Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Richard H. Driehaus Museum
4.5
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum explores the art, architecture, and design of the late 19th century to the present. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions are presented in an immersive experience within the restored Nickerson Mansion, completed in 1883.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Near North Side
How to get there
- Chicago • 4 min walk
- Grand • 4 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
- Alita44 contributionsA "must see" when you are in Chicago!Such a fabulous museum. I have toured house museums all over the US and this is one of the finest as it is exquisitely restored. The docent was so knowledgeable and enthusiastic and so patient with our questions. I highly recommend this museum for a glimpse of the Gilded Age.Visited October 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 24 October 2023
- PeglegEdMinneapolis, Minnesota182 contributionsGreat museum. The temporary art deco exhibit was superb.Very interesting look back at the gilded age. The house was restored and is in excellent condition. When we visited, they had a temporary art deco exhibit on the upper floors that was quite good. I would've enjoyed the house without the exhibit, but the exhibit was the highlight for me.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 12 November 2023
- maifun224 contributionsThe decadence!Such a strange thing that there's still this 'little' mansion in the midst of much larger developments in the surrounding neighborhoods. And it's not at all little, it's still pretty huge. When you walk in it's so dark and quiet, which makes sense when you see how many of the rooms are literally carved wood. They are trying to limit the sunlight damaging stuff, of course. It's a trip to walk through and learn how families with this kind of money lived back then. Mom and Dad in two different bedrooms, and a TINY kitchen, even though they had more than one servant. I was actually hoping for a better view of the Cable House kitty corner, but as you're in the living room and can't reach across their little museum ropes, can't get one. When I visited, there was no elevator, since there was construction going on next door where the only elevator was. So, if you need accessibility, call ahead to check. A beautiful house for sure!Visited September 2023Travelled soloWritten 1 January 2024
- Fiona RLondon, United Kingdom52 contributionsA must for all art, history or architecture buffsThis enchanting and unique place seems to be relatively unknown to native Chicagoans. Not sure why as it is a gem. There’s an App guide to help you understand what is on show and provide some context, plus there are explanation boards in each room and knowledgeable and helpful room guides to answer any questions. You get a real sense of what it was like to be rich and successful in that age and how wealth was used to create modern (for that time) luxurious interiors by working with the great craftsmen of the day.Visited March 2024Travelled soloWritten 17 March 2024
- Jennifer T2 contributionshighly recommend!Beautiful home! They take the time to answer questions. The exhibits are very well done. I learned a lot about what life was like for wealthy families during the Gilded Age, which helped me better understand Chicago's history.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 1 June 2024
- Susan SPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania1,134 contributionsA bit of wretched excess from America's past.This is an opulent home with an appealing gift shop and a variety of special exhibitions. We saw an array of vintage jewelry that was stunning in quantity and quality. They do have an elevator but most people walk;k up and down stairs---but the staircases are opulent too.Visited July 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 July 2024
- dexfast tJacksonville, Florida11 contributionsA visit is highly recommended.The decoration of this museum is exquisite. The Tiffany glass is quite beautiful. My friend's coworker told her about it. The statement that it was a part of the Gilded Age drew me in. I was interested to compare it to Newport, RI as I had been there earlier this year. Even though it's not quite as big and amazing, you should still go see it if you're in Chicago.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 22 August 2024
- Tom SYpsilanti, Michigan196 contributionsGuilded Age ExcessProbably the most lavishly decorated residence I’ve ever seen. Absolutely amazing. I took about an hour to tour the house. You can get an hour-long guided tour for $5 additional. Be aware there are quite a few steps to climb (though I understand there is an elevator available for those who need it).Visited August 2024Travelled soloWritten 25 August 2024
- NoraatcSudbury, Massachusetts39,985 contributionsMiraculous!!!A rainy day was a perfect time to visit exquisite Richard H. Dreihaus Museum, which was saved by philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus, who sponsored its restoration from 2003 to 2008. I can’t describe the beauty of this Art Deco gem full of the finest Tiffany lamps and chandeliers. Honestly, I was in shock (a pleasant one)… gorgeous wooden panels of the walls gracefully blend with elaborate green and white tiles, subdued lights, magnificent furniture and lavish textiles in every room. The dining room and the library are just phenomenal. And the staircase… what a beauty! The jewelry exhibit from Richard H. Driehaus‘s personal collection is also fantastic… For all Chicago Architecture Center members the visit is free through reciprocal NARM membership.Visited September 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 September 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
1,489 reviews
Excellent
1,156
Very good
289
Average
36
Poor
8
Terrible
0
The_Coach55
Ruislip, UK1,310 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Richard H Driehaus museum is located in the River North area of Chicago. We took the number 3 bus up South Michigan Avenue to get there from the South Loop.
