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Glessner House, Prairie State Travel Guide

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Explore Chicago's Gilded Age at Glessner House, an architectural masterpiece by H.H. Richardson, showcasing innovative design and cultural arts.

The Glessner House, a National Historic Landmark in Chicago's Prairie District, stands as an architectural gem from the Gilded Age. Designed by Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in 1887, this unique residence showcases a departure from traditional Victorian architecture with its Romanesque style and innovative floor plan, influencing architects like Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright.

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
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Know before you go

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

  • Purchase tickets in advance online to ensure availability for guided tours, as they often sell out.
  • Check the schedule for special events and programs that offer unique perspectives on the house and its history.
  • Explore the Prairie Avenue Historic District to see other significant homes from the Gilded Age.
  • Photography is allowed inside and outside the house, but flash photography, tripods, and audio/video recording are prohibited during tours.
  • Consider visiting on the first or third Thursday of the month for free tours offered to Illinois residents, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take any 'L' train to the Red Line and get off at the Cermak/Chinatown or Roosevelt station. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk east to Glessner House at 1800 S Prairie Ave. Alternatively, take the #3 King Drive or #4 Cottage Grove bus southbound to the corner of Michigan Avenue and 18th Street, then walk 1.5 blocks east. A single ride on the 'L' or bus costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Prairie District, locate yourself on 18th Street and head south on Prairie Avenue. Continue walking straight for about 0.4 miles, and you will see Glessner House at 1800 S Prairie Ave on your right.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in the McCormick Place area. A short trip from McCormick Place or downtown Chicago to Glessner House will typically cost between $10 and $20, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Parking

    Street parking near Glessner House is limited. Free on-street parking is available on 18th Street (between Prairie and Indiana avenues) and on the east side of Indiana Avenue south of 18th Street. Metered parking is available on Wabash and Michigan avenues for $4-$5 for 2 hours. Several parking services offer convenient parking at a reasonable rate, and you can reserve a spot in advance through SpotHero or ParkWhiz. Parking garages nearby typically charge $8-$42 for 2 hours.

Discover more about Glessner House

Glessner House, located at 1800 S. Prairie Avenue in Chicago, is a testament to the innovative vision of architect Henry Hobson Richardson and the forward-thinking spirit of the Glessner family. Completed in 1887, this National Historic Landmark is a radical departure from traditional Victorian architecture, marking a significant shift in residential design during the Gilded Age.John J. Glessner, a successful farm machinery manufacturer, and his wife, Frances, resided in the house from 1887 until Glessner's death in 1936. The house's design reflects their appreciation for the arts and culture, featuring original furnishings and decorative objects from the Arts and Crafts movement. The Glessners were prominent patrons of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and Frances hosted a reading class in the home's library for over 35 years.Richardson's design is characterized by its fortress-like exterior, constructed from rusticated granite, which encloses a warm and inviting interior. The innovative floor plan features a private courtyard that allows abundant natural light to enter the main rooms, providing a level of privacy rarely achieved in urban residences. The north side of the house includes a long servant hall, buffering the family spaces from the noise and harsh winter winds.Glessner House Museum opened to the public in 1971 and showcases the original furnishings, decorative objects, and personal artifacts of the Glessner family. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect its original appearance, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into life at the turn of the century. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the history, architecture, and design of this remarkable home.

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