Steps & Steeples: Explore Ukrainian Village

Warm weather is finally here (sort of), and we’re kicking off another great neighborhood adventure! This week, we’re exploring one of Chicago’s most architecturally rich and culturally vibrant areas—Ukrainian Village. We'll stroll past stunning churches, museums, and schools, taking in the intricate details that make this neighborhood a true gem. And since it’s a Sunday, we’ll have the special opportunity to step inside some of the beautiful churches while services are open to the public. Come walk, learn, and enjoy the spring sunshine with us!

The walk promises to be delightful on a beautiful late Sunday morning. Not a dedicated photo walk, but you’ll definitely want your camera! This is a multi-meetup group event, so it's a great way to explore Chicago and meet some new faces.

Join us for a private walking tour of Ukrainian Village and discover one of Chicago’s most charming and culturally rich neighborhoods. For just $20 per person, this guided tour offers a deeper look at the area’s unique architecture, fascinating history, and vibrant community. We’ll explore everything from magnificent churches and historic schools to hidden residential gems that give the neighborhood its distinctive character. Led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide, this tour promises to bring Ukrainian Village’s story to life. Spots are limited, so reserve your place today and treat yourself to an unforgettable Sunday stroll!

Beginning at the Saints Volodymyr & Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church, this walking tour will take you on a journey through the heart of Ukrainian Village. We’ll explore the neighborhood’s rich history, charming business district, fascinating museums, striking architecture, and, of course, its beautiful churches.

This is an outdoor walking tour covering approximately 2.1 miles, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for Chicago’s warm weather. We’ll be moving at a relaxed pace—just bring your curiosity and enjoy the experience!

Please keep in mind that the tour ends about 1.5 blocks from where we start, so park accordingly if you drive. We start at Saints Volodymyr & Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church, 739 N Oakley Blvd., and end at Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, 2320 W Chicago Ave., so it is an easy walk back to your car, depending on where you park

To join this engaging experience, a $20 fee is due at the start of the tour (cash, PayPal, Zelle or Venmo accepted). Discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture of Ukrainian Village. Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, this experience will leave you seeing the neighborhood in a whole new light. Come walk with us and make your Sunday unforgettable!

After the walk, some of us may grab a bite at Tryzub Ukrainian Kitchen, 2201 W Chicago Ave. All are welcome to join! https://tryzubchicago.com/

All are welcome to join! BRING CASH IF JOINING FOR LUNCH, AS SOME VENUES DON'T ACCEPT SEPARATE CHECKS!

Ukrainian Village began as farmland and was originally home to a large population of German Americans who arrived in the mid-19th century. By the turn of the 20th century, however, new waves of immigration had transformed the area into a vibrant Slavic enclave. Ukrainians, drawn by their cultural ties with neighboring Polish communities, began settling in the district in large numbers. The neighborhood’s growth accelerated after the construction of an elevated train line along Paulina Avenue in 1895, which provided convenient access to jobs and the city center, though the line was decommissioned in 1964. In 1983, Mayor Jane Byrne officially designated the area as "Ukrainian Village," recognizing its cultural significance as the first such neighborhood designation in Chicago

Since the early 20th century, this central area has been the heart of Ukrainian life in Chicago, and it continues to serve as its cultural and spiritual hub today. The neighborhood is home to three major Ukrainian churches, a Ukrainian-language grammar school, and an impressive array of cultural institutions, including the Ukrainian National Museum, the Ukrainian Cultural Center, and the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art. It also supports two Ukrainian youth organizations, Ukrainian-owned financial institutions, and a wide range of restaurants, shops, and businesses that proudly preserve and celebrate the community’s rich heritage.

A few places we will stop at:
Saints Volodymyr & Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church, 739 N Oakley Blvd,
Ukrainian National Museum, 2249 W Superior St
Ukrainian Cultural Center, 2247 W Chicago Ave
Ukrainian Village Mural 815 N Oakley Blvd
St Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, 835 N Oakley Blvd
Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of St. Nicholas of Chicago 2245 W Rice St,
Former St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church now condos 921 N Hoyne
Moorish Science Temple, 1000 N Hoyne Ave
St Stephen King of Hungary Ch, 2015 W Augusta Blvd
Shit Fountain 1001 N Wolcott Ave
Kenar Studios 1007 N Wolcott Ave
Former Public Bath House 1019 N Wolcott Ave
Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, 1121 N Leavitt St
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, 2320 W Chicago Ave

If you are taking public transportation, please check their website for directions or use Google Maps or the CTA trip planner. https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/

If you are driving, there is metered street parking along Chicago Ave, Damen & Western and free on surrounding side streets, but pay attention to parking signs, especially permit parking

PLEASE KEEP RSVP UP TO DATE AND DO NOT BE A NO SHOW!