In 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a nationwide celebration.
Throughout the year, Chicago will be honoring this milestone and the history of our great city with exciting Illinois250 exhibits, concerts, performances, and more.
Located in the heart of America, Chicago’s is one of the country’s largest and most influential cities. Learn more about the city’s fascinating history and our unique cultural contributions.
Did you know that the Black History Month tradition originated in Chicago?
Come discover the city’s rich legacy of Black history and culture, from the nation’s oldest independent Black history museum to our thriving Black-owned businesses.
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The Chicago History Museum explores the fascinating stories, people, and events that have shaped our great city, from the Great Chicago Fire to the World’s Fair and beyond.
The museums will be celebrating Illinois 250 throughout the year with art installations, unique artifacts, updated exhibits, and more.
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Step back in time in to the 1880s in Pullman, one of the first planned industrial communities in the United States. Located on Chicago’s South Side, Pullman was named a National Monument by President Barack Obama.
Stroll through the park to admire everything from an elegant hotel to executive mansions and workers cottages. Stop at the Visitors Center for interesting exhibits and artifacts, then head to the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum to learn more about Pullman’s role in the labor movement.
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Situated in the heart of the country, Chicago is where you’ll find the official starting point of the ultimate American road trip — Route 66.
Known as “The Mother Road”, this iconic stretch of Americana begins in downtown Chicago and stretches more than 2,400 miles to the Pacific Coast. In 2026, Chicago will be marking Route 66’s 100th anniversary with celebrations throughout the year. Explore local landmarks along the route and start planning your trip.
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Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the United States, with about 65,000 Native American residents and some 175 different tribes.
Today, Chicago’s Native American history is honored in our museums, monuments, and public art. The city is also home to a thriving community of Indigenous Chicagoans sharing contemporary perspectives on traditional art, culture, and cuisine.
Explore some of the city’s Native American-owned businesses, plus art galleries, cultural centers, and events celebrating Chicago’s Indigenous communities.
Learn moreExplore history in Chicago and beyond through the city’s diverse museums and landmarks, located throughout our vibrant neighborhoods.
Dive into Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods with The 77, an award-winning neighborhood travel series.
Bronzeville
Bronzeville has a long history as a hub for the African American creative community. That living legacy continues today, intertwined with the neighborhood’s many art galleries, classic eateries, and authentic character.
Uptown
The cultural corridor known as Asia on Argyle has evolved into a hub for Southeast Asian cuisine — and a source of pride for the area’s international residents.
Pullman and Roseland
Home to Chicago’s only National Historical Park, these neighborhoods have played a key role in the labor rights movement. Today, community-led initiatives are shifting the narrative of these deeply historic neighborhoods.
Celebrate Illinois250 and dive into Chicago history at these upcoming events and celebrations. And don’t miss Illinois250 events throughout the year.
UNESCO has announced that the 15th annual International Jazz Day will take place in a city known for its incredible contributions to the history and…
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…
