01Apr
Bird Watch Scavenger Hunt
American Writers Museum
America at 250: Explore the Writers Who Shaped the Nation
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the American Writers Museum explores ideas of independence, equality, and identity through more than 400 years of American writing. Discover a new pop-up exhibit, public programs, and a student writing competition inviting new voices to reflect on the opening words of the Declaration of Independence and what they mean today.
Click Here to Explore America250
“Amazing place to reflect on American voices, for people who love to read and write and explore what it means to develop their own voice.”
visitor testimonials
“It’s a beautiful and very worthwhile place, quiet, flowing and very interactive.”
“Love this museum! Place for you who enjoy any kind of literature, from novel, speech, song, poem, poetry, history of literature, etc.”
find your words
Hover over the images to see what our visitors are saying!
"The Dark Testament exhibition on black writers and their fight against racial injustice during the 1800-1900s was the best part, in my opinion." - Kelsie, August 2023
"It's inclusive and diverse, not just in the writers featured but also in the types of writing and information. The opportunity to type an old school typewriter again was a nice surprise" - Sharon, January 2024
"What a great little find. Wonderfully interactive and very thought provoking for all ages." -Joyce, January 2024
Upcoming Programs
14Apr
Get Lit: Speakeasy Rhymes
American Writers Museum
19Apr
Monthly Free Museum Day
American Writers Museum
20Apr
Water to Water: Gaza Renga – Marilyn Hacker & Deema Shehabi (IN PERSON)
American Writers Museum
No event found!
Share your story with us when you visit!
#americanwritersmuseum
The American Writers Museum acknowledges the support of the Illinois Arts Council
American Writers Museum And Chicago Public Library Announce 2026 American Writers Festival
Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7 from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. daily Free weekend of [...]
AWM Staff Picks: March 2026
Reading, watching, listening, and gaming recommendations from the staff of the American Writers Museum. We [...]
American Writers Museum Announces Pop-Up Exhibit and More for U.S. 250th Anniversary
Declarations: 250 Years of Writing Toward Independence on display at the museum June 18 to [...]
U.S. Winter Olympics Memoirs
When athletes become writers! Stay in the Olympic spirit with these memoirs from past and [...]
Route 66: The Writing of an American Icon
100 Years of Writers and Words Along Route 66 Route 66 has always been much [...]
AWM Staff Picks: February 2026
Reading, watching, listening, and gaming recommendations from the staff of the American Writers Museum. We [...]
The Declaration of Independence: 250 Years and Counting
The American Writers Museum is thrilled to announce the 2026 John Estey Student Writing Competition [...]
AWM Staff Picks: Favorite Rom-Coms
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, AWM staff members share their favorite romantic-comedy films. Love [...]