When I was applying to M.Archs, I didn't go to any open houses. There's plenty of information that you can find on the internet regarding the facilities and curriculum. Just go on Youtube, Flickr, Google, etc. and you can pretty much get a virtual tour of the entire program!

Haha, unlike Brian, I've actually found visiting schools rather helpful (usu. sit in on a few classes + 1 studio, chat with a professor of interest, get a feel of the city). I feel like schools in text form can differ from how it's actually perceived in person. Though I've only visited schools when convenient (on my way to spring break, I made a pit stop at UW and UBC, on my winter break home I stopped at UCLA and UTSOA, etc). Definitely made my life a whole lot easier when applying to school - didn't have to resort to apply to EVERY SINGLE school that looked interesting on paper.

I've only visited one so far, and it was totally helpful. Granted, it's in my city but still. I plan to visit the other two I am deciding between and believe it will help the decision. Maybe there's a cheap way to do it – ask the admissions director or whoever you are corresponding with if there are any stipends or reimbursements for students with need. Maybe search on Craigslist and see if someone (maybe someone in the program) will let you sleep on their couch or maybe there are rooms to rent for cheap. Sometimes even the program will arrange places for people to stay during the open houses – but you have to ask I think.

However, if you've already decided you are going to attend.... I am not sure why you would go other than to just make some initial contacts and mentally preparing yourself for being there.

M.