Discover the Vibrant South Loop: Chicago's Cultural Heartbeat
Explore Chicago's South Loop, where history meets culture in a vibrant urban landscape filled with museums, dining, and stunning architecture.
The South Loop in Chicago offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and modern urban life. Experience iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and diverse dining options in this vibrant neighborhood.
A brief summary to South Loop
- Chicago, South Loop, Illinois, US
Local tips
- Visit the Museum Campus early in the day to avoid crowds.
- Don’t miss the beautiful views of the skyline from Grant Park.
- Try local favorites like deep-dish pizza or Italian beef sandwiches at nearby eateries.
- Check out local events, as the South Loop often hosts festivals and markets.
- Use public transportation to navigate the area easily and avoid parking hassles.
Getting There
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Public Transit
To reach the South Loop in Chicago from Cicero, start by heading to the nearest CTA bus stop. You can take the #54 Cicero bus towards 54th Avenue. Ride the bus until you reach the 'Cicero and Archer' stop. Here, transfer to the Pink Line train at the 'Cicero' station. Ride the Pink Line towards 18th, and get off at the '18th' station. From there, transfer to the Orange Line train at '18th' station. Take the Orange Line towards Midway and get off at the 'State & Roosevelt' stop. Once you exit the station, head east on Roosevelt Road, and then turn north onto State Street. After a short walk, you will arrive in the South Loop area.
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Walking
If you are near the Cicero Avenue and 35th Street area, you can walk to the South Loop. Head north on Cicero Avenue until you reach 31st Street. Turn right on 31st Street and continue walking east until you reach the intersection of 31st Street and Kedzie Avenue. From there, you can take the #39 Kedzie bus north to the 'Kedzie & 18th' stop. After getting off, walk east to the '18th' station to transfer to the Pink Line towards 18th. After getting to the '18th' station, transfer to the Orange Line, and get off at 'State & Roosevelt'. Walk east on Roosevelt towards State Street, and you will find yourself in the South Loop.
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Bicycle
For cyclists, start from Cicero Avenue and head north until you reach 31st Street. Turn right onto 31st Street and continue towards Kedzie Avenue. Then, follow Kedzie Avenue north until you reach the junction with 18th Street. Once at 18th, you can bike east towards the South Loop. Continue biking until you reach State Street, where you can find various attractions and landmarks in the South Loop.
Discover more about South Loop
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jewel-Osco
0.1 km
Experience the best of Chicago's grocery scene at Jewel-Osco in the South Loop, where fresh produce, baked goods, and local flavors await.
Ludington Building
0.2 km
Discover the historic Ludington Building in Chicago's South Loop, a stunning architectural gem that reflects the city's rich heritage.
The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Chicago
0.4 km
Explore the rich history of blues music along the Blues Trail from Mississippi to Chicago, celebrating iconic musicians and vibrant culture.
Dearborn Station
0.5 km
Discover the historical allure of Dearborn Station in Chicago's South Loop, where timeless architecture meets vibrant shopping and dining experiences.
Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway
0.7 km
Explore the Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway in Grant Park, a serene historical landmark celebrating the legacy of a beloved figure in Chicago's vibrant history.
Morton Building
0.9 km
Explore the rich architectural history of the Morton Building, a historical landmark in Chicago's vibrant South Loop, surrounded by modern attractions.
St. Charles Air Line Bridge
0.9 km
Explore the St. Charles Air Line Bridge in Chicago, a historical landmark showcasing the city's engineering brilliance and rich transportation heritage.
Second Leiter Building
1.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty of the Second Leiter Building, a historic landmark in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop district.
Old Colony Building
1.0 km
Experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Old Colony Building, a Chicago landmark that embodies the city's rich heritage.
The Horse
1.0 km
Explore The Horse statue in Chicago, a captivating historical landmark that embodies the city's rich heritage and artistic spirit.
Chicago Board of Trade Building
1.2 km
Explore the Chicago Board of Trade Building, a stunning Art Deco landmark and vital business hub in the heart of the Loop, rich in history and architectural splendor.
Monadnock Building
1.2 km
Explore the architectural marvel of the Monadnock Building, a historical landmark in Chicago's Loop, blending rich history with modern vibrancy.
