Glessner House
Explore Chicago's Gilded Age at Glessner House, a landmark 19th-century mansion and home to the unique Nutshell Studies.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Glessner House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Chicago's Gilded Age at Glessner House, a landmark 19th-century mansion and home to the unique Nutshell Studies.
"Absolutely fascinating tour!! Bob our tour guide was so knowledgeable, what an interesting part of history!"
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Docent-led tours offer deep insights into history and architecture. Highly recommended!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The Glessner House is open on specific days only. Plan your visit accordingly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death
Special Exhibition Area
Intricate miniature crime scenes created by Frances Glessner Lee to train forensic investigators.

Architectural Masterpiece by H.H. Richardson
Exterior and Interior
Experience the unique, fortress-like Romanesque Revival architecture of this 19th-century landmark.

Original Furnishings and Interiors
Throughout the House
See how the wealthy Glessner family lived with a remarkable collection of original furnishings and decor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Glessner House Tour in Advance
Explore Chicago's Gilded Age History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Docent-led tours offer deep insights into history and architecture. Highly recommended!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The Glessner House is open on specific days only. Plan your visit accordingly!
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and miniature exhibits are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!
🚶♀️ Explore Millionaire's Row
Learn about Chicago's Gilded Age and the wealthy families who lived here.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Docent-led tours offer deep insights into history and architecture. Highly recommended!
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The Glessner House is open on specific days only. Plan your visit accordingly!
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and miniature exhibits are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!
🚶♀️ Explore Millionaire's Row
Learn about Chicago's Gilded Age and the wealthy families who lived here.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Glessner House for its fascinating history, knowledgeable guides, and unique exhibits like the Nutshell Studies. The architecture is also a major draw, offering a glimpse into Chicago's Gilded Age. Some visitors note that tours are only on specific days, so planning ahead is essential.
"Absolutely fascinating tour!! Bob our tour guide was so knowledgeable, what an interesting part of history! Highly recommend."
Emily Wilson
"What a cool peak into some Chicago history! We went during an open house but can’t wait to go back for the full paid tour. Beautiful home"
Brandon Turner
"This was a wonderful tour of this important Chicago home. We had a great tour guide - Sharon K. I had toured the Glessner House some time ago, but this tour was so much better. Sharon had many insights about the architect; the history of the original and renovated architecture and furnishings; and the seasonal use of the home. She brought the Glessner family to life! I highly recommend a tour of this home. If you are lucky, Sharon K will be your tour guide."
Pamela Rekar Pyrce
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glessner House is located in Chicago's South Loop. It's accessible by public transportation, with several CTA bus routes nearby. Parking can be challenging in the area, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transit if possible.
Street parking is available but can be limited and metered. Some visitors suggest checking for nearby parking garages, though availability and cost can vary.
From downtown, you can take a bus or a short taxi/rideshare. The house is situated on what was once known as Millionaire's Row, offering a glimpse into historic Chicago neighborhoods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission typically requires a ticket for a guided tour. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Glessner House website for current admission fees and tour options.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for guided tours, as the house is open on specific days and tours can fill up.
Glessner House has specific operating hours and days. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and availability before planning your visit.
While guided tours are highly recommended for their depth of information, Glessner House sometimes offers open house days or specific programs that might allow for more independent exploration. Check their schedule for details.
Glessner House hosts various events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and special exhibitions. Keep an eye on their events calendar for unique visiting opportunities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Guided tours are led by knowledgeable docents who share fascinating stories about the Glessner family, the architecture, and Chicago's history. Visitors often praise the guides for their insights and engaging delivery.
This unique exhibit features incredibly detailed miniature dioramas of crime scenes, created by Frances Glessner Lee to train police investigators in the mid-20th century. They are a highlight for many visitors.
As a historic building, accessibility can be a consideration. It's advisable to contact Glessner House directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and accommodations.
A standard guided tour usually lasts about an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the house and its history. Some special programs or events might have different durations.
The Glessner House is a prime example of Romanesque Revival architecture, designed by the renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson. Its distinctive, fortress-like appearance is a key feature.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted inside, but it's always best to confirm with your tour guide or check for posted signs.
The exterior architecture, the grand staircase, and the unique details of the Nutshell Studies are all highly photogenic. The interiors, with their original furnishings, also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
🕵️ True Crime & Forensics Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Visionary Frances Glessner Lee and the Nutshell Studies
These miniature models were not just for show; they served as vital training tools for police officers and medical examiners in the 1940s and 50s. Each Nutshell was meticulously crafted to reflect real-life scenarios, forcing investigators to analyze evidence and draw conclusions. The level of detail is astonishing, from the placement of furniture to the smallest clues, making them both educational and eerily captivating. Visiting Glessner House offers a rare opportunity to see these historically significant pieces up close, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of forensic science.
Architectural Significance and Restoration
Over the years, the house has undergone significant restoration efforts to preserve its historical integrity. These projects have focused on meticulously maintaining original architectural features and interior details. For instance, the hallway flooring has been carefully restored using original wood planks, honoring the building's heritage. This commitment to preservation ensures that visitors can experience the Glessner House as it was intended, offering a tangible connection to Chicago's Gilded Age and the architectural innovations of its time.
Life on Millionaire's Row
Visiting the Glessner House allows you to step into this era of immense wealth and architectural ambition. The tours often highlight the Glessner family's daily lives, their social circles, and the cultural landscape of Chicago during the Gilded Age. It's an opportunity to understand not just the house itself, but the broader historical context of Chicago's development and the lives of its most influential residents.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit