American Writers Museum: Explore Literary Genres Downtown
4.9
65 Ratings
Chicago
Discover the American Writers Museum in downtown Chicago, where interactive exhibits and programming bring literary genres to life. From Twain to Tupac, there's a story here for everyone. Visit today!
Duration:
5 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- American Writers Museum - Visitors will explore the great writers’ hometowns and learn about all of the AWM Affiliate homes in Writers Hall. In A Nation of Writers they will learn about and celebrate authors who are emblematic of a unique American Voice, across history, genre, and mediums, from poets to sportswriters. Galleries such as The Mind of a Writer will de-mystify famed writers’ works and methodologies and invite visitor creativity with games and other immersive offerings. The Wintrust Chicago Gallery will delve into the great writers, literary influencers, characters, and groups that shaped the city’s unique literary tradition. Featured in the Meijer Gallery is the temporary exhibit, My America: Immigrant and Refugee Writers Today explores contemporary writing by immigrants through various themes. The Tools of the Trade exhibit in the Roberta Rubin Writer’s Room focuses on the tools used by famous American writers through history, from Frederick Douglass to Helen Keller to Maya Angelou.
What's Included
- Complimentary bookmark gift
- Exclusive 3pm specialized tours
- Priority access with skip-the-line ticket
What's Not Included
- Parking is not included
Additional Information
Situated in vibrant downtown Chicago, the American Writers Museum honours various types of writing via engaging displays and events. Ranging from Twain to Tupac, we have a narrative for every taste. Experience it first-hand by stopping by today! You’ll find us at 180 N. Michigan Avenue. We’ve been recognized as Illinois’ Top Tourist Spot by USA Today and listed amongst the Top 10 Opening Museums globally by Fodor’s.
Adjustable Entry Dates
- Students qualify for the senior rate, must present a valid student ID upon arrival
- The Museum welcomes all visitors and we hope to make our exhibits and programming accessible to all. To that end, the following services are offered: Button activated doors at the building entrance Elevator access to the 2nd floor A large, gender-neutral, family restroom Wide restroom stalls with grab bars
- Button activated doors at the building entrance
- Elevator access to the 2nd floor
- A large, gender-neutral, family restroom
- Wide restroom stalls with grab bars
- Please note that tickets do not expire
Location
American Writers Museum
180 N Michigan Ave, 2nd Floor
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(65 Ratings)
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F3847gnalans
Dec 30, 2023
Severely Underrated - The most underrated museum I've visited. Most locals I've spoken to haven't heard of it, and I went there not expecting much and to be in and out in an hour. I spent three hours there as it was just so well set-up and was incredibly interesting with exhibits on modern writing, older writing, poetry, novels, and speeches. Strong representation of Black American writing too which was something I had little prior knowledge on, and this was a real highlight. Even had old school typewriters for people to practice on and type up letters. Really well worth visiting.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tandiaremmenga
Sep 30, 2023
No banned books here - Not a very big museum, but very much worth the time and visit. If you love reading and history make this a stop on your Chicago trip! Unique presentation and interactive design make this spot a must see!
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Odyssey23768266604
Sep 23, 2023
Thoughtful Respite. - Beautiful, thoughtful museum curated to inspire and educate. Small footprint, but hours of thoughtful information and reflection. Worth a visit.
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Beverlymj6887hl
Sep 18, 2023
Interesting, creative museum - How to communicate the contributions of American writers? Not a visual medium. But the American Writers Museum has done it, with creative and interactive exhibits. Definitely worth seeing. Hard to find though. It is on the second floor of a building in downtown Chicago, right across the street from Nutella and Stan's Donuts. There is a sign displayed on the building front but it is hard to see.
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Getaway665961
Sep 7, 2023
I used to think that I was well-read - Amazing diversity of writers and thought. Immersive and interactive. I was introduced to many new writers and also basked in the company of old friends.
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Cherylm258
Sep 2, 2023
Great Inspiration for Writers - We enjoyed the American Writers Museum. I picked this museum because my daughter is a songwriter and screenwriter. She was inspired at the museum to begin another script.💻
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Capehunts
Aug 24, 2023
A Hidden Gem - I spent a few hours reading everything! The timeline, the interactive exhibits, and the film we all curated to appeal to a wide audience. I loved typing on the classic typewriters and reading the first lines from famous authors as well as ideas written by visitors from all over the world.
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I9443tiericj
Aug 23, 2023
Inspiring time - I was inspired by all the writers I learned about. The museum was free to visit with my Chicago public library card.
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Knm83
Jul 22, 2023
Small Museum Packs a Big Punch - It's a small museum, but it has a great amount of information. I thought it wouldn't take too long to go around the museum. I was wrong. There's a lot to see and read. All writers of any genre should visit.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dominiquele1161mc
Jul 16, 2023
All encompassing writing! - I had a really nice time. Variety of information presented. I enjoyed the interviews about Black Joy and the exhibit that followed along! There were many fun interactive activities and if I could, I would spend the entire day here!
Review provided by Tripadvisor