Discover the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

Did you know that a leading museum that focuses exclusively on Indigenous peoples' heritage is right in our neighborhood and is available with a free family Museum Adventure Pass? 

Since its founding in 1977, The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian in Evanston has become an important educational resource, family friendly, and committed to promoting a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples and serves as a space to celebrate their diverse cultures, histories, current events, and contributions. 

As an important and vibrant repository, the Museum houses valuable and culturally significant artifacts, art, and historic items, all celebrating the craftsmanship, creativity, and artistry of Indigenous peoples. 

The Museum's permanent exhibit "A Regional Tour of American Indian Cultures" has visitors journey through five major regions in North America.  Highlighted are traditional aspects of transportation, food, housing, clothing, and the arts.  The teaching lodge and wigwam features a hands-on learning exhibit where visitors can go inside a shelter and experience life on the prairie.

Their current exhibit: "No Rest: The Epidemic of Stolen Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2Spirits" is about the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two spirits (MMIWG2S) and features 35 original works from 12 Indigenous artists.  It has been extended through 2024. 

The Museum is open weekdays from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 10am-3pm. It is a great place for children and adults to broaden their perspectives while learning to appreciate the significance of Indigenous peoples' heritage. Docents are often available to help curate your visit.  

Information on the Museum Passes is available on our website. As noted at the webpage: "A limited number of passes are available on a first come, first served, basis. Borrowing is limited to one pass per family per week. Passes expire one week after check out. To obtain a printed pass, visit the second floor Youth Services Desk with your Wilmette Public Library card. Alternatively, to request a PDF of the pass, email Youth Services; responses may take up to one business day."