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The 6 Best Chicago Walking Tours

See the best Chi-Town has to offer on your own two feet.

Courtesy of Steven Sabourin | Inside Chicago

Discover the hidden details of the Windy City's famed architecture with a tour from Inside Chicago.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

The Windy City is known for its interesting architecture and landmarks, its deep-dish pizza and specialty hot dogs and its many loyal sports fans. However, getting a real feel for Chicago can be difficult if you only hit the main attractions or you spend your entire trip in a single neighborhood. To gain a local's perspective, book a guided walking tour. Factoring in both traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected these seven tours as the best walking tours available in Chicago.

Inside Chicago – Open Your Eyes: Inside the Pedway & Other Secrets of the Loop

This two-hour tour takes you throughout the city's famous Pedway (an underground network of tunnels that connects more than 50 buildings) to see the details hidden in its architecture. During the 1 1/2-mile walk, you'll also see above-ground treasures, such as a Picasso statue and a 1920s-era church, and venture into a few buildings that connect to the Pedway. Throughout the tour, helpful guides share stories of the city. Reviewers call this tour informative and surprising. Walks are offered at 2 p.m. on Monday and Friday, and tickets start at $30 for adults and $25 for seniors and children ages 5 to 10. Other public tours from Inside Chicago include tours of individual neighborhoods and a seasonal Christmas outing.

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Chicago Food Planet – Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour

Chicago has long been considered one of America's best foodie destinations . To sample some of the city's best bites, consider this tour from Chicago Food Planet. Tastings rotate, but foods could include Mexican fare, doughnuts, pizza, meatballs, beer and hamburgers. As you eat your way through the West Loop, guides share stories about the neighborhood's history and culture. Travelers advise coming hungry as there are plenty of samples. Tour availability changes seasonally, but tours generally start at 1 p.m. several days a week and last three hours. Tickets start at $60, but you can upgrade your package to include three drink pairings for around $80 per person. Youths ages 12 and younger can also tag along for $35 each. Chicago Food Planet also offers tasty trips through Wrigleyville and Navy Pier , among other options.

Free Tours by Foot – Lincoln Park Blues and Gangster Tour

Ideal for visitors interested in an in-depth overview of Chicago's famous Lincoln Park neighborhood, this two-hour, mile-long walk earns high marks from reviewers. Guides teach patrons about the history of the neighborhood and the city's infamous gangsters while making stops at DePaul University, the Red Lion Pub and Oz Park, among other landmarks. Patrons say this trip is informative and that they loved seeing more of Lincoln Park. This tour is free to take, although you can decide to tip your guide however much you want at the end. Tour times and dates vary and reservations are required. Free Tours by Foot also operates tours of Millennium Park , a ghost tour and tours of the Riverwalk , among other options.

Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tour

Patrons say this guided walk is great fun and praise guides who expertly mix humor and gruesome stories. You will walk approximately 1 1/2 miles in two hours while exploring haunted locations and old crime scenes where some of the city's most famous misdeeds played out. Historians are your guide, so you will learn the real story behind shady deals and infamous Chicago gangsters like Al Capone. Tickets start at $27 for adults, $25 for seniors ages 65 and older and $17 for youth ages 7 to 17. Children ages 6 and younger can tour for free. Tours depart daily at 11 a.m. and at 1, 4 and 8 p.m.

Bobby's Bike Hike – Chinatown Food & Culture Walking Tour

Eat your way through Chinatown on this tour with Bobby's Bike Hike. In 2 1/2 hours, you'll sample delicacies that represent five different regions of China while guides share the history of Chinese immigration to Chicago. Tea, Szechuan chicken, hot pot, dim sum and baked goods are just some of the treats you could try during the trip. Patrons say the outing is full of incredible food and history. Prices vary depending on the day you tour, but you can expect to pay around $55 for adults and $50 for children. Tours depart at 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Bobby’s Bike Hike also offers a dessert walking tour and various bike tours, among other options.

Free Chicago Walking Tours – Riverwalk & North Loop Tour

This two-hour tour details Chicago's history from the late 1600s to the present day, discussing the Revolutionary War, 1915's Eastland disaster and everything in between. As you walk, you'll see the Chicago River, the Jewelers Building, Heald Square Monument, the Chicago Cultural Center, Daley Plaza and an array of other important landmarks. Reviewers appreciate the pace of this tour and its knowledgeable, thoughtful guides. Your only cost is what you decide to tip your guide at the end. Free Chicago Walking Tours also operates trips through Millennium Park and walks that guide you through less touristy parts of the city, among others.

Tags: Chicago , Travel , Tours , Vacations

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WALK CHICAGO TOURS

Private and Personalized Walking Tours of the City of Big Shoulders

ON EVERY CORNER...

The mission of every Walk Chicago Tour is linked to the commitment of our owner, Terry Sullivan, a born and bred Chicagoan who wants every visitor to love Chicago as much as he does. The intention of every walk is to enable visitors to not only see Chicago in all its grandness but to feel its energy and to know its heart. This is the sincerity of effort that separates us from the others.  

Every tour is led by a knowledgeable and experienced guide who is skilled at unraveling the many layers of Chicago's culture and history. Guides are chosen for their engaging styles and their ability to share their passion for Chicago.

All our tours are intended for curious, inquisitive, budget-minded visitors. No visit to our city should be a blur on a bus nor an uncomfortable mix in a large group. And, no visitor to Chicago should be excluded. We openly solicit the disabled and physically impaired and work to meet their individual needs. Let Walk Chicago Tours wrap America's most American city into a story package for you to take home. Give us a chance to help you build your memories at your own pace. Come walk with us and leave our home convinced that you have come to know the real Chicago.

All tours are completely private. We do not combine groups nor add individuals to reserved tour times. Your Guide, Your Group Only!

Reservations are necessary. A minimum of two people is necessary. Call or email for available tour times.

See our F.A.Q. page for pricing and additional tour information.

We’ve been awarded the Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor. See what our customers have to say about our tours.

If you have been on one of our tours, we’d love your feedback.

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ANNOUNCEMENT

It has been a very difficult time. We have all been affected, and our lives have changed. And we must all do what is required of us until normalcy returns. But we want you to know that we are standing ready to serve you whenever you feel secure and comfortable enough to return to the beauty, friendliness and excitement that is the real Chicago. We will be ready and waiting to take a walk with you. Keep in mind that we have always been a completely private walking tour service. It will again be just your personal group and your private guide. There is no combining of tour groups. We will be properly distanced, masked and ever diligent about your safety and the avoidance of risk along the way. We hope to see you soon...we have so many stories to tell. Call or email us soon......