Historic End of Route 66 Sign
1.2 km
Explore the Historic End of Route 66 Sign in Chicago – a symbol of adventure and nostalgia for road trip enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Clarke-Ford House
1.2 km
Explore Chicago's rich history at the Clarke-Ford House Museum, the city's oldest house, filled with fascinating stories and artifacts from the past.
The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park
1.3 km
Explore the historic Battle of Fort Dearborn Park, a serene space blending nature and history in Chicago's Prairie District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago
0.5 km
Discover excitement and teamwork at Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago – an immersive adventure for friends, families, and corporate groups.
Museum of Contemporary Photography
0.8 km
Discover the transformative power of imagery at the Museum of Contemporary Photography, where contemporary art meets visual storytelling in Chicago.
Field Museum
0.9 km
Explore the Field Museum in Chicago, home to Sue the T. rex and a vast array of natural history exhibits that will fascinate every visitor.
Loop Mural
0.9 km
Discover the Loop Mural in Chicago—where vibrant creativity meets urban charm in an unforgettable artistic experience.
Auditorium Theatre
1.0 km
Experience the elegance and cultural richness of Chicago at the historic Auditorium Theatre, home to diverse performing arts events.
Grant Park
1.0 km
Explore the beauty and culture of Grant Park, Chicago's iconic urban oasis that offers stunning landscapes, art, and history.
Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago Public Library
1.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and literary treasures of Harold Washington Library Center, a must-visit cultural landmark in Chicago.
Fine Arts Building
1.0 km
Experience the artistic soul of Chicago at the Fine Arts Building, a cultural hub featuring art studios, performances, and rich history.
Soldier Field
1.1 km
Discover Soldier Field, Chicago's historic stadium blending sports and entertainment with stunning architecture and rich history.
Museum Campus
1.1 km
Explore Museum Campus: A stunning blend of history, culture, and nature along Chicago's beautiful lakefront.
The Museum Campus
1.1 km
Discover the cultural heart of Chicago at The Museum Campus, where world-class museums meet stunning lakefront beauty.
Shedd Aquarium
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of marine life at Shedd Aquarium, a top tourist attraction in Chicago showcasing over 32,000 aquatic creatures.
Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain
1.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty and historical significance of the Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain in Chicago's Grant Park.
4-D Experiences
1.2 km
Discover the immersive 4-D Experiences at Shedd Aquarium, where marine wonders come alive with stunning visuals and interactive storytelling.
Glessner House
1.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Glessner House, a must-visit museum in Chicago's Prairie District.
Essential places to dine
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience fine dining at The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant - where historic charm meets culinary excellence in the heart of the South Loop.
Mercat a la Planxa
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Spanish tapas at Mercat a la Planxa in Chicago's South Loop – where tradition meets innovation.
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
1.3 km
Experience Chicago's vibrant dining scene at Exchequer Restaurant & Pub - where delicious pizza meets welcoming pub vibes.
The Berghoff Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience the taste of tradition at The Berghoff Restaurant - where authentic German flavors meet American hospitality in Chicago.
Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails
1.5 km
Experience downtown Chicago's vibrant culinary scene at Kindling - where innovative American dishes meet expertly crafted cocktails.
The Village
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine blended with American flavors at The Village in Chicago's Loop – a culinary delight you can't miss!
Hot Woks Cool Sushi
1.5 km
Experience culinary bliss at Hot Woks Cool Sushi in Chicago's Millennium Park – where fresh sushi meets vibrant Asian flavors.
The Gage
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Gage in Chicago's Loop—where great food meets lively atmosphere.
Acanto
1.6 km
Discover Acanto: An upscale Italian restaurant and cocktail bar in Chicago Loop offering authentic cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
Cherry Circle Room
1.6 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Cherry Circle Room in Chicago's Loop, where every dish tells a story of flavor and artistry.
Roanoke Restaurant
1.6 km
Savor exquisite dishes and craft cocktails at Roanoke Restaurant in Chicago Loop - perfect for brunch or special celebrations.
Remington's
1.7 km
Experience Chicago's vibrant culinary scene at Remington's – where American classics meet fine dining in an inviting atmosphere.
