold and in the middle of winter, I would have loved to walk around explore more of the neighborhood. The museum was very educational and not too overwhelming like some other museums. You can explore all the exhibits give or take about two hours. There is currently a virtual exhibit called "The March" where you are taken to a virtual reality as a participant of the historic March in Washington. It was a pretty surreal exhibit and afterwards I truly felt like I was part of the impactful movement. The staff were wonderful with only allowing a certain amount of people in the room for the exhibit and disinfecting the headsets after each use. The admission is reasonable and includes all the special exhibits. You will also receive a discount if you are a Chicago resident. Definitely worth a visit and the neighborhood of Hyde Park!
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Alex G.

Yelp
Essential for any Chicago Trip. This museum, the Cultural Center, and the river cruise. You get a real sense of Chicago and its culture. There are more places that could round this out. But these three are not to miss. Book your tickets to this museum first as they have limit hours. Whereas the other museums are open longer and more days. The staff here is very kind and educated. There is a wealth of knowledge here and speaking with members of the staff. There are always having events in the summer.
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Shamontiel V.

Yelp
Without giving any credit to the reality show I was watching yesterday, one cast member just kept going on and on about how there are "no black museums" and it was wearing on my patience. The DuSable Black History Museum has been in my life MY WHOLE LIFE, from countless elementary school trips to pit stops on my way to the Hyde Park Jazz Fest and beyond. This even became a date night spot for me at one point, although I forget what the exhibit was at the time. I just remember him insisting we go here. I love that there are other black history museums popping up and being built in notable numbers over the past few years, but this one seems to be underrated (or lesser known) if you're not a Chicago native. I always thought it was super popular until I noticed it was not mentioned enough when newer museums are promoted. So I'll give it its roses on my own! They always have some new event or exhibit. If/when I'm on the South Side, I try to poke my head in to support. I always end up in the bookstore buying something I absolutely don't need. (How many bookmarks can one person have?) But I like it in there too.
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Riley C.

Yelp
There is so much to see that it could easily utilize two trips. The only thing it would be nice to also have would be benches to sit down and maybe an area to allow for conversation to process.
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Kyla W.

Yelp
Definitely a great experience. There is quite a few Exhibit to experience. My favorite was by far the cave. Very interactional and extremely educational. There is something for the whole family here. Right now there is a time exhibit called "the march" and it is a virtual reality experience of Dr. Martin Luther King's speech. I loved everything about it and will definitely be back! It was about $30 for two people, just a heads up! So worth it though! I'd do it again.
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Danielle P.

Yelp
I visited this African American museum a few weeks ago when I was in Chicago traveling through. It was very easy to navigate to with the use of a GPS device or Google maps. There was no parking available in their private parking lot, but I was able to find nearby street parking. The grounds didn't appear to being maintained because the grass was very high. Upon entering I noticed that the staff was enforcing the COVID-19 pandemic precautions, and required all visitors to social distance and to wear a face mask. As I took my time observing the 2 floors of artifacts they had, I found everything to very interesting and educational. I could definitely see it being useful for the local community and as well as visitors who desire to know more about Chicago history. I would highly recommend this museum to anyone who enjoys history or just wants a couple of relaxing time.
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Alaya W.

Yelp
I love how I was able to experience the time on March experienced a virtual experience with Martin Luther King give his I have a dream speech love the exhibit history with soldiers and women in the history of Chicago with the first mayor of Chicago Harold Washington it was very educational I love the exhibit across the street the people were very nice it was an amazing experience there was so much history in this place it is an amazing is a great place to visit
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Ali P.

Yelp
DuSable museum of African American history in Chicago is an ABSOLUTE must go! The current exhibit is a virtual reality experience of the March on Washington. I can't explain how surreal and impactful it was to stand in the crowds and read the signs, see the people, and see MLK give his speech even if only virtually. No recording, no video could ever be as impactful as the virtual reality piece, it makes the actual moment come to life. There were such good exhibits; so much history, beautiful artwork, a great layout, but most importantly the truth of American history through the lens of African Americans. I felt A LOT of different emotions going through this museum which means they did their job well, I'll definitely return.

Ran Y.

