University of Illinois Chicago

Explore the country's first fully planned, public urban university.

Gain insight into the innovative architecture of Walter Netsch, a mid-20th century maverick. The tour ends with a visit to Hull House, once the country's most famous settlement house.

Duration
1.5 hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Westside
Architects and Styles
Meet

Starbucks at 940 W. Harrison (inside the Academic and Residential Complex)

At UIC, Netsch's goal was to promote educational ideals through the design of the campus. The campus received awards from the architecture community, but the public is still debating the success of the project. The tour also delves into the controversy that the new campus sparked -- because of its bold, modern style, but also because its construction destroyed a working-class neighborhood. The tour ends with a visit to one of the remaining structures of that neighborhood, Jane Addams Hull House, once the country’s most famous settlement house.

Know before you go:
  • After the tour has concluded, guests will have the opportunity to explore the Hull House on their own. 
  • This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.

Parking and driving directions:

There are three options to arrive at the Starbucks located inside the Academic Residential Center (ARC): 

  • Take the “L” blue line stop at UIC, Harrison/Halsted Bus lines, or driving. 
  • If you are driving take exit 29A (Congress Parkway) off of 290 traveling east continue to Racine and south to Harrison where the Harrison Street Parking structure is located. 
  • If traveling westbound on 290, take exit 29B, south on Morgan to Harrison and west to the Harrison Street Parking Structure. From the Harrison Parking structure, it's a two-block walk to the meeting point. Parking rates are on their website. The parking structure may be unavailable during events. On these days, there is "green box" parking on Van Buren St, one block north of the Eisenhower Expressway.

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

    Difficult - Mostly uneven or unpaved throughout 

  • 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 (1 flight of stairs) 

  • Icon of an ear with a red throughline

    Hearing Access

    Easy - Quiet setting, easy to hear

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Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

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

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