First stop: Chinatown. In this vibrant area near Wentworth and Cermak, many immigrants from Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan still perfect their mastery of English and become acclimated to Chicago before moving elsewhere in the city or suburbs.
Beginning in the 1870s, Chicago’s Chinese population grew steadily to reach more than 128,000 with Asian or Pacific Isle roots by 2005. This growth, Chicago Tribune 
reported several years ago, has ignited “a Chinese explosion…a transformation that sets Chicago’s Chinatown apart from its peers on both coasts.”
Community heritage is preserved in the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, the Midwest’s only museum of its kind. And a strong emphasis on education and literacy thrives in the Chinatown Library, one of the city’s busiest branches, and in events such as the exciting annual Chicago Dragon Boat Race for Literacy.
In addition to being a hub for Chicago’s Asian Americans, Chinatown has long been a popular place for visitors to experience Chinese culture and cuisine. Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce points to Chinatown Gate, The Nine Dragon Wall, Pui Tak Center Building, Ping Tom Memorial Park, and other attractions representing the majestic traditions of China alongside the area’s stunning number of Chinese restaurants, gift shops, and grocery and medicine stores.
Since the 1970s, Argyle Street in Uptown has flourished with Southeast Asian immigrants and the shops and restaurants they own.
Explore both Chinatown and Argyle Street with guides from Chicago Greeter – a free service which helps visitors discover the city’s remarkable sights and ambiance.