University Of Chicago School Of Social Service Administration

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice is a cornerstone of academic excellence and social innovation. Housed in the iconic building at 969 E. 60th Street—designed by the legendary Ludwig Mies van der Rohe—this institution offers visitors a rare blend of modernist architecture, rich social reform history, and vibrant campus culture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, a prospective student, or a cultural traveler, the Crown Family School is an essential stop in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, accessibility, guided tours, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips to ensure a rewarding experience at this Chicago landmark. For current updates, always refer to the Crown Family School website and the University of Chicago’s architecture resource.

Overview & Background
Architectural Significance and Legacy
Planning Your Visit
Hours & Admission
Accessibility
Guided Tours & Etiquette
Exploring Hyde Park: Attractions & Dining
Special Events & Educational Opportunities
FAQ
Plan Your Visit: Tips & Resources
Conclusion
Sources & Further Reading

Overview & Background

The Crown Family School, originally known as the School of Social Service Administration, stands as a testament to the progressive spirit of social work education in the United States. Its origins date back to 1894 and the Chicago Commons’ School of Social Economics, with notable reformers such as Jane Addams and John Dewey among its early faculty (Crown Family School History). Officially joining the University of Chicago in 1920, it is America’s oldest graduate school dedicated to social work research (UChicago News). The School continues to shape social policy at city, state, and national levels.

Architectural Significance and Legacy

The building—completed in 1965 and recently dedicated as Edith Abbott Hall—was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a master of modernist architecture (UChicago Architecture). The structure’s minimalist steel frame, glass curtain walls, and open-plan lobby epitomize Mies’s “less is more” philosophy, offering a striking contrast to the surrounding Gothic architecture of the University of Chicago campus. The integration of transparency and light fosters a sense of openness, mirroring the School’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement.

In 2021, the building was named in honor of Edith Abbott, the School’s founding dean and a pioneering figure in American social work (UChicago News). The dedication commemorates her status as the first woman to lead a U.S. graduate school and her enduring legacy of social justice.

Planning Your Visit

Hours & Admission

General Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM during the academic year. Closed on major university holidays and weekends. (Crown Family School Admissions)
Admission: Free. Public spaces such as the lobby and Edith Abbott Memorial Library are open to visitors. Some events may require prior registration.

Tip: Always confirm hours and any event restrictions via the Crown Family School’s admissions page.

Accessibility

The Crown Family School building is fully accessible, featuring ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Visitors requiring accommodations are encouraged to contact Student Disability Services in advance.

Guided Tours & Visitor Etiquette

Guided Tours: Available by appointment through the University of Chicago’s campus tours office. Tours focus on the building’s architecture and history and can be combined with broader campus architecture routes (UChicago Architecture).
Class Visits: Prospective students can book class visits and Q&A sessions with admissions staff (Crown Family School Webinars).
Self-Guided Tours: Maps and digital resources are available online and at campus visitor centers.
Photography: Permitted in public and exterior areas. Please avoid photographing during classes or private events and maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor.

Exploring Hyde Park: Attractions & Dining

Located in the heart of Hyde Park, the Crown Family School is within walking distance of several notable attractions:

Museum of Science and Industry
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House
Rockefeller Memorial Chapel
Jackson Park & Promontory Point

Hyde Park also offers a vibrant dining scene, with numerous restaurants, cafés, and bakeries nearby (Miss Tourist: Hyde Park). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and visitors should check the weather before arrival.

Getting There:

Public Transit: CTA bus routes #2, #6, #55, and the Metra Electric District (59th Street/University of Chicago station).
Parking: Limited street parking; public transit and campus shuttles are recommended (UChicago Architecture Map).

Special Events & Educational Opportunities

The Crown Family School regularly hosts public lectures, panel discussions, and exhibitions on social justice, policy, and community engagement (Crown Family School Events). Many events are free, though some may require RSVP.

Prospective students can participate in webinars, class visits, and admissions events (Crown Family School Webinars).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM during the academic year. Closed on weekends and holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, admission to public spaces is free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment through the campus tours office.

Q: Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is fully accessible.

Q: Are there dining options nearby?
A: Yes, Hyde Park offers a variety of dining establishments within walking distance.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Limited street parking is available; public transit is recommended.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, in public and exterior areas, provided you respect privacy and ongoing activities.

Plan Your Visit: Tips & Resources

Check Event Calendars: Crown Family School’s event calendar for the latest lectures and exhibitions.
Book Tours in Advance: Secure your spot for guided or class tours.
Download Maps & Guides: Access digital resources for self-guided exploration (UChicago Architecture).
Contact for Accessibility: Arrange special accommodations through Student Disability Services.
Explore the Neighborhood: Visit local attractions and enjoy Hyde Park’s unique character.
Stay Safe: Hyde Park is known for its welcoming atmosphere; standard urban safety practices apply.

Conclusion

A visit to the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice immerses you in a unique environment where architectural brilliance meets a legacy of social progress. The Mies van der Rohe building stands as a monument to both innovation and inclusivity, serving students, scholars, and the broader community. With its accessible public spaces, free admission, and proximity to some of Chicago’s most celebrated sites, the Crown Family School is an essential destination for anyone interested in architecture, education, or social justice.

For the latest updates on visiting hours, tours, and special events, consult the Crown Family School’s official admissions page and the University’s architecture map. Enhance your experience with the Audiala app for audio-guided tours and insider tips on Chicago’s architectural heritage.