Ukrainian Village / West Town

The greater Near Northwest Side of Chicago—more-or-less captured within the West Town Community Area boundaries—has long been a complex puzzle of distinct neighborhoods with constantly changing cultural identities and shifting boundaries. Enclaves such as the Polish Triangle, Noble Square, Pulaski Park, East Village and Ukrainian Village all retain characteristics of their storied pasts, but have undergone significant gentrification in the 21st century.

The compact Ukrainian Village neighborhood has been a hub of Ukrainian business and culture since World War I, when a large influx of refugees settled here. Many aspects of Ukrainian culture are still prevalent in the area today, along with influences from German, Polish, Slovak and Jewish immigrant communities. Elegant apartment buildings interspersed with dramatic churches and hip bars and restaurants make this a sought-after residential neighborhood.