The neighborhoods of Chicago carry a unique pulse of their own, whether its cultural, architectural, or athletic. Explore the different types of cuisines and atmospheres at dining spots that can be found on every corner. Visit the outstanding landmarks, museums, and theaters that are sprawled across the city. Hop on the train and step into the soul of the city to discover what makes Chicago the “City of Broad Shoulders.”
1. The Loop All ‘L” lines and Metra train lines are accessible in the Loop. The Loop is the heart and pulse of the city, home to an unparalled skyline of skyscrapers, renowned museums, public art, and street music true to the blues, jazz, and soul of Chicago. Sculptures, monuments, and gardens flourish in Grant Park and Millennium park, home to the iconic Buckingham fountain and the Cloud Gate “bean” sculpture. Walk along Lake Michigan for tourist attractions such as Navy Pier, the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, or simply enjoy the beauty of the sparkling lake. Shop State Street and the mile-long Michigan Avenue, and remember to take the time to look up and admire the intricacies of Chicago architecture. Reminisce old Chicago on an architecture boat tour and indulge in classic Chicago foods like deep dish pizza at Gino’s East. 1. The Loop All ‘L” lines and Metra train lines are accessible in the Loop. The Loop is the heart and pulse of the city, home to an unparalled skyline of skyscrapers, renowned museums, public art, and street music true to the blues, jazz, and soul of Chicago. Sculptures, monuments, and gardens flourish in Grant Park and Millennium park, home to the iconic Buckingham fountain and the Cloud Gate “bean” sculpture. Walk along Lake Michigan for tourist attractions such as Navy Pier, the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, or simply enjoy the beauty of the sparkling lake. Shop State Street and the mile-long Michigan Avenue, and remember to take the time to look up and admire the intricacies of Chicago architecture. Reminisce old Chicago on an architecture boat tour and indulge in classic Chicago foods like deep dish pizza at Gino’s East.Green Line: Clinton; Pink Line: Clinton; CTA Bus: 20 (Madison), J14 (Jeffery Jump), and 7 (Harrison)
West Loop is a young and rising neighborhood and a must stop for any foodie. Randolph Street is distinguished as famous “Restaurant Row,” as a part of the fine-dining scene in the neighborhood with well-known restaurants like Au Cheval, Girl & The Goat, The Aviary, and Avec. Summer time in West Loop is filled with local events, Randolph Street festivals, and the annual Pitchfork Music Festival. With urban art galleries, the green Union Park, and the nearby Greektown, West Loop is the up and coming location for young, food enthusiasts.
Metra Electric District Line: 51st/53rd Street, 55th - 56th - 57th Street, 59th Street
Hyde Park is one of the most historical neighborhoods in Chicago on the city’s South side. The neighborhood is home to President Obama, the prestigious University of Chicago, and the iconic Robie House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. A day in Hyde Park calls for exploring the beautiful campus, a visit to the Promontory Point or Japanese garden in Jackson Park for scenic views of the lake, and a visit to the Museum of Science and Industry, the only remnant of the glory of the famous World’s Columbian Exposition held in Hyde Park in 1893.
Pink Line: 18th Street; Bus: 8 (Halsted)
Pilsen is a unique neighborhood on Chicago’s near Southside, bursting with art and Hispanic culture. Taquerias line the streets, murals burst with color and political statements, and the streets pulse with community pride. With loyal neighborhood customers and many locally owned restaurants and shops, this neighborhood offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art, peruse vintage jobs, sip coffee at one of the many cafés, or dine at Michelin Rated restaurants.
Red Line: Belmont, Addison, Sheridan; Brown Line: Belmont, Wellington, Diversey, Southport
Home to Wrigley Field, a plethora of bars and taverns, and quirky stores, this neighborhood is marked by fierce Chicago sport team pride. Aside from sports, the neighborhood offers a variety of high-and low-end eats, comedy theater shows, plenty of concert venues, and night clubs. Lakeview is also one of the largest gay and lesbian communities in the city and hosts the Pride Parade in the summer. Buzzing in the day and the night, this neighborhood captures the passion and spirit of Chicago.
Brown Line: Western
Cobblestone plazas, a distinct German history, and heartwarming charm make Lincoln Square a must see for Chicago tourists. Music rings through the neighborhood in the open plaza, concert venues, and at the well known Old Town School of Folk Music. Locally owned shops, restaurants, and bars dot the streets of Lincoln Square including Timeless Toys, Café Selmarie, and the German Chicago Brauhaus. Embrace the culture at the many German bars or the Dank Haus German American cultural center, or simply walk through the neighborhood and marvel at the Victorian era architecture and the classic Chicago bungalow homes.
Brown Line: Armitage, Fullerton, Diversy; Purple Line: Armitage, Fullerton, Diversy; Red Line: Fullerton, Clybourn
Sitting right on the lake, Lincoln Park is a historically rich neighborhood on Chicago’s Northside. This wealthy neighborhood is lined with chain shops and local boutiques, and some of the finest restaurants in Chicago. The neighborhood is also home to the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago History Museum, and the popular Lincoln Park Cultural Center. Lincoln Park itself is the largest public park in Chicago with recreational areas, nature reserves, boat harbors, and beaches. This neighborhood offers beautiful sights from the pretty plates at Café Ba-Ba-Reeba, the nature of the park and zoo, to the iconic turreted and gabled century old buildings that impress in pastel colors and flourishing ornamentation.