Barack Obama and the city of Chicago are inextricably linked. The former president lived in Chicago for more than 20 years, living and working on the city’s south side. This is also where he met his wife Michelle Obama, who grew up in the city’s South Shore neighborhood.

Now, the city is eagerly anticipating the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in the historic Jackson Park. Set to open in 2026, the space has been designed as a vibrant community hub with a museum, gardens, event space, athletic facility, a branch of the Chicago Public Library, and more.

In the meantime, visitors to Chicago and locals can still experience Obama’s Chicago, from the family’s neighborhood near Hyde Park to iconic local eateries. Here’s a guide to must-visit spots that showcase Barack and Michelle Obama’s deep connection to Chicago’s South Side.

Obama Kissing Rock

One of the more whimsical Chicago landmarks, the Obama Kissing Rock is located near 53rd Street and South Dorchester in the city’s Hyde Park neighborhood. The site, marked by a plaque and a large boulder, is where the future president and first lady shared their first kiss. The location was a Baskin-Robbins ice cream shop in the summer of 1989 when the couple visited on their first date. It’s a delightful spot to stop by and capture a photo, a perfect addition to your Obama tour of Chicago.

Valois Restaurant

Valois, one of the oldest cafeteria-style restaurants in the United States, is a must-visit for any Obama fan. Obama often dined here before becoming president and continued to frequent it once he was in office. 

This beloved, cash-only eatery is proudly recognized as one of President Obama’s favorite dining spots. The menu prominently displays his go-to orders, like the Mediterranean omelet or steak and eggs. Grab your food then look for the President’s Table, signed by Obama himself. 

More than just a place to enjoy hearty, wholesome meals, Valois offers a unique glimpse into the everyday life of Hyde Park residents. Grab a seat, converse with the diverse local crowds, and soak in the atmosphere that helped shape the future president during his years in Chicago.

Obama family home

Located in the picturesque neighborhood of Kenwood, the Obama family mansion is where Barack and Michelle Obama lived while he served as a U.S. Senator. Although this private residence is not open to the public, visitors can stroll through the surrounding Kenwood and Hyde Park neighborhoods to experience the charm of the tree-lined streets and historic architecture. The home, a beautiful Georgian-revival-style mansion, is located at 5046 S. Greenwood.

Afterward, explore the area’s local shops, cafes, and parks to feel the pulse of the neighborhood that influenced the Obamas’ early family life.

University of Chicago

Explore the breathtaking campus of the University of Chicago Law School, another cornerstone of Obama’s Chicago story. The future president worked here as a professor for more than a decade before becoming the junior senator from Illinois and eventually the Democratic presidential nominee.

The campus is an architectural gem, showcasing Gothic Prairie Style, Mid-Century Modernism, Brutalism, and Contemporary designs by renowned architects. Visitors can also discover peaceful, hidden green spaces, botanical gardens, galleries, museums, and some of the world’s finest libraries.

You can take guided university tours or roam the grounds at your own pace to fully appreciate the campus’s rich history and spirit.

Jackson Park

The future site of the Obama Presidential Center, Jackson Park is a sprawling green space with significant historical importance as the site of the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. Soon, it will welcome a 19-acre campus designed to inspire future generations.

While the center is under construction, visitors can enjoy the park’s walking paths, golf course, basketball, tennis, pickleball courts, and views of Lake Michigan. The park also features the stunning Osaka Japanese Garden, which offers a serene atmosphere for reflection. 

As the Obama Presidential Center nears its opening, now is the perfect time to explore the rich tapestry of Obama’s Chicago. From heartfelt landmarks to vibrant community spaces, each location offers a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of one of the nation’s most cherished leaders. Embrace the spirit of hope and change as you explore these iconic sites and become part of the story that continues to define Chicago and beyond.