Yelp
Excellent and a real treat to see so much history for a low cost! I've visited this museum before in the early 2000s, and it was something to see the new exhibits.
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Melissa H.

Yelp
MUST SEE!!! I just needed to get out of the hotel and so we found this online- quite impressive and in need of more support for continued enhancements. The March On exhibit was very good and well organized and managed. I was not sure about the virtual experience, but VERY glad I did it. I appreciate the perspective and the added dimension and experience. It was also pretty cool to hear about the former, and first, black mayor of Chicago. They used robotics with soundbites from various news reports to document this exceptional story - as told by the mayor himself! Don't miss the opportunity to take a picture (virtually imposed) with the mayor. When you purchase your tickets online you can schedule the March On tour and have your virtual viewing time set - great option! There is also an extension to the DuSable Museum across the street, but you need wristband to enter. It is a fashion exhibit currently (October 2022)
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Sue L.

Yelp
Yesterday the museum had the first official Juneteenth celebration. The mayor and other officials attended and gave riveting speeches. The museum also had a fund raising drive. There were food trucks ie Harold's Chicken and Mexican food. There was a new statue unveiling and live entertainment with celebrity guests in Chance the rapper at the 3pm party.
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Shamara B.

Yelp
Visited this museum. It was a very nice experience. We were able to do THE MARCH exhibit which was very cool and the Kara Walker. The museum is small but nice. All of the staff was very welcoming and warming. I definitely recommend stopping by and visiting. I took the red line from downtown hopped on one bus and it was a 5 minute walk from the bus stop. So it was very easy to get to.

Jasper B.

Yelp
While this museum is rather small it makes up for it by creating immersive displays. I found the Harold Washington animatronic compelling, and I thoroughly enjoyed the live-size hut in the African exhibit. Furthermore, history buffs will appreciate the WW1 exhibition.
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Jacqueline B.

Yelp
FINALLY some Gay Pride activities on the south side! this was actually behind the museum, some of it in an auditorium of some sort. It seemed small but spirited by comparison. The entry was $12, OR get tested for HIV! We chose testing (cheap, low on cash) and sat in a trailer. The results were fast, a finger prick and 3 liquids in a pod. Lots of condom take aways and info on prevention around of course. Only a couple of food vendors, limited veggie options and of course lots of bars for drinks. Jack Daniels and vodka seemed to be the stars of the drinking show. There was live music and DJs, and inside lots of tables with info from Howard Brown Health, shirts for sale, upcoming movie info, etc. We only stayed around about an hour or hour and a half, but the even went til 9. I like the area but I hope it's bigger next year.
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Eddie U.

Yelp
This is an incredible place that holds stories that are so relevant to our times. We experienced THE MARCH, a groundbreaking immersive exhibit that re-creates one of the most iconic moments in American history, the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Fantastic.
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Kayla W.

Yelp
Great experience. Great museum. Nice hidden gem away from the city. Can't wait to come back and see what's new. The TIMES MLK exhibit was amazing.

Arlene C.

Yelp
We stumbled upon this museum as a result of a walking tour. And I am so glad that we did! Not being from Chicago, I knew very little of the history of the black community here. The history of Boston (where I am from) is decidedly different that Chicago and so I was eager to learn about that from our walking tour and was equally rewarded by the museum. So, for me, it was a very good experience. We were warmly welcomed by the staff, I would highly recommend it to anyone, and I hope they can continue to expand and include their mission in the city of Chicago.
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Garifalia K.

Yelp
This museum is beautiful and exhibitions are engaging. The museum tells the story of full story of Chicago history. Parking is convenient and close to the University of Chicago campus. There are many events, workshops and lectures to check out at DuSable.

Pamela Grace P.

Yelp
It's a small museum, but easy to navigate in and out. The parking is free and close. The staff was pleasant, personable and professional enjoy shopping in the DuSable museum store for signature items. I especially love the virtual experience of the MLK speech. You really did get the sense of being there, and feeling the magic of the moment love the diverse exhibit they were comprehensive on a small scale of Africa American experience from slave entry to key points in history. Enjoyed the awesome art upon entry. The overall experience was affirming as it spoke of thee strength to overcome diversity and hard times. It hinted at the vestiges that still remain the work that still needs to be done while we sing America and hope for leaders to still emerge.
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Ann S.

