Northbrook History Museum - Northbrook, Illinois

Northbrook History Museum: A Journey Through Time

Nestled in the heart of Northbrook, Illinois, the Northbrook History Museum stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the area. This captivating museum, housed in the historic 1880s Field House, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking to understand the roots of this vibrant community.

Main Services

• Museum: Immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that tell the story of Northbrook's past. From the early Native American inhabitants to the vibrant communities of today, the museum's collections and displays offer a comprehensive look into the area's evolution.
• Thrift Store: Browse through a treasure trove of gently used items at the museum's thrift store. Proceeds from sales go towards supporting the museum's operations and educational programs.
• Tourist Attraction: The museum offers guided tours, special events, and educational programs that cater to visitors of all ages. It's an excellent addition to your Northbrook itinerary.
• Virtual Experiences: The museum offers virtual tours and online exhibitions, allowing you to explore its collections from the comfort of your home. (Coming soon)
• School Programs: The Northbrook History Museum provides engaging and educational programs for students, aligning with Illinois Learning Standards.

Location and Access

The museum is located at 1776 Walters Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062, United States, in the heart of downtown Northbrook. It's easily accessible from the Edens Expressway (I-94) and the Tri-State Tollway (I-294).

Public transportation is available via the PACE Bus, with several bus routes stopping nearby. The museum offers free on-site parking and free street parking is also available in the vicinity.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Building: The museum is housed in the original Field House, built in the late 1800s, offering a glimpse into Northbrook's architectural history.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The museum is committed to ensuring all visitors can enjoy its facilities. It offers wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and toilet facilities.
• Gift Shop: The museum's gift shop offers a variety of unique, historically themed items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
• Restaurant: While not located within the museum, several dining options are available within walking distance, making it easy to plan a meal with your museum visit.
• Family Friendly: The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and programs designed to engage and educate children and families.

Practical Information

For the latest business hours and any changes to opening times, it's recommended to contact the museum directly or check its website. The museum can be reached by phone at 847-498-3404 and its website is northbrookhistory.org.

Visitors can pay for admission and purchases using cash, credit cards, and debit cards. The museum also accepts checks.

👍 Reviews of Northbrook History Museum

Levi M.

5/5

Really fascinating museum, it’s an original house/ inn from the late 1800s beautifully restored. With so many interesting tidbits of the history of Northbrook. Downstairs they have maps of all the landowners of Northbrook from 1875, upstairs is the house restored from what it could have looked like like in 1906. Truly incredible blast from the past!

Esther F.

5/5

This is a nice little museum about the history of Northbrook. The museum is located inside a former inn. Each room focuses on a different aspect of Northbrook's history. The upstairs is still furnished with beds and furniture to replicate what it would have been like in the past. What made this museum especially great were the volunteers. I received an 1+ tour of the entire building with a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteer. There is some signage throughout the museum, but if you visit, I highly recommend a personal tour.

James K.

5/5

The Northbrook Historical Society offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area. The exhibits are well-curated and informative.

Kati S.

5/5

Not many towns have a historical building devoted to the history of their town. Neat place to learn about the beginnings of the town!

Cynthia S.

3/5

My ancestors are the people Sanders Road & Winkelmann is named after. But, unfortunately, the library has no information, no database connected to the newspapers of that area, like other communities have. They rely on the historical society to gather information. I found no information from the historical society that I hadn’t already gotten from Ancestry!
It’s sad! I have so many pictures of Winkelmann & Sander to share. But not with a society that doesn’t know anything. They should take a lesson from Palatine, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin or Warren, Iowa-other communities that I was very successful finding information. ALL library based.

Kim H.

3/5

Cute little consignment shop tucked in the back of a house built in the late 1800s.

Kimberly C.

4/5

Love looking around at Shermerville history and visiting the gift shop.

Daniel C.

5/5

Look at history of Northbrook