Chicago's known worldwide for its iconic skyline, impeccable sports teams, and trendy neighborhoods. But what often gets nixed from this list is the Hyde Park neighborhood on the city's South Side. Located about 9 miles from downtown, Hyde Park is nestled next to Lake Michigan, accessible by bus from the CTA Garfield Red and Green Lines or the Metra Electric Line. Here are some of the hidden gems this iconic neighborhood has to offer that are definitely worth checking out.
1. Jackson Park
Jackson Park was home to the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago, which virtually put the city on the map to the entire world as a world-class city. Though most of the buildings from the time are gone, except for the Museum of Science and Industry, the park features many replicas from the exposition, including the golden Statue of the Republic, which welcomes people crossing Hayes and Richards Drives. Moreover, the park also has a Japanese tea garden to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life, and if Pokemon Go is still your cup of tea, this park is filled with many Pokemon.
Between S. Stony Island Avenue and Lake Shore Drive, between 56th and 67th Streets
Chicago, IL 60637
2. The Oriental Institute
There's no doubt that the presitgious University of Chicago is the centerpiece of Hyde Park. Moreover, the school is also home to a number of free museums, including the Oriental Institute. This museum features countless artifacts from many ancient civilizations, ranging from the Mesopotamians to the Egyptians to some you might not have heard of. Even if you're not an avid fan of archaeology or ancient history, some of these exhibits, including the 16-foot tall "lamassu" sculpture, will have you in awe of the wonders of the past.
1155 E. 58th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
3. Hyde Park Art Center
You may know the Art Institute or the Museum of Contemporary Art, but you may not know the Hyde Park Art Center. This museum, which is free admission, focuses primarily on contemporary art. One of their main goals is to extend the arts to underprivileged parts of the city and foster a dialogue that helps create change for such places. In addition to all of the Instagram-worthy pieces on display, the museum also offers many lectures throughout the year regarding the same issues that they address through their art.
5020 S. Cornell Avenue
Chicago, IL 60615
4. Barack Obama's House
Before he was President, Barack Obama and his family called this quaint house in Hyde Park home. Though still heavily guarded by Secret Service, the home makes a nice little photo-op, or if you're not going to the White House anytime soon.
5046 S. Greenwood Avenue
Chicago, IL 60615
5. Promontory Point
Nine times out of ten you've probably seen a wedding photo taken here. Located right off the Lakefront Trail, Promontory Point is yet another part of Hyde Park where you can escape the congestion of downtown. Enjoy a view of both the neighborhood and the skyline right on the lakefront at this historic peninsula of the city.
5491 S. Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60615
6. 57th Street Books
Walk along 57th Street and you can't miss this hole-in-the-wall bookstore, marked by what looks like a gutted telephone booth. 57th Street Books features a broad selection of books for virtually every taste, as reflected by the University of Chicago community that helps suggest new titles for the store to hold. Moreover, if you have little ones in your family or looking after some, the bookstore is known for its giant kids collection that every youngster will enjoy.
1301 E. 57th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
