Understand

The Southwest Side of Chicago is a fascinating area that cannot be fully understood without exploring its unique neighborhoods. It is a place united by its blue-collar character, proximity to the airport, and, of course, its love for the White Sox. Unlike other parts of the city, the Southwest Side has managed to preserve its authenticity and avoid gentrification, making it the most genuine part of Chicago. One neighborhood that contributes to the rich tapestry of the Southwest Side is the Back of the Yards. This term encompasses the communities of McKinley Park, Brighton Park, and New City, all of which have a historical connection to the Union Stock Yards described in Upton Sinclair's The Jungle. Although the stock yards are gone, the blue-collar spirit remains alive. You can still visit the site where the stock yards once stood, marked by the Union Stock Yard Gate and a bustling industrial park. The surrounding Mexican-American neighborhoods offer mouthwatering cuisine, while the Irish-American enclave of Canaryville adds a vibrant cultural mix. McKinley Park itself is experiencing a wave of gentrification, attracting younger residents priced out of trendier neighborhoods. Another gem in the Southwest Side is Marquette Park, a neighborhood centered around a magnificent park that boasts a mix of African-American, Mexican-American, Polish, and Lithuanian-American residents. As you venture westward, you'll find a greater diversity of ethnicities, with median income playing a significant role. Beyond the park's green expanse and golf course, Marquette Park allures visitors with its delectable Mexican and rare Lithuanian dining options. This neighborhood witnessed a transformation after Martin Luther King Jr.'s anti-segregation marches, causing a shift in demographics and the end of the "Lithuanian Gold Coast." Today, Marquette Park stands as a welcoming destination for Mexican immigrants and a testament to the area's remarkable history. If you're near Midway Airport, you'll discover a collection of ethnically diverse neighborhoods. This part of town is home to a thriving Polish community, as well as Mexican immigrants who have recently settled. Archer Heights, Garfield Ridge, and Clearing are prominent centers of Polish culture in the United States, where you'll encounter as much Polish spoken as English. The local Polish population is heavily influenced by the Polish Highlanders, bringing a touch of Balkan cuisine and traditions. To truly experience this vibrant community, don't miss the Polish Highlanders Alliance of North America or indulge in the fantastic pizza and Croatian baked goods available in the area. While exploring this unique corner of Chicago, the food and nightlife will surely exceed your expectations, offering a memorable taste of authentic culture. As we explore further, it's important to mention Englewood. This large and impoverished neighborhood unfortunately has a reputation for violence and offers little of interest to travelers. It's best to drive through on the main roads, like 55th Street, or avoid the area altogether. Auburn Gresham is also a neighborhood to be cautious of due to its higher crime rates, although it is not as severe as Englewood. The main landmark worth noting is St. Sabina Catholic Church, led by the dedicated and influential activist Father Michael Pfleger. Lastly, we come to Washington Heights. This neighborhood, apart from being the home of the iconic church attended by the Obama family, may have fewer attractions for travelers. However, it is still a pleasant community with some great dining options if you happen to find yourself in the area.

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