Yelp
There is no close by train station. Even the green line I tried to use seems not to run often on Sunday afternoon. I took a bus and it drops you off a few feet from the museum entrance. My observations: -There are a total of 5 exhibits and I viewed all of them (not thoroughly): Paintings, War artifacts, Honoring Harold Washington, photography collection, and slavery/civil rights era/Obama's election -There are two levels. -The bathroom are ok but old. The stalls are small. -There is a bookstore with some cool t-shirts, clothing, and other stuff. -If you come with a backpack, you will have to leave it at the front desk and come back for it when you are ready to leave. Worth a stop. Picked up some new facts.
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Damian P.

Yelp
Absolutely awestruck by the whole museum. From its humble beginnings to what it is today. Sadly, last November the founder passed away. but her dream of being the biggest African Museum to date is still alive. I was very moved when I first walked in and saw that the first case I saw was actual shackles and it did move me to the point of tears. I knew after that, that this would be an experience. So here I go to the "movie room" where the founder and others spoke from a big screen television mounted to the wall and you are able to sit in a "theater" kind of seating area and just enjoy the acoustics of what the museum has to offer from its humble beginnings into what it is today. Grand I say Grand! I completed that part of the museum and proceeded across the space to a room that shows what the museum is doing across the street. A whole theater area for the public! Wow, the museum grows as we speak. They have a beautiful display on the second floor of the late Mayor Harold Washington that is very interesting since it has animotronics and an actual "robot" if you will of the late Mayor narrates the story of his up and coming election and even talks about the conspiracy theory of his death. It is eerie yet very beautiful. I have a lot of love for the Mayor and this whole productions which also includes his desk, and some of his personal items of the Mayor also. Definitely go, this is a great museum to visit.
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Tinotenda S.

Yelp
Museum starts off with introductory section which shows you what the set up is and brief history.This is more of an Informative museum but I really wish they had more things to showcase. It's a lot of reading and not too many artifacts which would be an issue with funding I think. The experience is not engaging so expect to walk around and learn a few things but nothing really to touch you as the AA measeum in Detroit/ DC. When you compare this to other African American museums you can tell Chicago barely invested into this project.
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FreeDom ..

Yelp
As a newcomer to Chicago, this place feels extremely warm and enchanting. I appreciate the focus on community; multi-generational capacity building and the public programs. I'm a fan...
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Nina W.

Yelp
A must do. Learn about the historical perspectives often left out. You'll come away much more informed about our society than when you entered.
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Corelle P.

Yelp
The visit was long overdue. I love coming here and I always get inspired by the exhibitions. The Harold Washington exhibit in particular was interesting. There's a mechanical figure of him and when I first saw it, I was freaked out by it; reminds me of The Stepford Wives(70s horror movie). I posted a few pics on Instagram: elleellecoolp. Overall, I always have a blast there.
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Britney B.

Yelp
This place is so beautiful, even the building is a work of art. They are currently doing renovations, so a lot of exhibits are not open. However, an entire new extension should be unveiled in 2020. I can't wait to see it!
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Patrick J.

Yelp
Great city AA Museum. Good history and great staff. Right in the heart of Chicago. Near Hyde park, University of Chicago.
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Keila K.

Yelp
I love museums particular African American ones so when I discovered the DuSable museum during last year's visit to Chicago, I had to stop in. Unfortunately, time got ahead of me so I wasn't able to go that year but for this year's visit to Chi town, I made sure to add it to the agenda during the few two days of my time there. The building is huge and surprisingly quiet. I was surprised to not see many patrons which I got over pretty quickly cause it allowed me to have each exhibit to myself. There's several exhibits features like Harold Washington, Chicago's first AA mayor, Transatlantic Slave Trade and life in America during Jim Crow, the poems of Maya Angelou. There was on exhibit that I absolutely fell in love with which was Kitihawa's Chandelier by a photographer named Nicolas Henry. Never heard of him prior to the exhibit but I'm glad his pieces were there because I'm officially a fan. I'm not sure if I overlooked it but I didn't see a DuSable exhibit which was a bummer. I would've loved to learn about him and his discovery of Chicago. They're building a second part to the museum which will be across the street. Can't wait for that to open which is scheduled for 2018.
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Wynetta S.

