The Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Open House Chicago is a free public festival that offers behind-the-scenes access to more than 200 buildings across Chicago.

Explore the hidden gems and architectural treasures of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods—all for free.

Have you ever walked by a building and thought, "I wish I could see what's inside?" Now you can. Tour soaring skyscrapers, repurposed mansions, opulent theaters, exclusive private clubs, private offices and breathtaking sacred spaces.

What is Open House Chicago?

OHC is a free annual festival presented by the Chicago Architecture Foundation that offers behind-the-scenes access to more than 200 buildings across Chicago.

When is Open House Chicago?

OHC is an annual festival held one weekend every October. In 2017, OHC will be on Saturday and Sunday, October 14-15 from 9am-5pm. Times vary depending on specific sites.

Who organizes Open House Chicago?

In 2011, OHC began as a new initiative of the Chicago Architecture Foundation, a non-profit cultural institution that offers tours, exhibitions, programs, and events for all ages. CAF’s mission is to inspire people to discover why design matters.

OHC is organized in partnership with community development and cultural organizations across the city. These organizations provide critical support in such areas as site identification, program development, grassroots marketing, volunteer recruitment and on-site support during the event weekend. OHC is also made possible through the support of sponsors, donors and government agencies.

What kinds of sites are included in Open House Chicago and where are they located?

OHC is a citywide event that includes more than 200 sites located in 20 neighborhoods. The sites in these neighborhoods reflect the cultural diversity and history of Chicago, as well as the unique character of each community.

Locations include private clubs, residential spaces, offices, hotels, theaters and performance halls, design/architecture studios, schools and places of worship as well as manufacturing, cultural and government facilities. This diverse selection of sites allows visitors to plan an itinerary according to their own specific interests. Browse the list of sites or see them on a map.

How do I plan my Open House Chicago weekend experience?

The best way to get up-to-date information about OHC is on this mobile-friendly website. Facebook and Twitter users can use our online itinerary tool to collect and save sites. Just visit a site page and click the “add to itinerary” button to get started. Visitors can also pick up a printed copy of the OHC Event Guide in the Chicago Tribune on Oct. 12. To stay up to date on the latest OHC developments, sign up for our e-news.

Where can I find a printed guide or maps of the locations for Open House Chicago?

The OHC Event Guide includes maps, descriptions and open hours for all participating OHC sites. The printed Event Guide will be included in the October 12, 2017 issue of the Chicago Tribune. Limited quantites of the printed Event Guide can also be picked up at participating locations and at CAF headquarters (224 S. Michigan Ave.) during OHC weekend. A downloadable PDF version of the Event Guide will also be posted on the website starting Thursday, October 12.