Things To Do In Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood located on the northwest side of Chicago. It is named after the park of the same name, which was established in the late 1800s by a German immigrant, Charles Wicker. The area has been known as a hub of culture and nightlife since the early 1900s, with a diverse mix of cultures that has included affluent white residents, Italian and Eastern European immigrants, and more recently, Latino immigrants. Throughout the years, Wicker Park has remained a lively destination, filled with vintage boutiques, chic cafes and restaurants, bars, and music venues. It has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with plenty of things to do in the area.

History of Wicker Park

The area that would come to be known as Wicker Park was first settled in the late 1800s, when German immigrant Charles Wicker purchased land in the area. He built a park there in 1877, which was later named Wicker Park. In the early 1900s, the neighborhood was home to many affluent white families who lived in lavish Victorian homes. As time went on, Eastern European and Italian immigrants began to move into the area, and it became an increasingly diverse community. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, many of the wealthy white residents moved out of Wicker Park and were replaced by Latino immigrants.

In the decades that followed, Wicker Park continued to evolve as a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. In the mid-1980s, artists began to move into the area and set up studios in abandoned warehouses. This resulted in an influx of trendy boutiques, cafes, bars, and music venues that made Wicker Park one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods. In recent years, the area has become even more popular, with more trendy shops and restaurants popping up.

Things to Do in Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a great destination for tourists looking for things to do in Chicago. There’s something for everyone in this lively neighborhood, from art galleries and vintage shops to craft breweries and outdoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Wicker Park:

Explore Wicker Park’s Art Scene

Wicker Park is home to many art galleries and creative spaces that showcase the work of local artists. The Flat Iron Arts Building is one of the most popular spots for art lovers, featuring galleries, art studios, and performance spaces. There are also several street art murals throughout the neighborhood that are worth checking out.

Shop at Vintage Boutiques

Wicker Park is known for its vintage boutiques, which are full of unique finds from all around the world. From one-of-a-kind clothing pieces to furniture and home decor items, there are plenty of interesting items to explore at the vintage shops in Wicker Park.

Enjoy Some Local Craft Beer

Wicker Park is also home to many craft breweries that serve up a selection of local craft beers. A few of the most popular breweries in Wicker Park include Empirical Brewing, Dovetail Brewery, Temperance Beer Co., and Half Acre Beer Co.

Go for a Stroll in Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a great spot for an afternoon stroll. The park itself is full of lush greenery and gorgeous landscaping. On a nice day, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some fresh air. There are also many other parks in the area where visitors can go for a walk or a bike ride.

Experience Live Music at Local Venues

Wicker Park is well known for its vibrant music scene. Local venues such as The Empty Bottle, Subterranean, and Schuba’s Tavern are some of the most popular spots for live music in Wicker Park.

Book a North Side Tour

For visitors looking for an immersive experience of Wicker Park and Chicago’s North Side neighborhoods, a guided walking tour is a great way to explore the area. The North Side Tour offered by Viator is a 3-hour guided tour that takes visitors on a journey through some of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods, including Wicker Park. The tour focuses on the area’s history and culture, making stops at interesting spots such as the Flat Iron Arts Building, Big Star Taco, and The 606 trail. Along the way, visitors will gain insight into the city’s unique history and culture as they explore some of its most interesting neighborhoods. Book this North Side Tour here.

Book a Walking Food Tour

For those who want to experience Wicker Park’s culinary side, a walking food tour is an ideal way to explore the neighborhood’s delicious offerings. The Walking Food Tour offered by GetYourGuide takes visitors on a three-hour journey through some of Wicker Park’s most iconic eateries, including Big Star Taco and Antique Taco. Along the way, visitors will sample some of the neighborhood’s classic dishes as well as some of its more creative culinary creations. The tour also offers insight into the history and culture of Wicker Park as visitors explore its eateries and enjoy some delicious food. Book this Walking Food Tour here.

Conclusion

Wicker Park is one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods and there are plenty of things to do in the area. From exploring its art scene to sampling its delicious cuisine and experiencing its vibrant music venues, there’s something for everyone in this lively neighborhood. For those who want an immersive experience of Wicker Park and Chicago’s North Side neighborhoods, guided tours such as the North Side Tour offered by Viator and Walking Food Tour offered by GetYourGuide are ideal options to explore the area’s history and culture while discovering some of its best offerings.