Have you ever walked by a building and thought “I wonder what that looks like inside?” Maybe it’s the old-school brewery in your neighborhood or that new, glitzy high-rise downtown. Well, now’s your chance to take a peek behind closed doors. This month, Open House Chicago — the city’s free, public architecture festival — returns with in-person site visits on Oct. 15 and 16.
During this weekend event, you’ll have the opportunity to explore more than 150 unique sites across 20 Chicago neighborhoods, including historic landmarks, architectural marvels, and soaring skyscrapers, some of which are rarely open to the public. Here are 10 unique and interesting sites to get you started this year.
Open Center for the Arts in Little Village
The Open Center for the Arts is a gathering space for local artists to develop their skills, showcase their work, and explore entrepreneurial opportunities in the Little Village neighborhood. The space also hosts art exhibits, workshops, family movie nights, and other local events. During Open House Chicago, visitors are invited to explore the gallery space and patio, then decorate their own calaveras (skulls) for the upcoming Día de los Muertos holiday.
The Forum in Bronzeville
Narrowly saved from demolition in 2011, The Forum is a storied cultural institution in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood. The space, which has been vacant for 30 years, has hosted leading performers (like Nat King Cole and Muddy Waters), prominent social events, and some of the era’s most important political meetings. Come take a guided tour and learn more about revitalization efforts.
Tip: After exploring The Forum, head to lunch at Boxville. This colorful retail center and street food market is also an official Open House Chicago site.
Avondale Bowl in Avondale
This eight-lane bowling alley and bar originally opened in the 1940s. Today, the fully restored Avondale Bowl features tons of original elements — the original wood lanes, gutters, and pinsetters were all completely rebuilt in place. The entire bowling alley and bar will be open to Open House Chicago visitors, who are invited to order a drink at the bar or play a few frames of bowling.
St. Paul & The Redeemer Episcopal Church in Hyde Park
This progressive church is notable for its stunning Modernistic design, which was erected in 1958 after the church on that site burned down. The sleek bell tower at St. Paul & The Redeemer Episcopal Church still houses the original church bell, which was salvaged from the ashes. Guests can explore the main sanctuary and enjoy live music performances both days.
The Givins Castle in Beverly
Open House is the perfect chance to step inside Chicago’s most famous (and only!) castle. The Givins Castle was built in the Beverly neighborhood in 1887 as a lavish private residence for Robert C. Givins, inspired by an Irish estate he once visited. The castle, which has only ever had five owners, is now home to the Beverly Unitarian Church. Visitors can explore the ornate building — constructed out of solid limestone mined in nearby Joliet — to get a sense of what it might have been like to live like 19th century “royalty.”
Tip: Stop by Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery (another Open House Chicago site) to sample their sustainable beverages made with honey harvested from their own bees.
Avalon Regal Theater in Chatham
Don’t miss the opportunity to tour this stunning Chicago landmark building, normally not open to the public. Boasting an elaborate Moorish Revival interior, the ornate Avalon Regal Theater was originally built in 1927 and has seen famed performers like Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, and Duke Ellington take the stage. Embark on a self-guided tour to see all the stunning details, like themed mosaics and a bejeweled ceiling.
Wintrust Grand Banking Hall in the Loop
Wintrust’s Grand Banking Hall, originally built in 1924 and recently restored, is a monumental space in the heart of the city’s financial district. Guests are invited to come marvel at the neoclassical and Gothic Revival architecture and snap some photos from the second floor viewing area.
District Brew Yards in West Town
This modern beer hall is the nation’s first collective pour-your-own brewery. The current line-up at District Brew Yards includes creative local brewers Burnt City, Casa Humilde, Around the Bend, and Twisted Hippo. During Open House Chicago, visitors can get a tour of the facility from the District Brew Yards founder. Afterward, pour yourself a pint and grab a seat on the patio.
Pui Tak Center in Chinatown
One of the most recognizable buildings in Chinatown, Pui Tak Center featured classical Chinese elements, colorful terra cotta, and lots of traditional symbolism. Admire the detailed exterior, then come inside to explore the second and third floors that host various community programs, including religious services and adult education classes.
345 Gallery in Garfield Park
In the Garfield Park neighborhood, 345 Gallery will open its doors for Open House Chicago participants. The multi-purpose space showcases an array of works by local artists and hosts a variety of arts-centric events for the community. Brief guided tours will be available throughout the weekend, and guests are welcome to explore the entire gallery and the adjoining sculpture garden.
