1933 Chicago World's Fair Century of Progress Homes — Attraction in Beverly Shores

Visiting the 1933 Chicago World's Fair Century of Progress homes was like stepping through a portal into a bygone era. I was fortunate enough to snag tickets for the once-a-year tours, an experience that proved to be both fascinating and enlightening.

These historic homes, showcased during the 1933 Chicago World's Fair, were designed to demonstrate modern conveniences and innovative technologies of that time. Each home has been lovingly restored by its current occupants, with the notable exception of the House of Tomorrow, which was undergoing extensive exterior renovations during my visit (slated to be completed by the 2025 tour). This ongoing work underscores the continuous effort to preserve and honor the historical significance of these properties.

The tours are held on just one day a year—the last weekend in August—and tickets are highly coveted, selling out quickly. The rarity of the event adds an exclusive feel to the experience, making it all the more special for those who attend. The guided tours are led by knowledgeable park rangers, who provide rich historical context and fascinating details about the homes and their place in architectural history.

Adding a personal touch to the tours, some of the current residents were present and available to answer questions. Their insights and anecdotes about living in and restoring such unique dwellings added depth and personal perspective to the tour, enriching the experience.

In addition to the fascinating annual tours, there's an upcoming unique opportunity at the Century of Progress homes. The Cypress House, one of the beautifully preserved homes from the fair, will soon be available for rent. This presents a rare chance for individuals to immerse themselves in a piece of living history, offering more than just a visit but a chance to stay overnight in an architectural gem. Renting this house will provide guests with a full experience of the era’s innovation and architectural creativity, making it a perfect retreat for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, or anyone looking for a...

Encountering the Century of Progress Homes in Beverly Shores evokes questions: What are they? How did they get here? You feel you have met an alien species. And in a sense you have. Five houses that were among the most popular attractions at a world expo more than 80 years ago. A pink house that looks like a cruise ship. A solid, stately stone-clad house. A house sheathed in sleek steel. A low, rambling house of cypress. And, though now wrapped in Tyvek, a futuristic glass house straight out of science fiction, complete with airplane garage. The story of these houses is a Cinderella tale: abandoned at the fair, shipped across the lake, slowly going to ruin, and eventually, restored to glory. Not to be missed. The five houses are owned by the National Park Service but currently leased as private residences. Each year on a Saturday in September they are open for...

first trip to dunes national park. visitor center well staffed with knowledgeable people, plenty of printed information and displays. many trails and beaches but I hadn't even previously heard of the world's fair houses. took a little doing to find them, navigating lakefront communities like michigan city and beverly shores and their narrow winding streets challenging. the houses are beautiful and unusual, the pink florida house is a real beauty. good parking and information about the homes. the beaches are clean and inviting with good parking and facilities. new style of national park, urban and natural combined, separate units, minimal in-site development/concessions/lodging. hopefully increased interest in the area will result in tightening up the area to traditional national...