Far Southeast Side Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Far Southeast Side in this comprehensive tour guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, we've got you covered!


Introduction to Far Southeast Side

Chicago’s Far Southeast Side is a vibrant neighborhood with plenty to offer visitors. Situated in the city’s outskirts, this neighborhood is home to a diverse range of attractions, from world-class museums to scenic outdoor spaces.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Far Southeast Side, showcasing the best things to see and do in the area.

List of Places to Visit in Far Southeast Side

If you’re visiting Far Southeast Side, make sure to include these must-see destinations on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Pullman National Monument: A historic district and national monument that showcases the architectural heritage of Pullman, the first industrial planned community in the United States.

  • The National Veterans Art Museum: A museum dedicated to displaying the artwork of military veterans from across the United States.

  • The DuSable Museum of African American History: One of the oldest African American museums in the country, with exhibits that celebrate the contributions of African Americans throughout history.

Natural Attractions of Far Southeast Side: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Calumet Park and Beach: A beautiful lakeside park with a beach and scenic views of Lake Michigan.

  • Big Marsh Park: A 278-acre wetland restoration site that offers hiking, biking, and birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Far Southeast Side

Far Southeast Side is home to several excellent hiking and biking trails, including:

  • The Major Taylor Trail: A 7.6-mile trail that takes riders through wooded areas, open fields, and residential neighborhoods.

  • The Burnham Greenway Trail: A 22-mile trail that offers beautiful views of Lake Calumet and the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Far Southeast Side: Activities and Tours

In addition to the museums and natural attractions mentioned above, Far Southeast Side offers plenty of other exciting things to do:

  • Go on a tour of Pullman: Learn about the history of this unique neighborhood by taking a guided tour of Pullman’s historic architecture and landmarks.

  • Visit the Chicago Fire Department House: Check out the historic firehouse that once housed the first all-African American fire squad in Chicago.

Week-Long Itinerary for Far Southeast Side

To help you make the most of your trip to Far Southeast Side, we’ve put together a week-long itinerary for you:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Pullman National Monument and take a tour of the district
Day 2 Explore the DuSable Museum of African American History
Day 3 Spend the day at Calumet Park and Beach
Day 4 Take a bike ride along the Major Taylor Trail
Day 5 Visit the National Veterans Art Museum
Day 6 Hike through Big Marsh Park
Day 7 Take a walking tour of the surrounding neighborhoods

Food and Drink Scene of Far Southeast Side

No tour guide would be complete without a rundown of the best places to eat and drink in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicago-style hot dogs: A variation on the classic hot dog that is served with mustard, tomato, relish, onions, and a pickle spear.

  • Italian beef sandwiches: Thinly sliced beef in a bread roll, served with peppers and gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Goose Island Beer Company: A local brewery that offers a range of craft beers, including their famous IPA.

  • Metropolitan Brewing: Another popular brewery that specializes in German-style beers.

Where to Stay in Far Southeast Side: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

While Far Southeast Side is primarily residential, there are several hotels and guesthouses in the area to choose from:

  • Hyatt Place Chicago-South/University Medical Center: A modern hotel with an indoor pool and fitness center.

  • Chicago Lake Shore Hotel: A budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby attractions.

What to Buy in Far Southeast Side: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from your trip to Far Southeast Side, consider:

  • Pullman Factory-made Crafts: Handcrafts made by local artisans inspired by what Pullman Palace Car Company factory workers produced in 19th-century tools are sold at the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, or the Hotel Florence museum store

  • Craft Beer: Pick up some local craft beer from one of the breweries in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Far Southeast Side

Like many Chicago neighborhoods, Far Southeast Side is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. Visitors can expect to encounter a friendly and welcoming community that takes pride in its heritage.

Best Time to Visit Far Southeast Side

The best time to visit Far Southeast Side is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is mild and the outdoor attractions are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Far Southeast Side

Do:

  • Take a tour of Pullman: Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the rich history of this unique neighborhood.

  • Visit the local museums: Discover the cultural and historical gems that Far Southeast Side has to offer.

Don’t:

  • Forget your sunscreen: Be sure to pack sunscreen and other protective gear if you’re planning to spend time outdoors.

  • Leave valuables unattended: As with any major city, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Safety and Health

Safety in Far Southeast Side

Chicago is generally a safe city, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety while in Far Southeast Side. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables out of sight.

Health in Far Southeast Side

Illinois requires that visitors get vaccinated with routine vaccines before traveling. Check with your healthcare provider for additional recommendations.

Getting to Far Southeast Side: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chicago is easily accessible by air and road, so getting to Far Southeast Side is straightforward.

Airports Near Far Southeast Side

The nearest airport to Far Southeast Side is Chicago Midway International Airport. Alternatively, Chicago O’Hare International Airport is located about an hour’s drive north of the neighborhood.

Bus Stations Near Far Southeast Side

Greyhound operates a bus service to Chicago from cities across the United States. The nearest bus station to Far Southeast Side is located at 630 W Harrison St, about 10 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive in the city by train, with Amtrak providing services to Chicago from cities across the country.

How to Get Around in Far Southeast Side

The best way to get around Far Southeast Side is by car or bike. The neighborhood is also well-served by public transit, with several bus routes that connect to the city’s rail system.

Where to Go Next from Far Southeast Side: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Illinois after your visit to Far Southeast Side, consider these nearby destinations:

  • Champaign-Urbana: Home to the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana is a vibrant college town with a rich cultural scene.

  • U.S. Route 66: Follow the iconic Route 66 as it winds its way through small towns and scenic landscapes throughout the state.

Conclusion

We hope this tour guide has given you a comprehensive overview of everything Far Southeast Side has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local culture, this vibrant neighborhood has something for everyone.

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