Open House Chicago Date

When it comes to a memorable date, setting is key.

And what better setting than behind the scenes at some of Chicago’s most interesting architectural gems?

That’s what’s on deck at Open House Chicago returns, the (free!) weekend-long event that grants unparalleled access to more than 200 buildings across the city.

So, we drew up plans for the perfect day for you and yours, from the must-see buildings on our list to a new Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired cocktail bar for a nightcap.

Here’s your plan.

Step One: The Camera
You. Your date. A whole lotta beautiful architecture. One thing’s for certain: you will be taking many a photo. If you need to brush up on your architecture photography, we got ya covered. If you’re looking for a means to capture the day in a more memorable way, you need Prynt’s brand new Pocket printer. It’s an iPhone case that not only prints photos, but also allows users the ability to add a video (or Live Photo) inside the photo that can be seen when the picture is viewed through a companion app.

Prynt Pocket, www.prynt.co

Step Two: The Architecture Tour
Given 2016’s record-breaking attendance, expect big things from this year’s Open House Chicago. The biggest development: the addition of sites in Logan Square and Avondale, where highlights include the Revolution Production Brewing and Taproom, Logan Square Auditorium and Stan Mansion. Also new this year: the stunning Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette. Looking for a comprehensive guide of new sites? The folks at Curbed spoke with Open House Chicago Manager Eric Allix Rogers for the lowdown on 25 new must-see sites. Just make sure take a trip to Oak Park and visit a Frank Lloyd Wright site — it’ll come in handy later.

Open House Chicago, Citywide, www.openhousechicago.org

Step Three: The Post-Tour Drink
Why it took so long for Chicago to open up a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired bar we’ll never know, but we’re glad it’s finally here. A collaboration between Heisler Hospitality and Jim Meehan, the acclaimed barman and writer behind New York’s world-renowned PDT, comes Prairie School, a new destination drinking spot in Fulton Market. You’ll wanna take in the design of this place first: the Japanese aesthetic, the stained glass windows, the clean lines that bring the outside in — it’s all here. Then, grab a seat at the bar, order up a cocktail and enjoy some light snacks prepared by Regards to Edith chef Jared Wentworth. Cheers to a well-designed day on the town.

Prairie School, 326 N. Morgan St., www.prairieschoolchicago.com

Prairie School Photos: Anthony Tahlier