Programs & Events at CAC

The school year is a busy time. We’ve combined all your favorite elements from our design studio, exhibits and Mobile Architecture Lab into a full day of architecture and exploration—just for families! Join us from 10am—2pm on the second Saturday…

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.

Hear from preservationists and advocates about what went into researching and applying for the World Heritage status that was recently awarded to eight Frank Lloyd Wright sites across the U.S.—including local icons Robie House and Unity Temple.

This six-week scholarship program for girls ages 11-14 will give students a chance to explore the exciting world of interior design, through hands-on projects, interactions with professional designers and behind-the-scenes tours of design firms.

Learn about Adaptable House, a re-imagining of the classic Chicago bungalow as a flexible home that grows with changing family needs. Meet Greg Tamborino, the architect behind the award-winning design, which won the 2019 Disruptive Design competition…

This class, designed for first-time Girls Build! participants, will help female-identifying students ages 11-14 understand architecture essentials. Together we'll use the design process to create a series of architectural plans and a massing model.

The best airport terminals are easy-to-navigate spaces of architectural intrigue. Hear from a panel of leading architects who are charting a new course for airport design. Learn how they’re pulling off bold—yet functional and future-proof—visions…

Learn how cities move and groove during our annual Engineering Fest! Drop by anytime between 9:30am—4pm on Feb. 22 and 23 to build and learn, view exhibits, meet engineers and discover systems that move us around Chicago. Ages 12 and younger are FREE…

Chicago is a leader in eco-friendly building design, with civic buildings like libraries and academic facilities often setting the highest bar. Hear architects discuss their newest green projects and explore how the private sector can follow suit.

What are Chicago's most endangered buildings? Find out at the unveiling of Preservation Chicago's 18th annual "Chicago 7" list. The list identifies architecturally significant structures that preservationists hope to save from the wrecking ball.

With the theme "Open Doors, Open Minds" the 2020 gala will kick off the 10th anniversary of Open House Chicago—the CAC's signature festival that welcomes everyone to celebrate Chicago's vibrant culture and amazing architecture.

This event has been rescheduled from its original December 4 date.

Join us for the second edition of “What’s Next? Designing the Future City,” a new forum exploring how business and design leaders can unite to make great cities.

Learn how to think big and design tiny in this interactive camp for girls ages 11-14. Students will think creatively as they design a "tiny home" that serves a Chicago neighborhood and has a small carbon footprint.