Yelp
I attended a fashion show there on 9/29th for House of Duvall (Glenn Duvall). The show was scheduled for 7:00 showtime which ended up being 8:30ish and 2as done at 9:30 ($40.00). I must say this was my first time attending this event. The show appeared to be unorganized. The intermissions wasn't seamless actually nothing was. I won't go on and on but overall I would give him 2 stars for the show and 3.5 for the apparel. He did apologize for the show lateness but the lady that spoke b4 him was very unapologetic and rude over the mic in regards to ppl having drinks in the theater. I understand but seeing you all were over one hour late you think she'll be more empathic. I won't be attending anymore.
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Devyn H T.

Yelp
Came here for the monthly Bank of America "Museums on Us" Deal and was glad I went. TEMP EXHIBITS: When I came, the Maya Angelou exhibit was up, as well as an exhibit about Carnival Performance. Both of these were very beautiful and interesting. I appreciate the dedication to providing information to accompany the visual aspects. Furthermore, the temp exhibits were varied in medium. There were videos, interactive experiences, crowd-sourced art, sculptures, paintings, and so much more. I like when museums acknowledge the range of what constitutes art-- not just a few stuffy paintings hung in a room. PERM EXHIBITS: The Harold Washington Exhibit is pretty informative and interesting. To be honest I didn't know much about Harold Washington before coming the museum. I'm ashamed to say that. The exhibition regarding African American history in America was also very interesting. I appreciate that the exhibit was very comprehensive and addressed more of our history in America than the era of slavery. Some museums-- typically the ones owned and operated outside of the AA community-- have a tendency to focus in just on slavery without addressing the richness outside of those stories. Not so at Dusable! PARKING: Finding parking is a little more of a production around here. You will likely have to park on the street. But I didn't have any trouble
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La Tonya G.

Yelp
I know I love the Dusable Museum so when I saw that they were having what looked like a fun and exciting event that included wine; I thought why not. The name of the event was "DUSOMETHING CREATIVE! ART. WINE. ENTERTAINMENT. DU YOU!" I hope this becomes an annual event because I absolutely had so much fun and I wished it was a little longer as far as times goes because they had so many different stations to visit and also I wish they allowed the wine to flow more freely. So, when we got there they gave you 3 drink tickets and that included the water so I wish they would have either gave you more drink tickets or just let people drink freely because they weren't filling up the glass that much for it to be a problem...lol that's just my opinion and they shouldn't have made water count as a ticket. Other than that everything else was great. I truly enjoyed the screen printing as well as the animation class I got my circle to go across the page and I felt like I was a kid again I was so excited. They also had a Collective Mosaic project that we didn't get to finish but I found so relaxing I think I want to do one here at home. I didn't participate on the Collective Mural but after I saw what they did I sure wish I had it was a phenomenal picture of a young man and woman when they finished and everyone who participated had a piece of their art and on the Mural and it was beautiful. They had cell photography, card art, as well as poetry writing I didn't get to those but if they do this again I will try my best to make it to one of those projects. They had a performance by Mouth Peace, Lyte Skin and another young lady that I can't remember her name but they were Awesome with a capital A. The price was right as well only $15 plus a $1.62 fee from Eventbrite and all supplies, food, and drinks(3) were included. The DJ was great if I wasn't trying too get my art on I would have been in the middle of the dance floor getting my dance on. I have to say as things were winding down the DJ put on different slides like wobble and people came out and danced. All in All I loved this event and if they have another one...I will be back! Enjoy!
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Sarita M.

Yelp
I appreciate that they have the museum but it beeds a lot of repairs. I like the theater and it had some interesting displays but they need more. It would've been cool if more if the attractions talked or had some sort of audio so that you dont have to read everything. Sometimes its hard to determine whats important information and whats just extra blurbs and interesting facts. If you have a short amount of time audio will help you get the meat and potatoes quickly. There were some amazing tributes to some amazing people i feel as it some of these things should be played up. There is so much missing from this museum when it comes to black history. Off to a good start but there is some work to be done. I suggest the owners visit the African American history museum in Detroit its on another level.
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Marlon F.

