Bronzeville
Bronzeville sits on the former site of a civil war fort- Camp Douglas. As the frontier faded into the modern world, many of Chicago’s richer families moved in and large opulent homes popped up throughout the area. This helped create the diverse landscape found in Bronzeville today.
Defined by its grand Boulevards, Bronzeville is a mixture of apartment buildings, historic single-family homes, and modest three-flats. Main thorough-fares are lined with churches, arts centers, long-established restaurants and small businesses. The CTA Green Line provides immediate access to the center of the city and the expressway and Lake Shore Drive are conveniently located and used as means to get in and out of the city easily.
Bronzeville has been home to some of the greatest names of the 20th century- Gwendolyn Brooks, Bessie Coleman, Richard Wright, The Marx Brothers, and Chicago’s heroine- Ida B. Wells. These cultural influences still live on today as Bronzeville flexes its art-centric contributions to Chicago.
If you are looking for food, music, art or anything else, check out our favorite places!
Food
- Sip & Savor
More than lattes and dirty chais, this coffee shop is a community gathering spot. - Bronzeville Soul
Every other Wednesday, this scrumptious soul food restaurant has live music. - Peach’s
A classic Southern breakfast, but we recommend The Catfish, Greens and Grits. - Truth
This funky Italian cafe is best known for its French toast flights and savory breakfasts. - Little Sandwich House
Mainly counter service, this cafe specializes in healthy but hearty foods.
Shopping
- Bronzeville Boutique
A shop to find wild prints, solid basics, comfy couch, and red carpet. - Absolutely Anything Essential
The walls are lined with gifts at this 3-story Greystone boutique. - Boxville
This mini-mall of sorts showcases local artists in a market of truck containers. - Moore Poppin
Arguably, this Chicago Mix popcorn is possibly better than Garrett’s. - Da Book Joint
Solely decided to the black American experience and the words describing it.
Music
- Bronzeville Winery
This wine bar not only serves up great jazz, but the food is amazing! - Miyagi Records
From DJ Saturdays to listening parties, this vinyl shop has a stellar selection. - MADD Rhythms
Performing arts with pizzazz are found at this music and dance school. - Brown Derby Jazz Series
Every 2nd Monday, gather for some urban Chicago jazz! - VanderCook College of Music
IIT is more than just engineering! Their music is also top tier!
Things to Do
- Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum
Intimate spot dedicated to the history of Chicago hip hop. - Bronzeville Historical Society
From walking tours to photo stories, this place has all the history. - Oakwood Beach
Just on the other side of Kenwood, this shore has an amazing view of the city. - Chicago Bee Public Library
This beautiful Art Deco library hosts a plethora of cultural events. - Bronzeville Incubator
This entrepreneur’s club provides rental space and small business insight.
Art/Culture
- Gallery Guichard
“Art the touches the soul.” Accurate with a variety of styles and personalities. - Blanc
Mixed media, sculpture, and photography are showcased at this local gallery. - SSCA
This beautiful greystone building hosts the oldest African American art center in the US. - Ka’Lab
Bingo night, open mics, painting parties and more are featured at this fun art center! - Faie African Art Gallery
This gallery showcases traditional and modern art from around Africa.
Transportation
Explore Bronzeville
