Things to do in Chinatown Chicago

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Dom Bewley
things to do in chinatown chicago

Welcome, readers! The windy city beckons you, so gather round and let me tell you tales of the city's wonders. Long ago, Chinese immigrants came over to this country. Their aim? To help realize the modern America we know and love today. To put it simply, this country would be very different if it wasn't for Chinese immigrants. That's why they settled in many cities, and why Chicago has its own Chinatown. So, now you know the mightily abridged version of history, how about the present? Well, Chinatown is full of wonderful things to do, and thanks to us, you now have this handy guide to, well, guide you. Let's get on with it, shall we? These are the best things to do in Chinatown, Chicago.

Including:

  • Chinatown Square
  • Nine Dragon Wall
  • PopKTV
  • Ping Tom Memorial Park
  • Water taxis
  • and more!
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Chinatown Square

Let's kick things off with a shopping extravaganza. Chinatown Square is a two-story mall that was built on the site of an old railyard back in the '90s. The third-largest Chinese mall in the country, Chinatown Square is packed with local businesses, where you can buy food, beauty products, clothes, and then sit down for a traditional meal at one of the many restaurants within. They even put on performances there during the summer, if you happen to be stopping by in the warmer months. And make sure to snap some pics of the twelve statues of the Chinese zodiac you'll find.

Chinese-American Museum of Chicago

Did our intro pique your interest in Chinese-American history? First of all, good. Secondly, why not check out the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago? You will find a bunch of exhibits that give you insight into Chinese culture. There's also an entire exhibition dedicated to Chinese immigrants, which follows the journey they made across the Pacific, where they settled, and what it's like for an immigrant to live in Chicago. A definite eye-opener, and one of the best things to do in Chicago's Chinatown for inquisitive minds!

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Nine Dragon Wall

For another social-worthy pic, be sure to head to the Nine Dragon Wall. This recreation of China's original wall may not have been commissioned by the Emperors, but it is simply awe-inspiring nonetheless! Featuring mythical Chinese creatures, and the eponymous 9, which is said to promote long life, it's a great stop on your Chinatown tour of Chicago. So go get snapping, and make your friends devilishly jealous.

PopKTV

Fancy a little entertainment on your visit to Chinatown? Go check out PopKTV, Chinatown's premier karaoke spot. There, you can hire a private room for you and your friends, have a few drinks to calm your nerves, and then belt out awful renditions of your favorite songs to your heart's content. If you're in the mood to impress, or disgust, your friends, it's the perfect spot to flex your cords.

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Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute

Another stop on your culture trip is the Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute, which was created to introduce Chinese learning programs to US schools, including cultural and language studies. Nowadays, it's better known for its many tours of Chinatown, where you'll be taken around some of its best spots, and learn about the culture and heritage surrounding it. They also offer cooking and meditation classes, among others. So go check them out, and see if anything sounds interesting.

Ping Tom Memorial Park

Ping Tom was a Chinese-American businessman, who worked as a trustee and director of many programs that benefited Chinatown, where he grew up. Spearheading plans to create this park, when he suddenly died of pancreatic cancer, they decided to name it after him! Now, it's a hotspot for watersports, features an indoor activity center with a pool, gym, and other amenities, and is a great place to relax on a warm summer's day. And, if you want to get there in style, check out the next entry on our list!

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Take a water taxi

How does taking to the waves and getting ferried about sound? If you're into that, then you absolutely must try a water taxi. In summer, these wave riders are the community's most popular transport, helping would-be travelers cross the Chicago River and enter Chinatown. Slow and steady wins the race in this case, as you won't be hopping on any speedboats. Make the most of your journey. Relax, enjoy it. You'll have the chance to see some of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks by the river, and if you fancy visiting Ping Tom Memorial Park, you can get a ride directly to it! Easily one of the most unique things you can do in Chinatown, Chicago.

