Hyde Park
Famous as the home of both the University of Chicago and (formerly President Obama, Hyde Park was an early Chicago suburb and remains one of the Windy City’s foremost academic addresses. Located south of downtown and spanning several parks plus the Lake Michigan shoreline, it's a great place to stretch your legs, enjoy a meal, and take in fantastic views of the Chicago skyline.
The basics
Hyde Park is nearly encircled by green space, so it's a popular choice for walkers, runners, and bikers. Scenic routes include around the lagoons of Jackson Park, along the Lakefront Trail of Burnham Park, and among the historic Gothic architecture of the University of Chicago campus. The neighborhood also boasts the world-class Museum of Science and Industry—the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere and a favorite family attraction.
Things to know before you go
- Capture the best photos of the Chicago skyline from Promontory Point in Jackson Park.
- Find your Zen at the Japanese-style Osaka Garden inside Jackson Park.
How to get there
Hyde Park is located south of Chicago’s Loop, on the shores of Lake Michigan. From downtown, catch the number 6 Jeffrey Express bus or the Metra’s South Chicago Line. Hyde Park is also easily accessible by car, but parking on the University of Chicago campus is very limited.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The neighborhood becomes a hotbed of musical talent every September during the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. This free event showcases live jazz performances at local squares, churches, campus buildings, and other venues.
Frederick C. Robie House
Located on the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, this National Historic Landmark was designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. It's considered the finest example of Wright’s signature Prairie style and an essential stop for architecture buffs. The residence has been converted into a museum and can be seen on a guided tour. Advance reservations are recommended.
- Frederick C. Robie House
- Museum of Science and Industry
- University of Chicago
- Jackson Park
- Prairie Avenue Historic District
- Tommy Gun's Garage
- Chicago Chinatown
- Northerly Island
- Soldier Field
- Adler Planetarium
- Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Harold Washington Library Center (Chicago Public Library)
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago Board of Trade Building