
Open House Chicago (OHC) is a citywide festival that offers free admission to hundreds of buildings across the city, many of which are not normally open to the public. The festival is held annually in October and is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history.
OHC was founded in 1984 by the Chicago Architecture Foundation. The festival was originally conceived as a way to showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage. Over the years, OHC has grown to become one of the largest and most popular architecture festivals in the world. It is estimated that over 2 million people have attended OHC since its inception.
OHC is a great way to learn about Chicago’s architecture and history. The festival offers a wide range of tours, lectures, and exhibitions. Visitors can also explore the city’s many architectural landmarks at their own pace.
1. Architecture
Chicago is a city with a rich and varied architectural history. From the iconic skyscrapers of the Loop to the charming brownstones of Lincoln Park, there is something for everyone to appreciate. Open House Chicago (OHC) is a great opportunity to explore the city’s architecture and learn about its history.
- Historical Landmarks: OHC offers tours of some of Chicago’s most iconic historical landmarks, such as the Willis Tower, the Chicago Cultural Center, and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. These tours provide a unique opportunity to learn about the history of these buildings and the architects who designed them.
- Modern Architecture: OHC also offers tours of some of Chicago’s most impressive modern buildings, such as the Aqua Tower, the Trump International Hotel and Tower, and the Pritzker Pavilion. These tours provide a glimpse into the future of architecture and the innovative designs that are shaping the city’s skyline.
- Architectural Styles: OHC offers tours of buildings in a variety of architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance to Art Deco. This is a great opportunity to learn about the different architectural styles that have been used in Chicago over the years.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: OHC offers behind-the-scenes tours of some of Chicago’s most famous buildings, such as the Chicago Theatre and the Field Museum. These tours provide a unique opportunity to see how these buildings work and learn about the people who work in them.
OHC is a great way to learn about Chicago’s architecture and history. The festival offers a wide range of tours of buildings in various architectural styles, from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers. Whether you are a lifelong Chicagoan or just visiting for the weekend, OHC is a great opportunity to explore the city’s architecture and learn about its history.
2. History
Open House Chicago (OHC) is a citywide festival that offers free admission to hundreds of buildings across the city, many of which are not normally open to the public. The festival is held annually in October and is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history.
One of the best things about OHC is that it offers a glimpse into Chicago’s past. Many of the buildings on the festival are historical landmarks, and tours often include information about the building’s history and significance. This is a great opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
For example, one of the buildings on the OHC tour is the Chicago Cultural Center. The Chicago Cultural Center is a beautiful building that was once the home of the Chicago Public Library. The building is now a cultural center that offers a variety of free programs and exhibitions. During OHC, visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about its history.
Another example is the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The building is now a museum that offers tours of Wright’s home and studio. During OHC, visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about Wright’s life and work.
OHC is a great opportunity to learn about Chicago’s history and culture. The festival offers a wide range of tours of historical landmarks, and tours often include information about the building’s history and significance. Whether you are a lifelong Chicagoan or just visiting for the weekend, OHC is a great opportunity to explore the city’s history.
3. Culture
Open House Chicago (OHC) is not just about architecture and history. The festival also offers a variety of cultural events, such as art exhibitions, concerts, and performances. This makes OHC a truly unique and well-rounded event that offers something for everyone.
The cultural events at OHC are a great way to experience the city’s vibrant arts scene. There are events for all ages and interests, from family-friendly art workshops to world-renowned music performances.
For example, one of the cultural events at OHC is the Open House Chicago Art Fair. The Art Fair features over 100 local and international artists, and offers a variety of artwork for sale. This is a great opportunity to support local artists and find unique pieces for your home.
Another example is the Open House Chicago Music Festival. The Music Festival features a variety of musical performances, from classical to jazz to rock. This is a great opportunity to experience the city’s diverse music scene.
The cultural events at OHC are a great way to add some fun and excitement to your Open House Chicago experience. Whether you are an art lover, a music lover, or just looking for something to do, OHC has something for you.
4. Community
Open House Chicago (OHC) is not just an architectural festival; it’s also a community event. The festival brings people together from all over the city to celebrate Chicago’s architecture and history. This is a great opportunity to get involved in your community and meet new people who share your interests.
- Building Community: OHC is a great way to build community. The festival brings people together from all walks of life to celebrate Chicago’s architecture and history. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.
- Neighborhood Pride: OHC is a great way to show your neighborhood pride. The festival is a celebration of Chicago’s architecture and history, and it’s a great way to show your love for your city.
- Educational Opportunities: OHC is a great way to learn about Chicago’s architecture and history. The festival offers a variety of tours and exhibitions that are designed to educate and inform the public.
- Cultural Exchange: OHC is a great way to experience Chicago’s diverse culture. The festival brings people together from all over the city to celebrate Chicago’s architecture and history. This is a great opportunity to learn about different cultures and traditions.
OHC is a great way to get involved in your community, build community, show your neighborhood pride, learn about Chicago’s architecture and history, and experience Chicago’s diverse culture. The festival is a great opportunity to meet new people, learn new things, and celebrate the city’s rich heritage.
5. Free
Open House Chicago (OHC) is a free festival that offers the opportunity to explore the city’s architecture and history. This makes it a great option for families and people on a budget, as there is no need to worry about the cost of admission.
- Affordability: OHC is free to attend, making it an affordable option for families and people on a budget. This allows more people to participate in the festival and enjoy the city’s architecture and history.
- Accessibility: The free admission to OHC makes it more accessible to a wider range of people. This includes families with children, low-income individuals, and visitors to the city. By removing the financial barrier, OHC ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the festival.
