Far West Side Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, sights to see, and places to stay in Far West Side, Chicago. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Far West Side

Nestled in Chicago’s Chicagoland, Far West Side is a culturally diverse neighborhood known for its museums, historical landmarks, and outdoor attractions. This area of Chicago is located in the Illinois region of the Midwest and offers stunning scenic views.

Planning a trip to the Far West Side can be overwhelming with so many exciting tourist spots. To help you out, we have created a comprehensive list of must-see attractions, best things to do, and where to stay. Whether you are a history lover, nature enthusiast, or foodie, Far West Side has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Far West Side

Take a look at our list of must-visit destinations in Far West Side:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places

  • Garfield Park Conservatory
  • National Museum of Mexican Art
  • The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
  • Chicago’s Polish Museum
  • Oak Park Arts District

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

  • Humboldt Park
  • Bloomingdale Trail (also known as the 606)
  • Douglas Park
  • The 606 Chicago Park Trail System
  • Columbus Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Far West Side

Far West Side offers great opportunities for hikers and bikers. The following routes are popular among tourists and locals:

  • Bloomingdale Trail: A 2.7-mile elevated trail that offers scenic views of the Milwaukee Avenue corridor.
  • Des Plaines River Trail: A 56-mile trail that runs along the Des Plaines River from Cook County to Lake County.

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

  • Take a Chicago Architecture River Cruise to explore the city’s iconic buildings and skyscrapers.
  • Visit the United Center for an unforgettable Chicago Bulls or Blackhawks game experience.
  • Enjoy a live concert or show at the Aragon Ballroom.

Week-Long Itinerary for Far West Side

Day 1: Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, followed by a tour of the Oak Park Arts District.

Day 2: Explore the Garfield Park Conservatory and then finish the day hiking on The 606 trail.

Day 3: Take a culinary tour of Far West Side and taste some of the must-try dishes.

Day 4: Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art and have lunch at one of the local Mexican restaurants.

Day 5: Start the day with a visit to Humboldt Park, then take a bike ride on the Des Plaines River Trail.

Day 6: Visit the Polish Museum and learn about the rich Polish heritage of the neighborhood.

Day 7: Wrap up your journey at Douglas Park and then head to the United Center for a game or show.

Food and Drink Scene of Far West Side

Far West Side is home to a whole host of foodie destinations. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the following must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maxwell Street Polish: A sausage sandwich that originated on Maxwell Street, Chicago.
  • Deep-Dish Pizza: A savory pie with cheese, tomato sauce, and toppings on a buttery crust.
  • Italian Beef: A sandwich made with thinly sliced beef, giardiniera (pickled vegetables), and au jus.

Local Beverages

  • Chicago Craft Beer: A variety of locally-brewed beer flavors can be found in Far West Side.
  • Malört: A bitter, wormwood-based liquor with roots in Scandinavian culture.

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

Far West Side has plenty of accommodation options to fit any budget. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Hoxton Chicago: A trendy hotel with amenities such as a rooftop bar and locally-sourced breakfast.

  • Holiday Jones: A budget-friendly hostel with a fun retro design and a social atmosphere.

  • The Write Inn Hotel: A historic hotel located in Oak Park, offering rooms with traditional decor and modern amenities.

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

If you want to bring back a piece of Far West Side with you, here are the best souvenirs and local products to take home:

  • A Maxwell Street Polish sausage kit
  • Chicago skyline artwork or prints
  • Local craft beer or Malört

Local Culture and Customs of Far West Side

Far West Side’s people are known for their welcoming nature and strong cultural identity. The neighborhood has a vibrant Latino community, as well as Polish heritage.

It’s important to respect the cultural heritage while visiting by trying to learn a few phrases in Spanish and Polish and respecting local customs.

Best Time to Visit Far West Side

The best time to visit Far West Side is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. The months from April to June and September to November are the ideal time to explore outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Far West Side

Do:

  • Do visit the National Museum of Mexican Art and learn about the Mexican heritage of the neighborhood.

  • Do try the “Chicago Trinity” of food, deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, and a Maxwell Street Polish.

  • Do explore the scenic views of the Bloomingdale Trail or The 606 Trail.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect the local customs or people.

  • Don’t miss out on the cultural and historical landmarks in Far West Side.

Safety and Health

Safety in Far West Side

Far West Side is a relatively safe area to visit, but as with any city, common sense should prevail. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables or luggage visible in your car.

Health in Far West Side

As with any travel, make sure to be in good health and have proper vaccinations before you travel. If an emergency arises, the University of Illinois Hospital is nearby.

Getting to Far West Side: Transportation Options and Logistics

Far West Side is easily accessible by public transportation or car. Here are some useful tips:

Airports Near Far West Side

  • Chicago Midway International Airport is 10 miles from Far West Side.
  • O’Hare International Airport is 15 miles from Far West Side.

Bus Stations Near Far West Side

  • Chicago Greyhound Station
  • Megabus Station

Other Options

  • You can also take the Blue or Green line on the Chicago “L” from downtown.

How to Get Around in Far West Side

Getting around Far West Side is convenient using public transportation such as the CTA buses, trains, or taking a ride with Uber or Lyft.

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

  • Oak Park: A village located just south of Far West Side, known for its Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and outdoor sculptures.
  • Pilsen: A culturally rich neighborhood, known for its colorful street murals and legendary Mexican food.

Conclusion

Far West Side is a neighborhood rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a food lover, culture vulture, or an outdoor enthusiast, Far West Side has something to offer for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide as your resource to plan an unforgettable trip to Far West Side.

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