What we’re about
"Culture, Cuisine, Cocktails, Coffee & Convos = Community"
http://www.socialfundation.com for the full calendar.
This is a Chicago-Suburban meet-up group designed for people who enjoy the cinema, fine cuisine and more. Most evening events will consist of a movie, dinner, or a combination of both. Others may include a matinee followed by a film discussion afterwards at a local cafe. From time to time there will also be a foreign film, Indie or Classic movie scheduled, or even live theater.
We will have dining venues which will include diverse cuisines from around the world or around the block. In addition, other fun activities such as music venues, bowling, wine tastings, outdoor music fests/concerts, and more! Join us for ongoing dinner events like Porkapalooza, an exploration of area BBQ places; and BurgerTime, the same concept, but with Burgers. Check out the Pages section for where we've been and where we're going. Please let us know if there's some thing/some place you'd like to try, or if you'd like to host an event.
Please note: While all are welcome, consistent no-shows and those who use e-mail/Meetup to disparage other members will be removed from the group.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- 🏰🌿 History, Hedges & Hidden Treasures Walk of Old Irving Park💎4200 W. Irving Park, Chicago, IL
🗺️ Explore Old Irving Park: A Chicago for Chicagoans Walking Tour!
“A Pay-What-You-Can event with Chicago for Chicagoans – discover the history, homes, and hidden gems of Old Irving Park!” 🏡🌳
***
🏰🌿 History, Hedges & Hidden Treasures Walk of Old Irving Park💎
📅 Sunday, July 6, 2025
🕚 11:00 AM – ~1:00 PM
📍 Start: 4200 W. Irving Park Rd
🎯 End: Eris Brewery & Cider House – 4240 W. Irving Park Rd
👟 Distance: Approx. 2 miles of walking
⚠️ Note: Tour ends ~2 blocks from where we start. Plan your parking accordingly—it’s an easy stroll back if you park in between!
***
✨ About the Tour
Join us for a special public walking tour through one of Chicago’s most captivating historic neighborhoods: Old Irving Park!This event is presented in collaboration with Chicago for Chicagoans, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping residents learn about their own city. Unlike my usual private tours, this one is open to the public—all Meetup members, friends, and newcomers are welcome!
💸 This is a Pay-What-You-Can event. Donations will be collected at the end of the walk per nonprofit policy.
✅ Registration is required:
👉 Reserve your spot on Eventbrite
***
🏘️ What You’ll Discover
We’ll stroll through the leafy, historic streets of Old Irving Park to uncover:
• 🏛️ Historic Architecture
• ⛪ Diverse Religious Heritage
• 🌳 Small-Town Feel in the City
• 🌍 Cultural Layers & Immigrant Roots
• 💎 Local Gems and History📸 Not a formal photo walk, but you’ll find plenty of Insta-worthy stops along the way! ✨
👥 This event is a fun collaboration — multiple meetup groups will be attending, so come meet new friends and explore together!
***
📜 Why Old Irving Park?
Old Irving Park is a distinct neighborhood within Chicago’s Irving Park community. Locals say it offers the best of both worlds—the conveniences of city living combined with a charming suburban feel.
It’s home to iconic Chicago architecture, from elegant Victorian mansions to turn-of-the-century bungalows—some buildings here even predate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.Originally named “Irvington” after author Washington Irving, the name changed to “Irving Park” when it was discovered another Illinois town already had the original name. The area attracted Chicago’s wealthiest families who built grand mansions along Irving Park Boulevard between 1870 and 1874.
The Great Chicago Fire in 1871 accelerated Irving Park’s growth, as many sought refuge outside the devastated city. By 1889, Irving Park was annexed into Chicago as part of Jefferson Township. Improved infrastructure like city streets, streetcar lines, and water services drew more residents. Between 1895 and 1914, over 5,000 buildings were constructed by new owners, shaping the neighborhood’s unique character.
🏘️ Stops & Highlights
A few places we will stop at during the walk:
• 🚉 4200 W Irving Park Rd – The Whistle Stop Inn
• 🏠 3926 N Keeler – Charles Loucks House
• 🏡 3900 N Keeler – C.O. Loucks House
• 🏠 3945 N Tripp – The Race House
• 🏠 3916 N Tripp – Nuveen House
• ⛪ 3850 N Tripp – Mt Olive Church
• ⛪ 3801 N Keeler – Irving Park Methodist Church
• 🏫 3601 N Milwaukee – Carl Schurz High School
• 🏛️ 4362 W Grace – John Gray Mansion
• 🏠 3854 N Kostner – John & Clara Merchant House
• ⛪ 3857 N Kostner – St John’s Episcopal Church
• 🏠 4041 N Lowell – Emeril Jensen House
• 🏋️ 4251 W Irving Park Rd – Irving Park YMCA
• 🍺 4240 W Irving Park Rd – ERIS Brewery and Cider House
***
🤝 About Chicago for Chicagoans
Founded in 2016 by Patti Swanson, Chicago for Chicagoans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit using pay-what-you-can tours to connect residents to their city.
🌐 Learn more or donate
💖 Make a tax-deductible contribution to support community learning.
***
🚇 Getting There
✅ Easy CTA access—plan with CTA Trip Planner or Google Maps
🚗 Driving? Metered parking on Irving, Keeler or Pulaski. Free side street parking nearby (watch permit signs).
***
📌 RSVP & Attendance Policy
✅ Please keep your RSVP up to date.
✅ No-shows without notice make planning difficult for everyone.
✅ Cut-off time to update your RSVP is the event start time.
***
Can’t wait to walk with you in my neighborhood! Come discover Old Irving Park’s history, charm, and community spirit on this special summer Sunday morning.✨ RSVP today and join this unique Chicago adventure! 🏡🌳
