The Obama Presidential Center, a sprawling campus that covers 19.3 acres in Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Barack Obama, the 44th president of the United States. The center, which cost about $850 million, is the largest and most ambitious US presidential museum ever. It features a Chicago Public Library branch, an NBA-regulation-size basketball court, a playground, an auditorium, and several gardens. The centerpiece of the campus is the museum, built in a 225-foot granite tower. The museum's weighty granite design has been called both the “Death Star” and the “Obamalisk.”
The center has been in the works for more than a decade and officially opened to the public on Juneteenth, 2026. The highly anticipated center will officially open to the public tomorrow, on Juneteenth. The grand opening event also features a star-studded lineup of performers, including Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen and Christina Aguilera.
The Obama Presidential Center is located on Chicago’s South Side, an area with deep ties and meaning to Barack and Michelle Obama. The center is a celebration of Obama's political career, which took root on the South Side of Chicago where he began as a community organizer from 1985 to 1988. Then in 1996, he was elected to represent Illinois 13th Legislative District in the state Senate, which encompassed South Side neighborhoods.
The Obama Presidential Center is a symbol of hope and change, a politician that Americans have pretty consistently liked. A new CNN poll shows Americans have a favorable view of Obama by a 57%-32% margin. Of the five living presidents, only one other – George W. Bush – was also in positive territory. But Bush was far less above water, at 42% favorable to 33% unfavorable.
The Obama Presidential Center is a testament to Obama's leadership and vision, and a reminder of the importance of community organizing and public service. It is a place where people can come together to celebrate the legacy of Barack Obama and to learn about the history of the United States.
