Beautiful Bungalows of Berwyn

Join the Chicago Architecture Center on a bus tour exploring the beautiful bungalows of Berwyn.

The June 6, 2026 tour that begins at 10:30 AM is sold out. This experience returns in 2027.

Berwyn’s historic district features more than 1,000 Chicago-style bungalows of various shapes and sizes—from smaller single-story residences to large bungalow “mansions” and everything in between. We’ll also explore different types of bungalows with decorative features including intricate brickwork, multi-colored tiled roofs and stained- and leaded glass windows.

Duration
2.5 hours
Location
Westside
Meet

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E Wacker Dr.

During this bus tour of Berwyn, we’ll learn about the background and origins of the town, focusing on its rapid development in the early 20th century when Czech immigrants built a thriving community.

We’ll explore parts of the Central Berwyn Bungalow Historic District, where most of Berwyn’s bungalows were built in the 1920’s to house the booming population. We’ll see Chicago-style bungalows of different types, including Prairie style with geometric ornamentation and art or stained glass, Colonial Revival style with an open front porch with columns, and Tudor Revival style with steeply pitched roofs. We’ll also explore some of the larger, more ornate bungalows throughout the city.

Our tour will also include a stop to see the rail station built in 1890 for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad and now used for the Metra

Know before you go:
  • Mobility aids (walkers, foldable wheelchairs, etc.) can be stored on the bus.
  • Guests are welcome to bring snacks and closed-top beverages onboard the bus.
  • There are 3 outdoor walking segments during the course of the tour.

Tour Accessibility

CAC is committed to improving access to our tours. The accessibility information below reflects our docents’ experience and is provided for general guidance only.

What to expect on this tour

  • Icon of a person walking with a red percentage sign

    Terrain & Surfaces

    Moderate - Some uneven or mixed surfaces

  • Icon of a wheelchair and red arrow

    Wheelchair & Walker Access

    Difficult - Stairs required, no ramps 

  • Icon of the outline or some steps and a red arrow pointing diagonally right and up.

    Steps or Stairs

    Difficult - Stairs required, no alternate route available

  • Icon of an ear with a red throughline

    Hearing Access

    Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear

Skyscraper GallerySkyscraper Gallery

Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

Visit the Center
Skyscraper GallerySkyscraper Gallery