The Walk Chicago Tours Guide Staff

We consider ourselves Chicago's premiere educational field trip tour service (see tripadvisor.com for reviews by teachers). We have served scores of grade schools, high schools and colleges. Most of our guides are former educators (see guides page on our website) who know how to engage students and how to work with teachers to meet the intended goals for their student groups. We are open to planning with instructors to customize any of our tours to meet the objectives of their classrooms. All school groups receive special discounts. We do not charge for certified faculty members, paraprofessionals or designated school personnel serving as chaperones.

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Chicago Walking Tours

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Windy City with Free Chicago Walking Tours. Our guided explorations take you through the vibrant tapestry of Chicago's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, unveiling the stories and spectacles that make the city truly unique.

Our meticulously curated tours, lasting approximately 2-hours, cover a distance of just over a mile, ensuring a comfortable pace for all. Spearheaded by seasoned Chicago tour guides, each walk is a blend of entertainment, education, and exploration. Check out our comprehensive TOUR CALENDAR to find and book your next adventure, or delve into the details of each tour by clicking on the images below!

For larger groups of more than 6, or to book a private, personalized tour, navigate to our PRIVATE TOUR page and complete the contact form. Our private tours offer an intimate, tailored experience, making them perfect for family outings, educational trips, or corporate team-building exercises. With rates starting at a mere $250 for a 2-hour guided tour accommodating up to 20 individuals, Free Chicago Walking Tours offers the most competitive private tour rates in the city.

Discover Chicago from a new perspective, witness its architectural marvels, historical landmarks, and cultural hubs, all while enjoying a leisurely walk. Whether it’s the bustling Magnificent Mile, the historical charm of the Wrigley Building, or the serene beauty of Millennium Park, each tour is a window into the soul of Chicago.

Free Chicago Walking Tours is not just a tour service, it’s your gateway to experiencing Chicago like never before. Reserve your spot today and step into Chicago’s rich tapestry of history, architecture, and culture. Your captivating journey through the heart of Chicago awaits!

Our Walking Tours

Chicago Holiday Tree & Lights Tour

Participants will embark on a festive journey through city streets adorned with twinkling lights, majestic trees, and exquisite window displays, accompanied by stories of Chicago's rich holiday traditions and historical seasonal narratives. The tour's highlight includes a visit to the "perfect" Christmas tree at Millennium Park, alongside several other picturesque spots.

The adventure begins just outside Bloomingdale's on the 2nd floor of 900 N. Michigan Ave Shops, home to a stunning indoor 50ft Christmas tree. The route meanders down the iconic Magnificent Mile, famed for its holiday-ready shops, offering numerous indoor stops for guests to warm up.

Chicago Pedway Winter Tour

Embark on a cozy adventure with the Chicago Pedway Tour, unveiling the “city below the city” stretching from the State of Illinois Building to the Cultural Center. This warm, indoor expedition uncovers the Pedway's history, linking over 50 buildings across 40 Downtown Chicago blocks. Marvel at renowned architecture, art, and impressive office lobbies as you traverse this subterranean network.

The Pedway Tour offers a unique glimpse into Chicago's heart, all while staying comfortable indoors. As you meander through its interconnected pathways, the Pedway unveils a blend of the city's historical richness and modern allure. Experience the Windy City from a vantage point like no other, and discover the stories etched beneath its bustling streets.

Chicago Loop Interior Tour

Dive into Chicago's architectural marvels, birthplace of the skyscraper, and home to legendary design maestros shaping the Chicago style. Millions flock here to bask in its architectural heritage, yet many overlook the rich interiors of these historic and modern structures. Our tour remedies this, guiding you through buildings whose interiors narrate the city's history, culture, and artistry.

While the skyline captivates, the inner beauty of Chicago's buildings is equally enchanting. With years of delivering insightful architecture tours, we unveil the mesmerizing interiors often missed. Our guests are continually awestruck by the elegance within, and we're confident you'll share this sentiment, discovering a new dimension of Chicago's architectural narrative.

Chicago Crime & Gangster Tour

Join us on a thrilling exploration of Chicago’s notorious past with Free Chicago Walking Tours’ Chicago Crime & Gangster Tour. Journey through the rise of the Chicago Mafia, and uncover hidden and famed Mob haunts in the scenic locales of River North and the Loop.

Wind your way through the River North area learning about the multiple gangs and their leaders that were vying for a piece of the prohibition pie. Stops at Marina City Towers and the Lasalle Street Bridge will help explain how all of these characters crossed paths and shaped the future of Chicago.

Chicago Off the Grid Tour

Forget stuffy museums or the standard architecture strolls and get lost in the beauty of Chicago's urban jungle on the new Off the Grid Tour. Hosted by ACME Hotel Company and Free Chicago Walking Tours, the immersive walking tour showcases some of the city's most Instagrammable spots including Death Alley and the Tiffany Glass Dome at the Chicago Cultural Center, among others.

Chicago Riverwalk & North Loop Tour

A blend of history, architecture, and scenic splendors with our Riverwalk & North Loop Walking Tour, offering a diverse taste of Chicago’s essence. Commencing at Du Sable Bridge, the seed of Chicago’s rich history dating back to the 1670s, we amble along the Chicago River, pausing at iconic sites like Trump International Hotel & Tower, Marina City Towers, and the Heald Square Monument, each narrating unique chapters of Chicago's tale. The Eastland Disaster tale by the river shores adds a historic poignancy to our expedition.

The tour unfolds Chicago’s artistic flair at Monument with a Standing Beast and the famed Picasso, culminating at the Chicago Cultural Center. Here, the world’s largest Tiffany Glass-domed roof awaits, marking a grand finale to a tour drenched in Chicago's multifaceted narrative, an experience not to be missed.

Chicago Total Loop Tour

Immerse in the cradle of American “downtown” in our Chicago Total Loop Walking Tour, encompassing the architectural grandeur, retail history, and the iconic Chicago River. We start at The Sears Tower and learn about "the architectural equivalent of the moon landing", the innovative design and construction of what would be the tallest building in the world for 25 years.

This unique two-hour, two-mile journey weaves through the heart of Chicago, unveiling the rich history, vibrant public art, and characters that form the essence of the city. From the grandeur of Millennium Park to the stunning display of Chicago's Picasso, we'll explore stories etched in stone and time.

