Bridgehouse Museum Opens in One Week

The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum opens in one week for its 19th season on May 10 – Chicago River Day – welcoming visitors to explore the rich history and vibrant renaissance of the Chicago-Calumet River system. As the educational hub of Friends of the Chicago River and a cultural landmark on the Chicago Riverwalk, the museum offers a fascinating journey from pre-colonization to present-day.

Last year, 38,000 visitors experienced the five-story landmark building and its captivating exhibits. This summer, the popular Happy Hour Speaker Series returns to the museum, bringing engaging discussions on the river system’s people, water, and wildlife. Held on the museum’s outdoor plaza, these free talks will take place on select Thursdays from June through August.

The Bridgehouse Museum offers a sliding scale, pay-what-you-can admission, to help ensure equitable access to all. The museum is also an extraordinary venue for special events, from birthdays and corporate retreats to private dinners and weddings.

Rent the Bridgehouse Museum for your special events!

With roughly 1,200 sq. ft. of space and a capacity of 79 people indoors, the landmark Michigan Avenue Bridgehouse is ideal for intimate receptions, both private and corporate. Each rental also includes the use of our riverwalk plaza, with spectacular views of the river and downtown Chicago visible only from inside our unique space. For rental information, contact Josh Coles at jcoles@chicagoriver.org.

The Bridgehouse Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guided tours available for an additional cost. Visit bridgehousemuseum.org for more information.