National Museum of Mexican Art, Chicago

The United States' most extensive Latino museum is unquestionably worth a visit, offering an exploration of culture 'sin fronteras' (without boundaries), showcasing the artistic achievements of Mexican and Mexican-American communities. While the exhibits may be compact in size, they span a wide range of topics, occupying five rotating galleries thoughtfully captioned in both Spanish and English.

Within, you'll find a comprehensive display of Mexican artistry, spanning from ancient civilizations to the contemporary era. This journey unfolds through pre-Columbian artifacts, delightful Talavera de Puebla pottery (glazed Spanish-influenced earthenware), and contemporary photographs capturing the Mexican experience in Chicago. Keep an eye out for sketches by the renowned muralist Diego Rivera, along with etchings by Jose Clemente Orozco, and the socially charged works of David Alfaro Siqueiros.

Locally renowned for its month-long Day of the Dead exhibit, the largest of its kind in the nation, the museum pays homage to this fall holiday through a captivating array of paintings, folk art, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces exploring themes of death and mortality. Additionally, the museum hosts performing arts festivals twice a year, in both spring and fall.

Tip:
Make sure not to skip the gift shop, where you'll find distinctive black Oaxacan pottery, hand-woven rugs, silver jewelry, as well as a wide selection of posters and books.