Chicago/Obama Presidential Center —
The Obama Presidential Center is a monument to hope and change. At a pre-opening star-studded bash on June 18, Former President Barack Obama made it clear the center is not about lingering in the past. He said, “… we designed the center not to be some lifeless mausoleum.” Instead, the goal is to inspire and nurture. “We wanted it to be a vibrant, living celebration of community, where we can learn together and share the joys of art and music and sport and play, because it’s in those moments that we’re reminded of our common humanity and strengthen the bonds of trust that not only make our lives richer, but make our democracy stronger,” Obama explained.
The sprawling campus sits on nearly 20 acres on Chicago’s South Side, where Obama began his journey as an activist and later, as a politician. The project, more than a decade in the making, cost $ 850 million. It’s more than a traditional presidential library. There’s a museum, an NBA-sized basketball court, a teaching kitchen, event buildings, and outside, gardens, green space, and fun zones.
Here are some highlights from the center’s opening weekend, along with a tour of the historic site.
In powerful remarks at the Grand Opening Celebration of the Obama Presidential Center, @MichelleObama called on Americans to see the good in our neighbors, and to recognize our shared values. pic.twitter.com/y2m5MzSNPr
— The Obama Foundation (@ObamaFoundation) June 21, 2026
Why are some people upset about the Obama Presidential Center (OPC) in Chicago’s Jackson Park, South side Chicago
Its privately funded for God’s sake
Shout-out to the Obama family pic.twitter.com/3oBiBMFOUJ
— Voice Of Our Ancestors Channel (@VoiceOfOurAnces) June 21, 2026
.@BarackObama spoke to what’s best in all of us in his remarks at the Grand Opening of the Obama Presidential Center. pic.twitter.com/hhPJL9dW8m
— The Obama Foundation (@ObamaFoundation) June 20, 2026
