Chicago is a city famous for its bold and beautiful buildings. Every year, the Chicago Architecture Open House invites everyone to step inside some of the city’s most stunning and historic sites — many of which are usually closed to the public.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the 2025 event: what to see, where to go, and how to plan your visit for an unforgettable experience.
What Is the Chicago Architecture Open House?
The Chicago Architecture Open House is a free event organized by the Chicago Architecture Center. It opens more than 170 buildings across the city to the public for one weekend, offering a rare chance to explore landmarks, hidden gems, historic homes, modern skyscrapers, and eco-friendly spaces.
According to the Chicago Architecture Center, the 2025 Open House will feature over 170 locations, showcasing the city’s rich architectural history and future innovations.
This year’s event will take place on October 18 and 19, 2025. Most buildings are free to enter, although some may require pre-registration due to limited space. To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to download the official event app, which offers maps, schedules, and self-guided tours.
Top Places You Should Visit in 2025
Chicago’s most famous landmarks will be open for exploration during the 2025 event. Some must-visit sites include:
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Willis Tower Skydeck: Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the world’s tallest buildings and step onto the glass ledge.
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The Rookery Building: Redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright, it features one of the most beautiful historic lobbies.
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Marina City: Often called the “corncob towers,” these twin skyscrapers offer stunning views along the Chicago River.
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Tribune Tower: Built using stones from famous monuments around the world.
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St. Regis Chicago: Newly opened and designed by Jeanne Gang, it’s the city’s third-tallest skyscraper.
Hidden Gems You Don’t Want to Miss
While the famous landmarks are exciting, hidden gems offer a more peaceful and unique experience:
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Elks National Memorial: A stunning Beaux-Arts style building filled with sculptures and history.
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Cafe Brauer: A beautiful Prairie-style building near Lincoln Park Zoo, perfect for a relaxing break.
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Chicago Temple Building: Home to the tallest church in the world, with fewer crowds and great views.
These lesser-known spots are perfect if you want to avoid the larger crowds.
Explore Chicago’s Neighborhoods
The event goes beyond downtown and highlights Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods:
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Pilsen: Admire vibrant murals and experience the area’s strong Mexican culture.
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Bronzeville: Explore African American history through its art, music, and landmarks.
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Hyde Park: Visit Gothic-style architecture and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House.
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Uptown: New for 2025, discover restored Art Deco theaters and historic jazz clubs.
New Focus: Green Buildings and Sustainable Design
In 2025, the Open House places a strong focus on sustainability. Key eco-friendly sites include:
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Green Exchange: A former factory turned into a hub for green businesses.
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Chicago Center for Green Technology: One of the first eco-designed buildings in the city.
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Lincoln Yards Project: A new neighborhood featuring parks, river access, and green technology innovations.
These locations highlight how Chicago is building a better, more sustainable future.
Special Tours and Activities
There’s more than just building visits in 2025. Enjoy:
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Expert-led Tours: Dive deep into architecture and history.
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Family Workshops: Kids can enjoy scavenger hunts, games, and creative activities.
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Talks by Architects: Hear about the future of Chicago’s skyline.
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Photography Contests: Share your best shots using the hashtag #OHC2025 for a chance to be featured.
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Self-Guided Audio Tours: Available through the event app for flexible exploration.
Perfect 1-Day Walking Route
If you have just one day, follow this simple route:
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Start at Millennium Park: Visit Cloud Gate (“The Bean”).
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Walk to Aqua Tower: Admire its wave-like design.
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Visit The Rookery Building: See its historic light court.
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Head to Tribune Tower: View stones from around the world.
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End at Willis Tower Skydeck: Catch the sunset from above the city.
Using the event app helps you plan the best route and check building hours.
Best Photo Spots in 2025
Some of the best places to snap photos include:
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Willis Tower Skydeck: Capture stunning city views.
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Chicago Riverwalk: Beautiful reflections of skyscrapers along the water.
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Marina City: Looks amazing at sunset.
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St. Regis Tower: Showcase modern architecture in your shots.
Share your photos with #OHC2025 to join the community celebration!
Great Places to Eat and Take a Break
After a long day of exploring, refuel at these spots:
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Goddess and the Baker: Great for coffee, sandwiches, and pastries.
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Lou Malnati’s: Try a classic Chicago deep-dish pizza.
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Beatrix: Perfect for lighter and healthy meals.
Many local restaurants offer discounts during the Open House weekend, so keep an eye out for special deals.
Chicago Weather Tips for October
Chicago weather in October is cool and breezy, with temperatures between 50°F and 65°F.
Tips:
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Wear comfortable walking shoes.
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Bring a light jacket.
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Carry a small umbrella in case of sudden rain.
Why You Should Attend the 2025 Event
The Chicago Architecture Open House 2025 is a once-a-year opportunity to explore the city from a new perspective. You can:
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Step inside world-famous and hidden buildings.
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Learn about Chicago’s past, present, and future.
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Discover eco-friendly architecture.
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Join fun tours, talks, and contests.
Fun Fact:
The Rookery Building’s light court, redesigned by Frank Lloyd Wright, was one of the world’s first early skyscraper interiors!
Conclusion
The Chicago Architecture Open House 2025 is more than just a tour — it’s a celebration of the city’s rich history, creative spirit, and bold future.
Whether you’re exploring iconic skyscrapers, hidden gems, sustainable designs, or lively neighborhoods, this event offers something for everyone. With over 170 locations, expert tours, family activities, and new neighborhood features, 2025 promises to be one of the best years yet.
Start planning your trip now. Mark your calendar for October 18–19, 2025, and get ready to experience Chicago’s hidden wonders like never before.
1. What is the Chicago Architecture Open House?
The Chicago Architecture Open House is a free event where more than 170 buildings across Chicago open their doors to the public for one weekend. You can explore famous skyscrapers, historic homes, and hidden gems, many of which are usually closed to visitors.
2. When is the Chicago Architecture Open House 2025?
The event will take place on October 18 and 19, 2025. Most buildings will be open on both days, but a few special sites might have different hours. It’s best to check the event app for updated schedules.
3. Do I need to buy tickets to attend?
No, the event is free!
Most buildings do not need tickets. However, some popular or small places might ask you to pre-register because of limited space.
4. How can I plan my visit easily?
You can download the official Open House Chicago app. It gives you building lists, maps, opening hours, and even self-guided walking tours. It’s the best way to organize your trip and make the most of your time.
5. What should I wear to the event?
Wear comfortable shoes because there will be a lot of walking.
Also bring a light jacket for cool October weather and maybe a small umbrella in case it rains.
6. Are there family-friendly activities during the event?
Yes!
There will be special activities like workshops, scavenger hunts, and fun games for kids. Families are welcome and can enjoy exploring together.
7. Where are the best places to take photos?
Some top photo spots are:
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Willis Tower Skydeck – amazing city views
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Chicago Riverwalk – beautiful reflections of buildings on water
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Marina City – the famous “corncob” towers at sunset
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St. Regis Tower – modern and stylish new skyscraper
Don’t forget to use the hashtag #OHC2025 when sharing your pictures!
8. What’s new at the Chicago Architecture Open House in 2025?
In 2025, there is a big focus on green buildings and sustainability. New places like the Lincoln Yards project and Green Exchange show how Chicago is building a cleaner, greener future.
Also, the Uptown neighborhood is a new highlight, featuring old jazz clubs and Art Deco theaters.