All language & literature museums to visit in Illinois

Celebrate the power of words at 7 language and literature museums in Illinois. These museums explore the history of languages, literary works, and the lives of authors.

Are you a literature enthusiast? Here are the best language and literature museums in Illinois

  1. Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum1

    Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum

     Oak Park, IL
    No fan of the legendary writer should miss out this museum set in his birthplace. Memorabilia, letters and writings on display.
  2. Ukrainian National Museum2

    Ukrainian National Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Ukrainian National Museum (UNM) is situated in the historical Ukrainian Village neighborhood of Chicago, United States. This location is not only significant for its historical value but also for its cultural relevance to the Ukrainian community. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Ukrainian culture and history while exploring the neighborhood.
  3. Vachel Lindsay House3

    Vachel Lindsay House

     Springfield, IL
    The Vachel Lindsay House, located at 603 South 5th Street in Springfield, Illinois, is a historic house museum. Constructed in 1848, the house offers a glimpse into the past and the life of poet Vachel Lindsay. It is an important landmark in the city and a significant site for those interested in history and literature.
  4. American Writers Museum4

    American Writers Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The American Writers Museum, which opened in Chicago in May 2017, is a dedicated space for the celebration and exploration of American Literature and writing. The museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich literary heritage of the United States, showcasing the evolution and flourishing of American writing.
  5. Irish American Heritage Center5

    Irish American Heritage Center

     Chicago, IL
    The Irish American Heritage Center, located in Chicago, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing the study of Irish culture. The center's programming focuses on various aspects of Irish culture, including dance, literature, heritage, and music, as well as the contributions of Irish Americans to the United States.
  6. 6

    Marion E. Wade Center

     Wheaton, IL
    The Marion E. Wade Center, located at Wheaton College in Illinois, is a unique research collection that primarily focuses on seven authors from the United Kingdom. These authors include C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, G. K. Chesterton, Dorothy L. Sayers, Charles Williams, Owen Barfield, and George MacDonald. The collection also includes works from C. S. Lewis's wife, the poet Joy Davidman. This center serves as a significant resource for scholars worldwide, offering a comprehensive collection of papers, books, and manuscripts related to these authors.
  7. 7

    Balzekas Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture is conveniently located at 6500 S. Pulaski Rd. in the West Lawn neighborhood of Chicago. This location is easily accessible and is not far from the Chicago Midway International Airport, making it a convenient stop for tourists traveling through the city.