Double Clutch at Millennium Hall
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago at Double Clutch in Millennium Park, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary artistry.
Millennium Hall
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago at Millennium Hall - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Casa Bonita at Millenium Park
1.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Bonita in Millennium Park - where vibrant flavors meet cultural ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roosevelt Collection Shops
0.4 km
Explore the Roosevelt Collection Shops for a unique shopping experience in Chicago, blending local boutiques with popular brands in a lively atmosphere.
The Sue Store
0.9 km
Explore The Sue Store for unique dinosaur-themed gifts and souvenirs at the Field Museum, celebrating the legacy of Sue, the iconic T. rex.
Bye Bye Chicago
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Chicago at Bye Bye Chicago, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
The Symphony Store
1.3 km
Explore The Symphony Store in Chicago for unique gifts and musical treasures that celebrate the city's vibrant music culture.
Feelings Gift Shop
1.4 km
Explore Feelings Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique souvenirs and handcrafted gifts that capture the heart of the Windy City.
My Chicago!
1.6 km
Discover a unique blend of clothing and souvenirs at My Chicago! – your go-to destination for capturing the spirit of the Windy City.
Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
1.6 km
Discover unique Chicago souvenirs at the Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop, where local culture meets exquisite gifting.
Gifts R Us
1.7 km
Explore the charm of Gifts R Us in Chicago, where unique finds and local treasures await every visitor.
Buddy
1.8 km
Explore Buddy Gallery in Chicago Loop – a unique boutique and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
YoGoe
1.8 km
Explore YoGoe Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique, locally sourced gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
After School Matters Gift Shop
1.9 km
Explore the After School Matters Gift Shop: A unique Chicago destination for handcrafted gifts that support local youth programs.
I Love Chicago
2.2 km
Discover unique Chicago gifts and souvenirs at I Love Chicago, the ultimate destination for local treasures and memorabilia.
PRIMITIVE
2.3 km
Explore PRIMITIVE in Chicago’s West Loop for exquisite antiques, vintage furniture, and unique art pieces that embody timeless elegance.
Lively Gifts
2.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Lively Gifts, a charming gift shop in the heart of Chicago's Near North Side.
Kyrgyzstan
2.5 km
Explore the heart of Kyrgyzstan through its unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at this charming shop, perfect for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kasey's Tavern
0.7 km
Discover Kasey's Tavern, a beloved pub in Chicago's South Loop, offering delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a wide selection of drinks.
Panchos Rooftop Cantina
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and stunning skyline views at Panchos Rooftop Cantina in the heart of Chicago.
2Twenty2 Tavern
1.3 km
Experience Chicago's nightlife at 2Twenty2 Tavern, a lively bar offering craft beers, cocktails, and delicious cuisine in the heart of the Loop.
Vol. 39
1.5 km
Discover the sophistication of Vol. 39 in Chicago, where exquisite cocktails and an elegant atmosphere await your next visit.
Adamus Lounge
1.6 km
Adamus Lounge: A Chic American Dining Experience in the Heart of Chicago's Loop.
The Game Room
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at The Game Room, where great drinks and games create unforgettable moments.
Drawing Room
1.6 km
Discover chic elegance at The Drawing Room, Chicago's premier lounge for American cuisine and signature cocktails.
The Milk Room
1.6 km
Experience the epitome of luxury at The Milk Room, Chicago's exclusive bar offering innovative cocktails in an intimate setting.
Cindy's Rooftop
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite dining at Cindy's Rooftop, a premier bar and restaurant in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Best Bar
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at Chicago's Best Bar, a top destination for cocktail lovers and tourists alike.
MBar - Millennium Station
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Chicago at MBar - a modern bar offering unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Millennium Station.
Slightly Toasted
2.0 km
Discover Slightly Toasted, a lively gastropub in Chicago's West Loop, offering innovative dishes and a vibrant atmosphere for food lovers.
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
2.1 km
Discover RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar in Chicago Loop for stunning views, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant social atmosphere.
Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
2.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and Irish pub charm at Emerald Loop Bar & Grill in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Bar Pendry Chicago
2.2 km
Discover the elegance of Bar Pendry in Chicago Loop, where innovative cocktails meet a stylish atmosphere for a memorable night out.
