
8 Famous Houses in Chicago to Tour
Welcome to the world of Chicago’s architectural wonders, where history and artistry come together in the heart of The Windy City! Known for its innovative designs and rich heritage, Chicago is a treasure trove of iconic houses waiting for you to uncover their stories.
We’re local roofers who can install a beautiful cedar roof, or just give you great insight into the best places to go to feel at home.
As you embark on this journey through Chicago’s neighborhoods, prepare to be captivated by the diverse array of styles. Lace up your walking shoes and grab your camera as we guide you through some of the most famous houses in Chicago. If you’re ready to learn more about these architectural gems and explore within the walls of historic homes, just keep reading.
- Frank Lloyd Wright Houses like the Robie House
- Historic Homes like the Glessner House, the Charnley-Persky House, and the Pleasant Home
- Noteworthy Architectural Sites Outside Chicago like the Farnsworth House
- Cultural and Literary Sites like Ernest Hemingway’s Birthplace
- Museums and Other Notable Properties like the Richard H. Driehaus Houseand the Jane Addams Hull-House
Top Famous Houses to Tour in Chicago
Let’s delve into the stories behind some of Chicago’s most iconic and beloved homes. Here’s a closer look at a few of them:
1) Robie House
The Robie House, designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential buildings in the history of American architecture. Completed in 1910, this Prairie-style masterpiece is characterized by its:
- Long, horizontal lines
- Low-pitched roof
- Distinctive overhanging eaves
The structure’s seamless integration with its surrounding landscape and impressive use of materials such as brick and limestone make it a true architectural marvel. Today, the Robie House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for enthusiasts from around the globe.
Located in the picturesque neighborhood of Hyde Park, the Robie House offers guided tours. These tours provide visitors with a unique insight into the life and work of Frank Lloyd Wright. A visit not only allows you to explore Wright’s innovative designs but also gives you the chance to experience a piece of living history. Architecture lovers will appreciate how the house redefined modern design, while casual visitors will enjoy its serene beauty and craftsmanship. Touring the Robie House offers a perfect mix of education, inspiration, and a glimpse into the cultural richness of Chicago.
As you wander through the beautifully restored interiors, take note of the intricate stained-glass windows, artful furnishings, and ingenious use of space. All of these elements are hallmarks of Wright’s iconic style. The Robie House is not only a national historic landmark but also a symbol of Chicago’s enduring commitment to innovation and design.
📍 Address: 5757 S. Woodlawn Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available Thursday-Monday from 10 am—2:30 pm. Admission ranges from $20-$75. Tour length: 1.5 hours (interior tour: 45 minutes, outdoor tour: 45 minutes)
📞 Contact: (312) 994-4000
2) Glessner House
The Glessner House rests in the heart of Chicago’s Prairie Avenue Historic District. It’s a shining example of the city’s architectural prowess during the late 19th century. Designed by renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson, this Romanesque Revival-style mansion was completed in 1887.
It stands as a testament to the wealth and power of Chicago’s elite during the Gilded Age. With its distinctive rusticated stone exterior, round arches, and detailed ornamentation, the Glessner House is a true masterpiece of design. It truly embodies the spirit of Chicago’s past.
The Glessner House is now a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Glessner family and the broader social context of late 19th-century Chicago. Guided tours of the home reveal its beautifully preserved interiors, complete with:
- Furnishings
- Artwork
- Decorative elements
A visit to the Glessner House offers architecture enthusiasts the chance to see one of the most influential designs of its time, a building that helped shape modern architecture. History lovers will appreciate learning about the Gilded Age, while fans of interior design will marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship inside the home. Located just minutes from downtown Chicago, it’s a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Among the many highlights are the stunning central courtyard, the grand dining room with its carved wood paneling, and the extensive library. The library features a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts. As you explore the Glessner House, it’s hard not to be awestruck by the sheer beauty and attention to detail that went into its creation!
📍 Address: 1800 S. Prairie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60616
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 11:30am, 1:00pm, and 2:30pm. Admission ranges from $12-$20. Tour length: 75 minutes.
📞 Contact: (312) 326-1480
3) Charnley-Persky House
The Charnley-Persky House is situated on Chicago’s prestigious Astor Street. Completed in 1892, this elegant townhouse is the collaborative work of two of America’s most celebrated architects, Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright.
With its geometric ornamentation and highly detailed interiors, the Charnley-Persky House represents a pivotal moment in the development of modern American design. Visitors touring this historic gem can experience firsthand the transition from traditional Victorian architecture to the modern styles that would define the 20th century. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the innovative use of space and natural light, while history buffs will enjoy stepping into a home that played a key role in shaping Chicago’s architectural legacy. The house also offers a unique glimpse into the early career of Frank Lloyd Wright, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the city’s rich architectural heritage.
Nowadays, the Charnley-Persky House serves as the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians and is open to the public for guided tours. While walking through the home’s restored rooms, pay attention to the exquisite woodwork, intricate stained-glass windows, and harmonious blend of styles. It’s safe to say that this historic mansion showcases the creative genius of Sullivan and Wright.
📍 Address: 1365 N. Astor Street, Chicago, Illinois 60610
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday year round at 12pm. Admission ranges from $10-$15 and always free on Wednesday. Tour length: __.
📞 Contact: (312) 573-1365
4) Farnsworth House
Nestled in a serene, wooded setting just outside of Chicago, the Farnsworth House displays International Style—a movement characterized by its minimalist design, open floor plans, and extensive use of glass and steel. Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and completed in 1951, the Farnsworth House is a masterful expression of the concept of “less is more.”
