Chicago Architecture Center facts for kids
Chicago Architecture Center headquarters
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| Founded | 1966 |
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| Type | 501(c)(3) charitable organization |
| Focus | Education, Architecture, Design |
| Location | |
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Members
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11,000 |
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Volunteers
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1,000 |
| Website | http://architecture.org/ |
The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) is a cool place in Chicago, Illinois, USA. It helps people learn why design and buildings are important. The CAC started in 1966. They offer fun tours, like boat trips on the Chicago River. Many people say their river cruise is one of the best tours in the U.S.! The center also has spaces for events and cool exhibits, including a giant model of downtown Chicago.
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History of the Center
The CAC began in 1966. It was first called the Chicago School of Architecture Foundation. Its main goal was to help save the Glessner House. This house, designed by H. H. Richardson, is one of Chicago's oldest homes.
In 1971, the group started offering talks and tours. Volunteers led these tours for everyone to enjoy. In 1979, its name changed to the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Later, in 1992, the foundation moved to the Railway Exchange Building. This new spot had a bigger book store and more room for programs.
In 2005, the CAC helped start the Association of Architecture Organizations. This group now helps architecture education groups all over the world. In 2009, the center opened a new exhibit called Chicago Model. This exhibit has a 3D-printed model of the city's central area. It's still there today for everyone to see! In August 2018, the center changed its name to the Chicago Architecture Center. It moved to a new, larger space at 111 E. Wacker Dr. This building is right on the Chicago River.
Exciting City Tours
The CAC offers about 85 different tours of Chicago. All tours are led by amazing volunteer guides called docents. These docents go through a 14-week training course. They learn a lot before they can lead a tour.
Exploring Famous Buildings
Many tours in the Loop show off historic buildings. These include the Chicago Board of Trade and the Marquette Building. You can also see the Monadnock Building and the Rookery. Modern buildings are also explored. These include the Sears Tower and the John Hancock Center. You can also see the Chicago Federal Center and the Trump Tower.
Parks and Public Spaces
The CAC also offers tours of parks and public areas. These include Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. You can even explore the Chicago Pedway, which is an underground walkway system. During summer, the CAC offers tours of different neighborhoods. These are in addition to the downtown tours.
Popular River Cruise
The CAC's most popular tour is the CAFC River Cruise. You take this cruise on Chicago's First Lady Cruises. It runs from April to November every year. The CAC offers other tours all year long.
Open House Chicago Event
The CAC also hosts a huge yearly event called Open House Chicago. This event is free and happens every October. It lets people visit buildings and spaces that are usually closed to the public. Tens of thousands of people from all over the world come to Open House Chicago.
Learning About Design
The CAC has great programs for learning about architecture and design. They have won awards for their lessons and books. Some of these include Schoolyards to Skylines and the Architecture Handbook. They also have a website called DiscoverDesign.org. In 2013, the CAC opened the ArcelorMittal Design Studio. This studio helps people of all ages learn about design ideas.
The CAC Store
The CAC Store sells cool products about Chicago and architecture. You can find it on the first floor of the Chicago Architecture Center. The address is 111 E. Wacker Dr.
