Exploring Chinatown Chicago: Top Things to Do

Chicago's Chinatown is a vibrant, culturally rich neighborhood that offers a mix of history, culture, food, and shopping. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Chinatown is a must-visit destination in the Windy City. This guide will walk you through the top things to do in Chinatown Chicago, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

1. Walk Through the Chinatown Gateway
Your journey in Chinatown begins at the iconic Chinatown Gate, located at the intersection of Cermak Road and Wentworth Avenue. This towering gate is adorned with the inscription “The World is for All,” a message that reflects the inclusive nature of the neighborhood. The gate, a gift from Chicago’s sister city, Shanghai, is a perfect spot for photos and sets the tone for your exploration.

2. Visit the Nine Dragon Wall
A short walk from the gate, you'll find the Nine Dragon Wall, a beautiful and intricate structure that is one of only three replicas outside of China. The wall features nine large dragons and over 500 smaller dragons, each crafted in colorful glazed tiles. The symbolism of dragons in Chinese culture represents power, strength, and good fortune, making this an important cultural landmark.

3. Explore Chinatown Square
Chinatown Square is the heart of the neighborhood, a two-story outdoor mall filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. This modern area is home to many specialty stores offering everything from traditional Chinese medicine to unique gifts and souvenirs. Be sure to look for the 12 Chinese zodiac statues scattered throughout the square. These statues are a great way to learn more about Chinese astrology and find your own zodiac sign.

4. Enjoy Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Chinatown is famous for its food, and you’ll find a wide variety of authentic Chinese dishes to try. From dim sum at MingHin Cuisine to the famous Peking duck at Lao Sze Chuan, there is something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the chance to try bubble tea, a popular Taiwanese drink available at many cafes in the area. For dessert, stop by Chiu Quon Bakery, one of the oldest Chinese bakeries in Chicago, known for its delicious mooncakes and egg tarts.

5. Visit the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago
To dive deeper into the history and culture of Chinatown, visit the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago. The museum offers exhibits on the history of Chinese immigrants in the Midwest, traditional Chinese customs, and the contributions of Chinese-Americans to American society. It’s a fascinating way to understand the struggles and achievements of the Chinese community in Chicago.

6. Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Chinatown is a shopper’s paradise, especially if you’re looking for unique gifts and souvenirs. Explore the various shops in Chinatown Square and along Wentworth Avenue. From jade jewelry to calligraphy sets, you’ll find plenty of items that reflect Chinese culture. Many stores also offer imported teas, traditional clothing, and home decor items. Don’t forget to haggle—it’s part of the shopping experience!

7. Relax at Ping Tom Memorial Park
For a break from the hustle and bustle, head to Ping Tom Memorial Park. This peaceful riverside park offers beautiful views of the Chicago River and the downtown skyline. The park features traditional Chinese landscape design elements, including a pagoda-style pavilion and bamboo gardens. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll along the river.

8. Attend a Cultural Event or Festival
Chinatown is home to numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, offering a great opportunity to experience Chinese traditions firsthand. The annual Chinese New Year Parade is one of the most popular events, featuring lion dances, martial arts performances, and colorful floats. The Chinatown Summer Fair is another must-attend event, with food stalls, live music, and cultural performances.

9. Explore the Neighborhood's Art and Murals
As you walk through Chinatown, you'll notice the vibrant street art and murals that adorn many of the buildings. These artworks often depict scenes from Chinese folklore, historical figures, and symbols of Chinese culture. One notable mural is "The Chinese Dragon Mural," located on the side of a building on Wentworth Avenue, which celebrates the neighborhood’s heritage and its connection to the larger Chinese diaspora.

10. Learn Tai Chi at the Chinatown Tai Chi Park
If you're interested in Chinese martial arts, visit the Chinatown Tai Chi Park, where you can observe or participate in tai chi sessions. Tai chi is a traditional Chinese exercise that combines slow, deliberate movements with deep breathing and meditation. The park offers a serene environment to practice or learn about this ancient art form.

11. Visit the St. Therese Chinese Catholic Church
This historic church, located on Alexander Street, is a unique blend of Chinese and Catholic traditions. The church has served the Chinese community in Chicago for over a century and features Chinese architectural elements alongside traditional Catholic symbols. Attending a service here or simply visiting to admire the architecture can be a spiritual and cultural experience.

12. Experience Nightlife at Chinatown's Karaoke Bars
Chinatown comes alive at night, and one of the best ways to experience the nightlife is by visiting one of the neighborhood's karaoke bars. Places like Sakura Karaoke Lounge offer private rooms where you can sing your heart out with friends. It’s a fun way to end your day in Chinatown, surrounded by music and good company.

13. Take a Chinatown Walking Tour
For a more structured exploration, consider taking a guided walking tour of Chinatown. Several companies offer tours that focus on the history, architecture, and food of the neighborhood. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of Chinatown and often include stops at lesser-known sites.

14. Try Traditional Chinese Medicine
Chinatown is home to several traditional Chinese medicine shops where you can learn about and try various remedies. These shops offer herbs, teas, acupuncture, and other treatments that have been used for centuries in Chinese culture. Whether you’re looking for a natural remedy or simply curious about this aspect of Chinese culture, it’s worth a visit.

15. Visit the Pui Tak Center
The Pui Tak Center, originally built as the On Leong Merchant Association Building, is a prominent landmark in Chinatown. This historic building, with its distinctive pagoda-style architecture, now serves as a community center offering various educational and social services. It’s an important part of Chinatown’s history and a symbol of the neighborhood’s resilience.

16. Indulge in Chinese Pastries
No visit to Chinatown is complete without trying some Chinese pastries. In addition to Chiu Quon Bakery, there are several other bakeries in the area offering a wide range of treats. From red bean buns to custard-filled pastries, these sweets are a delightful way to end your culinary journey in Chinatown.

17. Explore the Local Markets
Chinatown has several markets where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and imported goods from Asia. These markets offer a glimpse into the everyday life of the local community and are a great place to pick up ingredients if you’re interested in cooking Chinese dishes at home.

18. Discover Chinatown's Hidden Gems
Finally, take some time to explore the hidden gems of Chinatown. These might include small temples tucked away on side streets, local art galleries, or family-owned restaurants that aren’t on the tourist maps. The charm of Chinatown lies in its mix of well-known attractions and these lesser-known spots, which together create a rich and rewarding experience.

Conclusion
Chinatown Chicago is a neighborhood that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity. From its bustling streets filled with shops and restaurants to its tranquil parks and cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community. Whether you're here for a day or a weekend, these top things to do in Chinatown will ensure you leave with a deeper appreciation of Chicago’s rich Chinese heritage.