Chicago Gold Coast Neighborhood Walking Tour

Chicago's Gold Coast is one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods. With the shores of Lake Michigan on the east, this is one of the most expensive zip codes in all of Illinois. Nestled among these quiet, tree-lined streets you'll find elegant multi-million dollar brownstones, numerous historic mansions and some of the wealthiest families in Chicago.

But this area wasn't always so wealthy. Once upon a time, this was marshland used as burial grounds. The area began to change in 1882 after Potter Palmer, one of Chicago’s business legends, built a castle-like mansion on Lake Shore Drive. Thereafter, Chicago’s wealthy citizens transformed this area into the city’s most exclusive residential enclave.

Chicago Loop & Public Art Walking Tour

Chicago is home to more than 500+ pieces of public art in more than 150 municipal facilities across the city. Chicago’s Loop is home to some of the most fascinating and picturesque pieces in the collection including sculptures by Picasso, controversial pieces such Monument with Standing Beast and learn how Chicago was invaded by decorative life size cows in 1999!

Throughout the tour you’ll be introduced to the artists responsible for the pieces, how the city reacted to their unveiling and get up close and personal with Chicago’s most prized possessions.

Chicago Millennium Park & Michigan Avenue Walking Tour

You will get to see so much of what makes Chicago so special on this tour. The Magnificent Mile, The Chicago River, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain and more! Your meeting spot is outside the entrance to on of Chicago's most beautiful buildings - The Wrigley Building.

From there the group will head south down Michigan Ave learning about some of the folks that helped put Chicago on the map hundreds of years ago. You'll have incredible photo opportunities of the Chicago River as you make your way to Chicago's famous Millennium Park.

About Free Chicago Walking Tours

With a variety of engaging tours lasting around 2-hours, we offer a comfortable pace to explore just over a mile of Chicago's most captivating neighborhoods. Our experienced Chicago tour guides lead you on a journey of discovery, sharing intriguing stories and fun facts that bring each locale to life.

Our diverse tour offerings are designed to cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re enchanted by the holiday lights, intrigued by the historical narrative, or keen on architectural wonders, we have a tour tailored just for you.

Free Chicago Walking Tours are built by Our Local Chicago Guides who all share a passion for the city we call home. Each guide has carefully constructed their tours to ensure the perfect mix of their personalities, Chicago's history & Chicago's architecture.

If you're new to Chicago be sure to read our Chicago Blog for tips and tricks on how to make your stay more pleasant including Your Guide to Getting Around Chicago  & Top 20 Free Things to do in Chicago .

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Best things to see and do in Chicago

Chicago is the third most populated major city in the United States of America but is full of interesting attractions, amazing architecture, rich history, and delicious food that make it a popular first choice for many on vacation. The “Windy City” as it has been nicknamed, lies on the coast of Lake Michigan, one of the 5 Great Lakes in Northern America, while the Chicago River winds through the city’s downtown providing breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. 

Doing a free walking tour in Chicago is the perfect way to get to know the most interesting places in the city, while you get a chance to see some of the lesser-known gems and get some great recommendations on where and what to do later from your local guide. A visit to this city wouldn’t be complete without visiting some of its architectural masterpieces that are representative of the mid-west style, like Mies van der Rohe’s Lake Shore Drive Apartments, or massive skyscrapers like Willis Tower which can be found along with others in what is known as The Magnificent Mile. Some of the must-see spots you should include are the 360 Chicago Tower Observation Deck, The Art Institute of Chicago, take a walk to Millenium Park and see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. Sports fans love to visit Wrigley Park and families love Lincoln Zoo. 

There are many more emblematic monuments and landmarks to discover in Chicago on your free walking tour with GuruWalk . All of the available tours have been reviewed and rated by other walkers who have already done them. You can read up on the opinions and choose the best tour for you, whether it’s a tour in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Check out the other free guided tours we have available in Jackson, New York City or Toronto. 

Want to share your culture with travelers from all the world?

Free walking tour near chicago, others cities to visit after chicago, where are you traveling to.

Chicago Walking Tours

Discover the city's culture, history and more, we explore chicago and its neighborhoods.

Chicago is one of the world’s great walking cities.  At L Stop Tours, we carefully design each of our tours to include a mix of Chicago’s famous sites and attractions — historic architecture, cultural venues and interesting places to enjoy food and drink.

Our tours are fun, engaging and provide a unique perspective of the city that you won’t find on other tours.  We go inside famous buildings, not just look at them from the river or the top of a double-decker bus. We visit pubs and restaurants that have great Chicago stories, not just establishments that are convenient to our route. We explore diverse neighborhoods throughout the city, learning about their history and culture. And, whenever possible, we take a ride on the L train, Chicago’s iconic public transit system. L Stop Tours offers experiences that are perfect for both tourists and locals.

L Stop Tours has been called one of the most unique Chicago neighborhood tours in the city by Choose Chicago, the official destination marketing organization for the city.

Ready to find the tour that’s right for you? Explore all of our Chicago tours !

What Makes Us Different

• Owner of the company and lead tour guide, Tom, is a lifelong Chicagoan with a wide range of knowledge and personal experiences about the city.
• We keep it interesting and fun! We’ll tell you good stories but we won’t overload you with long lectures and memorized facts.
• We keep our public walking tours small (max 10 people) to ensure a more intimate experience.
• We also offer customized private tours and event for those who need something different .
• Transit fees (if applicable) are included in the price of the tour. Some tours include a short train ride.
• Our tours cover more ground and last longer than other walking tours but are timed so that you won’t lose interest or tire out.

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From the L Stop Blog

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Chicago's official municipal flag is wildly popular. Learn about the meaning behind the symbols and colors....

What you'll see!                  

If you have questions, don't hesitate to call our office. Also, you can find answers to frequently asked questions by clicking below.

Chicago is world-renowned for its dynamic architectural styles, boasting many landmark buildings designed and constructed by notable architects. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 created a blank canvas for architectural pioneers to develop innovative designs and structures. Chicago is also well known for its wealth of public art, from such heavyweights as Chagall, Picasso and Miró. Experience Chicago with us today!

Prices starting as low as $25 per person!

Click here to book, stay connected.

233 E Erie St, Chicago, IL, United States              312.265.4645             [email protected]

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Must-See Chicago

Must-See Chicago is a fast-paced, 90-minute introductory tour to Chicago featuring some of its most famous buildings, including the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Willis (Sears) Tower, and more!

