Near West Side Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of Near West Side with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Near West Side

The Near West Side is a charming neighborhood located just minutes away from Chicago’s downtown, comprising some of the city’s most vibrant and culturally diverse areas. With plenty to offer in terms of food, drink, entertainment, and history, the Near West Side is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the real Chicago. In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at all the must-see attractions, local culture, and much more, so you can make the most of your time in this exciting part of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Near West Side

The Near West Side is truly a melting pot of different cultures and interests, with plenty of attractions to suit all tastes. Here are some of the top places to visit while you’re in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jane Addams Hull House Museum: A historic landmark that celebrates the life and work of Jane Addams, a pioneer in social work and feminism.
  • National Hellenic Museum: Dedicated to showcasing the Greek-American experience.
  • Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum: A space where Mexican art and culture come to life.
  • Chicago History Museum: Boasting a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s rich history.
  • Glessner House: A beautiful and historically important mansion that dates back to 1886.

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

  • Union Park: A beautiful space with picnic areas, sports facilities, and a lagoon.
  • Eisenhower Park: A large, well-equipped park offering plenty of recreational opportunities.
  • Chicago Riverwalk: A scenic pedestrian walkway located along the Chicago River, with stunning views of the city skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Near West Side

For those who love hiking and biking, the Near West Side is a great area to explore on foot. Here are a few of the best routes to take:

  • The 606 Trail: A 2.7-mile trail that runs along an old railway line, offering stunning views of the city skyline.
  • The Prairie Path: A 61-mile trail that runs through some of the most picturesque areas of the Near West Side.
  • Greenway Trail: A 25-mile trail that runs along the Des Plaines River, offering beautiful views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

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

If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, there are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in the Near West Side:

  • Kayaking the Chicago River: Paddle your way through the city’s waterways with kayaking tours that offer fantastic views of the skyline.
  • Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise: This is a must-do for any architecture buffs, taking you on a journey through the city’s most unique and stunning structures.
  • Second City Comedy Club: One of the city’s most famous comedy clubs, featuring hilarious shows that will leave you in stitches.
  • Chicago Athletic Association: A historic building that now houses a hotel and private club, it also has some of the best views of the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Near West Side

If you’re looking to spend a week in the Near West Side, here’s an itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Monday Visit the Chicago History Museum
Tuesday Take a kayaking tour of the Chicago River
Wednesday Explore the National Hellenic Museum
Thursday Go for a hike on the 606 Trail
Friday Take a food tour of the neighborhood
Saturday Visit the Jane Addams Hull House Museum
Sunday Relax in Union Park

Food and Drink Scene of Near West Side

Chicago is famous for its food scene, with the Near West Side being no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to sample:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicago-style pizza: A deep-dish pizza layered with cheese and toppings that is a Chicago classic.
  • Italian beef sandwich: A sandwich made with juicy, thinly sliced beef, served on a toasted French roll with peppers and cheese.
  • Chicago-style hot dog: A hot dog topped with mustard, onions, relish, and celery salt, served on a poppy seed bun.

Local Beverages

  • Chicago-style cocktail: A classic cocktail made with gin, bitters, and orange liqueur, with a twist of lemon.
  • Goose Island beer: An award-winning Chicago brewery that offers a range of craft beers, including its famous IPA.
  • Malort: A bitter liqueur that is a Chicago tradition, often consumed as a shot.

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

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or something more affordable, the Near West Side has plenty of choices. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Ace Hotel Chicago: A stylish hotel that offers modern amenities and a great location.
  • Holiday Inn & Suites: A budget-friendly option that still offers fantastic amenities and service.
  • The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast: A charming and cozy guesthouse that will make you feel right at home.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products, the Near West Side has plenty of options. Here are some ideas:

  • Chicago-style popcorn: A mix of caramel and cheddar popcorn that is a Chicago classic.
  • Local artwork: The Near West Side is home to many talented artists, with plenty of galleries and shops offering unique pieces.
  • Chicago Sports merchandise: Show your love for the Chicago sports teams with merchandise from a local shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Near West Side

The Near West Side is a melting pot of cultures, and it’s essential to respect the diversity and customs of the area. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Be respectful of religious and cultural customs: There are many houses of worship in the area, so be mindful of customs and dress appropriately.
  • Be mindful of noise levels: The Near West Side is a residential area, so keep noise levels down, especially at night.
  • Be friendly and polite: The locals are friendly and welcoming, so be sure to reciprocate that warmth.

