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.
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!
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…
In Chicago, the Gothic style is often found in church designs, but can also be seen in many academic, commercial, municipal and residential buildings. Join CAC docent Dr. Thomas R. Stelmack on July 22 or August 22 to discover this intricate style.
Driven by tourism, multiple historic Chicago skyscrapers have recently been reimagined as chic hotels. CAC docent Monica Rodriguez leads this online version of the CAC’s popular tour, “Hotel Boom: Making Old New Again,” on July 11 and August 19…
Tune in to the CAC’s Facebook page for a 45-minute, virtual walking tour with CAC docent Mike McMains about Printers Row, a unique landmark district filled with beautiful mid-rise commercial buildings, many converted to residential lofts.