Get a brief overview of more than a dozen buildings—as well as Chicago landmarks like Millennium Park , the Loop and the Chicago River—on this whirlwind tour. There are lots of photo opportunities along the way, so be sure to bring your camera!

• Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.
• This tour is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required.
• Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours .

Photos From This Tour

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Highlights of this Tour

Millennium Park

201 e. randolph st..

“Let’s cover it with a park.”

Trump Tower

401 n. wabash ave..

When our docents explain that the Trump International Hotel & Tower reflects its surroundings, they aren’t…

Art Institute of Chicago

111 s. michigan ave..

The Art Institute of Chicago is an architectural artifact that represents Chicago’s rich history of…

sculpture that projects only a short distance from the wall on which it is attached

a large triangular form on top of a series of columns

In architecture, a column refers to a vertical structure that supports a load. It can be freestanding…

load-bearing construction

a method of building done by stacking one brick or stone on top of another; each brick or stone carries…

Carbide and Carbon Building

230 n. michigan ave..

Luxurious, exuberant and dramatic, the Carbide and Carbon Building is a metaphor for the sumptuous décor…

Marina City

300 n. state st..

“In our 'cities within cities' we shall turn our streets up into the air, and stack the daytime and…

Willis Tower

233 s. wacker dr..

For nearly 25 years after its completion, the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, held the…

Tribune Tower

435 n. michigan ave..

In 1922, on the occasion of its 75th anniversary, the Chicago Tribune announced an international competition…

875 N. Michigan Ave

875 n. michigan ave..

If you're looking for an example of Chicago's role in innovative skyscraper design, look no further than…

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Architect/firm.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) was founded in 1936 by Louis Skidmore and Nathaniel Owings. Partner…

Mid-Century Modernism

By the middle of the 20th century, architects trained in the tenets of Modernism began to experiment…

Wrigley Building

400-410 n. michigan ave..

The Wrigley Building is so recognizable, it hardly needs an introduction.

225 N. Columbus Dr.

From the moment it appeared on the Chicago skyline, the Aqua Tower has earned numerous awards for design…

The Chicago L

The Chicago L is now 125 years old. This network of elevated trains and subways is how Chicagoans get…

111 East Wacker (One Illinois Center)

111 e. wacker dr..

One of Mies van der Rohe’s final designs rises above a former rail yard that many years earlier was…

Fort Dearborn

How did Fort Dearborn impact Chicago?

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

It’s difficult to imagine what the skyline of Chicago might look like without architect Ludwig Mies van…

Chicago Riverwalk

1 w. lower wacker drive.

Strolling along Chicago’s beautiful Riverwalk, it’s hard to imagine just how much things have changed…

trunnion bascule bridge

trunnion is a French word for "stump" or pivot point; bascule is a French word for "see-saw"; a trunnion…

200 E. Randolph St.

Chicago’s fourth-tallest building stands out in Chicago’s skyline, distinctively different from its…

a medium-hard metamorphic rock of crystallized limestone

a very hard igneous rock with coarse bits of quartz and other minerals

bundled tube construction

Bundled tube construction is an architectural and structural engineering technique used in the design…

Chicago Theatre

175 n. state st..

American cinema houses like Chicago Theatre evolved alongside new innovations in film.

terra cotta

Latin words for "cooked earth"; a building material such as a tile piece; terra cotta is made from moist…

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Self-Guided Chicago Walking Tours

We are happy to have produced several self-guided Chicago walking tours and our collection is growing.

We designed these self-guided tours to be used on your own time and at your own pace or as companion pieces on our guided tours. Some tours are only available as self-guided tours.

Self-Guided Chicago:

• Walking Tours
• GPS Audio Tours

Please do consider our guided walking tours as well.

SELF-GUIDED NEIGHBORHOOD WALKING TOURS

Chicago is full of various districts and neighborhoods that each have their own personality and attractions.

Here are several self-guided tours that focus on specific areas of the city.

The Navy Pier

One of the most popular stops for visitors of Chicago is the south dock of Navy Pier , a 2,000-foot-long pedestrian boardwalk that stands as one of the best in the United States.

With entertainment venues, restaurants, and theme park rides, Navy Pier is open year-round for your enjoyment.

Take this self-guided walking tour to experience the best of the boardwalk!

Wicker Park

Experience Wicker Park like a local with this self-guided walking tour!

Learn the history and experience the cultural highlights through a 1.8-mile walk around Chicago’s trendiest neighborhood.

With over 150 restaurants and a bustling shopping scene, Wicker Park is a welcoming place to shop and indulge with a rich history to pull it all together!

There are many things to see in Wicker Park.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park  was revealed in 2004 after Mayor Richard M. Daley’s plan to convert the then unsightly industrial wasteland into a 25-acre park filled with architecture, sculpture, and flora.

Large public events, many of which are free to the general public, are held each year in Wrigley Square and Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Keep your cash and enjoy the beautiful Millennium Park, an absolute must-see when visiting Downtown Chicago.

Popular for its variety of visual, performance, and agricultural artwork, Millennium Park is a frequent spot for locals and visitors.

Downtown Theater District

This tour explores the Downtown Theater District and the gorgeous architecture of the old movie palaces and concert venues.

There are many other gorgeous theater buildings and incredible theater companies in other areas of Chicago.

Wrigleyville

The Chicago neighborhood known as Wrigleyville is not only the home of the Chicago Cubs but also a fun and vibrant area filled with many bars, restaurants, sports stores, and more!

Located about 5 miles north of The Loop, Wrigleyville is part of the central Lakeview neighborhood and is named for historic Wrigley Field which, when built in 1914, drew thousands of people to the area.

This self-guided tour takes you 1.3 miles north along North Clark Street and includes 10 stops, but be sure to enjoy all that this neighborhood has to offer!

SELF-GUIDED FOOD TOURS

If you're looking for more than history and picturesque sights, consider taking a food tour.

One of the best ways to learn about an area's culture is by sampling the traditional dishes!

Chinatown Food and History Tour

The Chinatown Food and History Tour is a delicious and interesting walk.

Set amongst the backdrop of cultural landmarks and popular sights such as the Nine Dragon Wall, Chinatown Gate, and Ping Tom Memorial Park, Chinatown offers a glimpse into the customs, traditions, and rich culture of one of the oldest civilizations in the world.

Pilsen Mexican Food Tour

The Pilsen Mexican Food Tour celebrates the Mexican culture that runs strong and deep in Chicago.

One of the best places to experience Mexican culture and cuisine is with a walk to sample Mexican specialties including tamales, tacos, carnitas, churros, pastries, and so much more.