Old Chinatown

No Chinatown experience would be complete without a visit to Old Chinatown. Its entrance flanked by red, welcoming pillars; step into the world of old and admire the architecture and beauty within. So much history went into the creation of Old Chinatown that every mural, every building, and every street tells a story. You're sure to find teahouses to get refreshed, food stalls to refuel, and independent shops selling any number of worthy nick-nacks.

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Hoypoloi Gallery

In Greek, hoi polloi simply referred to 'the people.' But today, it is considered a derogatory phrase, often associated with the 'unwashed masses' or 'riffraff.' But Hoypoloi Gallery turns that phrase on its head, to its advantage. This gallery specializes in unique art pieces that anyone can purchase. You'll find a weird and wide variety of artworks there, including leftfield takes on Disney classics, sculptures of famous cultural icons with a strange twist, and much more. So, if you're in Chinatown and in the market for some weird art, go check it out!

Grab a delicious bite to eat

And, finally, we end with food. Glorious food. Chinese cuisine is one of the world's favorites, and you'll find plate loads of it in Chicago's Chinatown! The Golden Bull is your one-stop-shop for everything Chinese, with pages upon pages of traditional Chinese cuisine waiting to be tasted! Or, if you want some delicious dim sum, check out Cai with its classy vibe and perfectly put-together plates. Alternatively, if you're in the market for seafood, head over to Emperor's Choice. Those are just a few of the many restaurants you'll find in the area, so no matter what you're feeling like, there's bound to be something to fill your belly!

And that's our list of the best things to do in Chinatown, Chicago!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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things to do in the loop chicago
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Things to do in The Loop, Chicago

You there! Are you visiting Chicago at some point in the future? Are you wondering which districts to check out during your visit? Do you like loops? Well, The Loop might just be the perfect place for you to visit during your vacation. Here are some of the best things to do while you're there! Including: Grant Park Shedd Aquarium Eat Drink Shopping and more! Grant Park Let's begin, then, with one of the city's most significant green zones; the one and only Grant Park! Named after the late, great Ulysses S. Grant, this behemoth of a park measures over 300 acres. Step inside, and you'll find a world of entertainment. Perhaps the park's biggest draw is Millennium Park, where you'll find Cloud Gate. Referred to locally as The Bean, this massive, chrome, reflective sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Chicago, and has featured in many films and TV shows. But alongside The Bean, you'll find Buckingham Fountain, Maggie Daley Park, Art Institute of Chicago, The Court of the Presidents, and much more at Grant Park! The Field Museum Want to discover over 4 billion years of history in one place? Then you should check out the Field Museum! There, you'll meet Maximo, the largest recorded dinosaur ever found on Earth. Weighing in at over 70 tons, they were quite the beast! You can also experience what it's like to be a tiny bug at the Underground Adventure exhibit, observe scientists extract DNA in real-time at the DNA Discovery Center, and also watch fossils being prepared at the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet. All that and much more await you at the Field Museum. So, what are you waiting for? The Art Institute of Chicago Let's get cultural for a second, and talk about some art. In The Loop, you'll find the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the best-known art museums on Earth! Inside, you'll find hundreds of pieces from all across the globe, from older, more traditional masterpieces to modern marvels. With fixed collections as well as a rotation of amazing seasonal