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Little Village Arch: Gateway to Chicago's 'Mexico'

Discover the heart of Mexican culture in the Midwest at Chicago's Little Village Arch, a landmark of heritage and community.

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The Little Village Arch, located on 26th Street in Chicago's vibrant Little Village neighborhood, serves as a symbolic gateway to the area known as 'Mexico of the Midwest'. Built in 1990, the arch celebrates the rich Mexican heritage and culture of the community.

A brief summary to Little Village Arch

  • 3100 W 26th St, Chicago, South Lawndale, Illinois, 60623, US

Local tips

  • Visit during local festivals like the Mexican Independence Day parade in September to experience the neighborhood's vibrant culture.
  • Explore the shops and restaurants along 26th Street for an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine and culture.
  • Take photos of the colorful murals and mosaics in the area, including the Manuel Perez Memorial Plaza.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Blue Line to the 18th Street station. Transfer to the #18 bus towards 26th Street and get off at 26th St & Kedzie Ave. Walk west on 26th Street for about 5 minutes to reach the Little Village Arch. A single ride on the bus is $2.50, payable with a Ventra card or cash.

  • Public Transport

    Alternatively, take the Metra BNSF Railway Line from Union Station to the Cicero station. Transfer to the #52 Kedzie bus heading south and get off at 26th Street. Walk west on 26th Street for about 5 minutes to reach the Little Village Arch. A Metra ticket to Cicero costs around $5.00, and the bus fare is $2.50.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Little Village neighborhood, simply head towards the intersection of 26th Street and Albany Avenue. The arch is located at 3100 W 26th St and is easily visible from several blocks away.

  • Car

    If driving, use GPS to navigate to 3100 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623. From downtown Chicago, take I-90 W/I-94 W towards Wisconsin, merge onto I-290 W, and exit onto California Ave. Turn left onto California Ave, drive south for about 1 mile, and turn right onto W 26th St. The Little Village Arch will be on your left. Street parking is available, but be aware of parking regulations. Parking meters cost $2 per hour.

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Discover more about Little Village Arch

The Little Village Arch stands proudly on West 26th Street, marking the entrance to Chicago's Little Village, a neighborhood brimming with Mexican-American culture. Designed by Chicago architect Adrián Lozano and constructed in 1990, the archway has become a significant cultural landmark and was officially designated as a city landmark in 2022. Inspired by the Spanish colonial style found in Mexico, the two-story structure features dome-capped stucco towers, a wrought-iron grille, and a metal banner that reads 'Bienvenidos a Little Village'. A mechanical clock sits at the arch's center. The arch not only welcomes residents and visitors but also symbolizes the strength, vitality, and beautiful culture of the Mexican-American community. Little Village, also known as 'La Villita,' is a vibrant commercial and cultural hub. The two-mile stretch of 26th Street that begins at the arch is filled with small shops, bakeries, restaurants, and businesses that cater to the Mexican community. The neighborhood is known for its murals, festivals, and strong sense of community.

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