Portage Park
Portage Park had always been an area of settlement. First Nations resided on natural high ground, above the swampy lands. Eventually that gave way to a small town of European immigrants. Now, much of the neighborhood is cozily settled, offering a place for working families to call home.
Chock full of classic Chicago bungalows and two flats, most of Portage Park is residential. The Six Corners and the stretch of Central Ave. between Belmont and Irving Park bustles with tons of shopping and recreation. The crown jewel of the neighborhood is Portage Park- one of Chicago’s original parks- offering a lagoon, walking paths, gardens, and a community pool.
The area of Portage Park was once just the essentials- a post office and a bar. When Chicago finally enveloped the area in the late 1880s, the community thrived. Today, we see a colorful neighborhood busy with economic development and proud citizens!
Here’s a guide for you to learn the neighborhood better!
Food
- Sutherlands
Named after the first bar in the area, this pub has a small but mighty menu. - Portage Grounds
This cute cafe has the BEST apple, bacon, cheddar, and sage scones. - Hagen’s Fish Market
Smoked fish is the thing here. Either buy it or drop off your catch! - Suparossa
While you can get a stuffed pizza here, their classic Italian dishes are amazing. - Broiler’s Flip
The neon sign outside drags you in, the gyros make you stay.
Shopping
- Fantasy Costumes
This year-round costume shop is always a fun place to visit for the novelty. - Rudy’s Cycle
This bike shop has all your gear or a new bike (just in case you need an upgrade!) - Trendy Topics
Sick of the same-old stuff? Get customized gear at this screenprinting company. - Thrifty Kitty
This kitschy vintage shop has clothing, housewares, and classic bric-a-brac. - Ferrari Chocolate
Cute little shop to fulfill your chocolate cravings.
Music
- Irish American Center
Get out the tin whistles and the bagpipes at this community center. - Nightshade @ Moonflower
This cocktail bar stage hosts lively Jazz weekly! - Patio Theatre
More than revival films, this classic cinema also hosts concerts. - Six Penny Bit
A traditional Irish pub offering live local music, Karaoke, and stand up! - Tone Deaf Records
Exclusively vinyl, find that coveted OG press of that one Stones album.
Things to Do
- Klairmont Kollections
From hot rods to the original Bat Mobile, find the car of your dreams. - Baltic Art Studio
Make your own stained glass, preferably with an Eastern European flair! - The Cage Chicago
Batter up! Warm up the old batting arm at these indoor cages. - Portage Park
This amazing park offers 2 pools, a nature garden, soccer fields, and more. - Chicago Billiard Cafe & Pinball Lounge
While away the time at this fun filled hall.
Art/Culture
- National Veterans Art Museum
Art of veterans, inspired by service and combat. - Sip & Paint Chicago
Test your acrylic skills with glass in hand at this fun studio. - The Gift Theatre
Troupe dedicated to emotional stories for all walks of life. - The Bloomin’ Spindle
More than just yarn- take classes in knitting, crochet and spinning. - Chicago In Action Studio
Fitness, crafting, and community- this little storefront has it all.
Explore Portage Park
