Summary of Experiences in Chicago’s Chinatown
Chicago’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the United States. Chinese immigrants arrived in the Midwestern city after fleeing increasing racial tensions in California around 1870. Present-day Chinatown was established in 1915 when the community relocated south from the Loop. Since then, the Chinese community has developed a vibrant neighborhood filled with colorful shops, restaurants, medicine shops, markets, and murals. Here are some must-see attractions and experiences while you explore Chinatown.
Learn About Chinese-American History
Address: 238 W 23rd St, Chicago, IL 60616-1904, USA
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Phone: +1 312-949-1000
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Discover the rich history of Chinese-Americans in the Midwest at the Chinese American Museum of Chicago. The museum, located in the former home of the Quong Yick Co. grocery store, features exhibitions such as “Great Wall to Great Lakes: Chinese Immigration to the Midwest.” Here, visitors can learn about the journeys undertaken by Chinese settlers. Admission is pay-what-you-wish, with a suggested fee of $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors.
See a Dragon Boat Race at Ping Tom Memorial Park
Address: 1700 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
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Phone: +1 312-225-3121
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This 17-acre park, once a railyard, was transformed into a green oasis by the Chicago Park District in 1998. Named in honor of a prominent civic leader, Ping Tom Memorial Park includes a fitness center, indoor pool, patio, and pagoda, all offering stunning views of the Chicago River. One of the park’s highlights is the annual dragon boat race in June, where teams compete on the river.
Take Pictures at the Nine Dragon Wall
Address: 170 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
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The Nine Dragon Wall, adorned with nine intricately designed dragons, is a captivating sight. This structure is a smaller replica of a similar wall in Beihai Park, Beijing, and is nestled conveniently near the L tracks. A placard provides historical context about this beautiful wall.
Wander Down Wentworth
Wentworth Avenue serves as the main commercial street in Chinatown, adorned with numerous shops and eateries. Starting from Cermak Street beneath the Chinatown Gate, this bustling area bursts with colorful souvenir shops, delightful restaurants, and the ornate Pui Tak Center. Remember to stop by Chinatown Bazaar to find unique gifts or indulge in delectable Chinese pastries from a nearby bakery.
Find Something Unique at Hoypoloi Gallery
Address: 2235 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616-2011, USA
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Phone: +1 312-225-6477
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Hoypoloi Gallery presents an accessible art experience, offering unconventional art pieces for the everyman. With locations at O’Hare International Airport and a more traditional gallery situated in Chinatown, they showcase everything from paintings to jewelry. Engage with the knowledgeable staff about the art while exploring the collection.
Buy Herbal Teas at Yin Wall City
Address: 2112 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616-1514, USA
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Phone: +1 312-225-2888
If you’re interested in herbs and teas, Yin Wall City is the place to visit. This shop is filled with dried goods, herbs, and teas, making the shopping experience an adventure. Since signs are primarily in Chinese, bringing images of your desired herbs can be beneficial to ensure you find exactly what you need.
Enjoy Handmade Dumplings
Address: 2002 S Wentworth Ave #103, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
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Phone: +1 312-799-1118
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Since 2014, Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings has been delighting visitors with fresh dumplings stuffed with various fillings, including lamb and vegetarian options. Savor the flavors while enjoying custom porcelain plates and finish your meal with a pot of Chinese tea. You can also purchase uncooked dumplings by placing an order online in advance.
Sing Your Heart Out
Address: 234 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616-4879, USA
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Phone: +1 312-326-9168
Visit Sakura Karaoke Bar, located underground, for an entertaining night out. Choose to sing in the lounge or rent a private room with friends. The establishment boasts a vast library of over 100,000 songs, complemented by an extensive cocktail menu. Food options include both American and Asian cuisine, making for a perfect night of fun and food.
