2026 Historic Elgin House Tour · Elgin · Sep 12, 2026

The 2026 HIstoric Elgin House Tour will take place on Elgin's historic east side in the NENA neighborhood. PLUS the first floor of Pratt's Castle along the Fox River Trail will be open to tour goers! Come join us for a weekend showcasing five superb houses. See more details here! Tickets are valid for visiting each house once, and can be used Saturday, Sunday, or both.  PLEASE NOTE: The ticket will only have the date of Saturday, Sept. 12, but be assured your ticket is good for either day. Event is rain or shine. Please note tickets are non-refundable.  START THE TOUR at McKinley Elementary School located at 258 Lovell Street. Your ticket will be scanned and we will give you a tour book that includes a map of all the houses. Your ticket includes a FREE walking lecture with architectural historian Rebecca Hunter offered both days of the tour.  ADVANCE ticket prices are Adult ticket: $20, Senior ticket (65+): $15, Junior ticket (18 and under): $15.  DAY OF Ticket prices are Adult ticket: $25, Senior ticket (65+): $20, Junior ticket (18 and under): $20. Day of tickets are still available to purchase in person at registration for credit or cash. A Note on Accessibility for Touring Pratt's Castle  Pratt's Castle is uniquely situated along the Fox River Trail at the end of Cedar Avenue. THERE WILL BE NO AUTOMOBILE TRAFFIC ALLOWED ON CEDAR AVENUE. Please be aware that accessing the site involves some unique logistics: The Terrain: Cedar Avenue features a steep slope down to the river trail. Please consider your mobility needs carefully, as you will need to walk back up the incline to leave. The terrain around the Castle can be uneven. Shuttle Bus: There will be a bus going back and forth all day. The pickup will be at the corner of River Bluff & Cedar. This is a first come, first served shuttle. The line will form down River Bluff. Walking: There will be a lane on Cedar Avenue reserved for pedestrians. The only autos on Cedar Avenue will be the shuttle bus. To ensure a smooth experience, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and allowing a little extra time to visit this site.