Free admission • Citywide
One weekend. 20+ neighborhoods. 150+ places to explore.
Open the door to architectural gems all over Chicago. Every October, the Chicago Architecture Center hosts one of the largest architecture events in the world — Open House Chicago.
Since 2011, this free public event gives you behind-the-scenes access to the greatest spaces and places in Chicago, including soaring skyscrapers, historic spaces, members-only clubs, private residences, and other areas not normally open to the public. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the cultural diversity and rich history through the unique architecture of Chicago’s neighborhoods.
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Open House Chicago sites
Come explore over 150 Open House Chicago sites across more than 20 different neighborhoods that have opened their doors for the weekend.
New sites in 2022 included the Austin Branch Library in Austin, Architectural Artifacts in Near North, Ravinia Brewing in Avondale, Kenwood United Church of Christ in Kenwood, OPEN Center for the Arts in Little Village, Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center in Hermosa, and more.
Returning favorites included Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica in Garfield Park, Givins Castle in Beverly, Boxville and The Forum in Bronzeville, Chinese American Museum of Chicago in Chinatown, McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum in the Loop., the International Museum of Surgical Science in Gold Coast, and more.
Sites accept visitors on a first-come, first-served basis — for the most part, tickets or reservations aren’t needed. Note that there are a select number of sites limited to Chicago Architecture Center members only or that require an RSVP in advance.
About Open House Chicago
Now in its 12th year, Open House Chicago is one of the largest architecture events of its kind in the world.
This free public festival from the Chicago Architecture Center provides behind-the-scenes access to more than 100 architecturally, historically, and culturally significant sites across the city, from iconic locations to under-the-radar architectural gems. Continue exploring all month long with self-guided tours and a suite of virtual programs, or check out the Chicago Architecture Center year round for fascinating exhibits on Chicago’s architectural history.
Visit openhousechicago.org for details and updates. And follow the Chicago Architecture Center on Facebook at facebook.com/chiarchitecture, on Twitter at @chiarchitecture, and on Instagram at instagram.com/chiarchitecture.
