Canadians at Easter - Neighbourhood

Question

Hi everyone, just wanted to check in with you on our choice of neighbourhood. My fellow travellers agreed that we are fine taking transit if it means we get a place with 2 bedrooms so we booked an Airbandb in a neighbourhood that seems to be called Little Italy and University Village.

Any information you can give me about the area is greatly appreciated. We will be driving there but not planning to drive around the city. Looks like blue and pink lines are close by.

Answer

Little Italy and University Village are both great neighborhoods in Chicago, and you're in for a treat during your stay. Here's some detailed information about the area and what to expect:

Neighborhood Overview

Little Italy is known for its charming streets, Italian-American culture, and a variety of Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. The area is residential but also home to several businesses that give it a cozy, neighborhood feel. University Village is right next door and is more modern, with a lot of university-related development (as it’s near the University of Illinois at Chicago, UIC). Both neighborhoods are relatively peaceful but are still close enough to downtown Chicago that you can easily get to the main tourist spots.

Here are some key points about the neighborhood:

Great Food Scene: You'll find lots of Italian restaurants, delis, and pizza places in Little Italy. Some local favorites include Arturo's (great pizza) and Volare (Italian dining). University Village has a variety of eateries as well, often offering more casual options.
Access to Transit: As you noted, the Blue and Pink lines are close by, making it easy to get to downtown Chicago and popular areas like the Loop, River North, and the West Loop. The Blue Line will take you directly to O'Hare and also connects you to downtown. The Pink Line will take you to the West Loop and Pilsen, both cool neighborhoods with a lot of local charm.
Vibrant Atmosphere: While the area is quieter compared to neighborhoods like River North or Lincoln Park, it's still a great spot to be if you like to be in a lively but not overly touristy neighborhood. University Village has more student-oriented shops and cafes, while Little Italy retains a more traditional, family-friendly atmosphere.
Proximity to Attractions: The area is very close to UIC’s campus, but it’s also near some notable Chicago attractions like The National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, Taylor Street (famous for its Italian restaurants), and the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Medical District. You can also take a quick transit ride or drive to the Loop, Millennium Park, and the Chicago Riverwalk for sightseeing.
Parking and Driving: Since you mentioned you’ll be driving, parking in this neighborhood should be manageable. Keep in mind that the area can get busy at times, particularly around weekends, but there are parking garages and street parking available. Just be mindful of street cleaning days and regulations. You'll also be close to the major highways, so getting out of the city for day trips is relatively easy.

Things to Do Nearby

Here are a few things to consider while you’re in the area:

Little Italy Walking Tour: Take a stroll through Taylor Street to enjoy the Italian architecture, cafes, and local shops. It’s a charming part of the city, especially in the warmer months.
Foodie Adventures: Try the many Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in Little Italy. The neighborhood is perfect for a relaxing food-focused day. You can grab coffee and pastries from places like Caffé Italia or enjoy a hearty Italian meal at one of the classic local spots.
Pilsen District: A short ride on the Pink Line will bring you to the Pilsen neighborhood, which is known for its vibrant murals, Mexican-American culture, and unique galleries. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re into art and history.
Explore the UIC Campus: You’re right next to the University of Illinois at Chicago campus, which has beautiful parks and open spaces. Take a walk around the campus, or check out the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, which is dedicated to the social reformer who worked to improve urban living conditions.
Visit the Chicago Riverwalk: A short drive or public transit ride can get you to the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can enjoy riverside dining, boat tours, and beautiful views of the city.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Little Italy and University Village are wonderful neighborhoods for your stay, especially if you're looking for a more relaxed, local experience. With easy access to transit and proximity to great food and cultural attractions, you'll have a fantastic time exploring Chicago from this area. It's also a great spot for families or groups who want a more residential vibe while still being close to the main tourist destinations.

As you’re traveling to Chicago, you’ll find that taking the Blue and Pink lines will give you easy access to nearly everything the city has to offer. Enjoy your trip!