The building was constructed in the late 19th century and was the home of the wealthy Nickerson family in the Gilded Age.
There were many beautiful fixtures and fittings on display and some wonderful furniture. Also on show on the ground floor were some nice paintings but unfortunately no information was visible as to who the artists were.
At the time of our visit, there was an exhibition of the work of French designer and architect Hector Guimard, famous for Art Nouveau, particularly on the Paris metro.
I enjoyed his work which was reminiscent of that of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Admission fee was $20 per person.
The building was constructed in the late 19th century and was the home of the wealthy Nickerson family in the Gilded Age.
There were many beautiful fixtures and fittings on display and some wonderful furniture. Also on show on the ground floor were some nice paintings but unfortunately no information was visible as to who the artists were.
At the time of our visit, there was an exhibition of the work of French designer and architect Hector Guimard, famous for Art Nouveau, particularly on the Paris metro.
I enjoyed his work which was reminiscent of that of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Admission fee was $20 per person.
Written 10 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Noraatc
Sudbury, MA39,985 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
A rainy day was a perfect time to visit exquisite Richard H. Dreihaus Museum, which was saved by philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus, who sponsored its restoration from 2003 to 2008. I can’t describe the beauty of this Art Deco gem full of the finest Tiffany lamps and chandeliers. Honestly, I was in shock (a pleasant one)… gorgeous wooden panels of the walls gracefully blend with elaborate green and white tiles, subdued lights, magnificent furniture and lavish textiles in every room. The dining room and the library are just phenomenal. And the staircase… what a beauty! The jewelry exhibit from Richard H. Driehaus‘s personal collection is also fantastic… For all Chicago Architecture Center members the visit is free through reciprocal NARM membership.
Written 29 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lisa renee
Grove City, OH102 contributions
Nov 2022
I have visited this museum approximately three times. Most recently, I was here November 17. I was so impressed with the exhibit and information about Richard Nickel. One of the volunteers did a great job of answering my questions. The video about Richard Nickel was intriguing and sad as well. I plan to return! The museum is located behind the Omni Chicago Hotel where I stay each time that I visit. I recommend this museum to anyone looking for something unique to see!
Written 19 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tmazionsmith
Saint Paul, MN446 contributions
July 2021
This museum is great for anyone interested in Chicago's history, along with fabulous architecture and furnishings. The staff was super friendly and helpful in answering questions, since guided tours were not an option (due to COVID). I enjoyed just exploring on my own, though I definitely want to go back when tours are available again. I had a great conversation with the woman working in the gift shop when I was buying some items.
Written 22 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steftree
14 contributions
Sept 2021 • Solo
I am in love with this Gilded Age mansion - such exquisite interiors. The flooring, wall treatments, fireplace surrounds, and art work are inspired. I took the additional $5 tour, which was very informative. If you are a fan of Art Nouveau, William Morris, and Tiffany stained glass, this is the place for you.
Written 19 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona R
London, UK52 contributions
Mar 2024 • Solo
This enchanting and unique place seems to be relatively unknown to native Chicagoans. Not sure why as it is a gem.
There’s an App guide to help you understand what is on show and provide some context, plus there are explanation boards in each room and knowledgeable and helpful room guides to answer any questions.
You get a real sense of what it was like to be rich and successful in that age and how wealth was used to create modern (for that time) luxurious interiors by working with the great craftsmen of the day.
There’s an App guide to help you understand what is on show and provide some context, plus there are explanation boards in each room and knowledgeable and helpful room guides to answer any questions.
You get a real sense of what it was like to be rich and successful in that age and how wealth was used to create modern (for that time) luxurious interiors by working with the great craftsmen of the day.
Written 17 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SB
Rochester, NY143 contributions
Dec 2024 • Solo
The Dreihaus is a lavish and elegant monument to the Gilded Age. I have wanted to visit the last few times I have been in Chicago, but its limited visiting days have precluded this until now. A guided tour provides the intricate details of each room’s construction, purpose, and history, and the extremely knowledgeable guides are well worth the extra $5. This museum is a compact jewel in the heart of the Magnificent Mile area, full of Tiffany glass, exotic woods, expensive and extensive tiles, and much more. On the day of my tour, the holiday decorations (week after Thanksgiving) and solid Frank Lloyd Wright exhibit on the second floor were icing on the cake.
