Chicago Southland’s Arts and Culture
Taste, see, learn and experience the heritage of Chicago's southern districts.
Come hungry for adventure and lots more when visiting Chicago Southland. Follow this guide to find the perfect activity for you.
In This Article
Festivals
Revel in the heart and jest of Eastern European Heritage at the Pierogi Festival in Whiting, Ind., with singing, polka dancing and eating far too many fried dumplings.
Bike up the Old Plank Trail and corral your bike securely or park for free to get strolling through Frankfort Fall Festival’s more than 300 artisan craft stations and Sunday parade.
Test your skills in the Chocolate Bake-Off or showcase your talents at eating desserts at the many baking demonstrations and vendor booths at Homewood’s Chocolate Fest.
“Enjoy some of the best flavors, sights and sounds ever assembled in one place,” at Tinley Park Brew & Vine Fest rave The Hat Guys, one of the live performing bands.
Museums and Art
Nineteen exhibits at the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn offer interactive opportunities for kids to strengthen learning skills, learn about patriotism and environmental care, and chase their talents and dreams through play-based education.
Free admission and year-round tours at Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park offer scenic views and treks around 28 works occupying the Governors State University campus.
Downtown Homewood has become an outdoor showroom for Richard Haas Murals. His latest series of works depicts the history of the area in realistic style.
Venues
First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre, the Midwest’s largest outdoor concert venue with more than 12,000 seats, showcases worldwide performers.
Home to Major League Soccer team Chicago Fire, Toyota Park is more than a sports arena as it transforms into a stage for world-class performers and festivals.
Freedom Hall presents shows of comic, musical and theatrical nature with special features at their children’s theater.
Since 1931 The Drama Group has flourished by local volunteers and support, featuring noteworthy acts likened to those of Broadway.
Catch one of 50-plus annual live performances at the Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University that houses a visual arts gallery, spotlighting community theater alongside national touring acts.
Historic Sites
Witness how George Pullman, famous for designing the first “sleeping cars” of 1850’s, influenced Chicago’s industrial society at Pullman State Historic Site.
Peek inside cupboards at Park Forest House Museum to find surprises, play with toys of the era and more in the authentic 1950’s home of a veteran and his family.
Henry Ford Airport Hangar invites you to remember great players in the aviation field from the 1920’s onward and those who have served our country in their Veterans Memorial.