- Community Building: The free admission to OHC helps to build community by bringing people together from all walks of life. The festival creates a shared experience that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their financial means.
- Educational Value: OHC offers a variety of educational opportunities, including tours, exhibitions, and lectures. The free admission makes these opportunities accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
In conclusion, the free admission to Open House Chicago is a key factor that makes it one of the best things to do in Chicago. It allows families and people on a budget to participate in the festival and enjoy the city’s architecture and history. The free admission also helps to build community and make educational opportunities more accessible to everyone.
6. Fun
Open House Chicago (OHC) is not just an architectural festival; it’s also a fun and educational experience for people of all ages. The festival offers a variety of activities that are designed to appeal to a wide range of interests, from history buffs to architecture enthusiasts to families with young children.
- Variety of Activities: OHC offers a wide range of activities, including tours, exhibitions, lectures, and workshops. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their age or interests.
- Hands-on Learning: Many of the activities at OHC are hands-on, which makes them a great way to learn about architecture and history in a fun and engaging way. For example, kids can participate in a scavenger hunt at the Chicago Cultural Center or build a model of a famous building at the Art Institute of Chicago.
- Family-Friendly: OHC is a family-friendly event, with many activities that are designed for children. For example, the Chicago Architecture Center offers a variety of family-friendly tours and workshops, and the Museum of Science and Industry has a special exhibit on architecture for kids.
- Educational Value: OHC is not just a fun experience; it’s also a great way to learn about architecture and history. The festival offers a variety of tours and lectures that are led by experts in the field. These tours and lectures provide an in-depth look at Chicago’s architecture and history.
In conclusion, OHC is a fun and educational experience for people of all ages. The festival offers a variety of activities that are designed to appeal to a wide range of interests, and it’s a great way to learn about architecture and history in a fun and engaging way.
FAQs about Open House Chicago
Open House Chicago (OHC) is a citywide festival that offers free admission to hundreds of buildings across the city, many of which are not normally open to the public. The festival is held annually in October and is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history. Here are some frequently asked questions about OHC:
Question 1: What is Open House Chicago?
OHC is a citywide festival that offers free admission to hundreds of buildings across the city, many of which are not normally open to the public. The festival is held annually in October and is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history.
Question 2: When is Open House Chicago?
OHC is held annually in October. The dates for the 2023 festival are October 14-15, 2023.
Question 3: How much does it cost to attend Open House Chicago?
OHC is free to attend. All tours and activities are offered free of charge.
Question 4: What types of buildings can I visit during Open House Chicago?
OHC offers a wide range of buildings to visit, including historic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, religious institutions, and cultural centers. There are also a number of special tours and events offered during the festival, such as behind-the-scenes tours and lectures by architects and historians.
Question 5: How do I plan my visit to Open House Chicago?
The best way to plan your visit to OHC is to visit the festival website. The website has a complete list of all the buildings that will be open during the festival, as well as a map and schedule of events. You can also download the OHC app for your smartphone.
Question 6: What are some tips for visiting Open House Chicago?
Here are a few tips for visiting OHC:
- Plan your visit in advance and identify the buildings you want to visit.
- Arrive early to avoid lines, especially at popular buildings.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the amazing architecture.
- Be respectful of the buildings and their occupants.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your Open House Chicago experience.
OHC is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history. The festival is free to attend and offers a wide range of buildings to visit. With a little planning, you can make the most of your OHC experience.
For more information, please visit the Open House Chicago website.
Tips for Visiting Open House Chicago
Open House Chicago (OHC) is a citywide festival that offers free admission to hundreds of buildings across the city, many of which are not normally open to the public. The festival is held annually in October and is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history. Here are some tips for visiting OHC:
Tip 1: Plan your visit in advance.
The best way to make the most of your OHC experience is to plan your visit in advance. Visit the festival website to see a list of all the buildings that will be open during the festival, and create a list of the buildings you want to visit. You can also download the OHC app for your smartphone to help you plan your visit.
Tip 2: Arrive early to avoid lines.
Some of the most popular buildings can have long lines, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid waiting. If you’re visiting a particularly popular building, consider arriving even earlier to secure a spot in line.
Tip 3: Wear comfortable shoes.
You will be doing a lot of walking during OHC, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. You’ll also be spending a lot of time on your feet, so make sure your shoes provide good support.
Tip 4: Bring a camera.
OHC is a great opportunity to capture some amazing photos of Chicago’s architecture. Be sure to bring a camera so you can document your experience.
Tip 5: Be respectful of the buildings and their occupants.
Many of the buildings that are open during OHC are private property, so it’s important to be respectful of the buildings and their occupants. Be quiet and follow the instructions of the docents or security guards.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your Open House Chicago experience.
Summary of key takeaways:
- Plan your visit in advance.
- Arrive early to avoid lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring a camera.
- Be respectful of the buildings and their occupants.
OHC is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history. By following these tips, you can make the most of your experience.
Conclusion
Open House Chicago (OHC) is a citywide festival that offers free admission to hundreds of buildings across the city, many of which are not normally open to the public. The festival is held annually in October and is a great opportunity to explore Chicago’s architecture and history.
OHC offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages, including tours, exhibitions, lectures, and workshops. The festival is a great way to learn about architecture and history, and it’s also a fun and engaging experience. Best of all, OHC is free to attend.
If you’re looking for a unique and educational way to experience Chicago, OHC is the perfect event for you. The festival is a great way to learn about the city’s architecture and history, and it’s also a fun and engaging experience. Best of all, OHC is free to attend.