At the Chicago Architecture Center, our programs and events help you think differently about the places we live, work and play. Get behind-the-scenes access to the city's architectural treasures. Practice your design skills while you play with your family. Participate in expert-led discussions about the latest urban design issues. With these offerings and so many more to choose from, we guarantee there’s something inspiring and fun for you at the CAC.
Join us in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio on Thursdays from 5—7pm during the school year to get feedback and guidance on independent or competition projects. CPS students are eligible for a stipend when they attend eight or more studios.
Join us for a special sneak peek of Open House Chicago (OHC), our free, annual architecture festival taking place Oct. 19-20 at more than 250 sites across the city. Hear what’s new and exciting in this ninth year of the event.
Architecture is not neutral; it hurts or it heals. Hear about projects by Boston-based MASS Design Group that use architecture to draw attention to difficult issues like gun violence, the topic of the firm's major installation at the 2019 Chicago Architecture…
Hear from two Danish artists about their Chicago Architecture Biennial project, which reimagines the Garfield Park Conservatory landscape with a field of 10,000 cabbages and an outdoor kitchen, designed to be a local community gathering spot.
Come learn what makes our home—the International style 111 E. Wacker building—unique at our monthly LEGO Build! Construct a LEGO structure inspired by 111 E. Wacker, where Mies van der Rohe’s “less is more” philosophy is very apparent.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the John Hancock Center’s (now 875 North Michigan) completion, designers who conceived of and worked on the project will give first-hand accounts of Chicago’s 1960s tall buildings boom.
Coinciding with the start of EXPO Chicago, CAC Docent Ed McDevitt will give a special talk on the importance of public art for the city's civic realm. Revisit popular works in the Loop and learn about some lesser-known projects.
Take a step back in time to 1969: gas is 35 cents per gallon, the “Chicago Seven” are on trial, the John Hancock Center tops off and architect Mies van der Rohe dies. We’ll review where Chicago was 50 years ago, both architecturally and culturally…
Ready to take the Chicago Architecture Center to the next level?! Visit our Mobile Architecture Lab on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between 11am and 3pm to interact with the CAC exhibits in new and exciting ways. The lab features fun, hands-on activities…
Join us on the Riverwalk as we discuss “The River and Its Architecture – Work, Play and Live”. Learn about the River’s past and plans for the future, the Riverwalk design and why this new playscape is an exciting addition to Chicago.
Longtime CAC docent Patrick Pyszka will share insights on the interesting intersection of architecture and photography and explain how he sees this tradition continuing today in his job as principal photographer for the City of Chicago.
This program has been cancelled. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Construct a LEGO® structure with arches, domes and vaults after seeing these architectural elements in-person on a short visit to the Chicago Cultural Center! Come learn about this amazing 1897 landmark and gain inspiration for your own creation.
Join CAC at Millennium Park’s Family Fun Festival from Aug. 5-9. We’ll offer engaging, hands-on activities to inspire families to discover why design matters! Learn about architecture and the city through activities that encourage looking, drawing…
Have you ever wondered how buildings stand tall and strong? Join us to learn about the science of architecture! Drop in any time before 11am to enjoy multiple readings of “Elara STEM Girl” by Leela Ayyar.