Embrace your surroundings with greater appreciation. Open House Chicago invites you to discover architectural wonders and hidden gems during its 16th edition on October 17-18. Organized by the Chicago Architecture Center in partnership with over 200 sites, this free public event spreads across numerous neighborhoods, including many often overlooked in our own communities.
The event welcomes you to explore a diverse range of locations. From churches and residences to skyscrapers and breweries, the festival also showcases museums, theaters, and farms. You are encouraged to learn the history of these places and understand their contribution to the cultural landscape. Few events offer such a broad scope of what defines Chicago.
With numerous sites and varying accessibility hours, careful planning is essential. Create a schedule at openhousechicago.org, accessible across devices. No tickets or advance registration are needed. Prioritize sites open only one day and take breaks at local eateries you have yet to try.
Avalon Regal Theater
While the future of Uptown Theatre is uncertain, restoration at the Avalon Regal Theater is well underway. This Moorish Revival gem features colorful murals and has hosted legends like Louis Armstrong. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 1645 E. 79th St. Nearby: Stony Island Arts Bank, 6760 S. Stony Island Ave.
Bubbly + Norwich
This creative hub for designers and artists expanded from a former paint warehouse. The site reflects Chicago’s industrial history while promoting sustainability and collaboration. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 1048-1100 W. 37th St. Nearby: The Plant, 1400 W. 46th St.
The Cliff Dwellers Club
Enjoy stunning lake views from this members-only club’s terrace. Founded in 1907, it supports the fine arts. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at 200 S. Michigan Ave. Ste. #2200 Nearby: Stantec Architecture, 224 S. Michigan Ave.
Electrical Audio
For music enthusiasts, visiting Steve Albini’s recording studio is a must. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at 2621 W. Belmont Ave. Nearby: Judson & Moore Distillery, 3057 N. Rockwell Ave., Bldg. 5
First Church of Deliverance
A design by Walter T. Bailey, this gospel church offers a terra cotta facade and a Streamline Moderne style. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sun. at 4315 S. Wabash Ave. Nearby: Illinois Tech’s S.R. Crown Hall, 3360 S. State St.
The Forum
This historic assembly hall is part of Bronzeville’s cultural heritage. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 324 E. 43rd St. Nearby: Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, 4501 S. Vincennes Ave.
Nichols Tower at Homan Square
Previously linked to Sears Tower, this 14-story building provides 360-degree views. Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 906 S. Homan Ave. Nearby: Farm on Ogden, 3555 W. Ogden Ave.
Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica and National Shrine
A major Catholic landmark, this basilica features European-style architecture. Open 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 3121 W. Jackson Blvd. Nearby: Revolution Workshop, 3410 W. Lake Ave.
Park Castle Condominiums
This 1925 castle-esque residence offers a step back into the Jazz Age. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 2442 W. Greenleaf Ave. Nearby: Casa Bonita, 7340 N. Ridge Blvd.
Starshaped Press
This letterpress studio keeps traditional craftsmanship alive. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at 4636 N. Ravenswood Ave. Unit #103 Nearby: All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 4550 N. Hermitage Ave.
Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church
This Byzantine church offers rich imagery and architecture. Open noon to 5 p.m. Sat., 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sun. at 739 N. Oakley Blvd. Nearby: Ignite Glass Studios, 401 N. Armour St.
Working Bikes
Explore a nonprofit dedicated to refurbishing bicycles. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at 2434 S. Western Ave. Nearby: Mana Contemporary Chicago, 2233 S. Throop St.
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