The Illinois Governor’s Mansion Association is excited that the People’s House reopened to the public on July 14th, 2018. We would like to thank our donors, board members and volunteers who dedicated their time and resources to this important project that brings the history of Illinois back to life in the renovated mansion.
Renovation Updates
In February 2015, construction began to completely renovate the Illinois Governor’s Mansion, funded entirely with private dollars. The renovation focused on structural repairs and construction updates, it was also an opportunity to focus on the visitor experience, truly making the Mansion the people’s house for Illinois residents. Complete with dedicated art spaces, expanded programming, full accessibility for visitors and a focus on Illinois’ rich history, the Illinois Governor’s Mansion is open seven days a week.
Ballroom set for an event with Portrait of Copy of Healy portrait of Abraham Lincoln overlooking
Chicago Room in the style of Frances Elkins
East parlor
Governors Dining
Library
Lincoln Bedroon
Lincoln Parlor
Music Parlor with Gertrude Abercrombie self portrait
west parlor
Wood paneled library
Experience the breathtaking transformation of the Governor’s Mansion, which now offers many new features, including:
The Visitor Experience
The Illinois Governor’s Mansion renovation project focused on elevating the visitor experience. New features include:
Full ADA accessibility for the first time in history
Professionally trained docents for guided tours
Expanded programming
An all-new visitor center and short orientation video
Rooms dedicated specifically to historic events, including the Columbian Exposition and Past Illinois Governors and families
Art Exhibition Space
A dedicated space for art exhibits is part of the fabric of the newly renovated Governor’s Mansion. The inaugural exhibition, Art in Illinois, brings together over 80 works of art from Illinois based artists, 20 of which are never before seen privately owned pieces on loan.
Programming Capabilities
The Illinois Governor’s Mansion renovation seeks to expand educational opportunities for visitors. With professionally trained staff and volunteers available to host groups and assist in planning events outside of regular hours, the Mansion is also capable of hosting groups for programming outside of regular hours.
