This unexpected Near West Side institution was just voted one of the best new museums in the U.S.

After opening last April, the Near West Side’s National Public Housing Museum is closing out its inaugural year on a high note: national recognition from USA Today. Housed in the last remaining building of the historic Jane Addams Homes, the museum feels both timely and deeply rooted—an institution built on lived experience as much as preservation.

Located at 919 South Ada Street, the National Public Housing Museum ranked No. 3 on USA Today’s “Best New Museums” list, trailing behind the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, and the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University in Mantua, New Jersey. The ranking was determined by a panel of experts and editors, followed by a monthlong public vote.

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Dedicated to the right to housing, the National Public Housing Museum preserves the stories of the 10 million Americans who have lived in public housing over the past century. The museum rose from the 1990s demolition crisis, which drove Housing Commissioner Deverra Beverly to join forces with residents to ensure their history wasn't lost. Now, those very residents lead the way as docents, sharing firsthand accounts that add necessary complexity to the national conversation on public housing.

The museum’s many exhibitions include “Historic Apartments,” three recreated homes that tell the stories of families who lived in the Jane Addams Homes, alongside installations examining housing policy and public art from the Works Progress Administration era. Daily timed tours guide visitors through the space. The exhibition “BREAKTHROUGH: Housing Futures” has garnered significant acclaim, recently earning a spot on Newcity’s “Design Top 5” list and being named a top winter pick by the Chicago Tribune.

Programming extends beyond the galleries, as well. On March 29, the museum will host rapper MURS in collaboration with hip-hop community platform Groundwaves for an “intergenerational day party,” blending music, food and hands-on activities.

The National Public Housing Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm. General admission is free and open to all. Learn more about the museum here.