- New York
What do a red sequin burlesque costume, a pair of original Air Jordan 1s, a baby’s wool bathing suit, and an enormous white tulle Christian Dior gown have in common? All these wearable artifacts are preserved in the Chicago History Museum’s vast costume collection, which strives to represent the many different people and stories that make up our city.
Featuring 70 rarely seen...
What do a red sequin burlesque costume, a pair of original Air Jordan 1s, a baby’s wool bathing suit, and an enormous white tulle Christian Dior gown have in common? All these wearable artifacts are preserved in the Chicago History Museum’s vast costume collection, which strives to represent the many different people and stories that make up our city.
Featuring 70 rarely seen objects, from glamorous gowns and sharp suits to housedresses and sneakers, Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective explores how clothing captures the material, social, and changing cultural values throughout history. The exhibition celebrates 100 years of an incredible collection and the donors, curators, and staff who have shaped it.
Book your tickets
1 option
Chicago History Museum: Entry Ticket
- Entrance to the Chicago History Museum
- Access to permanent and temporary exhibitions
What's on
Designing for Change: Chicago Protest Art of the 1960s-70s (Until 30 May 2025)
Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective (Starts on 19 October 2024)
Other exhibitions at Chicago History Museum
Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Chicago, Illinois. Originally founded in 1856 as the Chicago Historical Society, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the city and its people.
Visitors to the museum can explore a range of exhibits and displays, including interactive exhibits on Chicago's role in the Civil Rights Movement, the city's contributions to the arts and entertainment, and the history of Chicago's neighborhoods. The museum also displays a collection of over 50,000 historical objects, including furniture, clothing, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into daily life in Chicago throughout its history.
Through its exhibits, collections, and educational programs, the Chicago History Museum seeks to engage visitors of all ages in a deeper understanding of the city's past, present, and future.
Opening hours
Thursday | 09:30 - 16:30 |
Friday | 09:30 - 16:30 |
Saturday | 09:30 - 16:30 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 17:00 |
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 09:30 - 16:30 |
Wednesday | 09:30 - 16:30 |