Oct. 17 – 18, 2026
Free admission • Citywide

One weekend. 30+ Chicago neighborhoods. 200+ 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 has offered behind-the-scenes access to the greatest spaces and places in Chicago. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the diversity and history of the city’s famous architecture, including soaring skyscrapers, historic spaces, private residences, and other areas not normally open to the public.

Open House Chicago 2026 sites

Each year, participants can explore over 200 Open House Chicago sites across dozens of different neighborhoods, including residential buildings, breweries, sacred spaces, members-only clubs, local landmarks, and more unique spaces that have opened their doors for one weekend only.

The 16th annual Open House Chicago will include sites in every corner of the city, including 25 sites that have never participated before.

A few of the sites making their Open House Chicago debut include:

  • Blackhawks Ice Center on the Near West Side (new!)
  • Muddy Waters MOJO Museum in Kenwood (new!)
  • Smashed Plastic Record Pressing in Hermosa (new!)
  • Sears Sunken Garden in North Lawndale (new!)
  • TimeLine Theatre in Uptown (new!)
  • Cadillac Palace Theatre in the Loop (new!)
  • BandWith Chicago in Garfield Park (new!)
  • Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park (new!)

This year, the lineup includes some greatest hits returning after a break:

  • Chicago Magic Lounge in Andersonville
  • Chicago Board of Trade in the Loop
  • Apollo’s 2000 in Little Village
  • Stony Island Arts Bank in South Shore
  • Walt Disney House and Birthplace in Hermosa
  • Bronzeville Forum in Bronzeville
  • Chess Records in the South Loop

Check out the full lineup of Open House Chicago 2026 sites and start planning your route. Need help narrowing down where to go? Explore our guide to can’t-miss Open House Chicago sites to add to your schedule.

About Open House Chicago

Now in its 16th 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 200 architecturally, historically, and culturally significant sites across the city. Every October, Open House Chicago attracts more than 35,000 visitors from across the region and around the U.S.

Throughout the year, the Chicago Architecture Center hosts fascinating exhibits on Chicago’s architectural history, along with sweeping views of the Chicago River and surrounding skyscrapers. The center is also the starting point for a variety of walking, bus, and boat tours that cover the city’s downtown and neighborhoods.

Visit the Open House Chicago website for the latest details and updates.