The Elmhurst History Museum proudly presents a diverse array of exhibits each year to fulfill our mission to engage people with history. From original exhibits created in-house by staff, to national touring exhibits from other institutions, as well as our ongoing core exhibit on Elmhurst history -- there's always something new to see and experience in our galleries!
2023 Exhibition Schedule
ONGOING By All Accounts: The Story of Elmhurst
Experience Elmhurst history through an award-winning exhibit about how the city grew and developed over the its 165+ year history. The Museum's entire second floor is home to an innovative journey through Elmhurst's past that includes an eclectic array of artifacts from local businesses, residents and organizations, rare photographs, an interactive tabletop map, a documentary on Elmhurst history and lots more. MORE INFO
Continuing through May 14, 2023 In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities
Examine the diverse stories and experiences of area immigrants and their descendants as told through first-person accounts, photographs, treasured objects, video and more. Visitors will gain an understanding about DuPage County's growing diversity and the challenges immigrants face as they shape an evolving identity in this country.
June 9-September 17, 2023 The Bicycle: Two Wheels to Adventure
Over the past 200 years, the bicycle has evolved into a vehicle that opens doors to new adventures and experiences for all ages. Learn about the many ways this 19th-century invention significantly impacted Chicagoland manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure, and how the bicycle redefined an era of newfound leisure and independence.
October 6, 2023-January 28, 2024 Lost Chicago Department Stores
Take a nostalgic trip back to the heyday of Chicago area department stores like Marshall Field's, Sears, Montgomery Ward and more, and learn about their iconic history through an array of artifacts, images, video, and memorabilia. This collaboration with exhibit partner and historian Leslie Goddard, who will share items from her personal collection, will be a perfect holiday experience for all ages!
