See new courthouse condos at house walk

Think of it as a local version of MTV's "Cribs."

But instead of peeking into the glamorous abodes of celebrities on TV, local residents can personally tour showcase homes in Wheaton on Friday during the Wheaton Center for History's 28th annual House Walk.

Jane Rio, spokeswoman for the history center, said the popular event draws many return visitors each year.

"Certainly people in the Western suburbs wait for this house walk every year," she said.

Although past walks have featured historical homes, this year visitors can see a variety of houses with differing architecture, history and interior design styles.

Rio says one of the highlights will be a visit to the new condos being built in the old Wheaton courthouse.

It will eventually become a private residence when all the condos are complete, so Rio says this may be the only chance for people to see the marble floors and metal work in the building.

"We add in a mix of homes, and we try to just give (visitors) a beautiful fall afternoon in Wheaton," she said.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Wheaton Center for History and help fund its gallery museum on Front Street, as well as educational programs scheduled throughout the year. The walk is the center's biggest annual fundraiser, Rio said.

And although many house walk participants come to gather decorating ideas, Rio says there's a little bit of curiosity that adds to the walk's allure.

"You drive by some of these houses and think, 'Oh, I'd love to see the inside of that,' " Rio said. "And this gives you a chance to see them at their very best."

If you go

What: Wheaton Center for History's 28th annual House Walk

When:10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday

Where: Start at Wheaton Center for History, 315 W. Front St. or 606 N. Main St.

Cost: $20 in advance; $25 Friday

Details: (630) 871-6601