17 Buildings to See During Open House Chicago

Now that it's October that means it's time for Open House Chicago once again! There are way more sites this year with over 350! I've already decided this year we're going for the sites in Evanston. I've pulled together 17 unique and fun buildings that you should add to your Open House Chicago list. If you're not able to make it in person for Open House Chicago check out more about their fun history anyway. 


You might not this a ship counts as great architecture but the Columbia Yacht Club is here to show you it is. MV Abegweit started its life as a Canadian train ferry but now serves as the club’s headquarters. Stop on by for beautiful views of the city from the harbor. You know how much I love views of the city from the water!

Ever wonder what it’s like to be a Rockstar? Well during your visit behind the scenes at the House of Blues you can finally have your chance minus the booze and late nights. You even get to check out the super exclusive Foundation Room.
Zap Props is everything you’d think an prop emporium is and should be. With aisles of different items stacked up to the ceiling you’re bound to see something interesting! Who knows maybe you’ve seen the item in your favorite movie.
Edgewater Beach Apartments have been adding color to the Chicago skyline for over 100 years now. Known as the “Pink Palace” you get to see all of the beautiful amenities such as the elegant two-story lobby and the Beaux-Arts pool.


If you’ve ever visited downtown you’ve probably walked by this unique circular building. Lots of people think this is a Scientology building but Church of Christ, Scientist is a very different thing. Find out more about the building and the religion.

This is one of my favorite buildings in the Chicago area! I absolutely love driving by on Sheriden and seeing this gorgeous place. This year it’s on my visit list. You get to venture inside and take photos which is not something that is usually allowed so even for you city people it’s worth the hike up to Wilmette.
You can’t visit Millennium Park without catching a glimpse of this iconic structure. I’ve always wanted to see what it looks like behind the scenes and this year you can! Be sure to take some time for the make and take too.

When you think of the city of Chicago you probably don’t think about groundbreaking agriculture. Well The Plant is showing you how urban agriculture is changing the game. Be sure to check out the onsite brewery and tap room.
This building has been the house of worship to several different religions. Currently it houses the Ling Shen Ching Tze Temple of True Buddha School. The members of the temple will share details about the colorful building and about the sect itself.
Did you know that you can find a castle in Beverly? I didn’t know that either! The Givins Castle was built by real estate developer Robert C. Givins in 1887. Fun fact this castle is built completely from Joliet limestone from the nearby city.
Who would think a high school would make a list of great Chicago architecture but when you’ve got a library like the Carl Shurz High School you’re sure to be on the list.


Have you ever seen the big yellow door with the monster peeping out? That’s Big Monster Toys! I enjoyed peeking in to this toy design shop and we even got to chat with Resident Toy Inventors.

This unique theatre is one of four remaining atmospheric theaters in Chicago. It became part of the Polish Cultural Center in the 1980s and the exterior has been remodeled to reflect that.
As you can imagine this OHC location has a special place in my heart. Step behind the fences and see the beautiful Booth Manor that has been the home and training center for thousands of Salvation Army officers.
You’ll find fantastic views from this OHC location. It was put on top of the building as a sort of joke but has turned into a Ravenswood landmark since. Be sure to take in a view of it from the Brown Line too.

Héctor Duarte Studio
Enjoy not only this colorful studio but have the chance to meet with the artist himself along with enjoying a drop in art activity during your visit.

WGN Flag & Decorating Co.

This over 100 year old company specializes in banners, flags and buntings. You'll get the chance to see the workshop and store.

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