Discover the Top 5 Must-See Sights as Open House Chicago Returns Next Weekend
The Open House Chicago event by the Chicago Architecture Center returns next weekend, offering access to over 200 unique sites across the city. This annual event is a much-anticipated chance to explore some of Chicago’s architectural wonders. This year features 30 new locations, adding excitement for both new and returning visitors.
Top 5 Must-See Sights in Open House Chicago
Discover these top five must-see sights for a remarkable experience during the Open House Chicago weekend.
Hilliard Towers Apartments
Located at 30 W. Cermak Road, Hilliard Towers Apartments were designed by renowned architect Bertrand Goldberg in 1966. Originally public housing, these circular towers were unique for their humane design that included pleasant views and green spaces. Today, they are rehabilitated and privately managed, still offering affordable housing.
Ganz Hall at Roosevelt University
The Auditorium Building, located at 430 S. Michigan Ave., is home to Ganz Hall. Set on the seventh floor, this space boasts stunning late-1890s architecture. Visitors can marvel at gold leaf stenciled arches, murals, and steel chandeliers, witnessing works by Louis Sullivan, Dankmar Adler, Albert Fleury, and a young Frank Lloyd Wright.
Japanese American Service Committee Building
At 5700 N. Lincoln Ave., this adaptive reuse project transforms a former bank into a dynamic community center. Here, the Japanese American Service Committee offers adult daycare, workspaces, and a library showcasing Japanese American history. This innovative reuse exemplifies a community-focused approach to architecture.
National Public Housing Museum
Situated at 919 S. Ada St., this museum revamps part of the former Jane Addams public housing development. It exhibits art, videos, oral histories, and recreated apartments, illustrating residents’ lives over time. It highlights housing as a fundamental human right, challenging prevailing stereotypes about public housing developments.
Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation
Opened last summer at 5500 W. Madison St., the Aspire Center transformed the old Emmet Elementary School into a vibrant workforce development hub. The Lamar Johnson Collaborative revamped the space, featuring a striking 50-foot glass atrium. It stands as a beacon for community revitalization and development.
For a full list of all participating sites in Open House Chicago 2025, visit their official website.
