7 Things You Must Do Your First Week at the University of Chicago Hyde Park
Welcome to the vibrant neighborhood that surrounds the University of Chicago, Hyde Park! Your journey as a UChicago student is about to kick off, and at Ivy Residences we want to make sure that your first experiences in Hyde Park, Chicago are unforgettable! From settling into your Ivy Residences apartment to exploring local hotspots, we’ve curated a step-by-step itinerary to help you make the most of your initial days in this dynamic community.
Day 1: Post Move-In and Lakeside Serenity
Settle into your Ivy Residences apartment, your home base for the upcoming years. The moving process is tough and stressful, so you deserve some relaxation when it’s all over. Take a serene stroll to Promontory Point, where you can relax by the lake and take in stunning views. Or wander through the centrally located Nichols’ Park, just steps away from Ivy Residences. Another green option is nearby Washington Park. Fun fact: Hyde Park has more green space per square foot than any other neighborhood in Chicago, which means your options are endless.
Day 2: Campus Immersion and Artful Inspiration
Nearby our Ivy at Sylvan community, you’ll find yourself getting acquainted with the University of Chicago Hyde Park’s various resources and exploring the beautiful grounds! Right on campus, view the Nuclear Energy sculpture, erected to acknowledge the atomic bomb’s creation at UChicago. Also nearby you’ll find the Robie House, now a museum, this building is a Frank Lloyd right original!
After exploring, immerse yourself in artistic wonders at the Smart Museum of Art, a mere stone’s throw away. The Smart Museum hosts many activities and is a common feature in our monthly event lists. Other culturally immersive museums that we recommend taking the time to explore include the DeSable Museum of African American History and the Oriental Institute Museum.
Day 3: Explore Culinary Delights
If there’s one thing you’ll enjoy doing in Hyde Park, it’s eating! Home to city-renowned chefs, you’ll have plenty of places to choose from. To start, head to Valois Cafeteria, a local favorite and next-door neighbor of Ivy Residences.
Whatever your heart desires, Hyde Park can provide. Cajun and Creole? Head to Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern in Jade Court. Asain Fusion? Saucy Porka is the spot, plus enjoy some discounts with your Ivy Residences Keychain. Looking for Chicago-renowned dining? Look no further than Chef Erik Williams’ Virtue Restaurant and Bar, just a block away from Ivy at Harper. In addition to its plethora of locally owned restaurants, Hyde Park is also fortunate to be home to tons of women-owned and black-owned eateries, contributing to the rich culinary landscape of the neighborhood.
Day 4: Indulge on 53rd
An absolute must when exploring your new neighborhood is getting to know the bustling streets. As a student of the University of Chicago, Hyde Park, 53rd Street will be a staple of your experience. Take a stroll and pop into the various shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and more. Most Ivy residents enjoy this being a quick step from their front doors.
Beyond the daily offerings, 53rd Street is also a central hub of exciting activities and events in Hyde Park. In the summertime, enjoy strolling for your weekly produce at the farmers market every Thursday. Pop into Harper Court to savor the sounds of the Summer Music Series. 53rd Street is especially active during holidays, with the 4th on 53rd Street Parade every year to celebrate Independence Day and Hyde Park Holly-Days presented by the University of Chicago Hyde Park ringing in the holiday season.
Day 5: Get Caffeinated
Day number 5 calls for a pick me up, which Hyde Park has luckily got plenty to offer. Use this day to find your new go-to coffee spot as a student of the University of Chicago Hyde Park. You have the classics like Philz and Starbucks, as well as some local faves like Love and Light Cafe. While you’re at it, check out some of the best bakeries to pair with your coffee.
If you’re looking for a place that offers coffee and then some: food, indoor space, and an outdoor courtyard check out Cafe 53, centrally located on 53rd Street. Sip and Savor is a good option if you’d like to enjoy a sweet alongside your coffee. As a student, you may find that your favorite coffee shop is soon to become your favorite study space as well!
Day 6: Waterfront Adventures & Relaxation
The Hyde Park neighborhood is home to many relaxing waterfronts. Enjoy the lakeside views on the concrete steps of 51st Street Beach, or take in the beautiful skyline from Promontory Point.
Head south to for a lively beach experience, sand and all! When you get hungry, you’ll be excited to find Reggie’s on the Beach. If beachin’ isn’t your thing, you can check out the nearby Jackson Park Yacht Club. There you can get started learning how to sail, or simply enjoy watching the professionals race it out on the water.
Soak up the sun at 57th Street Beach, a perfect spot for relaxation and picnics that’s not too far from our Ivy Villas.
Day 7: Reflection
Use the last day to look back on your jam-packed week and consider all that is to come in your new home as a student of the University of Chicago Hyde Park.
Hyde Park is your oyster, and your first week is a chance to dive into its rich culture. From the comfort of your Ivy Residences community to the enchanting corners of the neighborhood, each day brings an opportunity to uncover a new facet of this captivating community. Welcome to the University of Chicago and the charming world of Hyde Park!
