McKinley Park

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McKinley Park

Once swampland, filled with standing water and mosquitos, McKinley Park has a long history of development. It was transformed into an industrial powerhouse of meat packing and steel. Now, the area boasts affordable homes for Chicago’s working class.

Just north of the old stockyards, south  of the Stevenson expressway and Chinatown and Bridgeport adjacent, this small neighborhood of Chicago boasts easy commute access via the CTA Orange Line. Workers cottages line much of the streets mixed with some new builds, and Chicago’s classic 3, 6, and 12 flat buildings. 

The neighborhood’s namesake, McKinley Park, was the first of its kind- becoming a model for all Chicago public parks and throughout the country. That kind of ingenuity and design is still present today as the old industrial parks are transformed into art and community centers- creating a more inviting and exciting McKinley park landscape.

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

Food

  • Huck Finn’s
    Perfect diner food, but the old fashioned donuts are really what bring the people in.
  • Gorditas la Tia Susy
    While the spot is a bit no frills, the gorditas are authentic!
  • Falco’s Pizza
    Arguably the best pizza and salad combo on the southwest side.
  • Chile Toreado
    This spot has an amazing lamb shank and  an impressive tequila selection.
  • Captain Bakery
    Amazing Chinese bakery filled with fresh baked goods and smoothies.

Shopping

  • Swap-o-Rama
    From socks and prom dresses to power tools and toys, this flea market has it all.
  • Consume Vintage
    A well organized thrift store offering some great vintage Chicago finds.
  • Margento Textile
    A fabric store with beautiful threads for customizing your wardrobe for anything
  • Foreman Mills
    You have seen the commercials, now visit the wholesale department store!
  • Video Strip
    One of the true last standing video rental stores- it is like stepping back into the 90s.

Music

  • Romova Theatre
    This old theater still shows films, hosts concerts and serves in-house brews.
  • One City Tap
    Horror-centric dive bar that also hosts trivia, metal shows and live comedy.
  • Bernice’s Tavern
    This dive bar hosts local bands, open mic nights and daily specials!
  • Let’s Boogie
    Vinyl, cassettes, maybe a smattering of CDs. This record shop is true vintage.
  • Water Hole Lounge
    Check out some live underground blues on Wednesdays at this dive.

Things to Do

  • Marz Brewing
    Known for their innovative ales, this brewery is never short of a good time.
  • Filbert’s Root Beer
    Since 1926, this soda pop factory has been slinging the fizzy beverages.
  • McKinley Park
    This park offers everything from a community garden and fishing to a dog park.
  • Chicago Indoor Sports
    This indoor soccer field offers classes, leagues, and activity-filled parties.
  • Chicago Maritime Museum
    From film festivals to lectures, this unique spot is a delight.

Art/Culture

Explore McKinley Park

Find Your Next McKinley Park Home