Discover the story of America through the writers and works that shaped it

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Looking for things to do in Chicago? Start your journey at the American Writers Museum, one of the most unique museums in Chicago. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, just steps from Millennium Park and other top attractions, the museum offers an experience unlike any other through interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and one-of-a-kind stories that celebrate the past, present, and future of American writing. Consistently ranked among the best museums in Chicago, the museum is perfect for families, solo explorers, and curious minds alike.
American Writers Museum
180 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60601

Admission

Adults – $16

Seniors (65+) – $10

Teachers & Students (with valid ID) – $10

Children (12 and under) – FREE

Members – FREE

 

Hours

Monday, Thursday – Sunday: 10am – 5pm

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

(Only open for private events and rentals)

Experience the American Writers Museum with groups of 10 or more, including adults, student travel groups, and University students, and receive discounted admission and an option of a guided or unguided tour.

Explore current and temporary exhibits!

things to do in chicago: word waterfall at the AWM
Word Waterfall: Ponder the meaning of being an American among projected words of patriotic writings, and then consider sharing a selfie.
things to do in chicago: Chicago Gallery at the AWM
Chicago Gallery: Hear audio and rotate large panels to dig deep into Chicago writers known as visionaries and troublemakers.
things to do in chicago: story of the day typewriters at the AWM
Story of the Day: Use typewriters from a bygone era to bang out a quick story of your own.
things to do in chicago: surprise bookshelf at the AWM
Surprise Bookshelf: Smell, hear, see, and flip your way through the phrases, ideas, and snippets of writers from journalists to hip hop artists.

 

Get your tickets now for American Prophets opening weekend, November 21!

Plan Your Visit

Coming This November!

A bold new exhibit exploring the intersection of religion and writing, revealing how faith inspires writers and influences how we understand religion. Featuring rare artifacts, interactive displays, and creative works across literature, film, music, and comedy.
Learn More

Featuring writers from all genres, including, Ursula K. Le Guin, Flannery O’Connor, Pauli Murray, Brad Wagnon, Harold Ramis, Judy Blume, Malcolm X, James Baldwin, Elie Wiesel, Darcie Little Badger, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, Patti Smith, Carole King, Lorne Michaels, and so many more!

American Prophets is supported by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative.

The Journey Continues this November with…

 

 

Get your tickets now for American Prophets opening weekend, November 21!

Plan your visit

Coming This November!

A bold new exhibit exploring the intersection of religion and writing, revealing how faith inspires writers and influences how we understand religion. Featuring rare artifacts, interactive displays, and creative works across literature, film, music, and comedy.

Featuring writers from all genres, including, Ursula K. Le Guin, Flannery O’Connor, Pauli Murray, Brad Wagnon, Harold Ramis, Judy Blume, Malcolm X, James Baldwin, Elie Wiesel, Darcie Little Badger, Johnny Cash, David Byrne, Patti Smith, Carole King, Lorne Michaels, and so many more!

American Prophets is supported by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative.

Please be aware that when you visit, there may be staff on site capturing images, video, or sound recordings to be used for commercial purposes. By entering the AWM facility, persons consent and agree to the following: Images or likeness photographs and video can be used for any purpose including, but not limited to, publications, web pages, videos, brochures, and advertisements.