Free admission • Citywide

One weekend. 20+ neighborhoods. 170+ 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, 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 170 Open House Chicago sites across more than 20 different neighborhoods that have opened their doors for the weekend. This year’s sites include residential buildings, breweries, sacred spaces, members-only clubs, local landmarks, and more. 

A few popular sites to catch in 2023 include the Fine Arts Building in the Loop, Colvin House in Edgewater, Avondale Bowl in Avondale, Glessner House in the South Loop, the Coastland Co-operative Apartments in Chatham, and the Riviera Theatre in Uptown.

New sites this year include Metropolitan Brewing in Avondale, Paul and Jean Harris Home in Beverly, BUILD Headquartes in Austin, The Renaissance Collaborative in Bronzeville, Artist on the Nine in Chatham, Kimball Arts Center in Humboldt Park, the Grand Ballroom in Hyde Park, and more.

Sites accept visitors on a first-come, first-served basis — tickets or reservations aren’t needed. Need help getting started? Check out our guide to Open House Chicago sites to check out in 2023.

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 170 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.