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.
Exclusively for CAC members • Hear what inspired the design of the CAC and discover the skyline-altering work of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture on this virtual tour with renowned architect Gordon Gill.
Chicago’s historic preservation movement is now more than half a century old. Learn how local landmarking came into being and how its use and impact have gone far beyond preservation, with Chicago’s diverse Third Ward serving as a case study.
OHC 2020 community partner Hyde Park Art Center co-convenes this roundtable discussion about artist-driven community activations, creative projects and placemaking across Chicago.
Calling all Chicago enthusiasts! Test your knowledge of the city’s architecture at our exciting virtual trivia night. Compete in teams led by local personalities and win exciting prizes!
Get a special sneak preview of the OHC 2020 mobile app and virtual programs. Ask questions and get recommendations to maximize your OHC 2020 experience!
CAC members are invited to attend this special sneak preview of the OHC 2020 mobile app and virtual programs. Ask questions and get recommendations to maximize your OHC 2020 experience!
Hear the stories of Chicago women activists and learn what reforms they led, particularly on Chicago’s Near South Side, during this virtual program on July 15 and September 2 led by CAC docent Ellen Shubart.
Take a virtual walk around Wrigley Field and learn interesting tidbits about the architecture surrounding the historic baseball stadium on this 45-minute tour with CAC docent Kent Foutty on September 22.
Hear the secrets and stories behind a stretch of row houses situated between Wrigley Field and Graceland Cemetery on this live, 45-minute virtual tour of Alta Vista Terrace with CAC docent Kent Foutty.
International architecture practice Buro Ole Scheeren Group is helping re-imagine the form and function of skyscrapers around the world. Founding principal Ole Scheeren will illuminate the firm’s unique approach to every project.
Hear the fascinating story behind Farnsworth House, an iconic International Style home located about 60 miles west of Chicago designed by famed architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
A prolific architect, trailblazing city planner and civic leader, Daniel Burnham has been described as both a pragmatic realist and a visionary idealist. CAC docent Marcia Matavulj dives into this apparent contradiction on July 25 and Sept. 5.
The CAC’s annual Churches by Bus tour celebrates 25 years in 2020. Two CAC docents who lead the tour will share the evolution of church architecture in Chicago and highlight three local examples at this program on July 29 and August 29.
With a focus on Chicago’s River North neighborhood, CAC docent Jeff Marcella—an expert in both buildings and beer—will lead this online version of one of the CAC’s popular Pub Tours on July 18 and August 26.
Chicago author and historian Dominic A. Pacyga leads this presentation on his 2019 book “American Warsaw: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of Polish Chicago,” which explores the impact Chicago’s Polish community has made on the city’s culture and politics…