How long does it take to walk through Wicker Park?

A standard walking route covering the main highlights takes about 90 to 120 minutes. This 1.5-mile journey from the Chopin Theatre to The Robey allows plenty of time for browsing at Myopic Books and Reckless Records.

Is Wicker Park safe to walk at night?

Yes, Wicker Park is a very active neighborhood at night with many restaurants and bars. The main thoroughfares of Milwaukee, Damen, and North Avenues are well-lit and populated, though as in any city, it is best to remain aware of your surroundings.

Can I visit the filming locations from High Fidelity in Wicker Park?

Yes, much of the 2000 film High Fidelity was filmed in Wicker Park. While the specific storefront used for 'Championship Vinyl' is now a different business, the spirit is preserved at nearby Reckless Records on Milwaukee Avenue.

What is the 'Six Corners' in Chicago?

In Wicker Park, 'Six Corners' refers to the major intersection of North, Damen, and Milwaukee Avenues. It is the commercial and social heart of the neighborhood, home to the Flatiron Arts Building and The Robey.

Is the Wicker Park walking route family-friendly?

Absolutely. The route is flat and includes a stop at the actual Wicker Park, which has a playground and plenty of space for children to run. Many of the shops like Myopic Books are welcoming to all ages.

What are the best shops to visit in Wicker Park?

Wicker Park is famous for independent retail. Key stops include Myopic Books for used literature, Reckless Records for vinyl, and the many vintage clothing boutiques lining Milwaukee Avenue.

Is there a lot of street art in Wicker Park?

Yes, Wicker Park and the adjacent Bucktown neighborhood are filled with murals and street art. You can find many pieces in the alleys off Milwaukee Avenue and along the nearby 606 elevated trail.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the heartbeat of Chicago’s creative soul with this self-guided walk through Wicker Park. Long before it was a destination for trendy boutiques and high-end dining, this neighborhood was a haven for Polish immigrants, followed by a gritty playground for the city's 1990s counter-culture. This neighborhood stroll captures that evolution, leading you past historic mansions, legendary record stores, and the iconic 'Six Corners' intersection where the neighborhood's energy is most palpable. You will explore how a working-class district transformed into a bohemian mecca, influencing music, literature, and art far beyond the city limits. This walking route Chicago provides the freedom to linger in one of the nation's best used bookstores or grab a coffee while admiring the Art Deco architecture that defines the skyline here. Whether you are a fan of indie rock history or Victorian-era urban planning, this journey offers a deep dive into the layers of local identity. Along the way, you will see how the community preserves its artistic heritage through the Flatiron Arts Building and the Chopin Theatre, ensuring the 'bohemian spirit' remains alive amidst modern changes. This is more than just a path through a neighborhood; it is an invitation to discover the stories behind the storefronts at your own pace. For those seeking a comprehensive walking tour Chicago experience that balances history with modern lifestyle, this route offers the perfect blend of the gritty past and the great present. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The historic Chopin Theatre and its role in the Polish Triangle

Vinyl culture at the legendary Reckless Records

The Victorian charm and community spirit of Wicker Park itself

Floor-to-ceiling literary treasures at Myopic Books

The creative pulse of the Flatiron Arts Building

Panoramic neighborhood views from the iconic Robey hotel

Tour Stops (6)

Chopin Theatre

Start your journey at the Chopin Theatre, a cornerstone of the 'Polish Triangle.' Built in 1918, this building serves as a reminder of the era when Wicker Park was the center of Polish life in Chicago. The theater has survived various incarnations, from a cinema to a storage facility, before being restored as a hub for avant-garde performance. Its ornate facade and eclectic interior reflect the neighborhood's transition from traditional immigrant roots to a center for experimental art. Note the intricate brickwork and the way it anchors this busy intersection, serving as a gateway to the neighborhood's creative spirit.

Reckless Records

Wicker Park's reputation as a 1990s indie-rock capital is perfectly encapsulated here at Reckless Records. Originally founded in London before finding its footing in Chicago, this shop became a sanctuary for the city's alternative music scene. While the store has moved locations within the neighborhood over the years, its influence remains constant. It represents the era when artists like Liz Phair and Smashing Pumpkins frequented these streets. Whether you are a vinyl collector or just a casual listener, the rows of records here tell the story of a neighborhood that has always marched to its own beat.

Wicker (Charles, Joel) Park

Enter the namesake of the neighborhood, Wicker Park. This four-acre green space was donated by brothers Charles and Joel Wicker in 1870. The park is famous for its Goudy Fountain and the surrounding 'Beer Baron' mansions—large, ornate homes built by wealthy German and Scandinavian brewers in the late 19th century. Today, the park serves as the community's living room. You might see locals playing basketball, dogs running in the designated areas, or people simply relaxing on the grass. It is the perfect spot to observe the contrast between the neighborhood's historic wealth and its modern, laid-back vibe.

Myopic Books

As you walk down Milwaukee Avenue, look for the distinctive sign of Myopic Books. This is one of Chicago’s oldest and largest used bookstores, housing over 80,000 volumes across multiple levels. The floor-to-ceiling shelves and narrow aisles create a labyrinthine world for book lovers. Myopic is famous for its 'no cell phone' policy, encouraging visitors to disconnect and get lost in the printed word. It stands as a testament to the neighborhood's intellectual and literary history, surviving as an independent bastion in an era of digital retail. The smell of old paper and the quiet atmosphere offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling street outside.

The Flatiron Arts Building

You are now at the 'Six Corners' intersection, where Milwaukee, North, and Damen Avenues meet. The triangular Flatiron Arts Building is the visual anchor of this junction. Since the 1980s, this building has provided affordable studio space for painters, sculptors, and performers, helping to cement Wicker Park's status as an artist colony. While the neighborhood has become more commercialized, the Flatiron remains a working arts space. Keep an eye out for posters for local shows or open studio events. The building’s unique shape and history make it a symbol of the neighborhood’s enduring commitment to the creative class.

The Robey

Finish your walk at The Robey, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. Originally known as the Northwest Tower and completed in 1929, this skyscraper was once the tallest building outside the downtown Loop. Its 'Coyote Building' nickname comes from its pointed, prow-like shape. Recently converted into a boutique hotel, it has preserved much of its historic character, including the original limestone and the iconic cupola. For a final view of the route you just traversed, consider heading to the rooftop lounge (subject to availability) to see the Chicago skyline and the sprawling grid of Wicker Park from above.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk focusing on the 'Six Corners' area is ideal. This route includes the Flatiron Arts Building, which has been the neighborhood's creative hub since the 1980s, and the Chopin Theatre, showcasing the area's performing arts history.