Featured Program
A Survey of Great Architecture Exhibitions
The CAC descends from a long line of comparable architectural displays, stretching back more than 200…
Programs & Events at CAC
At 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 CAC.
Recommended Programs
Adult Programs
With our focused lectures, members-only events, classes for adult learners and much more, CAC brings you inspiring new ways to stay engaged with Chicago’s architecture and built environment.
Kids, Families & Teens
Dive into the design process with a CAC camp or studio visit. Or have fun with your family as you read, build a project and hone your creative problem-solving skills.
Special Events
Don't miss these once a year or one-time-only special events. Get to know CAC through festivals, members events, exhibition openings and more.
Adult Programs
With our focused lectures, members-only events, classes for adult learners and much more, CAC brings you inspiring new ways to stay engaged with Chicago’s architecture and built environment.
5 Programs in this collection
Architecture Storytelling
Join us for an evening of fun and fascinating storytelling with architects, interior designers, CAC docents…
A Survey of Great Architecture Exhibitions
The CAC descends from a long line of comparable architectural displays, stretching back more than 200…
Tall & Timber: Chicago's First Wooden Skyscraper
When you think of tall building materials, steel and concrete likely come to mind. But now, wood skyscrapers…
Current Projects: Prefab Design on the Rise
Construction contractor Skender has joined a new prefab movement with the opening of an apartment module…
High-Risers: Cabrini-Green and the Fate of American Public Housing
Join author Ben Austen for a two-part book club about his acclaimed book “High-Risers: Cabrini-Green…
Kids, Families & Teens
Dive into the design process with a CAC camp or studio visit. Or have fun with your family as you read, build a project and hone your creative problem-solving skills.
Special Events
Don't miss these once a year or one-time-only special events. Get to know CAC through festivals, members events, exhibition openings and more.
2 Programs in this collection
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LEGO® Lab
Join us on Thursdays to solve architecture-inspired design challenges using LEGO® in the ArcelorMittal Design Studio. Creative challenges will introduce you to iconic Chicago buildings, unique design challenges and essential architecture concepts.
Members Only: Architecture Essentials - Jan. 15
Chicago is synonymous with architecture and Chicagoans—especially CAC members—love to share their knowledge of architecture with family and friends. Come learn fun architecture facts you can share again and again at this members-only event.
A Survey of Great Architecture Exhibitions
The CAC descends from a long line of comparable architectural displays, stretching back more than 200 years. In this two-part class, historian and author John Zukowsky leads a discussion on the traditions and trends in exhibiting architecture.
Architecture Storytelling
Join us for an evening of fun and fascinating storytelling with architects, interior designers, CAC docents and regular folks who will share crafted tales about Chicago’s buildings and their personal experiences with the built environment.
Tall & Timber: Chicago's First Wooden Skyscraper
When you think of tall building materials, steel and concrete likely come to mind. But now, wood skyscrapers are moving closer to becoming a reality. Hear about the proposed River Beech Tower, an 80-story timber high-rise designed by Perkins+Will.
Current Projects: Prefab Design on the Rise
Construction contractor Skender has joined a new prefab movement with the opening of an apartment module factory in South Lawndale. Learn how entire apartment modules are built off-site and later pieced together.
High-Risers: Cabrini-Green and the Fate of American Public Housing
Join author Ben Austen for a two-part book club about his acclaimed book “High-Risers: Cabrini-Green and the Fate of American Public Housing.” Peter Landon of Landon Bone Baker Architects will join Ben on the second evening.
Reimagining Chicago's Alleys and Garages
Join us for a conversation with six designers, policymakers and artists who are re-imagining Chicago’s alleys and garages as vibrant civic spaces. This program coincides with the release of a new book, "Rebel Garages,” by the CAC and Future Firm.
Engineering Fest
Come celebrate the 125th anniversary of the World’s Columbian Exposition at the CAC’s annual Engineering Fest! Learn about building materials, build a Ferris Wheel, talk with experts and take mini tours of the CAC. Kids of all ages welcome!
Daytime Talk: Chicago’s Most Endangered Buildings of 2019
What are Chicago's most endangered buildings? Find out at the unveiling of Preservation Chicago's 17th annual "Chicago 7" list. The list identifies architecturally significant structures that preservationists hope to save from the wrecking ball.
Architect Talk: An evening with Stanley Tigerman
Join us for an evening with with legendary Chicago architect and activist Stanley Tigerman as he reflects on his career and his impact on Chicago and architecture and design.
Members Only: Architecture Essentials - May 14
Chicago is synonymous with architecture and Chicagoans—especially CAC members—love to share their knowledge of architecture with family and friends. Come learn fun architecture facts you can share again and again at this members-only event.
Read and Build: Bungalows
What makes your house a home? Together we'll explore the CAC's Chicago Gallery to learn about different types of homes, then make a mini-diorama. Drop in any time for multiple readings of “Home” by Carson Ellis.
Chicago Architecture Center's 2019 Gala
Save the date for the 2019 Chicago Architecture Center Gala on Thursday, April 4 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago! Funds raised that evening will support the expansion of our award-winning education programs in our brand new Chicago Architecture Center. Join…