Anderson Food Tour

On the  Andersonville Food Tour , you’ll not only get a taste of authentic Swedish eats but also see how diverse it has become with the addition of Middle Eastern, Italian, and Belgian flavors to the neighborhood.

Andersonville has an evident sweet tooth, with cafes dedicated to service pies, ice creams, and every kind of candy imaginable!

Little Italy Food Tour

Little Italy, sometimes called University Village, is a neighborhood on the Near West side of Chicago, just between the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) campus and the Illinois Medical District.

The Little Italy Food Tour focuses on the district's culture as well as the delicious food.

Its Italian-American heritage is primarily evident in the Italian-American restaurants of Taylor Street.

The neighborhood is home to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame as well as the historic Roman Catholic churches (Our Lady of Pompeii, Notre Dame de Chicago, and Holy Family).

Greektown Food Tour

The Greektown Food Tour shows off a diverse and urban neighborhood; professionals, families, Greeks, and non-Greeks all co-exist.

Yet despite the diversity of the inhabitants, living in Greektown lends itself to participating in Greek culture.

The area celebrates its Greek identity constantly; restaurants display bright Greek flags, signs are in Greek as well as in English, and many buildings, reminiscent of Greece itself, are painted pure white.

On this tour, you’ll get a taste of the Greek culture and we’ll help navigate you through the Greektown strip of South Halsted Street.

OTHER SELF-GUIDED TOURS

Below we have listed not-quite-walking tours.

Chicago Bike Tour

Hop on a bike and explore more of what Chicago has to offer in a short time frame by getting some exercise on a Chicago Bike Tour .

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During the warm weather months, visitors can enjoy Chicago’s abundant sunshine and incredible scenery while sightseeing by foot. From specialty tours to delicious food tours, there’s a Chicago walking tour to suit all kinds of groups. Browse their incredible range of tour offerings — see magnificent churches, taste local street eats, travel back to the Prohibition era — but also be sure to inquire about custom tour options.

Art, architecture, and history tours

Chicago Architecture Center The Chicago Architecture Center offers more than 70 walking tours to choose from, all given by certified volunteer docents who have undergone hundreds of hours of training. From downtown tours to walks through Chicago’s fascinating neighborhoods, choose from an array of locations and architecture styles to explore.

Chicago Detours History, culture, and architecture come together for these guided tours , which take place both indoors and outdoors. Visitors will glean insider information and little known historical facts about Chicago’s public art, urban design and cultural history.

Inside Chicago Walking Tours What are the stories that stick with you after you’ve traveled to a city? With Inside Chicago Walking Tours , you will walk away with quite a few. Get an in-depth retelling of Chicago’s history and hear the memorable and real-life tales of immigrants, explorers, and early Chicagoans, all while walking through unique neighborhoods and culturally-rich districts.

Free Tours by Foot These pay-what-you-like tours are perfect for budget-friendly trips. The tours cover Millennium Park, the Loop and much more. While their private tours are not free, they aim to be affordable with different rates based on group size and tour length.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Architecture buffs won’t want to miss a tour of this complex, which served as the private residence and workspace of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. A number of tour options are available, including a guided tour of the interior space plus the surrounding neighborhood and famed Unity Temple.

Noble Private Art Tours For a customized experience, book a tour with Cynthia Noble, who offers private tours of galleries and museums. She can tailor each experience to the interests of the group, allowing for a truly one-of-a-kind art and architecture tour. Tour language options include English, Spanish, Italian, and French.

Wild Onion Walks Chicago Visitors will get a history lesson as they walk along Chicago’s streets, seeing everything from bridges and cemeteries to parks and rivers. After learning more about Chicago’s gems — The Magnificent Mile, Chicago River, Millennium Park, and more — visitors will have a whole new appreciation for the city.

Food and beverage tours

Chef Driven Food Tours These are Chicago’s only food tours guided by professional chefs, and as a result, visitors will be able to experience some of the city’s best off-the-beaten path eateries in some of the hottest neighborhoods, all while leisurely walking and learning about the cuisine, culture, and insider stories behind the stops.

Chicago Beer Experience Visitors can experience Chicago’s flourishing craft beer scene while walking the city and its microbreweries on one of these seasonal beer tours .

Chicago Food Planet Food Tours These three-hour food tasting and cultural walking tours take visitors on a journey through little known neighborhoods and local hidden gems. For a truly local experience, these food tours take guests through international bakeries, specialty food stores, mom-and-pop shops and more.

History On Tap Discover the secrets and folklore surrounding Chicago’s drinking history, from secret doors left over from Prohibition days to tiny dive bars formerly frequented by big-name movie stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Visitors will be able to make the rounds at the city’s most beloved taverns, all while learning local history and stories.

Spice of Life Tours Visitors can experience the unique cultures and foods in Chicago’s many global neighborhoods with these neighborhood walking tours . Choose from three tours: Chicago’s Little India Food Tour, Chicago’s Little Arabia Food Tour, and Chicago’s Chinatown Food Tour.

Tastebud Tours For foodies, this walking tour is a must. Visitors can walk through the heart of the city and into its most beloved eateries. From deep-dish pizza to Chicago-style hot dogs to Italian beef, your taste buds will sing on this walking tour.

Specialty tours

Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure – Chicago These exciting tours turn the entire city into a playground with a fun scavenger hunt. Guided with any smart phone, this tour-turned-game will take guests through the city’s hidden gems, historic buildings, well-known landmarks, and outdoor public art as they compete in teams to solve clues along the way.

Descubre Chicago As the only sightseeing company in Chicago offering guided tours exclusively in Spanish, this gives Spanish-speaking visitors the opportunity to see and experience the city’s best attractions and architectural marvels, while comfortably learning in their native language.

The Second City’s Neighborhood Tour Experience the humor of The Second City, Chicago’s famed sketch comedy company , while learning about the architecture, history, and development of the charming Old Town neighborhood. This seasonal tour (May-October) also takes visitors to legendary alumni haunts, while sharing hilarious stories about the former performers — from big names of today like Tina Fey and Bill Murray to comedic legends like John Belushi.

Chicago Greeter This free, year round service allows small groups (up to six guests) to enjoy a customized tour led by local volunteers who want to share their love of Chicago. Book a tour, and select a neighborhood or area of your choice. This popular service is available in 10 languages, with the options for 25 neighborhoods and 40 interest areas.

MetroWalkz Visitors can put their smartphones to good use by using Metrowalkz’ mobile self-guided tours . Offering a number of tours, this is an ideal option for visitors looking to explore the city at their own pace, on their own schedule.

