Walt Disney’s childhood home is open to the public for the first time on both Saturday, October 14th, and Sunday, October 15th, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. It’s part of the Chicago Architecture Center’s annual Open House Chicago weekend, where you can embark on a self-guided tour and explore more than 170 sites in over 20 neighborhoods.
This event offers a rare opportunity to gain an inside look at some of Chicago’s architectural gems, many of which are typically closed to the public, including Walt Disney’s former home.
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This two-story wood cottage in Hermosa was constructed in 1891 for $800 by Elias Disney, Walt’s father, with architectural plans designed by his mother, Flora. During this weekend’s guided tour, you can visit the room where Walter Elias Disney was born on the second floor on December 4, 1901!
Rey Colon, Walt Disney Birthplace project director, told ABC7, “Walt Disney was an example that, if you come from humble beginnings, work hard, and follow your dreams, you can change the world.”
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He noted that the home on Tripp Avenue played a pivotal role in setting Walt up for success. “The Disneys were ordinary people who achieved extraordinary things,” Colon shared. The owners have restored the property to its 1901 glory, and visitors will notice elements that inspired Walt, such as the staircase resembling the one from Lady and the Tramp (1955).
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If you’re looking for more Disney magic this fall, the Walt Disney Company is celebrating its 100-year anniversary this Monday, October 16th. To commemorate this milestone, the enchanting 20,000-square-foot exhibition, ‘Disney100: The Exhibition,’ is making its way to the Exhibition Hub Art Center in Chicago at 2367 W. Logan Boulevard this November.
✨🏰 Experience the magic this fall—grab your tickets to Disney100: The Exhibition now!
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a treasure trove of Disney’s ‘Crown Jewels,’ including learning about Walt Disney’s backstory, peruse costumes and memorabilia, and get a closer look at props, and captivating visuals that even the most devoted Disney enthusiasts have yet to experience. After we get a glimpse of his home where it all began, we’ll be re-watching our Disney childhood favorites on this windy and rainy afternoon.
Open House Chicago is taking place this weekend only. To stay updated on the latest information about Walt’s childhood home and birthplace, which is located at 2156 N. Tripp Avenue, including community events, click here.