Neighborhood Tours

Back of the Yards

Known for its history of meatpacking, Back of the Yards is located on the southwest side of Chicago. This tour highlights Back of the Yards Coffeehouse as the buzzing local business, The Chunky Scone as the neighborhood’s vegan bakery, Plant Chicago Farmers Market for locally-sourced goods, Davis Square Park as the central outdoor space, Plant Chicago for community advocacy, and the Union Stock Yard Gate as the neighborhood’s must-see relic. To get to Back of the Yards from the University’s campus, walk towards ​​Cottage Grove & 60th Street and take the 4 bus towards Illinois Center; get off at Cottage Grove & 47th Street. From there, take the 47 bus towards Midway Orange Line and get off at 47th Street & Wood. This tour can be completed as a self-guided walking tour, or virtually from the comfort of your home.