Visiting the Farnsworth House is a truly immersive experience. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the principles of design and value the beauty of simplicity. It’s a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in modern design history. Its peaceful setting provides a welcome escape from the bustle of the city, making it a perfect day trip from Chicago. Guided tours of the property showcase the seamless integration of the structure. Guests get to see its natural surroundings, as well as the innovative use of materials.
As you gaze at the home’s clean lines, expansive windows, and minimalist aesthetic, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity of Mies van der Rohe. A visit here is not just about architecture; it’s about experiencing harmony between art and nature.
📍 Address: 14520 River Rd, Plano, IL 60545
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available during the quiet season (January-March) daily Friday and Saturday from 11:30am-3:30pm; main season (March-November) daily Wednesday-Sunday. Admission ranges from free-$30. Tour length: 60-90 minutes, includes a 1/2 mile walk outside. Weather dependent.
📞 Contact: (630) 552-0052
5) Pleasant Home
Built in 1897, the Pleasant Home is a historically significant mansion located in Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago. Designed by prominent architect George Washington Maher, the home is considered one of the finest examples of Prairie School architecture, which was a popular design style in the early 20th century. The Pleasant Home has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A visit to Pleasant Home offers a chance to step back in time and explore the stunning craftsmanship of the late 19th century. Guests can enjoy guided tours that highlight the home’s intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and original furnishings. The mansion also frequently hosts cultural events, exhibits, and educational programs, making it a vibrant space for art and history lovers alike. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to experience the architectural and cultural heritage of the Chicago area.
📍 Address: 217 Home Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available Tuesday-Friday. Admission ranges from $20-35 per person. Tour length: Approximately 3.5 hours. Group Size: Minimum of 10 people, 2 weeks minimum booking requirement.
📞 Contact: (708) 725.2400
6) Ernest Hemingway’s Birthplace
Ernest Hemingway’s Birthplace offers visitors a unique opportunity to step into the early life of one of America’s most celebrated authors. This beautifully restored Victorian home provides an intimate look at the surroundings that shaped Hemingway’s formative years. Guests can explore period furnishings and personal artifacts that bring his family’s story to life. Literary enthusiasts will appreciate learning about Hemingway’s influences and the origins of his groundbreaking writing style.
Located just a short drive from downtown Chicago, this historic home is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s rich cultural landscape. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a step back in time. The guided tours offer fascinating insights not just into Hemingway’s life, but also the history of early 20th-century Oak Park. Combine your visit with a tour of nearby Frank Lloyd Wright homes to fully immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of the area. A visit to this landmark is sure to inspire and deepen one’s appreciation for Hemingway’s enduring legacy.
📍 Address: 339 N Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available Thursday-Saturday. Admission ranges from $18-$20. Tour length: 50 minutes.
📞 Contact: (708) 445-3071
7) Jane Addams Hull-House
The Jane Addams Hull-House is an essential stop for anyone interested in Chicago’s history and the progressive movements that shaped the city. Founded in 1889 by social reformer Jane Addams, this historic site was at the forefront of social justice and provided critical services to immigrants and working-class communities. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing Addams’ groundbreaking work in advocating for labor rights, women’s suffrage, and education reform. The house itself offers a unique opportunity to walk through history, seeing the very rooms where impactful decisions and discussions took place. It’s an inspiring space to learn how one woman’s vision transformed lives and communities. Located in the heart of Chicago, it’s a perfect addition to your itinerary for those looking to blend history, culture, and purpose. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into how community-based efforts in the early 20th century helped define social progress. Its powerful stories and artifacts make it an inspiring destination that highlights the importance of compassion and activism in creating meaningful change. A visit to the Hull-House is not only a step back in time but also a chance to reflect on timeless values of equity and inclusion.
📍 Address: 800 S. Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60607
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available every Tuesday and Friday at 2pm. Tour length: 50 minutes. Museum Hours: Tuesday-Friday from 10:00am-4:50pm and Sunday from 12:00pm-4:50pm. Admission is free.
📞 Contact: (312) 413-5353
8) Richard H. Driehaus
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum offers visitors a stunning glimpse into Chicago’s Gilded Age, showcasing the grandeur and opulence of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Located in a meticulously restored mansion, the museum features an extraordinary collection of decorative arts, including intricate stained glass, period furniture, and luxurious textiles. Visitors can immerse themselves in history while admiring the architectural beauty of the home’s marble-clad interiors and detailed craftsmanship. Touring this famous house offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the elegance of a bygone era firsthand. It’s also a great way to learn about Chicago’s transformation during the late 1800s, when it was emerging as a major cultural and economic hub. The mansion’s preservation tells a story of resilience and artistry, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in Chicago’s rich historical narrative. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits and special events, ensuring there’s always something new to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about Chicago’s cultural heritage, the Driehaus Museum is a must-visit destination.
📍 Address: 40 E. Erie Street, Chicago IL 60611
🏠 Visitors Information: Tours available Thursday-Sunday from 11am – 5pm, and Wednesdays from 11am-7pm. The museum is free on Wednesdays from 4pm-7pm. Museum admission ranges from free-$20, tour admission is $5 in addition to the museum admission. Tour length: 1 hour.
📞 Contact: (312) 482-8933
Homes That Stand the Test of Time
When it comes to historic homes, Chicago has plenty of them. As you can see from this list, the architectural culture in the area is rich, and the houses mentioned in this article will continue to have longevity.
One way to keep a house in good standing is by installing a sturdy roof. Cedar and composite shake roofs are some of the best options for high-end sustainability. At Shake Guys, we specialize in both types.
So, if you have a historic home that needs repair or if you’d like to install long-lasting cedar or composite roofing materials, we can do the job for you. Feel free to call us at 847-474-9922, or request an inspection on our website.