Situated near the Chicago terminus of Route 66, the Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of Indigenous nations connected to the Great Lakes. The name “Gichigamiin” refers to Lake Michigan in the Anishinaabe language, reflecting the museum’s regional focus.

ABOUT GICHIGAMIIN INDIGENOUS NATIONS MUSEUM

The museum works to educate the public about Native sovereignty, cultural traditions and the enduring presence of Indigenous communities in the Midwest. Exhibits and programs emphasize collaboration with Native scholars, artists and cultural practitioners.

Through interpretation and public outreach, the museum contributes to greater awareness of Native histories in Illinois and the broader Great Lakes region.

We will be closed for about 12 weeks this summer for renovations, July 20 - September 30, 2026. We will reopen on October 1st with 3 new exhibits.

EXHIBITS

The museum features permanent and rotating exhibitions that explore Indigenous lifeways, governance and cultural resilience.

Displays may include:

•    Traditional clothing and regalia

•    Beadwork and handcrafted items

•    Historical photographs and maps

•    Interpretive panels on treaties and land history

•    Contemporary Indigenous artwork

Exhibits emphasize both historical experiences and present-day cultural revitalization, reinforcing the ongoing presence of Native nations in the region.

DOCENT-LED TOURS

Docent-led tours provide guided interpretation of the museum’s exhibitions and cultural themes. Trained guides offer historical context, explain cultural objects and answer visitor questions about Indigenous governance, traditions and contemporary issues.

Tours are available for school groups, community organizations and general visitors by appointment. These guided experiences provide deeper engagement with exhibition materials and encourage dialogue about Native histories in the Midwest.

FAMILY ZONE

The museum’s Family Zone offers interactive learning opportunities designed for children and multigenerational visitors. Hands-on activities may include:

•    Storytelling corners featuring Indigenous authors

•    Craft activities inspired by traditional art forms

•    Interactive map displays

•    Cultural games and learning stations

The Family Zone encourages younger visitors to engage with Indigenous cultures in age-appropriate and educational ways, fostering curiosity and respect.

GARDEN

An outdoor garden space highlights Indigenous agricultural traditions and native plant knowledge. The garden may feature regionally significant plants such as corn, beans and squash, often referred to as the Three Sisters.

Interpretive signage explains traditional ecological knowledge, seasonal cycles and the cultural importance of native plants. The garden provides a quiet reflective space and connects visitors to the land-based traditions central to many Indigenous nations of the Great Lakes.

Hours of Operation

Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Holiday Closures: New Year’s Eve/Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve/Day

Admission & Fees

Adults (18–64): ~$8

Seniors (60+): ~$6

Youth (3–17): ~$6

Children under 3: Free

Students/Teachers/Professors (with ID): ~$6

Tribal Citizens (with ID): Free

Active Military & Family (with ID) — Free Memorial Day through Labor Day

Museum members (former Mitchell Museum members): Free

Special events or tours may have additional fees.