The Richard H. Driehaus Museum offers a rare opportunity to step back in time inside one of Chicago’s most beautifully preserved Gilded Age mansions. Set in the former home of banker Samuel Mayo Nickerson, the museum showcases stunning interiors, elegant decorative arts, and architectural treasures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. If you're passionate about design, history, or architecture, this museum is a must-visit.

Recommended For

Whether you're planning an inspiring day out or entertaining guests from out of town, the Driehaus Museum is perfect for:

  • History Buffs: Explore the rich legacy of Chicago’s Gilded Age elite through preserved interiors and exhibits.
  • Art & Design Enthusiasts: Marvel at decorative masterpieces by Tiffany, Schastey, and other Belle Époque luminaries.
  • Architecture Lovers: Walk through a meticulous five-year restoration of one of Chicago’s grandest residences.
  • Tourists & Locals: Discover a hidden gem just steps off the Magnificent Mile.

What You'll See

The museum features elegant furnishings, original architectural details, and galleries highlighting the Driehaus Collection of Fine and Decorative Arts. Visitors can expect:

  • Significant works by Louis Comfort Tiffany and George A. Schastey
  • Fine and decorative arts from the 1880–1920 period
  • Rotating special exhibitions and immersive displays that interpret Gilded Age design philosophies

Tours & Experiences

Whether you're visiting solo or bringing a group, the museum offers flexible options for exploring:

  • Self-Guided Tours: Take your time exploring each room and exhibit at your own pace.
  • Daily Guided Tours: Let a knowledgeable guide lead you through the museum’s history and highlights.
  • Best of Both: Combination Tour: This one-hour guided experience includes both the museum's core collection and any current exhibitions. Offered daily at 10:30, 11:30, 1:30, and 3:30—no advance tickets needed.

About the Driehaus Collection

The museum’s namesake, Richard H. Driehaus, began collecting in the 1970s with a focus on Art Nouveau posters by Alphonse Mucha and others. Today, the collection has grown to include:

  • American and European design masterworks from the Gilded Age
  • Notable pieces by Josef Hoffmann, John La Farge, Louis Majorelle, and the Herter Brothers
  • One of the nation’s top private collections of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany

Plan Your Visit

  • Address: 40 East Erie Street, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Phone: 312-482-8933
  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
  • Location: Centrally located near the Magnificent Mile, restaurants, and public transportation

Tip: No need to book in advance for the daily tours, but arriving early is recommended as spots are first-come, first-served.

Plan Your Trip