Best Things to Do in Chinatown, Chicago: Restaurants, Museums, Karaoke and More

So, you’ve done the fancy restaurants, maybe stayed at one of those pricey hotels in downtown Chicago, but have you really explored the city if you’ve never set foot in Chinatown? This neighborhood is more than just a cultural pocket; it’s the beating heart of Chicago’s Chinese community. Think bustling streets, colorful murals, hidden gem cafes ranging from budget bites to high-end Chinese dining, quirky boutiques, karaoke bars, and mouthwatering food at every corner.

What To Do in Chinatown, Chicago? 10 Best Activities Listed!

Whether you’re into history, shopping, food, or just vibing with the local scene, Chinatown has something for just about everyone. Ready to ditch the tourist traps and see a different side of the Windy City?

Are your visas and flight tickets ready? Pick your favorite spot, plan your trip, and live the life of a traveler.

Let’s dive into the best things to do in Chinatown, Chicago

1. Chinatown Square | Double-story Outdoor Mall

Chinatown Square is the main hub of all the happenings of Chinatown Chicago. You will find a variety of shops, boutiques, restaurants, some of the best cafes, corporate offices, and beauty stores while strolling around. Sweet Café serves the best breakfast in Chicago, and I can personally vouch for their Hong Kong-style milk tea and egg tarts; they’re unforgettable. Chinatown Square is one of the most vibrant and authentic representations of the Chinese American community, recognized by travel experts as a must-visit cultural landmark, that aims to educate history and drive business opportunities.

You will always find it crowded as it attracts many tourists from all over the world. From business to cultural festivals and celebrations, it hosts all the events and flourishes every year. When I visited during the Lunar New Year parade, the energy was unmatched, exactly why local tour guides recommend this time of year for an immersive experience.

The stunning architecture is designed with thousands of precise glass pieces, and twelve bronze zodiac figures (representing each animal in the Chinese zodiac calendar) are the key attractions that lure history buffs. These sculptures were created to preserve traditional symbolism while engaging modern audiences, and standing beside them made me feel like I’d stepped into another era. It has made the nightlife of Chinatown much more lively.

Insights from locals: Detailed representation of life in China, cheap parking lots, might face water drainage issues in case of rain.

2. Qiaolin Hot Pot | Authentic and Exotic Chinese Restaurant

Are you a fan of a hearty Chinese hotpot with dividers so you can taste different kinds of broths, consequently? Then, you must visit the highly-rated Qiaolin Hot Pot. It’s considered one of the top authentic hotpot spots in the city, and I can confirm, it’s worth every bite. They have a variety of meats, veggies, and seafood for the broths. The most famous cuisine is their rich, spicy Chongqing-style hot pot, which, as any hotpot enthusiast will tell you, is a benchmark of true Sichuan flavor. You can find some of the most delicious Chinese food here.

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The woody texture and warm aesthetics complement the overall vibe of the space. When I walked in, the aroma alone made me instantly hungry, and the interior felt both inviting and refined. The lively atmosphere and energetic service are worth spending money on. Food bloggers often recommend pairing the hotpot with their house-made dipping sauces for a complete experience. You can also try a snack bar of desserts, spices, and fruits at an economical price. For me, the freshly cut short ribs, tender, juicy, and their signature dish, were the highlight of the meal.

Insights from locals: They always offer sufficient portions but take no reservations. So you might have to wait for some time, plenty of parking space is available.

3. Chiu Quon Bakery & Dim Sum | Classic Chinese Bakery

For more than 30 years, they have been in business and established themselves as one of Chicago’s most respected and authentic Chinese bakeries, often praised by local food critics. They utilize fresh ingredients and prepare everything from scratch to ensure that visitors get the best of the best. I could instantly taste the difference; everything felt homemade, rich, and comforting. The egg tart, BBQ pork buns, and sponge cakes are famous for their taste and freshness, and the egg tart in particular reminded me of the iconic ones I tried in Hong Kong.

You can also enjoy their signature dim sum dishes like steamed sticky rice in a lotus leaf and shrimp dumplings. Their shrimp dumplings are among the city’s best, and I have to agree; they were plump, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They can give tough competition to the world’s delicious food items in terms of taste and quality. You might face long queues, but I found the wait surprisingly quick, thanks to the friendly and well-coordinated staff who kept things moving efficiently even during peak hours.

Insights from locals: Always bring cash, as they do not support credit cards, affordable prices, and delightful taste.

4. Chinese American Veterans Memorial

This memorial aims to pay tribute to the people who served in all branches of the military. According to the Chicago Cultural Alliance, it stands as one of the most significant landmarks honoring Chinese American contributions to U.S. history. It is a heartwarming experience to see and explore the stories of the people who sacrificed their lives to protect the United States. When I visited, I took a moment to read the engraved names, and it truly made me pause and reflect on the depth of their service and bravery.

In your entire plan to visit, you must include it to make your trip more memorable and informative. Even if you’re not a history enthusiast, standing there surrounded by the quiet dignity of the memorial is an experience that connects you to a powerful chapter of American history.

5. St. Therese Chinese Catholic Church

It is a historic church made in the 1940s with prominent Chinese features like Chinese tablets and gold-black inscriptions. It stands as a powerful example of cultural fusion between Catholic tradition and Chinese heritage. It is a great representation and landmark of the strength of the Chinese community in Chicago. The church was named after St. Therese, a saint in the Catholic faith.