Written 3 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CarolineSchu
Saint Cloud, FL29 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
I was thoroughly impressed with this experience. It is a beautiful stop as you are hopping around Chicago. Great little history insight. We had three kids 11-13 years old and they enjoyed it. It can be a brief visit filling out your day!
Written 27 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jan M
Mount Dora, FL77 contributions
June 2022 • Couples
This is a meticulously renovated museum that showcases the architecture and decor of a wealthy Golden Age "merchant prince." The sumptuous furnishings are a treat to the eyes, and many were made expressly for the rooms where they are now. It's amazing they were able to save them for over a century. There are opulent Tiffany lamps, stained glass windows, centerpieces, vases, mantle surrounds and more. The walls, fireplaces and parquet flooring is different in every room. Really a gem.
Written 25 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DRBHersheyPA
Palmyra, PA12 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
A beautiful home that has been beautifully restored. The home is a piece of art!
Guided tour was worth the money! I would not have understood and appreciated the home and articles in the home beyond their beauty if not for the tour guide explaining the history behind the home and furnishings.
The black and white historical photos in each room depicting what it looked like in its day were so helpful bridging the gap between today and yester-years.
A treasure to step back in time to the gilded age.
Guided tour was worth the money! I would not have understood and appreciated the home and articles in the home beyond their beauty if not for the tour guide explaining the history behind the home and furnishings.
The black and white historical photos in each room depicting what it looked like in its day were so helpful bridging the gap between today and yester-years.
A treasure to step back in time to the gilded age.
Written 1 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are there places to sit throughout the museum? One of my party needs to take frequent breaks from walking/standing.
Written 26 June 2023
We will be there next week and I just saw that the second floor is closed. Should we wait till another time to visit the museum? I’m not sure how many stories the house is so I don’t want to be disappointed by missing out on an entire floor.
Written 11 June 2023
Can you please tell me, for what purpose were the brass cups in the Nautilus shells around the bottom of the Tiffany lamp designed? Thank you.
Written 30 December 2019
natulus shells are common in art. symboling fortune, resurrection, fertility. the combination of brass cups and shells I am not sure. If i think of something that makes sense I'll let you know. Great museum. sort I couldn't add more
Written 31 December 2019
Are we allowed to take prom pictures in the museum? It won’t be a big group, just two to three people
Written 15 April 2019
Any professional photography sessions must be arranged with our private events office.
Written 15 July 2019
Would someone who knows nothing about architecture learn a lot from this museum? Or is it mostly an example of good architecture that could be appreciated by architecture enthusiasts?
Written 21 August 2018
It’s somewhat about architecture but mostly is a great example of a “gilded age home” where everything was opulent. On the main floor, each room is furnished as it would have been when the house was in its original glory. There are pieces of artwork, displays of luxury, and just some really WOW stuff, like the dome in the art room. So it’s a nice blend of architectural elements with non-architectural elements. It’s more like a visual walk-through than a dive into architecture, though. I left feeling “wow, that house was amazing and I’m so glad I paid to take the tour”, rather than “wow, I know a ton more about architecture now”. (I know nothing about architecture.) The second and third floors have rotating displays. Hope this helps!
Written 22 August 2018
Does the Dreihaus serve tea in the attached dining room?
Written 7 April 2018
DriehausMuseum
Chicago, Illinois
The teas were offered as a special feature of the Dressing Downton exhibition. They are no longer available.
Written 7 April 2018
Do you use your own phone for the Acoustiguide or museum supplied headphones?
Written 30 March 2018
DriehausMuseum
Chicago, Illinois
We provide the headsets for the audio guide tour. At this time, we do not offer the audio guide on smart phones.
Written 7 April 2018
Hi! I will be coming there with a group of seniors. Is there a place for a 12 passenger bus to park?
Written 4 October 2016
You should be able to find public parking nearby. Probably not on the street, but in a parking structure. There are websites that will show you available parking, that you can search for on the internet. Just use keywords such as "parking" and the zip code of the museum in your search engine, and many sites that show available parking will pop up.
Written 6 October 2016
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