Pilsen and Chinatown sit close to each other on the Near South Side, separated by a short trip along the river. Pilsen is known for its Mexican-American culture, colorful murals and the always-free National Museum of Mexican Art. Chinatown has a busy main street, a riverside park with a boathouse and a long history as the center of Chinese-American life in Chicago. Visiting both in one day gives you two very different neighborhoods and a lot of good food.
Key takeaways
- The National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen is always free and is usually closed on Mondays.
- Pilsen’s murals are concentrated along 16th Street and 18th Street.
- Ping Tom Memorial Park in Chinatown has a riverside boathouse with seasonal kayak rentals.
Pilsen
Pilsen was settled by Czech immigrants in the 19th century, which explains its name and some of its older buildings. Since the mid-20th century it has been one of the centers of Mexican-American life in Chicago. Its main commercial street is 18th Street, lined with bakeries, taquerias, cafes and galleries.
Public art is everywhere. Large murals cover building walls along 18th Street, and the long railroad embankment on 16th Street carries dozens of murals by local and visiting artists. The tradition goes back to the late 1960s, when artists began painting murals about the community’s history and heritage. Walking these streets is a free open-air gallery.
The National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art, in Harrison Park, is one of the largest museums of its kind in the country and has always been free. Its collection spans ancient art, folk art, painting and contemporary work, and its Day of the Dead exhibition each fall draws visitors from across the region. It is generally open Tuesday through Sunday.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a short trip east. Its traditional main street is Wentworth Avenue, marked by a large gate, with restaurants, bakeries, tea shops and grocery stores. Nearby, Chinatown Square has more shops and restaurants around an open plaza with zodiac sculptures.
Ping Tom Memorial Park sits on the South Branch of the Chicago River, with lawns, a pagoda-inspired pavilion and a boathouse. In warmer months you can rent kayaks from the boathouse for a paddle along the river with views of the skyline. In summer, water taxis connect Chinatown with downtown, which makes for a fun way to arrive.
Pilsen and Chinatown compared
| Pilsen | Chinatown | |
|---|---|---|
| Main street | 18th Street | Wentworth Avenue |
| Highlights | Murals, free art museum, galleries | Food, shops, riverside park |
| Best time | Daytime, any season | Lunch or dinner; summer for the river |
| Outdoor activity | Mural walks | Kayaking from the boathouse |
| Transit | CTA Pink Line | CTA Red Line |
Tip: Start in Pilsen in the late morning, when the museum opens and the murals are in good light, then head to Chinatown for a late lunch and an afternoon by the river.
Who this day suits
- Food lovers who want two very different food scenes in one day.
- Visitors interested in art and neighborhood culture.
- Anyone looking for a free museum and a free outdoor walk.
Before you go
- Check the museum’s hours; it is closed on Mondays and major holidays.
- Kayak rentals are seasonal; confirm current operators and hours before you go.
- Weekends are lively in both neighborhoods; weekday mornings are quieter.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the mural walk, which covers a fair distance.
Food as the main event
For many visitors, food is the real reason to spend a day in these two neighborhoods. Pilsen’s 18th Street has bakeries, taquerias and cafes serving regional Mexican dishes. Chinatown’s restaurants cover several regional Chinese cuisines, along with bakeries and tea shops. Share dishes, try something new in each place and leave room for dessert. Many restaurants in both neighborhoods are small and busy at peak times, so eating a little early or late helps.
Common mistakes
Many visitors walk only one block of 18th Street and miss the 16th Street murals, which are among the best. Another mistake is visiting the museum on a Monday. A third is filling up on lunch in Pilsen and having no appetite left for Chinatown; pace yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Is the National Museum of Mexican Art free?
Yes. Admission has always been free.
Can I walk from Pilsen to Chinatown?
It is possible, but it is a long walk along busy streets. Many people take the train, a bus or a short ride between them.
Can you kayak on the Chicago River?
Yes. In season, kayaks can be rented from the boathouse at Ping Tom Memorial Park. Check the park district’s website for current details.
For more places that never charge admission, see Free Museums in Chicago: Always-Free Places and How Free Days Work. Another neighborhood worth a full day is covered in The 606, Wicker Park and Bucktown: An Elevated Trail and Two Neighborhoods.