In addition to the wedding festivities, my first stop was the Obama Presidential Center. Even without a ticket, there was still plenty to see. Every art installations, every design feature was approved by the Obamas. A sampling of donors included: Spielberg, Oprah, Tom Hanks, Bezos, Chesky, Gates, Paul Mc Cartney, Springsteen, Eddie Vedder.

Approaching the plaza, there is a life sized bronze sculpture depicting Barack and Michelle Obama inauguration walk. There is a line of fans wanting to take a picture with them.

The lobby displayed art installations alongside an original life sized painting of Obamas life and public service together.

The Sky Room, dedicated to Nelson Mandela, offered sweeping views of Chicago’s South Side and the lakefront. Downstairs, the presidential library featured favorite books by Barack & Michelle Obama. There are 2 cafes one featuring their favorite foods. Outdoors in the plaza there is a community vegetable garden, massive playground and The Court aka basketball courts for youth.

Join the Obama Foundation and you can get a ticket easier than on line. Ticket in hand, you visit the museum, a fashion exhibit from Michelle, replica of the oval office and a chronology of accomplishments during Obama’s presidency.