Yelp
I liked this place, and loved the area. The staff was great too. My favorite part was all of the photos of African American military veterans. I loved seeing the photo of the all black unit in The Civil War. I especially loved looking at a photo of the 351st field artillery unit that served in World War I. The photo stated they just arrived back from France. My grandfather's dad served in World War I, fought in France and was even injured, so this part of the museum resonated with me.
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Ken O.

Yelp
The Dusable Museum is head a hidden gem. It so worth the trip to the museum. For the people who use public transportation, just get on the #4 - Cottage Grove bus until the 56th Street stop - walk across the street. I haven't been there for couple of years. Just as interesting as my first first time. The museum is very well laid out. When you go, just plan to spend couple of hours to go through this museum. The museum covers all of the countries of Africa. I wish the staff members more energetic. Overall, a museum everyone should visit.
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Hannah M.

Yelp
I went to the museum for the last two hours before it closed on a cold Wednesday afternoon and had the whole place to myself! The area about Mayor Washington (equipped with an animatronic recreation of the man himself) was so informative and interesting. The exhibit downstairs that goes through the past 300 years of African American's place in society from the slave trade to Obama's presidency was incredibly illuminating and moving. You walk through and recognize every brave struggle that led to where we are today. Though we have a long way to go to truly end racism and segregation in this country, this museum gave me hope that we can and will keep moving in the right direction. Definitely worth visiting!
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Janna S.

Yelp
This is a community museum that reflects the local history and culture of Chicago as well as the evolving culture and values of African Americans. The evident dedication and care shown throughout the modest exhibits reflects a local commitment to enriching the community's understanding of history instead of bringing in tourist dollars with European art exhibits. How refreshing to see a side of real Chicago history! I hope the museum receives continued funding to accomplish their goals and give back to the community. This is not a touristy area of the city but I'm glad I made the trip - they should be receiving more funding to tell their story and facilitate community discussion.

La L.

Yelp
Great museum and affordable. A lot of nice pieces and even an interactive Harold Washington skit very entertaining and informative.
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Brittany J.

Yelp
I haven't been here in years! So glad I stopped by. There's some cool stuff inside and lots about Chicago history. Wish we had more time to explore.
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Renee F.

Yelp
I came here during my visit to Chicago and I thought the museum was very nice. The exhibits were interesting but overall I think they can utilize the space better and include more. We got through the museum in about an hour and 15 min and overall I came or with more knowledge than I had when I came in, which is what matters to me. The admission price is affordable and I'd like to visit again when I'm in town.
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Gavvin S.

Yelp
Visited this site today. The customer service was great. The older lady at the front door was beyond helpful. She went through all of the areas in the museum. It was a great thing to see so much African American history and other information. We really enjoyed the Hubert Washington section. That was the most informative area to us. On the con side of the coin. The souvenir shop needs a little more souvenirs. But I will be back! I recommended not just African Americans to visit but all individuals. It's American history!
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Tanzeela M.

Yelp
This was my first visit to the DuSable. I will say this museum has potential but there just needs to be more added to it. I thought it would have had more exhibits on great African-American Chicagoans but it mainly only centred on a few people like its first AA mayor, Harold Washington (which is a very interesting exhibit), AAs in the U.S. military and a slavery exhibition. There's a lot of space and more could be added to it to make it worth your while to visit and learn more about the plight of black Americans in Chicago and Illinois. If you are in the area I would say it's worth a visit but probably not worth taking the long bus ride out near the U of C campus.
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Brittnye D.

Yelp
I was in Chicago this past weekend and was hoping to visit this museum. I called around 2pm to confirm they'd be open until 5pm (as their website states) and was told they will be closing early because they "like to head out early on Fridays". I've heard great things but was very disappointed that they did not honor there regular business hours, even after I told her that we were coming from out of town.
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Temeka E.

Yelp
Sundays are free admission days. However, I would be to attend. Lots of history. Excited to see the expansion plans. I love the Military exhibit as my Dad retired from the USN. This is a great place to bring the entire family. The exhibit about the first black mayor of Chicago was another highlight. It's not a huge museum, but it's worth a stop the next time you are in Chicago. Additionally, the gift shop has reasonably priced items. We purchased several instruments from African countries.