In viewing exhibits at Italian American museums throughout the U.S., visitors can learn about the often-unacknowledged history of Italian immigrants as they struggled to become Italian Americans. From everyday objects to one-of-a-kind handcrafted items, the artifacts on display represent the Italian American journey.

Most of these museums developed their brands through the Italian immigrants who settled in the area, whether specific to a city or a state. The exhibits showcase a culture depicted through personal artifacts and pictures collected from local residents and then displayed to chronicle the regional Italian American lifestyle. Many of these museums also provide exhibit space for local modern-day artists.