Before the University of Chicago was built in 1890, Hyde Park was a beachside resort for wealthy Chicagoans- still considered a suburb at the time, the area was far enough away from the noise of the city. As more and more people flocked to these particular shores of Lake Michigan, the development of Hyde Park was inevitable.

As the gothic architecture of the University of Chicago borders the south side of Hyde Park, the residential streets are a collage of architectural greats (Wright’s Robie House, Fridstein’s Shoreland, and Goldberg’s Helstein House), mixed use mid-rises at Harper Court, and large brick three-to-six flat apartment buildings. Along the central business district, there are bookstores, art galleries, small businesses, and restaurants that have stood the test of time.

The Columbian Exposition is the event that made Chicago a world class city- the White City. The technological innovations, cultural accomplishments, and grandiose of the event still lingers in the parks and thoroughfares of Hyde Park. Part living museum and part thriving community, this little island in Chicago is an amazing place to call home.

Here’s a guide for you to learn the neighborhood better!