Little Village

Little Village is one of Chicago's more populated areas with over 90,000 residents. The area is largely Hispanic with a large Mexican and immigrant population. Chicago has always been a home for immigrants. Historically, Little Village has seen more than one wave of immigration coming through the neighborhood including the Poles.

Mexican Independence Day is a very big deal in Little Village. If you are in for an amazing and lively parade, then this has to be one of Chicago's best places to go. I went once and it was pretty amazing, as there is no shortage of activities and people. In fact, this might be one of the best people watching events in the city every year, but be warned, it can get crowded!

Little Village is also home to some pretty fantastic restaurants that are definitely worth a try. The large number of immigrants from Mexico mean that you can find the "real deal" when it comes to Mexican food. Just keep in mind that if your only trip to the area is during the Mexican Independence Day parade, you can probably forget eating at any of the restaurants or at the very best you will be waiting a very long time. If you are going to try out some of the local restaurants, your best bet is to go any other time of the year!

There are plenty of Hispanic communities in Chicago, but none have as much culture and spirit as Little Village. Little Village is filled with Mexican Americans and Mexican immigrants who really celebrate their culture in this lively neighborhood. There’s definitely a community and family-friendly vibe there. Even though it’s surrounded by somewhat sketchy neighborhoods, Little Village is fairly safe from what I’ve seen.

If you like Mexican food at ALL, it’s a must to visit Little Village. First, the El Milagro tortilla factory is in the neighborhood (you can see the building if you’re driving this way on the Stevenson, which cuts through the area). They have a taqueria attached. Fresh tortillas made into delicious tacos? Doesn’t get much better! The street is lined with all sorts of other food options, from restaurants to carts, serving traditional food that goes far beyond tacos. If you do any cooking and have a hard time finding traditional Mexican ingredients, there are a bunch of grocery stores in the area that carry everything you might need. There are also shops selling Western-wear and other clothing, candy and piñatas.

There are two festivals that I know of in the area – the Mexican Independence Day one and the Cinco de Mayo one. These are also a great reason to visit this colorful, upbeat neighborhood.

The Little Village neighborhood is often referred to as La Villita because of its strong Hispanic influence. As the setting of the massive 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade, Little Village is full of ethnic pride and cultural activities. Found on the city’s West Side, this vibrant neighborhood is home to tons of shopping areas, restaurants, and an overall community-conscious energy.

Visitors to the Little Village are often overwhelmed with the number of businesses in this neighborhood. There are dozens of restaurants the feature ethnic dining at its best and tons of boutiques, craft shops, and stores of all kinds. It’s hard to pinpoint one thing that makes Little Village so exciting because there are so many things around each corner. When I visit the area, I am struck by the sense of community in the area and how alive the entire neighborhood feels.

If you’re in the mood for some real Mexican food, this is the place to find it. When you visit Little Village, you will find it to be easily accessible from CTA and Metra trains, which makes it a convenient place for residents of the neighborhood as well. Simply put, when you’re after a strong cultural energy in a completely unique neighborhood, it’s time to check out La Villita.

Little Village is becoming a favorite destination for younger families looking for an affordable home. I wouldn't say it's the best neighborhood, and there are certainly some limitations, but it has it's moments.
Food is going to be mostly dominated by Mexican food. The population is mostly dominated by Hispanics, so there's a lot of Mexican pride. It's pretty fun, actually. I've never been here for it, but I know they celebrate Mexico Independence Day in September. For food, I don't mind Mexican from time to time, although I wouldn't want it everyday. Still, if you're in the mood, you'll find what you're looking for.
Nightlife is pretty abysmal if you ask me. I can't think of a single place to have a drink. I'm sure there are a few bars, but I'd rather go elsewhere.
There is some good shopping the area, so you wouldn't suffer from any retail withdrawal. You can stop by 26th St. and find some pretty nice stores. Not the best in the city, but still solid.
Overall, I wouldn't give Little Village a glowing recommendation, but it is a good location for younger families on a budget. Not high marks, but not low.