West Town is five kilometres north-west of Downtown Chicago and The Loop. The area is known for its verdant parks with Chicago skyline views, an edgy art scene and great vintage shopping. It’s an upcoming neighbourhood, culturally diverse with a lively cafe culture and impressive dining. Unusually, it is one of the best places in the United States to purchase a handmade hat or pair of cowboy boots.
Most visitors to Chicago tend to stay downtown, but they are missing out on an adventure. West Town is an under-the-radar neighbourhood with a big heart. With impressive landmarks and tranquil parks, it has much to offer. The streets of West Town offer a melting pot of eateries, mainly due to its rich immigrant heritage. Enjoy a handmade Chicago pizza, Eastern European cuisine, a delicious slice of pie or a vegan-friendly lunch. Those with an eye for a bargain will enjoy browsing the vintage clothing stores, antique shops and vinyl record emporiums. One unmissable attraction of West Town is Humboldt Park. The 88-hectare estate is home to a historic field house, inland beach, lagoons and a boat house. With a nod to the neighbourhood’s cultural diversity, Humboldt Park is home to The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture and several statues and monuments. Keen photographers should visit nearby Eckhart Park as it has some of the best views of the Chicago skyline.
West Town is interesting to walk or cycle around. It is served by multiple bus and metro services from Downtown Chicago. Disembark at West Chicago Avenue if travelling by bus, or travel by Metro to Division or Ashland. Trains operate to Western Avenue, or Kedzie Station is a 20-minute walk from Humboldt Park. Taxi and Uber services are plentiful and easy to utilise.
West Town is a collection of culturally distinct neighbourhoods which include Ukrainian Village, Noble Square, River West, Humboldt Park and Goose Island. Many areas were known as Eastern European settlements when immigrants relocated to Chicago after World War II.Today, it’s an upcoming area clinging to its roots by way of its shops, cuisine and cafes.