Hidden Treasures in Woodlawn

Jul 10

Jul 10 Hidden Treasures in Woodlawn

You've covered Hyde Park, explored downtown, blew past Chinatown... but a Chicago neighborhood you could have missed in your adventures may have been right in front of you. The neighborhood of Woodlawn–bordered by Lake Michigan to the east, 60th Street to the north, Martin Luther King Drive to the west, and 67th Street to the south–is steeped in culture and life that oozes through every corner of the region. Although it has a dangerous reputation, the friendly nature of Woodlawn natives creates a welcoming and exciting new environment to venture into. Here are a few hotspots to check out!

Greenline Coffee

Located on 61st and S. Eberhart Avenue, this swanky café is now a cultural intersection for everything Woodlawn has to offer. The vibrant atmosphere provides delicately crafted food with hand-made drinks that are one of a kind. The meeting rooms offer local businesses and groups space to discuss and meet up in a new location. This location encourages employment through local residents, and offers an open space for Woodlawn residents to study, learn, and grow.

Harold's Chicken Shack on 64th Street

You may know Harold's on 53rd Street, but the best Harold's in our area has to be in the heart of the Woodlawn community on 64th and S. Cottage Grove Avenue! Its hole-in-the-wall location allows it to be treasured by those aware of its presence, however the smell of the freshly-made chicken permeates through the doors and entices you to come inside. The food is to-die-for, and its small location is good for a small outing or a quick carry-out option!

Prosperity House

This institution is located in a homey environment that offers transitional housing and other support services for homeless women and male veterans. The employees work tirelessly and diligently to offer the best support for those who come through the House, many of whom end up becoming successful and crediting Prosperity House to their success. Meeting the founder Beverly Davis and hearing all the amazing work she has done has lifted my spirits and made me look forward to offering my help in any way possible to those who truly need it. For more information about how to get involved, visit their website here.

Mississippi-Chicago Blues Historical Museum

This store has some of the great hits of music that Chicago is known for–the blues! The wide collection of choices this location offers lets you explore the versatile styles of blues and jazz, while admiring the fitting decor. Johnny Twist–the elusive bluesman legend who has worked with many of the greats from Tina Turner to Elmore James–continues to work here and cultivate his love of blues.