Programs & Events at CAC

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.

Part of the CAC's “What's Next” series • COVID-19 has created significant challenges to urban transit systems and efforts to reshape mobility in cities worldwide. Hear what strategies are on the table in Chicago for the future of transportation…

Chicago is the birthplace of innovations that allowed for the design and construction of the world’s first skyscrapers. CAC docent Bill Lipsman takes a closer look at these engineering breakthroughs on July 8 and Aug. 15.