Architectural Lecture Series

Our club includes a number of very prominent architects

Book Club

We feature books with a connection to Chicago

Music Performance Series

From Jazz Night to a Classical Quintet...

Gallery Exhibits

We maintain ever-changing sulpture and artwork galleries

Theatre Club

We travel all over Chicago to see plays, musicals, and dramas

Photography Club

Learn photography techniques from your peers

History Lecture Series

Our club feasture prominent historians and historical authors

Sketch Club

A fun and non-judgmental forum for creating art

Poetry Society

We read and discuss all types of poetry, at all skill levels

The Cliff Dwellers pulsates with artistic energy.

Exhibitions featuring both established and emerging sculptors showcase a variety of styles and materials. Evenings come alive with musical performances, ranging from classical chamber groups to the smooth sounds of jazz ensembles. The artistic spirit extends beyond the club walls with organized outings to theatrical productions, followed by lively discussions that delve deeper into the themes and artistic choices.

For those who prefer quieter pursuits, the Cliff Dwellers offers a haven for literary exploration. The book club delves into a diverse range of genres, sparking thoughtful discussions and introducing members to new literary voices. For the visually inclined, photography exhibits capture the world through different lenses, while the sketch club provides a space for members to hone their artistic skills in a supportive environment. Rounding out the offerings, the architectural and history lecture series provide intellectual feasts, delving into the stories behind the structures that shape our world and the events that colored the past. The Cliff Dwellers’ calendar ensures that there’s truly something for every artistic inclination.

Recent Events & Programs

A fantastic Chicago-related event in an off-Loop theatre!

Jazz Night on the Cliff

September 6 @ 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Jazz Night Visits the 70s!

Norman Malone – New Honorary Member

August 13 @ 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm

The Cliff Dwellers celebrated the life Norman Malone, a gifted left-handed pianist and a new Honorary Member of the Cliff Dwellers!

Air & Water Show Practice Party & Buffet

August 9 @ 11:30 am - 2:00 pm

The Cliff Dwellers hosted a bird's eye view of the Air & Water Show's rehearsal!

Lollapalooza Evening Pre-Party

August 1 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

A Pre-Lollapalooza Party on the Terrace, with Tequila and Tacos!

The Cliff Dwellers hosted a dinner discussing the Goodman's recent premiere of Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil with the show's producers!

A hip young Israeli band performed with Israeli dancers!

Grant Park at a Crossroads

July 24 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

The Cliff Dwellers heard about the sometimes conflicting identities of Grant Park, and offered input directly to those advocating on Grant Park's behalf!

Support for the Arts

Since 2000, The Club’s Artists-in-Residence program has supported local younger artists and performers between the ages of 24 and 38 to come together during a one- year period to foster a mutual appreciation of the inter-relationship of the arts and to provide a site both for meetings and the presentation of their abilities to a compatible audience of Club members. AIR awardees pay no dues during their two-year class term, and then have the option to apply for full Club membership upon completion of the program. Applications are solicited every two years.

The Cliff Dwellers Arts Foundation, a separate, not-for- profit affiliate, makes grants to arts-oriented organizations and individuals, presenting events at The Club such as concerts, performances, and films, and sponsoring an annual music competition. Grant recipients are chosen by the full Board from qualified applications received by a set deadline each spring and fall; applications are available online and members are encouraged to invite their favorite groups to apply.