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Glessner House, Metro East Travel Guide

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Explore Chicago's Gilded Age at Glessner House, an architectural masterpiece designed by H.H. Richardson in the historic Prairie Avenue District.

Step back in time at Glessner House, a National Historic Landmark in Chicago's Prairie Avenue Historic District. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, offers a unique look into the life of a prominent family during the Gilded Age and stands as a testament to innovative design.

A brief summary to Glessner House

  • Wednesday 11:30 am-3:30 pm
  • Friday 11:30 am-3:30 pm
  • Saturday 11:30 am-3:30 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Glessner House.

  • Purchase tickets in advance, as tours often sell out, especially on weekends.
  • Arrive early to allow time for parking, as street parking is limited.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and standing.
  • Check the Glessner House website for special events, concerts, and exhibits.
  • Consider visiting on the first or third Thursday of the month for free tours for Illinois residents (with proof of residency), available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the #3 King Drive or #4 Cottage Grove bus southbound on Michigan Avenue. Exit at 18th Street and Michigan Avenue, then walk 1.5 blocks east to Glessner House at 1800 S Prairie Avenue. Alternatively, walk from the Green Line Cermak/McCormick Place station (12-minute walk) or the Red Line Cermak-Chinatown or Roosevelt stations (15-minute walk). A single ride on CTA bus or 'L' train is $2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Museum Campus, walk south on Michigan Avenue to 18th Street, then turn east onto 18th Street and walk 1.5 blocks to Prairie Avenue. Glessner House will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in the area, especially near McCormick Place. A short ride from downtown or the Museum Campus will typically cost $10-$15, depending on traffic.

  • Automobile

    Glessner House is located at 1800 S Prairie Ave. Street parking is limited, with free options on 18th Street (between Prairie and Indiana) and Indiana Avenue (south of 18th Street). Metered parking is available on Wabash and Michigan Avenues. Check the Soldier Field event schedule to avoid parking restrictions. Several parking services offer parking at a reasonable rate. To reserve parking, visit the Glessner House SpotHero Parking Page and book a spot with rates up to 50% off drive-up. You can also receive 10% off your parking fee with ParkWhiz. Metered parking costs around $4-$5 for 2 hours. Garage parking can range from $8-$42.

Discover more about Glessner House

Glessner House, located on Chicago's historic Prairie Avenue, is a stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and a window into the city's Gilded Age. Completed in 1887 for John Jacob Glessner, a farm machinery executive, the house stands in stark contrast to the ornate Victorian mansions that once lined "Millionaires' Row". Designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, it is his only remaining building in Chicago.The house's design is revolutionary, featuring a unique inward-facing layout with a central courtyard that floods the interior with natural light. This design cleverly separates the family's living spaces from the servants' quarters, offering privacy and functionality. The exterior, constructed of rusticated granite, exudes a sense of strength and solidity, while the interior boasts original furnishings and decorative arts, including pieces by William Morris and Isaac Scott.Tours of Glessner House provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the sixteen family and servant spaces and imagine life as a guest of the Glessner family in the late 1800s. Knowledgeable docents guide visitors through the house, sharing insights into the architecture, the Glessners' love for the arts, and their desire to create a warm and inviting home. The house also holds an archive of materials preserved by the family, including journals, correspondence, and photographs.Prairie Avenue, once known as "the Fifth Avenue of the Midwest," was home to many of Chicago's elite families. Today, Glessner House stands as a reminder of this opulent era, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the city's history.

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