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15 Things To Do In Chicago This Weekend: Pride Parade, Logan Square Arts Fest And Pullman Garden Walk

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CHICAGO — You can spend the last weekend of June at the annual Logan Square Arts Fest, exploring Pullman in a historic garden walk, enjoying art and libations at the Millennium Art Festival or commemorating the Chicago Rat Hole with a music fest.

The city is also keeping Pride celebrations going with the Chicago Pride Parade, Back Lot Bash and a celebration at Navy Pier.

Here’s a roundup of 15 things to do in Chicago this weekend:

All Weekend

Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Hisaishi Conducts Hisaishi

7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday

Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave.

Celebrated Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi, who has composed music for 10 Hayaho Miyazaki films, including the Oscar-winning “Spirited Away” (2001), will conduct the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in his latest symphony and most captivating compositions.

Tickets start at $199 online. Buy them here .

Back Lot Bash Chicago Pride

4 p.m. Friday-Sunday

Cheetah Gym parking lot, 5238 N. Clark St.

Celebrate the final weekend of Pride Month at Back Lot Bash , Chicago’s longest-running women’s outdoor Pride party. There will be a Flannel Friday party and performances by G Flip, Leisha Hailey and Kate Moenning, Siena Liggings, DJ Ca$hEra and more.

Tickets are $26.52. Learn more  here .

SAUCED Summer Night Market

5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday

WNDR Museum, second floor, 1130 W. Monroe St.

SAUCED is bringing together more than 50 local vendors, food and drinks for the return of its Summer Night Market. The two-day event also features tunes by DJ Johnny Walker.

The market is free with RSVP. Learn more and sign up online .

Logan Square Arts Festival

5-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday

At the intersection of Logan Boulevard, Kedzie Avenue and Milwaukee Avenue

This three-day neighborhood celebration features over 100 bands, local makers, artisanal vendors and more to benefit local nonprofits. The three-day fest is open to all ages.

Admission is free with a suggested donation of $10 upon entry. Learn more  here .

Millennium Art Festival

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday

Michigan Avenue and East Lake Street

This fest in the heart of Downtown features work by more than 100 artists, libations, food trucks, face painting, live music and more.

Admission is free. Learn more  here .

‘Spank Bank Time Machine’

8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday

Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St.

Created and performed by award-winning performance artist John Michael, this show is described as “‘Angels in America’ meets ‘Snakes on a Plane,’ but with drugs.” In it, trauma clown Michael creates space to mourn and celebrate, raises awareness about Narcan, time travels and offers “a chance to go back for a do-over.”

Tickets are $25. Buy tickets for Friday here , Saturday here and Sunday here .

Historic Pullman Garden Walk

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday

Historic Pullman Foundation, 11141 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

At this event by the Historic Pullman Garden Club and Historic Pullman Foundation, neighbors can enjoy walking tours through the residential neighborhood within the Pullman National Historical Park, winding through row houses and public and private gardens. Stroll through a self-guided tour at any time, or attend a guided tour 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.

Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 on the day of the event. Learn more and get tickets by emailing [email protected] or visiting the  Historic Pullman Garden Club’s website .

Pride At The Pier 2024

11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday

Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.

This annual Navy Pier Pride celebration features live music, educational programs, on-site resources, performances from local LGBTQ+ artists and more. Notable performers include the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, the Lakeside Pride Marching Band, Ariana DJ and more.

Admission is free. Learn more here .

Pedal Powered Picnic

Noon-7 p.m. Saturday

3636 S. Iron St.

Cabinet of Curiosity is hosting an outdoor benefit to support free summer programs. There will be picnic foods, live grilling, beer, soda and interactive sculptures from the Pedal Powered Playground — including multiple bikes that power whimsical devices, an engineering workshop, puppet show, live musical performance and more.

Tickets are $50 online .

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Rathole Music Fest

1 p.m.-1 a.m. Saturday

Bourbon on Division, 2050 W. Division St.

While the Chicago Rat Hole may have been removed from its Roscoe Village sidewalk , Chicagoans are still celebrating the viral phenomenon with a music fest in Wicker Park. Featuring “the rattiest Chicago local music,” performers include Osis, Baron Von Future, Lever, The King Of Mars, Malort and Savior, Mycota and more. There will also be an art installation, vendor fair and poetry.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Buy them and learn more here .

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Rhythm & Beats Block Party

2-8 p.m. Saturday

The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave.

Dance to R&B, AfroBeats and Amapiano music at this second annual block party. There will be live DJs spinning tunes, food and more. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in outfits inspired by their favorite artist.

Tickets start at $25. Buy them and learn more here .

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Pancakes & Booze Art Show

8 p.m. Saturday

Reggies Rock Club, 2109 S. State St.

The Pancakes & Booze Art Show is a welcoming pop-up show for up-and-coming artists to sell their work while “revelers indulge in endless pancakes” and beer. The event originated from Los Angeles in 2009 and has been hosted more than 500 times in over 35 European and North American cities.

General admission tickets are $15 online .

Maxwell Street Market

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday

749 W. Maxwell St.

Chicagoans can shop handmade crafts, resale housewares, clothes and more at the Maxwell Street Market this summer, now back at its original home on Maxwell Street . The market is held on the last Sunday of nearly each month through Oct. 27. There is also live music and entertainment and a lineup of local food vendors, like Jim’s Original Hot Dogs, Lalo’s Mexican Restaurant and Bar Louie.

Learn more here .

Chicago Pride Parade

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday

Montrose Avenue and Broadway Street, south to Halsted Street

The Chicago Pride Parade is back for its 53rd edition with 125 floats, performance groups, marching bands and more. The event draws tens of thousands of people to Lakeview and Lincoln Park.

Learn more  here .

Chicago Plant Party

Noon-5 p.m. Sunday

Ramova Theatre, 3528 S. Halsted St.

Shop from more than 25 plant vendors, shops, collectors, artists, propagators and makers at this pop-up market in Bridgeport.

Tickets are $5. Buy them and learn more online .

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Mayor Brandon Johnson marks Juneteenth by joining youth-led West Side walking tour

By Marissa Perlman

Updated on: June 20, 2024 / 11:30 AM CDT / CBS Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Youth on the West Side are celebrating Juneteenth – the holiday also known as Freedom Day or Black Fourth of July, recognizing the full emancipation of slaves in the United States – by kicking off a summer series of walking tours with My Block, My Hood, My City.

