4 MIN READ - The Chicago Architecture Center’s Open House Chicago (OHC) is the city’s annual architecture festival. For one weekend in October you can explore Chicago’s most iconic and unique architectural treasures. From mansions to sacred spaces, theaters to private clubs, hotels to secret rooms—OHC gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at many of the city’s great spaces that are rarely, if ever, open to the public. Read on for a few tips and tricks to navigating sites in the Loop.

NEW SITES IN 2019

If you’re a devoted Open House Chicago attendee and would like to explore a new site, there are several in the downtown area.

Prudential Plaza

One Two Pru
180 N. Stetson Ave.
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

One Two Pru was one of the first skyscrapers built in Chicago after World War II. This 41-story Art-Deco-influenced Modernist behemoth was built above Illinois Central Railroad air rights. Since the 1990 completion of neighboring Two Pru, the building has been referred to as One Pru. Take in stunning park views from the 11th-floor roof deck and amenity space. On the 31st floor, visit Sheehan Nagle Hartray Architects in their new expansive office.

Broadway In Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre

24 W. Randolph St.
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: Closed

The City of Chicago and the League of Chicago Theatres have designated 2019 as the Year of Chicago Theatre. As a result, an unprecedented number of Chicago theaters have opened their doors for Open House Chicago including Broadway In Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre. Experience the lobby and main level of the auditorium in this stunning theater--usually only open to the public during performances.

The Central Standard Building

231 S. LaSalle St.
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Central Standard Building stands across LaSalle Street from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, two neoclassical near-twins guarding the main intersection of Chicago's financial district. Interior spaces include a mix of neoclassical and Gothic Revival architecture with Art Deco influences, most notably a massive 88,000-square-foot grand banking hall on the second floor, recently restored as Wintrust's Grand Banking Hall. Visit the expansive basement vaults--recently repurposed as conference space-- of this historic building. Visitors must show photo ID upon arrival.

Become a CAC Member to Skip the Line

As a member of the CAC, you receive a priority access pass for Open House Chicago, allowing you to jump ahead of the line. Members also receive exclusive access to Perkins and Will in The Wrigley Building and The Alfred.

Become a member here.

Perkins and Will – Members Only

The Wrigley Building
410 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1600
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: Closed

Perkins and Will is one of Chicago's oldest and most prolific architecture and design firms as well as one of the largest architecture firms in the world. The firm moved to the top of the iconic Wrigley Building's north tower in 2016. This raw space--complete with some of the most stunning views of Michigan Avenue--is located in the former Cloud Room, once the Wrigley Company's executive dining room.

The Alfred – Members Only

30 E. Adams St.
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Alfred is a 176-unit apartment building in the Loop, just renovated by FLATS. Many original interior details are preserved, such as herringbone wood flooring, Chicago-style windows, ornate elevator doors, and marble walls. The brick and terracotta exterior has been lovingly restored, and the rooftop now sports a stylish lounge opening onto a lush and expansive new outdoor terrace.

Explore a site while enjoying food and drinks

Need to take a lunch break from a busy day and wind down? Treat yourself to some libations at these downtown sites.

The Cliff Dwellers Club

200 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 2000
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This private club was founded in 1907 as the Attic Club and renamed the Cliff Dwellers in 1909. It remains a private club and nonprofit organization for men and women who support the fine and performing arts. Visit one of the most historic private clubs in the city--complete with architectural models, a photography exhibit by Juan Fernandez and a full bar.

Revival Food Hall

The National Building
125 S. Clark St.
Saturday, October 19: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sunday, October 20: Closed

Opened in 2016, Revival Food Hall puts a modern, upmarket spin on the ubiquitous food court. The 24,000-square-foot space is located on the ground floor of the National Building, a restoration of the 20-story Daniel Burnham-designed Commercial National Bank Building, previously headquarters of the Chicago Public Schools. Take a load off and enjoy 15+ food vendors, plus the Revival Cafe Bar--featuring a cocktail menu inspired by historic Chicago architecture!

Explore all the Open House Chicago sites and plan your itinerary on our website! You can also customize your itinerary based on several categories like “Skyline View,” “Historic Home,” and “New in 2019.” Check out all the Open House Chicago categories and sites here.