NYC Celebrates 50th Annual Open House Weekend

On October 6, 2024, New Yorkers and tourists alike enjoyed the second day of the 50th Annual Open House New York (OHNY) Weekend, a beloved event offering rare access to some of the city’s most iconic and hidden architectural treasures. Spanning all five boroughs, the weekend-long festival included tours of landmarks such as the Woolworth Building, the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport, and lesser-known gems like historic firehouses and private artist studios.
“This event is about reconnecting with the city through its spaces, both familiar and unknown,” said OHNY Executive Director Pamela Puchalski. Highlights of this year’s program included a behind-the-scenes look at the New York City Water Tunnel No. 3 project and guided tours of community gardens that have been revitalized as part of the city’s urban green space initiatives.
Participants praised the event’s diversity, with stops ranging from architectural marvels to grassroots cultural spaces. Workshops and panel discussions featuring architects, historians, and urban planners shed light on NYC’s evolving cityscape and future development plans.
The 50th anniversary of OHNY was marked by record participation, reflecting the city’s enduring curiosity and pride in its architectural heritage. Organizers expressed hopes to continue inspiring New Yorkers to explore and appreciate the built environment for years to come.