Standing tall on Alexander Street, it has stone lions at the entrance and large glass windows. When I walked through the entrance flanked by the lions, I felt as though I had stepped into a sacred space that beautifully blends two worlds. It is a major support and source of belonging for immigrants. The management also gives referrals for citizenship and English classes, which locals often praise as an invaluable resource for new arrivals.

6. Aji Ichiban | Great Candy Store

Want a sugary kick to your vacation trip? It is the ultimate candy store your inner child will love. From snacks to hundreds of varieties of candies, it is a dreamy place for people who love sweets. The colorful aisles and stalls overloaded with packaged sweets will leave you delighted. Chicago food bloggers frequently call it the “sweetest corner of Chinatown.”

They not only have regular sweets and candies but also some unique stuff like dried fruits and specific Asian candies. For some options, like dried squid and other seafood, they offer free tasting. I tried the dried mango and raspberry Kit Kats, and honestly, they were unlike anything I’d had before.

Also Read: Top Seafood Restaurants in Chicago

If you are coming with kids, visiting Aji Ichiban is one of the first things to do in Chicago tonight. It’s also a fun stop for adults who want to explore nostalgic treats or rare imports you won’t find in mainstream stores. Buying a variety of Kit Kat and raspberry-flavored candies is the best way to explore the taste of China.

Insights from locals: Expensive prices, attentive staff is ready to help you with a wide assortment of candies and spicy items.

7. Sakura Karaoke Bar

For the people who love music and dance, Chinatown also offers one of the best karaoke experiences. At the Sakura Karaoke Bar, you can get top-notch music systems and songs in various languages with a wide stage to dance the entire night with your friends. The Chicago Reader has listed it among the city’s most fun late-night spots for its lively crowd and diverse music mix. They have now introduced birthday and bachelorette packages to accommodate diverse youth.

Even if you are not with a large group and need a more intimate setting, they can offer you the best experience. When I went with just two friends, we still ended up singing for hours; it’s that good. With the music, you can enjoy the delicately crafted martinis and liquors. To satisfy the craving for delicious food, you can order a variety of Asian and Western cuisines.

Their music selection is varied, from Red Velvet to Taylor Swift, Jack Harlow, Doja Cat, and IU, guaranteeing hours upon hours of belt-your-heart-out fun. And trust me, after a night like that, a good coffee from a nearby café is exactly what you’ll need.

Insights from locals: Excellent lighting effects and stage setup, diverse music selection. Make reservations earlier for VIP rooms.

8. Pui Tak Center | Church-based Community Center

Decorated with traditional Chinese aesthetics, this renowned center is a significant landmark for the Chinese community in Chicago. “Pui Tak” means to build character and cultivate integrity, which perfectly describes its core values and purpose. The center is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places for its cultural and architectural significance.

Its clay roof tiles, terra-cotta panels, Chinese motifs, and wide overhanging eaves represent authentic Chinese designs with a Western touch. But what makes it more interesting is that it was designed by Norwegian architects rather than Chinese. When I first learned that, it gave me a whole new appreciation for the global influences that shaped this neighborhood. The center aims to teach various programs for all ages, including English classes, tutoring, educational programs, and community services to help individuals adjust to life in the U.S.

Insights from locals: There are so many activities at any given time here, a beautiful place to visit and learn, and excellent services and products.

9. Ping Tom Memorial Park

It caters to people of all ages because it has a children’s playground, adult multipurpose gymnasiums, meeting rooms, fitness centers, and much more. Decorated with Chinese and Western design techniques, it truly represents the harmony between both nations. Spread over 17.44 acres, it offers stunning views of Chicago’s skyline. It’s often highlighted by the Chicago Park District as one of the city’s most scenic urban parks.

Ping Tom Memorial Park and the Chicago Water Taxi station are side by side. You can start your journey by taking the water taxi and having incredible outdoor dining. I took the water taxi during sunset, and the skyline view from the river was absolutely breathtaking.

Insights from locals: Parking lots can be full on busy weekends, and fine public art, shaded benches, and walking tracks are available.

10. Nine Dragon Wall

The Nine Dragon Wall is a true representation of Chinese culture. It is the imitation of one of the three Nine Dragon Walls built outside of China. In terms of design, it has nine large dragons and over 500 smaller dragons painted in different colors. It is made of glazed tiles and red, gold, and blue colors, symbolizing good fortune in Chinese culture. Architecture experts often cite it as a remarkable example of cultural preservation in urban spaces.

If you love Asian architecture and aesthetics, you will love its artistic appearance. When I stood there in front of the wall, the intricate tile work and vibrant colors felt almost alive in the sunlight. Located adjacent to the “L” stop at the entrance of Chinatown, you will easily spot it.

Insights from locals: A great backdrop for pictures, impressive and intricate detailing, and great historical depth.

Conclusion

Since there are a variety of activities and things to do in Chinatown, Chicago, it is the best vacation destination for you. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a foodie, or simply a curious traveler, there’s something here to inspire you. Get a chance to explore the culture of China and how they maneuver their life, do business, and follow their culture while living in the USA.

In the bustling neighborhood of Chinatown, you can experience Chinese culture, food, music, festivals, and celebrations in their true colors. From my own visits, I can say that no matter how many times you come back, Chinatown always offers something new to discover, and that’s the magic of it.

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