University of Illinois Chicago

Explore the country's first fully planned, public urban university, including 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
Meet: Starbucks 940 W. Harrison (inside the Academic and Residential Complex)

Premier tour*

Explore the country’s first fully planned, public urban university that became a model for future campuses. The tour showcases the innovative architecture of Walter Netsch, a mid20th century maverick. At UIC, his 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.

Notes

Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.
Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
This tour meets at the Starbucks located on 940 W. Harrison inside the Academic and Residential Complex.
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.

*Premier tours are free for Deco members and above. Learn about our membership levels.