You can find a museum dedicated to just about anything these days—sex, surgery, buttons, money—but until now, there hasn't been an institution that really celebrates the art and history of pizza. That changes when the U.S. Pizza Museum opens at Roosevelt Collection (1146 S Delano Court West) on Friday, August 10. The concept, which has previously offered pop-up exhibits and events throughout Chicago, will showcase memorabilia, including old-timey advertisements, video games, vintage menus and rare pie boxes. According to the Chicago Tribune, the museum is slated to remain open until the end of October, with the possibility to extend its stay depending on public demand.
Unlike many of Chicago's top museums, the attraction is free to attend. Like most of its counterparts, this museum has a gift shop, which is stocked with pizza-themed clothing, artwork and souvenirs. Beyond cruising exhibits, guests will be able to check out an ongoing calendar of events and activities; keep an eye out for book signings, dough demos, pizza parties and more.
In honor of the cheesy debut, Aurelio’s will serve free pizza samples to all visitors from Friday, August 10 through Sunday, August 12. Though entry is gratis, guests will need to make an online reservation before visiting. Here's a quick look at what you can expect inside.
Photograph: Courtesy U.S. Pizza Museum
Photograph: Courtesy U.S. Pizza Museum