Excursions
Wicker Park
Originally settled by Northern European immigrants in the 1850’s, Wicker Park boasts beautiful Victorian mansions and tree-lined streets. In the last ten years, Wicker Park has been known as a haven for galleries, cutting-edge shops, and a variety of eclectic restaurants. Today, you will find that many diverse Chicago residents call Wicker Park home, including artists, designers, young professionals, and families alike.
Shopping Information
If you want to find something fabulous for your next gallery event, make sure to check out Wicker Park. Starting north on Damen Avenue, visit Psycho Baby to find some unique clothes for little ones as well as fun toys and accessories. During your visit, don’t let City Soles/Niche boutique confuse you. Two distinct boutiques housed within one shop, located at the intersection of Damen, Milwaukee, and North Ave., they sell shoes for the most avant-garde connoisseur to the slightly conservative buyer still looking for some panache. Looking to find some of the most up-and-coming designs? Head south on Milwaukee Avenue and you will find a welcomed assortment of popular trend boutiques such as Jade, Language, and the critically acclaimed Hejfina.
A quick cab or el ride south to Division Street, Wicker Park transitions into a delight for the hip, edgy, and European-style shopper. Here you will find Noir, a boutique that carries Euro-inspired fashions for men and women, also picked as a top 10 boutique by Chicago residents. The popular designer’s collective Habit, owned by designer Lindsay Boland, can be found on Division, as well as the new Gamma Player boutique for the edgy, avant-garde, fashion forward-type. When your stomach starts to crave more than clothes, head to Milk and Honey Cafe for a delicious gourmet sandwich, so plentiful it’s a meal by itself. Breakfast specialties are also served here.
Things to See
1579 N. Milwaukee Avenue
This historic and architecturally significant building in an all artist building promoting the arts.
1935 ½ W. North Avenue.
The gallery shows monthly emerging art exhibitions, hosts two artist residencies each year, and performances of some of Chicago’s best new theatre, music and dance.
Examine and tour the Victorian mansions and houses of this truly unique neighborhood.
How to Get There
- Take the CTA Blue Line to Division Street
- Bus 50, 56, 70, 72