A Sneak Peek Inside The Brand New Obama Presidential Center
President Barack Obama has left an indelible mark on the United States as the nation’s first African American president. Now, his legacy is cemented in stone with the opening of The Obama Presidential Center, a nearly 20-acre campus located on the South Side of Chicago. A museum, a vegetable garden, a library and a state-of-the-art media center are just a few of the stunning features of the center dedicated to our 44th president.
Before the doors open to the public, we’re taking a look inside The Obama Presidential Center.
The Campus
The Obama Presidential Center is situated on a beautiful 19-acre campus in Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side. The location has a special place in President Obama’s heart, as it is located near the University of Chicago campus, where he taught constitutional law for over a decade.
A Beautiful View
The view of the museum is even more stunning at night.
Open to the Public
The inside of the center is welcoming to guests, featuring sunlit spaces and gorgeous architecture.
The Perfect Portrait
Njideka Akunyili Crosby created a stunning portrait of the former President and First Lady for the Obama Center using colored pencils and charcoal.
Media Center
Visitors can take advantage of a state-of-the-art media center with a recording studio.
Yes We Can
Visitors can enjoy the Presidential Center’s museum, which includes exhibits highlighting many of the nation’s 44th president’s accomplishments.
The First Lady’s Looks
In addition to her tireless work for children and families through her education and fitness initiatives, former First Lady Michelle Obama was also known for her amazing sense of style. Museum visitors can get a closer look at some of the most iconic outfits from Mrs. Obama’s eight years in the White House.
The Oval Office Experience
The museum includes a replica of the Oval Office, where President Obama signed important legislation, including the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014 and the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015.
The Sky Room
At the top of the museum is The Sky Room, a beautiful space that gives visitors one of the best views of the city of Chicago.
Places to Dine
When it’s time to eat, visitors can grab a bite at TheCafe, named after musician and activist Mahalia Jackson, or have a meal at Tafari’s Kitchen. The restaurant, led by local chef Cliff Rome, pays tribute to beloved former Obama White House chef Tafari Campbell, who died tragically in a drowning accident in 2023.
Home Court
President Obama has always believed in the power of sports to bring people together. The campus includes a 60,000-square-foot athletic and event space, featuring an NBA regulation-sized basketball court and meeting rooms that can be used for wellness workshops and other events.
A Brand New Library
The sprawling Obama Presidential Center campus is also home to a new branch of the Chicago Public Library, with a diverse collection of books, e-books and magazines for visitors to enjoy in the main reading room. One of the most stunning features of the branch is a 70-foot mural created by artist Aliza Nisenbaum.
Fruit and Vegetable Garden
No visit to the campus is complete without a stop at the Eleanor Roosevelt Fruit and Vegetable Garden and Teaching Kitchen, a space where visitors can get tips on growing and preparing fresh produce.
The Playground
One of the highlights of the grounds outside the center is a nature-inspired playground, featuring slides, swings and other activities for children.
