Memorial plaque dedicating the Leather Archives & Museum's auditorium to Dom Orejudos Etienne

Leather Archives And Museum

Leather Archives & Museum Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, the Leather Archives & Museum (LA&M) is a one-of-a-kind institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of leather, kink, BDSM, and fetish communities. Founded in 1991 by Chuck Renslow and Tony DeBlase, LA&M has grown into an internationally respected museum and archive, offering immersive exhibitions, educational programming, and a welcoming environment for all visitors interested in LGBTQ+ and alternative cultural history. This guide provides up-to-date information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, exhibits, and more to help you experience everything the LA&M has to offer.

Artifacts on display at Leather Archives and Museum interior in Chicago

History and Mission
Exhibits and Collections
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
Group Visits and Conduct
Nearby Attractions and Travel Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
References

History and Mission

The LA&M was co-founded by Chuck Renslow and Tony DeBlase to create a permanent home for the documentation and celebration of leather, kink, and BDSM communities—groups often marginalized in mainstream narratives. Since opening its doors in 1991, the museum has built a vast collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and art chronicling activism, identity, and self-expression within these subcultures. Through rotating and permanent exhibitions, LA&M not only preserves history but also educates the public and fosters ongoing community engagement.

Exhibits and Collections

Permanent and Signature Exhibits

The Dungeon Exhibition: An immersive display offering insight into the tools, environments, and history of BDSM dungeons. Authentic artifacts, equipment, and photographs trace the evolution of practices and community spaces.
Historical Collections: Rare books, personal archives, memorabilia, and photographs documenting the growth of leather culture from the mid-20th century onward.
Art Gallery: Rotating exhibitions feature contemporary artists exploring themes of sexuality, identity, and LGBTQ+ experiences.
Oral Histories: Multimedia presentations share first-hand accounts from prominent figures in the leather and kink world.
Women’s Leather History Project: “A Room of Her Own” highlights the experiences and contributions of women in leather communities.

Interactive Media and Virtual Access

The museum offers virtual tours and digital exhibitions through its official website, providing global access to its collections and enhancing accessibility with high-quality images and detailed descriptions (Leather Archives & Museum Official Website).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

As of June 2025:

Wednesday–Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
Admission:
- General: $10
- Students, Seniors, Military: $5
- Free Admission: Thursdays (all visitors)

Tickets are available at the front desk or in advance through the official website. Group visits (10+ people) require advance arrangements.

Accessibility and Visitor Tips

Physical Accessibility

Street-level entrance, ramps, and elevator for full wheelchair access
ADA-compliant restrooms on both floors
Clear signage and seating throughout galleries

Sensory and Language Accessibility

Exhibits include descriptive text; some areas use dim lighting or strong imagery
ASL interpretation available for group tours with advance notice
Exhibit texts in English

General Visitor Tips

The museum is intended for mature audiences (18+) due to explicit content
Photography for personal use is allowed in most areas (no flash or video)
Staff are available to answer questions and assist with navigation

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

Lectures, Workshops, and Classes: Regularly scheduled programs explore the history, art, and activism of leather and kink communities. Topics range from historical overviews to contemporary discussions.
Guided Tours: By appointment, staff offer in-depth tours on specialized topics such as queer activism, women’s leather history, and the evolution of BDSM culture.
Special Events: The LA&M hosts panels, artist talks, film screenings, and community gatherings throughout the year.

Group Visits and Conduct

Group Tours: Available by appointment for educational and community groups, with programming tailored to specific interests.
Conduct: Visitors are expected to respect the privacy of others and refrain from touching artifacts unless permitted. Please ask staff before photographing others or sensitive exhibits.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Information

Location

Address: 6418 N Greenview Ave, Chicago, IL 60626 (them.us)

Public Transit

Train: Morse Station (Red Line), five-minute walk
Bus: 22 Clark and 155 Devon routes
Parking: Limited street parking is available; no dedicated lot

Local Attractions

Loyola University Museum of Art
Rogers Park Beach
Chicago History Museum
Lake Michigan shoreline

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Leather Archives & Museum’s visiting hours?
A: Wednesday–Friday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Q: How much is admission?
A: $10 general, $5 for students/seniors/military, free on Thursdays.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible with ramps, elevator, and ADA restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment for groups and special topics.

Q: Can I take photos inside the museum?
A: Photography for personal use is permitted in most areas; flash and video may be restricted.

Q: Are children allowed?
A: No, visitors must be 18 or older due to adult-themed content.

Q: Is there a gift shop?
A: Yes, offering books, art, pins, patches, and memorabilia that support the museum’s mission.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the museum. For the most rewarding experience:

Check the official website for up-to-date hours, ticketing, and event information
Take advantage of free admission Thursdays
Visit the gift shop to support the museum
Download the Audiala app for exclusive content and updates (Audiala App Download)
Follow LA&M on social media for news on upcoming events

References

For more on Chicago’s LGBTQ+ and historical landmarks, explore related articles and guides on our site. Images and video content are included throughout the official website and digital resources, with descriptive alt text for enhanced accessibility.