Mayor Brandon Johnson joined Wednesday's walking tour in North Lawndale, led by youth guides from the West Side.

"Today is a reminder of why it's important for us to fully express our liberation, because there are forces who – just like in the 1800s – did not want to realize our full liberation. Those forces did not die out with the Civil War," Johnson said.

Organizers said the tours bring the young guides so much joy to show where they eat and they play.

The first time they did these tours, there were only six tours that summer. The next summer there were 31 tours. Now they're doing multiple public tours every Saturday from mid-June through August, and also offer private tours. The goal is to host 100 tours this summer.

It a summer job for the youth guides. They're paid $15 an hour, and get paid to show off their own community.

Organizers said, with these tours, visitors will see the West Side from the eyes of the young people who live there.

"You always hear the negative about the West Side of Chicago; they're selling drugs, they're shooting, they're in gangs, they're doing this. You get to see the artful intersections, you get to see the community roots, you get to see the hidden gem restaurants," said Jahmal Cole, founder and CEO of My Block, My Hood, My City. "You get to see the joy in the eyes of the youth, and this is Chicago, so youth are just showing off their neighborhood."

The free North Lawndale youth-led walking tours are held every Saturday at 9 a.m. through August. Tickets are available online.

• North Lawndale
• Brandon Johnson

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A new Chicago brewery highlights the growing economic power of Latinos, celebrates community, culture and craft beer

C HICAGO — Enrique Rivera lived in Pilsen long before Time Out magazine named 18th Street one of the “Coolest Streets in the World” earlier this year. He was there decades before the upscale restaurants and walking tours around the neighborhood and before the luxury houses and condominiums brought thousands of new faces to the area, displacing many of its working-class immigrant population.

The Pilsen neighborhood that Rivera grew up in was plagued by street violence but deeply rich in muralism and immigrant-owned shops that shaped its strong Mexican identity.

Despite the recent changes, nothing erodes the fabric of the community that has been woven over generations, including his, Rivera said. He and his family still live in the same house that his parents bought when they moved to Pilsen from Mexico in 1961.

He loved Pilsen then and he loves Pilsen now, he said. So when the opportunity came to open a business in the area, he took it.

Recently, Rivera and a group of friends-turned-business partners celebrated the grand opening of Monochrome Brewing. The new brewery, at 2101 S. Carpenter St., breathes fresh life into the space once occupied by Lo Rez Brewery & Taproom, which shuttered its doors last year after seven years of operation.

Drawing inspiration from Pilsen’s vibrant community and rich culture, Monochrome Brewing reflects the evolving landscape of Pilsen, where Latino-owned and -inspired businesses are reclaiming previously “trendy” spaces in the face of ongoing gentrification. The emerging trend is more than just a business endeavor: It’s a concerted effort by community stakeholders to preserve the neighborhood’s cultural identity while encouraging community members to reinvest in their own backyard.

The brewery is the latest business to open in Pilsen that is partially or fully owned by a Latino with roots in Chicago’s South Side. A report from UIC’s Great Cities Institute released last May suggests the movement could be driven by a growing number of Latinos living in the area who are college-educated and making more money.

Last fall, Kevin Canchola and his partner took over the location of Belli’s, near Pilsen’s Plaza Tenochtitlan, a previously vegan juice bar that was transformed, both in name and menu, to reflect the neighborhood while maintaining the focus on health-conscious meals. Next month, a Mexican seafood restaurant takes the reins from Dusek’s in Thalia Hall. One of the new owners, Marco Ascensio, said he wants to enrich the gastronomic tapestry of the neighborhood but keep the flavors of its immigrant roots.

For Rivera, opening his own brewery has been a dream come true.

“I just love Pilsen, and the area has changed so much but as long as this generation and next generation stay in the neighborhood, invest in the community, we can make it into the place we’ve always called home,” said Rivera, who attended St. Ignatius College Prep and has a graduate degree from University of Illinois at Chicago.

Monochrome “is more than a brewery. It’s a space by the community and for the community,” he said.

When the former owner of Lo Rez told Rivera he was planning to close the brewery that had been home to Venados, the running club that Rivera’s father helped to establish in the 1980s, the dream became a possibility.

Rivera, a lover of craft beer, was already friends with Dave Coyle, who is from McKinley Park and owns a brewery in Michigan. The two knew brewer Luis Flores, the mastermind behind the unique craft beer offered at Monochrome. Enriqueta Hibbard, an avid runner, and Rivera’s aunt, joined the group to make the dream a reality.

The four business partners took over the space that brought in hundreds in their opening week. Many of them are loyal supporters and friends of the Rivera family, who fostered the relationships through the running community over the last three decades.

“Enrique loves beer, Enrique loves Pilsen. It can’t get more community than that,” said Michael Rojas, a member of the Venados running club since 2020.

Following his father’s footsteps, Rivera developed a love for running and for Venados when they would meet in the front yard of their home.

Eliberto Rivera, now 74, recalled helping to form the club when a group of his friends decided to start running together to support each other in a space where there were few Latinos. The group was made up of friends and family.

Today, it religiously gathers more than 150 runners every Wednesday evening to run 3 to 5 miles despite rain or snow. Most stay to have a beer after.

Venados and the community it has brought together is what makes the new venture special, Hibbard said.

“It’s a business that started out of the community already around it,” she said. “When we learned that (Lo Rez) was closing it was sad because the space had become a space where friends and family would gather, sharing stories and memories.”

Hibbard and Rivera had been exploring ways to invest in the neighborhood, but they did not want to leave the place they call home, she said. Opening the brewery “was all very organic.”

Rivera, Coyle and Flores were brought together through their love of beer after meeting at Coyle’s brewery, Arclight Brewing Co. in Michigan. When Rivera told Coyle and Flores of the opportunity, they jumped on board with Flores’ brand Monochrome as their flagship.

Flores, a self-taught brewer raised in Southeast Chicago, said he is inspired by the project because he’s always wanted to have his own brewery. The menu will carry Mexican-inspired beers along with his traditional pour and collaborations with other brewers.

“It’s pretty rare to run into a Mexican brewer or even a Latin American brewer,” Flores said, recalling how his mother would scold him for learning to brew at home with his brother.

Monochrome’s menu will include Flores’ arsenal of different styles and he plans to add “fun styles” of hard seltzers, beer and noalcoholic drinks with Mexican flavors.

“I’m so proud of them because I’ve seen how much work and passion they have put into the project,” said Juana Rivera, 78, Rivera’s mother. “I hope that what they’re doing can inspire other young Latinos to show them that it is possible to stay.”

