Open House Chicago: Aon Grand Ballroom
October 20 | 10AM-5PM
Join us for Open House Chicago! The Aon Grand Ballroom will be open for self-guided tours, and photos of the space over the years will be on display. A centerpiece of the Pier’s original 1916 construction, the 18,000 square foot Aon Grand Ballroom embodies the opulence of the era. It features an 80-foot domed ceiling outlined in 3,000 lights, a balcony, and dramatic views of Lake Michigan.
The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) is proud to host Open House Chicago (OHC) on October 19-20, 2024. OHC is a free public festival that offers behind-the-scenes access to architecturally, historically and culturally significant sites throughout Chicago, plus more than 40 events and programs at the sites, including demonstrations, talks and arts performances.
Navy Pier is among the most visited destinations in the world. Since reopening in 1995, the Pier has welcomed over 186 million guests. A centerpiece of the Pier’s original 1916 construction, the 18,000 square foot Aon Grand Ballroom embodies the opulence of the era. It features an 80-foot domed ceiling outlined in 3,000 lights, a balcony, and dramatic views of Lake Michigan.
Once a naval training facility, a women’s gymnasium for the University of Illinois, and a movie backdrop for blockbuster hits, the Aon Grand Ballroom has served many purposes in its long history. It has hosted U.S. Presidents, the inauguration of Chicago Mayor Harold Washington and countless performances from some of the world’s biggest artists including Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Carol King, Little Richard, James Taylor and many more.