experiences, there's sure to be something inspiring at the Art Institute of Chicago! Skyline Lake Tour Want to see the city from a different perspective? Check out a Skyline Lake Tour. Take to the seven seas, or just the one in this case, and enjoy amazing views of Chicago's heavenly skyline as you spot some of the city's biggest and best landmarks. Beginning at Navy Pier, your trip will take you past the likes of the Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, and beautiful Grant Park. And, with a learned robot, or prerecording, narrating the significance of each spot, you'll learn all about modern Chicago. American Writers Museum Words. Powerful, plentiful, and often misused, words are the backbone of our civilization. Want to discover how Americans have used words over the centuries? Then head to the American Writers Museum in The Loop. Novels, speeches, poetry, and more are all housed within. See how historical events changed the approach of American authors, whether through war, financial collapse, or in response to cultural shifts. Learn how speechwriters changed the course of history. And discover how American poets touched the hearts and minds of millions. With a huge variety of words in all their forms on display, you're sure to find something mind-opening at the American Writers Museum. Shedd Aquarium Next, let's take a trip under the very oceans themselves. At Shedd Aquarium, you'll find a whole new world of wonder in the heart of The Loop. See exotic species of marine life from all corners of the world, from sharks to stingrays, and plenty more too! There are a wealth of exhibits to explore within, including a 360-degree tour at the Caribbean Reef, a look at South American fish species that occupy the Amazon at Amazon Rising, and a look at how a local community saved their coral reef from being wiped out at Wild Reef. All that and more ocean fun awaits you. So go get your snorkel and suit up! Eat! After all the activity, you might be feeling peckish. Never fear; we've got your hunger covered. The Loop has plenty of places to eat a wide variety of cuisine. Can't decide which to pick? Head to Revival Food Hall, which houses a large number of food vendors under one roof. Whether you're in the market for pizza, seafood, or Italian, you're sure to find something to turn your head there! Want a little fusion in your life? Head to Saucy Porka, which mixes Asian delights with Latin deliciousness. Wonder what a bao bun would be like if it was filled with some fried meat and beans? Look no further. Or, if you just want a snack to refuel you during the day, stop by Gayle's Best Ever Grilled Cheese. Sure, it's simply a collection of grilled cheese sandwiches. But grilled cheese is good. And these are some of the best you'll ever taste. Drink! Need a little refreshment in The Loop, or looking for a quality night out? You're in luck, because there are some great spots in the area you should check out. Monk's Pub combines a medieval exterior and modernized interior, replete with a load of beers on tap and bites to sample. Want a little blues with your booze? Head to Buddy Guy's Legends, which combines foot-tapping tunes with a delightful selection of drinks. Or, if you're feeling super fancy and the weather is fine, check out a rooftop bar like Raised or Boleo. Whichever you pick, you'll find top cocktails, good vibes, and great views of the beautiful Chicago skyline. Shop! And finally, let's end our list on a little shopping spree. The Loop has a load of great boutiques where you can pick up some slick accessories, threads, and everything in between. Of course, there's Macy's, where you'll find a world of shopping bliss and pretty much whatever you need. But there are also specialized shops like Optimo Hats for all your headwear needs, Madison Hall for your continental clothing supplies, and Graham Crackers Comics if you're looking for some special editions. And that's our list of the best things to in The Loop when visiting Chicago. Enjoy!
Dom Bewley
chicago in march
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Chicago in March

