Street Art in Chicago
Chicago's world-famous graffiti scene spans the globe and is known worldwide. Chicago artists have painted murals in some of the world's most famous cities and continue to innovate and paint new spaces that are quickly becoming destinations for street art enthusiasts.
Humboldt Park
This colorful neighborhood has its roots in Puerto Rican culture, with Puerto Rican flags marking the gateways to the neighborhood. It's fun to visit during the summer months when they host the Puerto Rican Parade as well as a number of other festivals. The neighborhood is home to the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture as well as Humboldt Park. Throughout the neighborhood you'll see street art, coffee shops, wine bars, and Puerto Rican restaurants.
Chicago, IL
Rogers Park
Rogers Park is a bit off the main tourist circuit, but it has a number of unique architectural examples, including the Emil Bach House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as an impressive theater scene. The neighborhood is diverse, and that's reflected in the restaurants found there. It is also home to the Glenwood Avenue Arts District which has impressive murals, award-winning theaters, and a variety of live music venues. There are also many art galleries in the neighborhood. To the east the neighborhood runs into Lake Michigan's shoreline and there are many nice waterfront views.
Chicago, IL
The Gateway
Situated on a wide median on State Street between Wacker and Lake is this park area with seating, public art, and nice areas to relax, meet with friends, or have a meal.
State and Lake, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
Federal Plaza
In addition to showcasing the large sculpture known as "The Flamingo", Federal Plaza also hosts a farmers market every Tuesday
S. Dearborn Street, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
Cloud Gate (The Bean)
"The Bean" is a 110 ton stainless steel sculpture that was designed by Anish Kapoor. It's surface is a mirror and the shape of the structure was inspired by a drop of liquid mercury. During the winter months, there is a public ice skating rink surrounding The Bean.
201 E Randolph St, Millennium Park, Chicago, IL, 60602
Daley Plaza
In the center of Daley Plaza, visitors will find the famous Picasso sculpture. This public square hosts a variety of events including live music, food trucks, festivals, markets, and more. In fact, almost every day of the year at noon some sort of performance art event takes place here in the plaza.
50 W. Washington Street, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
Chase Promenade
Chase Promenade is a tree-lined pedestrian walkway in Millennium Park. It spans 8 acres and hosts regular exhibitions and festivals.
Chase Promenade Central, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
Pilsen
The Pilsen neighborhood is in the Lower West Side of Chicago and it was historically made up of predominantly Czech immigrants but today it has a large Latino population, lots of great music venues, and a number of a great restaurants. The neighborhood also has impressive murals. There are street vendors who sell tacos as well as the National Museum of Mexican Art.
1235 West 21st Street, Lower West Side, Chicago, Illinois, 60608
Crown Fountain
Crown Fountain is a video sculpture and work of art that's located in Chicago's Millennium Park. It opened in 2004 and has a black granite reflecting pool between two glass brick towers that display digital videos. The water is turned on between the months of May and October.
Crown Fountain, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a famous public space that's located in Grant Park. The 24.5 acre park is near the Lake Michigan shoreline and includes a number of famous attractions such as Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, Lurie Garden and a number of outdoor performance areas.
Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60601
How much does it cost?
Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $10 to $200. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $56. A few of the best options are below.
Where to Stay in Chicago