YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THESE.
It’s great to have friends and family come to visit you. What’s not is having to come up with an agenda for their stay. When you’ve only lived in the neighborhood for a short time, it may be tricky to know where to take them. After all, you spend most of your days going from home to work or school and back with the occasional pitstop at Trader Joe’s or Target. Not necessarily the Hyde Park/Chicago attractions your guests care for.
Not to worry, we’ve got some suggestions to make your planning experience just a bit simpler.
Image by Artistmac via Flickr
THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
When many people think of Hyde Park Chicago attractions, this is the first place that comes to mind. And with good reason–where else in the city can you see ancient artifacts, explore a coal mine, and watch baby chicks hatch from their eggs? The Museum of Science and Industry enlightens guests of all ages with its unique exhibits and gorgeous views of Lake Michigan and its private pond. Each year, MSI draws in the crowds with its Christmas Around the World display.
Image by Vikram Dwarkadas via Flickr
JACKSON PARK
Just south of The Museum of Science and Industry lies Jackson Park. Originally created as part of the Columbian Exposition of 1893, Jackson Park was reimagined into a sprawling park. The dreamy lagoons provide excellent birdwatching, while the Garden of the Phoenix brings Japanese culture to the south side. Jackson Park’s dog-friendly square, Jackson Bark, keeps Fido busy with plenty of things to do and sniff on top of the excitement of new friends to play with.
Image by ModArchitecture via Flickr
ROBIE HOUSE
Located at the corner of 57th St. and Woodlawn Ave., this geometric home was designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Its intricate stained-glass windows will astound you. Plan your trip ahead of time by purchasing tickets online for a guided tour. Stop by Plein Air Café next door to grab a bite to eat, a fantastic latte, and bask in this little slice of history.
Image by Shutter Runner via Flickr
PROMONTORY POINT
Chicago visitors love taking skyline pictures from the lake. Get a similar view without hopping on a boat with a trip to Promontory Point. Often called “The Point” by Hyde Parkers, you can get to this hotspot through the Lakefront Trail, either by walking or riding a bike. Sit along the rocks and enjoy north-facing views of the Sears Tower, Hancock Building and more.
Plan your visit for a summer afternoon to see our skyline among blue skies and fluffy clouds, or make the trip out around golden hour to capture the beautiful contrast of the black buildings and pink/orange sunsets.
Image by Paul Sableman via Flickr
THE OBAMA ROCK
Before Barack Obama began his career in politics, he lived in Hyde Park, studying and teaching at The University of Chicago. On his first date with his future wife, they took a trip to the local Baskin Robbins. They shared their first kiss at the corner of 53rd St. and Dorchester Ave. Today, the spot is commemorated with an inscribed plaque attached to a large rock. Today, their Chicago residence is about four blocks away on University St.
WASHINGTON PARK
If you enjoy being outside, you’ll love this expansive park along the southwest end of the neighborhood. The lagoon in the center of the park serves as the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery or grab a fishing pole to see what you can catch. Several water features, such as the bronze fountain off of E. Hyde Park Blvd. and Drexel Ave. and the Washington statue and reflecting pond of Best Dr. beautifully remind you of Hyde Park’s historic significance.
This family-friendly spot includes a playground, a pool, and several sports fields perfect for a summer’s day.
Have you visited any of these spots? Did we miss your favorite place to frequent? Let us know in the comments.
