Top 10 Things To Do and See in Chicago’s Chinatown

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One of the largest Chinese malls in America, Chinatown Square is a two story outdoor mall consisting of a variety of shops and restaurants. Another thing to take note of is the beautiful architecture of the Square; every minute detail is clear and precise. Since opening in 1993, the Square has been a popular mainstay of the Chicago Chinatown and a perfect way to spend the day.

When approaching Chinatown, it’s hard to miss the giant red pillars signalling the heart, otherwise known as Old Chinatown. One thing that really stands out is the rich, surrounding history. The buildings are all beautiful in design, with walls supported by detailed street art murals and sculptures; everything seems to have its own unique story, in a way that isn’t always so apparent.

The Chinese American Museum of Chicago, which opened in 2005, is a great way to learn about Chinese culture and experience it first hand. Located at 238 W 23rd Street, the museum hosts exhibits and educational events for all ages. Past exhibits have covered Chinese customs regarding death, birth, marriage, and longevity, as well as stories from those who have an emotional connection with the culture. With jaw-dropping artwork that tells a cohesive story, it’s hard to not be in awe walking the halls of the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago.

Situated on the corner of Cermak and Archer, the Chinese American Veteran’s Memorial serves as a great tribute, honoring those of Chinese descent who fought to protect the United States. Though small, this is the perfect way to pay respect to all of those veterans. For that alone, it is worth checking out.

Located at 1700 S Wentworth, the Ping Tom Memorial Park offers a stunning scenic display, rich in artifacts and texture representing Chinese culture, from the Ping Tom Portrait Bust to the Fieldhouse to the Boat House. There is a river with opportunities for kayaking, or just have a nice, pleasant walk. This is the perfect blend of Chicago and China that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!

One of the newest editions to Chinatown, PopKTV, which opened in 2014, has become Chinatown’s go-to Karaoke bar. Unlike most Karaoke bars, PopKTV allows you the one thing everybody wants when they’re singing drunken karaoke: privacy! PopKTV offers 11 private rooms at $38 an hour, each of which holds up to 15 people, so you and your friends can sing your inebriated hearts out without fear of judgment. Song stylings are available in Chinese, English, and Spanish.

Located in Old Chinatown, HoyPoloi Gallery has some of the most unique art, ranging from inspirational to insanely weird, from a wide array of contemporary artists. Blending just about anything imaginable, from real objects to imaginative fantasy with a splash of surrealism, there is no limit to just how far art can go in the HoyPoloi Gallery. Be prepared for a wild ride into the realm of endless creative possibilities and illusions!

The ancient structure of the Pui Tak Center almost tells a story all its own. Pui Tak, which in Chinese means ‘to build character or cultivate virtue,’ is Chinatown’s only historical landmark, and it was purchased by the Chinese Christian Union Church in 1993. Today, the building is used mainly for youth programs (and some adult programs) based on the teachings of Jesus. The Pui Tak Center is also significant as ‘a gateway for Chinese immigrants coming to Chicago.’

With so many great places to eat in Chinatown, it’s hard to narrow down your options to just one place. At Cai, a dim sum restaurant in Chinatown, you’re seated in a room that has an elegant banquet-room vibe, complete with chandeliers hanging high above. It’s affordable, with a menu that ranges from traditional dim sum to seafood, and with all sorts of rarities that are sure to appease even the pickiest eater. At Golden Bull Restaurant, there are the more traditional Cantonese dining options. The menu is 14 pages, and each item looks equally appetizing. It’s hard to go wrong! Emperor’s Choice Restaurant is a much more intimate option, with a low-key and personal feel — a plus on overcrowded Chinatown days. Regardless of the occasion or the sophistication of your taste buds, Chinatown has something for you.

The annual The Chinese Lunar New Year Parade always serves as a great chance to celebrate the rich heritage of the Chinese culture; this year, it takes place on February 22nd. Between marching bands, floats, dragon and lion dancers, and a 100-foot dragon, the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade has just about everything you could hope for in a traditional Chinese parade. It is as authentic as you can get without actually being in China.