The Legacy of the Nickerson Mansion
Built between 1879 and 1883 for Samuel M. Nickerson, a prominent Chicago banker and philanthropist, the mansion is an icon of post-Great Fire opulence. Designed by Burling & Whitehouse, the structure features a robust Romanesque Revival exterior and lavish interiors—boasting 17 varieties of marble, onyx, imported woods, and stunning Tiffany stained glass (Your Chicago Guide). The home’s blend of Renaissance Revival, Rococo, and Eastlake styles reflected the cosmopolitan tastes of Chicago’s elite during the late 19th century.
Over the decades, the mansion survived threats of demolition and multiple ownership changes. Landmark preservation efforts in 1919 and its addition to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 secured its future as one of Chicago’s most significant historical sites (Driehaus Museum History).
Restoration and the Vision of Richard H. Driehaus
In 2003, philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus acquired the Nickerson Mansion and launched a five-year restoration, enlisting expert craftsmen and conservators to return the building to its original splendor while adapting it for public access (Driehaus Museum Restoration). Notable aspects of the restoration included:
- Innovative laser cleaning of the marble façade
- Conservation of original woodwork, marble, stained glass, and period furnishings
- Sensitive integration of modern amenities
In 2022, the museum expanded by acquiring the adjacent John B. Murphy Memorial Auditorium, further enhancing its exhibition and programming capabilities (Wikipedia).
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Admission
Regular Hours
- Wednesday 10:00 am – 7:00 pm (last admission at 6:00 pm)
- Thursday–Sunday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (last admission at 4:00 pm)
- Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, plus major holidays (Easter, Juneteenth, July 4th, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve/Day, New Year’s Eve early closure at 3 pm) (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit)
Admission Fees
- Adults $20
- Seniors (65+) $15
- Students/Educators (with ID) $10
- Children 12 & under Free
- Active Military & Members Free
Tickets can be purchased up to two weeks in advance online or at the door. Payments are credit card only (Museuly – Driehaus Museum).
Free Admission Opportunities
- Free Wednesday Evenings 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm (last entry 6:00 pm)
- Community Days Free admission on select dates, often coinciding with major exhibitions (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit)
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Driehaus Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, offering ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are welcome. For additional accommodations, contact Guest Services at (312) 482-8933 or [email protected] in advance (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit).
Additional amenities include:
- Restrooms on site
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Gift shop featuring books, exhibition merchandise, and art objects
Guided Tours and Self-Guided Options
- Public Guided Tours Add $5 to regular admission; first-come, first-served—explore the mansion’s history and collections with expert guides.
- Group and Special Interest Tours Available for schools, organizations, and private groups; contact the museum for arrangements.
- Self-Guided Experience Download the free Driehaus Museum app (iOS/Android) for interactive content, audio commentary, and detailed room-by-room guides (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit).
Photography without flash is allowed for personal use, except during some special exhibitions. Professional photography requires prior approval.
Parking, Transportation, and Location
- Address 50 East Erie Street, Chicago, IL 60611
- Public Transit Near CTA Red Line (Chicago Station), multiple bus routes, and two blocks from Michigan Avenue.
- Parking No onsite parking. Nearby options:
- ROW Self-Park 50 East Ohio Street—validated for $15/6 hours
- SpotHero Reserve discounted parking (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit)
Highlights of the Museum’s Collection
The Driehaus Museum houses over 1,500 objects spanning the Gilded Age and Art Nouveau eras:
- Original Nickerson furnishings
- One of the nation’s most significant collections of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass and decorative objects
- Furniture by the Herter Brothers, George A. Schastey & Co., and other renowned makers
- Exquisite period rooms featuring marble, onyx, hand-carved woodwork, and original art glass
High-resolution images and virtual tours are available on the museum’s website.
Major Exhibitions: 2025 Highlights
"A Tale of Today: Materialities" (Feb 7 – Apr 27, 2025)
This ambitious exhibition invites 14 Midwest-rooted artists to create site-specific installations using materials drawn from the mansion’s own fabric—marble, wood, glass, and metal—to connect historic opulence with contemporary cultural and ecological narratives (Choose Chicago; Preservation Chicago). Free Community Days (March 1 & April 5) feature artist talks and workshops (Art Design Chicago; Driehaus Museum).
"Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature" (May 16 – Aug 17, 2025)
Explore the botanical artistry of Scottish artist Rory McEwen, with programming that includes workshops, concerts, and citywide collaborations at institutions like the Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum (Museum Publicity; Reed Turner Botanical Artists).
Public Programs, Community Days, and Special Events
- Community Days Free admission, hands-on activities, and direct engagement with artists and curators (Driehaus Museum; My Kidlist)
- Workshops & Classes Botanical art, urban history walking tours, and more (Driehaus Museum)
- Performances Special events with dance, chamber music, and interdisciplinary programming (Driehaus Museum)
The museum frequently collaborates with Chicago’s leading cultural and environmental organizations, extending its reach into the broader community and fostering dialogue about art, sustainability, and urban history (Museum Publicity).
Museum Etiquette & Policies
- General Conduct Respectful behavior is expected; inappropriate conduct may result in removal (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit).
- Health & Safety Adhere to posted health protocols and guidelines.
- Coat Room Self-serve coat check available; large bags, food, and certain items prohibited.
- Photography Non-flash photography allowed for personal use unless otherwise posted.
FAQ: Plan Your Visit
Q: What are the Driehaus Museum visiting hours?
A: Wednesday 10:00 am–7:00 pm, Thursday–Sunday 10:00 am–5:00 pm, closed Mondays/Tuesdays.
Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults $20, seniors $15, students/educators $10, children under 12, active military, and members free.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes; for special accommodations, contact Guest Services in advance.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Public tours are available for $5 extra; self-guided app also available.
Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, non-flash photography is generally permitted.
Q: Where can I park?
A: No onsite parking; validated and discounted parking available nearby (Driehaus Museum – Plan Your Visit).
Nearby Attractions in Chicago
Explore the best of Chicago’s cultural landscape near the Driehaus Museum:
- Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
- Chicago Water Tower
- Magnificent Mile
- Oak Street Beach
- Art Institute of Chicago
Discover More
The Driehaus Museum embodies Chicago’s architectural splendor, Gilded Age artistry, and vibrant cultural evolution. Its expertly restored interiors, dynamic exhibitions, and inclusive programming create a compelling destination for all visitors. Plan your visit today by securing your tickets online, downloading the museum’s free app, and exploring related Chicago historical sites for a well-rounded cultural adventure. For the latest news, event updates, and virtual resources, visit the official Driehaus Museum website and follow the museum on social media.
