Welcome to Chicago!
As you begin your UChicago journey, don't forget that your "top tier" college is situated in a world class city—Chicago! Chicago Studies is here to help you get to know this fascinating place, and to make it easier for you to make meaningful connections here during your years in the College.
The resources below offer brief introductions to things we think you might want to know about as you get situated in our city, and especially on the South Side (not sure what that means? Learn more here). But don't feel you have to get to know Chicago alone -- join us for an upcoming event, register for a class on Chicago, dive into Chicago research, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram (@ChicagoStudies) for things to do in the city every weekend!
Looking for a guided tour of your new city, or great reading about it? Check out "Understanding Chicago," a staff-led stroll through Chicago history, scholarship, and the neighborhoods right around our campus.
Navigating Chicago
Whether you are a native Chicagoan or new to the city, understanding a few key ways that Chicagoans locate themselves in the city (and get around it) will help you become a more savvy urban explorer.
Deep Dives
Start Exploring your City
Whether you're a flag-wearing Chicago booster, a history lover, or a deep-dive neighborhood explorer, Chicago (and Chicago Studies) has offerings for you!
Chicago's Flag
Chicago's flag is actually a concise summary of the city's history and identity. Learn what it all means.
Chicago in Maps
Cartographer Dennis McClendon's fascinating collection of contemporary and historic maps of the city.
Chicago Podcasts
A curated list of some of the best general, thematic, and special interest listening to learn more about Chicago.
Chicago Neighborhood Tours
Explore popular Chicago neighborhoods city-wide, virtually or in-person, with these student-curated self-guided tours!
Running Chicago
Want to run the (very flat) Windy City? Here's some close-to-campus routes to get you started.
Chicago Cultural Alliance
Explore Chicago's diverse communities in CCA's 40+ ethnic museums, archives, and cultural institutions citywide.