Bronzeville

Bronzeville

Welcome to Bronzeville

Bronzeville is located on the South Side of Chicago. It’s a bustling community with deep roots in civil rights and black activism. Today it’s an up-and-coming hub full of good food, music, shopping, and a real sense of community.

Bronzeville is best known for its history. Known as the “Black Metropolis,” it was home to many impressive leaders and creators and was a center for change and social progress. It has since undergone a resurgence and has emerged as a cultural hub full of character and countless opportunities to explore.

The median home price in Bronzeville is just under $300K. Most homes are townhomes or condos built in the architectural style of the late 1800s (red and white brick). There are also several renovated buildings with exteriors that manage to retain this classic style.

What to Love

• History
• Arts
• Lakefront

People & Lifestyle

Bronzeville is electric, up-and-coming, and mobile. It’s a place to learn and grow alongside the community and respect its deep history of power and change. There’s a buzz to this urban spot. The proximity to the lake also adds a relaxing touch and a scenic view.

Bronzeville is best for families, but it’s becoming more and more attractive to young professionals. Many people who grow up in this area choose to stay here because of its strong community and resurging culture. It’s also more affordable than some other Chicago areas, making it appealing to people just starting out.

Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment

Bronzeville is all about culture! Everything from its food to its historic sites to its music finds a way to emphasize local creators and voices. Living in this community means knowing this community.

In a place where music has been so influential, it’s no surprise that there would also be an impressive performance facility. The Harold Washington Cultural Center was named after Chicago’s first black mayor, Harold Washington, and is a place for performances of all kinds, from speeches to dance. For exercise, there’s 360 Mind Body Soul. This studio offers cycle, sculpting, and yoga classes for people looking to stay fit.

Want a little treat after working out? Ain’t She Sweet Cafe is perfect for sandwiches, salads, and sweet treats (the proof is in the name!). The local Italian spot in Bronzeville is Truth Italian Restaurant. This “gem of Bronzeville” serves up delicious pastas and other traditional Italian dishes.

Things to Do

Bronzeville is a hub of music and art, and so many of its best offerings highlight all of these things. You don’t have to be an artist to enjoy and appreciate Bronzeville’s impressive artistic history and present.

Feel like lacing up your tap shoes? M.A.D.D. Rhythms is the place to tap! This dance studio’s mission is to preserve and spread the history of tap and to make dancers out of attendees in the process. Another community staple is Holy Angels Catholic Church, a multicultural church dedicated to providing a welcoming worshiping community. 

For those who want to put pen to paper, there’s NOMMO Gathering Black Writers Collective—a place for black writers to find their voices and collaborate with their peers. The Madhi Theatre Company is another place for artists to find themselves. The theatre encourages locals to embrace their theatrical sides with acting classes and other off-Broadway opportunities.

Schools

Bronzeville is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:

• Reavis Elementary
• Drake Elementary