Latinos succeed

The new Pilsen that Rivera and his partners are betting on boasts new and renovated homes that sell for over $500,000, some even reaching $1 million. The median income has jumped nearly 40% over the past decade, from around $43,000 to $60,000 according to the report from UIC’s Great Cities Institute.

Despite the higher rents and rising property taxes , the area continues to be predominantly Latino, making up 71% of the population in 2020, according to U.S. census data.

But the census data showed that in 1990, Latinos accounted for 88% of the population. The data suggests that gentrification solidified throughout the Lower West Side during the last two decades, continuously losing low-income Mexican immigrant working-class families but attracting professional single or coupled Latinos without children.

The findings from the UIC study also show that more Latinos in the area are college-educated and thus have a higher income. Latinos over age 25 with a bachelor’s degree or higher nearly tripled over the last two decades.

“What we landed on was that gentrification that has occurred, has not been an exact displacement yet of Latinos, versus it has been a shift in the types of households of Latinos,” said Alexander Linares, one of the authors of the latest research. “It has less to do with the working class and more to do with the middle class. And that could also be taken in a positive way, right?”

This shift could be depicted as ‘gentefication ,’ a term popularized to describe how neighborhoods change when college-educated, higher-earning Latinos invest and live in the changing area. It’s a twist to the word gentrification by adding ‘ gente ,’ or ‘people’ in Spanish.

While some may criticize the move because the displacement of immigrant lower-income Latinos continues, others celebrate the upward mobility of first- and second-generation Latinos fulfilling their parents’ dreams.

Marcos Ascensio, one of the chefs and headmasters of the project taking over Dusek’s, said they decided to bring a Mexican seafood concept to the neighborhood because “Pilsen needs a good seafood place.”

Ascensio grew up in the Little Village neighborhood where he learned the appreciation that Mexican people have for seafood, but said there are very few restaurants offering the fusion with the technique and culture that his restaurant intends to offer. His team from the Logan Square neighborhood’s Taqueria Chingon — including Obelix and Le Bouchon’s Oliver Poilevey — are partnering with owners 16” on Center to open the new restaurant.

The new restaurant, Mariscos San Pedro, at 1227 W. 18th St., will cater to the neighborhood’s natives and visitors drawn by its strong Mexican heritage. “Mexicans will pay for good seafood,” he said. “So putting this place here was just fitting.”

For Ascensio, the project — a dream come true for a boy from the Southwest Side — is about providing a menu for the children of immigrants working to stay in the neighborhood, for their parents who have inspired his culinary work and inviting newcomers to try their quality food.

Though gentefication can bring investment and revitalization to neglected areas, it often comes at the cost of pushing out the very people who give these neighborhoods their character, said Javier Yanez, a co-founder and board member of the Pilsen Chamber of Commerce. Some small-business owners who have been in the area for decades worry they won’t be able to keep up with the high property taxes and rising rents.

Development and preservation

Through this movement, however, Latinos can remain as community stakeholders, which could mean that they will continue the grassroots efforts or support nonprofits to create affordable housing for immigrant working-class families and oppose spikes in property taxes, Yanez said.

The Pilsen Chamber of Commerce has been organizing meetings with business owners to find ways for community development projects to empower the businesses already there and encourage local residents to invest in the area.

“It comes down to finding the capital needed to do that,” Yanez said. The chamber of commerce, he said, helps to guide entrepreneurs to find that capital.

But he added that it’s crucial to strike a balance between revitalization and preservation to ensure that Pilsen can thrive without losing its identity and diversity.

“We just need to continue to support that type of growth and open the doors and say: ‘Hey, you can do it here, in the same place where you grew up,’” he said. “That speaks volumes — about our economic power, but more so about our love for our community.”

The new brewery, he said, is a “perfect example” of how longtime residents can find ways to stay in the neighborhood and be a part of the stakeholders that can help preserve Pilsen and its people.

Closer to Blue Island Avenue, Quesabirria Jalisco opened in early 2023 at a storefront formerly occupied by Casa Indigo at 1314 W. 18th St. Ventura Orozco, the new owner, hails from the Back of the Yards neighborhood but has “deep roots” in Pilsen from his mother’s side. He spent most of his adult life in Mexico, but when he returned to the United States a few years ago he saw Pilsen’s potential as a hub for culinary tours.

“What better place to do it than Pilsen, right?” he asked. Orozco chose to shift to Pilsen from his initial Little Village location because of its history as a hub for Mexican food and culture.

“The truth is the gentrification that’s going on in Pilsen has made it a hub for everything,” Orozco said. Unlike other new restaurant openings, Orozco kept his style similar to a traditional taquería . He says that classic taquerías are becoming “numbered” on the block. But he’s still optimistic.

“Mexican people come in and say, ‘Thank you for keeping the culture alive on the block.’”

When Kevin Canchola and his girlfriend, Jovana Torres, took over Belli’s, at 1850 S. Blue Island Ave., in October 2023, they wanted to add a touch of “Latincity.”

The two redesigned Belli’s and renamed it Gracias, María, after Canchola’s Mexican grandmother, who died the same month as Belli’s closure.

Canchola is a third-generation Mexican American who grew up near Midway Airport and lived in Pilsen on and off for over a decade, starting in 2008. He had a childhood connection to the neighborhood: His aunt owned a now-defunct panadería called Josefina’s and he would frequently visit his cousins there.

Since they took over, they’ve added nonvegan Latin-inspired recipes that reflect their family: pozole verde, a chicken salad sandwich inspired by his abuela and protein bites.

“What I see right now is Latino businesses are thriving,” Canchola said. He talks about sending his customers to institutions he grew up on like El Milagro and more recent ones like plant and home goods shop Semillas. “It’s Latinos supporting Latinos right now.”

“I just hope a percentage of it will always be Latino,” Canchola said.

Angélica Varela, Pilsen-based owner of Semillas, 1848 S. Blue Island Ave., said the store was established in 2021 on the same block as Gracias María. Desiring more floral options within her community, she said she thought it was time for her generation of Mexican American millennials to start opening businesses.

Varela takes the meaning of her business seriously. She explains that they try to define themselves as a “seed” in the community that will help others sprout and grow. She sees Semilla’s as a “safe haven” for people to be in touch with nature.

“Not only did they see a Latina opening up a plant shop, they saw someone that looked like them opening something in the neighborhood,” Varela said. “That really wasn’t done before.”

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