Best Time to Visit Near West Side

The best time to visit the Near West Side is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Near West Side

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while in the Near West Side:

Do:

  • Explore the neighborhood on foot: The Near West Side is a very walkable area, so be sure to take advantage of that and explore on foot.
  • Try the local cuisine: The food scene in the Near West Side is fantastic, so be sure to try as much as you can.
  • Visit the local museums and galleries: The Near West Side is home to some of the city’s best museums and galleries, so be sure to visit them.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the neighborhood clean by throwing away trash properly.
  • Park in designated areas only: Parking can be limited in some areas of the Near West Side, so be sure to park in designated areas only.
  • Block traffic: Be courteous to other drivers and don’t block traffic while driving.

Safety and Health

While the Near West Side is generally a safe area, it’s always important to take safety and health precautions when traveling.

Safety in Near West Side

  • Stick to well-lit areas: Especially at night, be sure to stick to areas that are well-lit.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings, and report anything suspicious to authorities.
  • Keep valuables out of sight: Keep your valuables out of sight to deter theft.

Health in Near West Side

  • Stay hydrated: Especially during the summer months, be sure to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration.
  • Pack sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, especially if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors.
  • Watch what you eat: Be mindful of what you eat and be sure to choose food options that are safe and fresh.

Getting to Near West Side: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Near West Side is easily accessible from Chicago’s downtown and surrounding areas. Here are a few transportation options:

  • Chicago Transit Authority (CTA): The CTA offers bus and train services that run through the Near West Side and surrounding areas.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services: There are plenty of taxis and ride-sharing services available that will take you to and from the Near West Side.
  • Car rental: If you prefer to drive, there are plenty of car rental options available in Chicago.

Airports Near Near West Side

  • O’Hare International Airport: Located approximately 20 miles away from the Near West Side, O’Hare is Chicago’s largest airport and offers plenty of domestic and international flights.
  • Midway International Airport: Located approximately 10 miles away from the Near West Side, Midway offers domestic flights from various airlines.

Bus Stations Near Near West Side

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located just a few miles north of the Near West Side in the West Loop, the Greyhound Bus Station offers a variety of domestic and international bus routes.

Other Options

  • Train Station: Chicago’s Union Station is located just a few miles east of the Near West Side, offering train services to various destinations across the country.

How to Get Around in Near West Side

As mentioned before, the Near West Side is a very walkable area. However, if walking isn’t your thing, here are other transportation options:

  • CTA buses and trains: The CTA offers convenient bus and train services that will take you around the Near West Side and surrounding areas.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services: There are plenty of taxis and ride-sharing services available, making it easy to get around the area.
  • Bike rentals: There are several bike rental stations located throughout the Near West Side, making it easy to explore the area on two wheels.

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

If you’re looking to explore beyond the Near West Side, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to enjoy:

  • Chicago’s downtown: Just a few miles east of the Near West Side is Chicago’s bustling downtown area, with plenty of tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants to explore.
  • The Magnificent Mile: Known for its upscale shopping and dining, the Magnificent Mile is a must-see for any visitor to Chicago.
  • Lake Michigan: Located just a few miles east of the Near West Side, Lake Michigan offers excellent opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water sports.

Conclusion

The Near West Side is a vibrant and exciting part of Chicago, with plenty to see and do for all ages and interests. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the area, try the local cuisine, and soak up the culture and history of this fascinating neighborhood.

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