Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear
839 N. 11th St., Milwaukee, WI, 53233
To uncover what life was like in the 1920s and 1930s, visit Milwaukee's Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear, where you can marvel at 20th century Americana, from crank telephones to glass medicine bottles. The museum's holdings are highlighted in theme rooms. Don't miss the recreated general store, vintage barbershop, and hidden speakeasy.
The Basics
This museum's tremendous collection was assembled by Avrum Chudnow, whose penchant for acquiring means visitors can glimpse back into Milwaukee's not-so-distant past. Get your dose of nostalgia by prebooking discounted admission, and learn more from your visit by viewing a documentary in the museum's theater, and joining a free guided tour. You can easily pair a visit to the museum with a stop at Pabst Mansion or with a stroll on the Marquette University campus.
Things to Know Before You Go
History fans shouldn't miss the sizable collection of vintage objects from the interwar period—housed in an 1869 residence.
Experience what life in Milwaukee was like 100 years ago.
The Chudnow Museum is wheelchair accessible, and there is elevator access to upper floors.
College students and seniors receive discounted museum admission, and kids aged 6 and under are admitted free.
The museum has two restrooms and an on-site gift shop.
How to Get There
The Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear is located in Milwaukee, at the intersection of North 11th and Kilbourn streets. Since the museum offers free off-street parking, the most convenient way to visit is to drive. Alternatively, hop on the 12 or 31 bus and get off at the corner of North 12th and Wells. The stop is less than two blocks from the museum.
When to Get There
The Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear is open Wednesday to Sunday. The museum is closed for Thanksgiving. Though there's really no bad time to visit, the museum offers discounted family admission on Sunday and often hosts free events. Check the calendar before you arrive to see if you can catch one of the museum's history talks.
What to See on the Marquette University Campus
Given Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear's location adjacent to Marquette University, you should combine a visit to the museum with a visit to campus. The admissions department offers daily tours and information sessions, but you can also explore on your own. Find walking paths and well-tended flower beds, the gothic St. Joan of Arc Chapel, and the university's Haggerty Museum of Art, which offers free admission.
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