The long winter may be coming to an end, but there's still a chill in the windy city. March in Chicago can be cold, but boy, can it be fun. Don't believe us? How dare you. We will not stand by this insolence. Let us show you why you are wrong. Read on, and discover just why Chicago in March can be a magical time to visit the city! Featuring: St Patrick's Day Museums The aquarium Ice skating Art galleries and more! Chicago in March: What to Expect May is when temperatures will start to climb. Generally, you'll find tops of around 45°F, or 7°C, and dips of around 28°F, or -2°C. So, it's going to be cold. Pack some big warm coats, hats, and boots. This is compounded by rainfall and some snow too. So, maybe make sure that warm jacket is waterproof too! Chicago in March: What to Do St Patrick's Day Let's kick things off with the luck of the Irish. Of course, we're talking about St Patrick's Day! One of the many times when people get together, eat, drink, and be merry. While it falls on the 17th of the month, Chicago dedicates around a fortnight to the St Paddy's celebrations. It starts with the Chicago River turning green, because of course it does. And, between the bars and restaurants flying the green flag, the festivities culminate with the Downtown St Patrick's Day Parade and the South Side Parade, where everyone shares the love and the laughs. St Paddy's is a busy time of year in Chicago, so expect crowds all over the shop. However, if you can get past all that, you're in for a grand old time! Museums As the weather can be unkind this time of year, why not step inside and warm yourself with the fire of history and learning? Chicago has plenty of fantastic museums you should visit. The Field Museum has the world's most famous Tyrannosaurus Rex housed within. Dare you face the beast? It also contains plenty of historical artifacts from Ancient Egypt and China, so go see what all the fuss is about! Or, swap history for science at the Museum of Science and Industry. It's the US' largest science museum, and you'll find a huge amount of fun and intrigue inside. Control a tornado, see your heartbeat on a giant 3D-modeled heart, and explore the history of scientific breakthroughs and discoveries. If, however, you want to learn more about the city itself, head on over to the Chicago History Museum! Learn about Chicago's history on the national and international stage, read about the Great Fire that tore through the city in the 19th century, and all about one of the country's best presidents, Abraham Lincoln. All that and much more awaits you, so go there and enjoy the learning. Shedd Aquarium Another indoor adventure worth experiencing is at the Shedd Aquarium. Through its doors, you'll find another world of underwater wonder. Come face to face with exciting creatures like sharks, stingrays, and fish you've never seen before. At the Waters of the World exhibition, you'll discover the diverse ecosystems that call the ocean home throughout the world. Plunge into the Caribbean Reef, and meet the sea turtles, sharks, and eels that call it home. In Amazon Rising, you'll learn about the species that live in the river, and how seasonal climate shifts affect their lives. And, for the little ones, the Polar Play Zone lets kids live out their polar fantasies by zipping up a penguin suit and living a day in the life of their favorite birds! Ice skating As winter makes way for spring, the city's waters inevitably begin to thaw. However, if temperatures don't pick up too much, it's the perfect time to check out Chicago's excellent ice skating! Makeshift rinks pop up all over the city, so take your pick. There's the Maggie Daley Park skating ribbon, a huge ribbon-shaped course that gives you plenty of space to stretch your skates, pirouette, or frantically try and stay upright as your weak legs struggle to find balance. Alternatively, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a more popular choice, as it's closer to the city's action. It's right by Cloud Gate, locally known as The Bean. If you don't know it by name, you've probably seen it. It's a giant, metallic, bean-shaped sculpture that's been featured in many films and TV shows. Why not capture the perfect snap of The Bean, as you fall down right in front of it? It is worth noting that you should check ahead before you visit any outdoor icerink in Chicago, as warmer temperatures may shut them down early. See some art If skating sounds too cold, or bold, for you, retreat to the warmth and safety inside, and get some culture in you. Chicago is a city full of art, so go see it. At the Art Institute of Chicago, you'll find one of the world's most renowned museums. Featuring inspiring works from the past and present, you're sure to find something amazing inside. While they have a number of mainstay exhibitions, they also have a seasonal rotation of awe-inspiring exhibits, so be sure to check what's on before venturing forth. Alternatively, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art. Out with the old and in with the new is the mantra here. See works from the 20th century all the way to today, with over 2,500 pieces on display. Much like many modern art institutions, you'll find a mix of media here, from film to canvas and sculpture too. And, this museum also doubles as a performing arts venue, with a massive amphitheater featuring acts from across the globe! When you've had enough art for one day, or you want to give your legs a rest, go grab a bite to eat at the museum's onsite restaurant, Marisol. Check out the Planetarium And finally, for the scientifically-minded and cosmos-curious, we end today's list with the perfect answer to Chicago's cold March. The Adler Planetarium helps visitors travel time and space itself, as they learn about the big black we see in the night sky. Through interactive exhibits, you'll explore the greatest hits of our galaxy, all 91 billion light-years of it, and get hands-on with replica space technology used today. Chicago's Night Sky is a massive exhibit that showcases how we as humans have related to the night sky throughout history. The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time gives you insight into the beginning of everything, and how galaxies have changed throughout the history of the universe. And for the little ones, there's Planet Explorers, which gives them the chance to understand space in fun and unique ways. And that's what you need to know about Chicago in March!
Dom Bewley
Skyline Chicago
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A week in Chicago for first timers

It’s an expansive urban setting, with many diverse neighborhoods that all have unique offerings in the way of sightseeing and attractions. While it’s simply not possible to visit each and every neighborhood, we’ve put together a list of the major areas of Chicago that you shouldn’t miss on your trip.
Katie Sagal

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