Architecture lovers rejoice! For one weekend a year, typically during the middle of October, Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) partners with hundreds of buildings across the city to provide inside-access tours.
That’s right, places that you can’t go to normally throughout the year. And it is completely free! Although, I recommend becoming a CAF member to support a great organization and preservation of grand architecture. CAF members get the added bonus of skipping the lines at popular sites.
Speaking of sites, these are the 10 sites that I enjoyed the most during the Open House Weekend. Listed in no particular order, here are some unique Chicago views – from the Chicago River to 90 floors above the sprawling metropolis.
Aon Tower
The view from the Aon Tower gives you a view of most of Chicago, with focus on the Marina Towers (two circular corn cob looking skyscrapers on the right), Kemper Building (tan dome), and the Chicago River bridges.
Prudential Center
The aerial view of Millennium Park to the south is awesome! One of the finest examples of urban park planning in the country, with its intricate sidewalks and bike paths, gardens, and concert areas for residents of the city to gather. One of my favorite places to hang out during Chicago’s (very limited) summer.
London House Rooftop and Gazebo
London House is one of my favorite lounges and rooftop bars in Chicago. The view of Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River hundreds of feet below is breathtaking. The Wrigley building’s iconic clocktower and stonework is front-and-center. The soon to be Apple Store is what the crane is constructing just north of the river.
Chicago Loop Skyline from River Cruise
Arguably one of the best views of the Chicago skyline is from a Chicago river boat cruise. Seeing the city come alive at blue hour from the middle of the water is an experience that will stay with you a lifetime. The tall modern condos tower above the Chicago River.
Rookery Building Staircase
This Frank Llyod Wright designed staircase is not typically open to the public, to protect its intricate metal and details. So the Open House weekend is a fabulous opportunity to experience some of the most unique architecture in Chicago.
The intricate wrought iron and spiraling stone steps is one of the most unique staircases in the world and one of my favorite places of the Open House weekend.
Optima Center
A very very long way down to street level. My camera was on the edge of the glass with the paracord camera strap as tight on my wrist as possible.
The cars and parking lots below looked liked tiny ants from this high rooftop perspective. I enjoyed just staring at the cars and pedestrians zoom by at the speed of life.
Chicago River Bridge House
A unique portal overlooking the river, the River Bridge House provides a unique perspective to watch boats cruise by on the Chicago River.
Chicago Theatre
Grand. Majestic. Regal. These are the first three words that came to mind when I first looked up in the middle of the Chicago Theatre. Truly a national treasure. Complete with velvety red seats that have seated audiences for decades.
Lake Pointe Tower
A unique view of the city from east of Lakeshore Drive. The John Hancock Building is in the upper right (with two antennas).
The tour gave us history on how the skyscraper came to be built in an unusual location.
Wintrust Bank in the Loop
Grand columns and intricate stonework grace the interior of Wintrust Bank on Lasalle Street. Be sure to admire the flowers and wrought iron design of the ceiling.
So next time you’re thinking about heading to Chicago in the fall, try to line up your visit with the Chicago Architecture Foundation Open House weekend event.
Note that COVID-19 may impact 2021’s fall celebrations and please check with CAF for the latest updates. This experience was written based on the events of 2017 and 2018.
