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.

The renovated Governor’s Mansion will be a breathtaking experience for visitors – from new construction and pristine landscaping, to art exhibitions and an enhanced visitor center, the Mansion renovation offers countless 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.

Mansion Hours:

The People's house is open daily from 1 - 4 pm.

For this information in Spanish, please click here

For this information in Polish, please click here