Walking Tour | Paseo Boricua and Humboldt Park

Join professional guide and local resident Eduardo Arocho on a walk through Humboldt Park! As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we’re also taking time to consider the ways people in the United States practice democracy through civic action, including by making art, establishing community, and cultural expression. Located on the Northwest Side of Chicago, the community has been defined by its strong cultural presence throughout the ages. Humboldt Park was named after naturalist and geographer Alexander von Humboldt (1759–1859) in 1869. Interestingly, the one time that von Humboldt visited the United States, he did not travel to Chicago. The community was annexed into Chicago the same year as its naming, following the creation of the West Park System (which also includes Douglass and Garfield Park). These three parks—connected by the Boulevard Park System—were established to provide Chicago residents with some relief from the congested landscape of the city. In a city known for its cultural and ethnic diversity, Humboldt Park stands out as the center of Puerto Rican culture in both Chicago and the American Midwest. Since the 1960s, it has been home to Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. This thought-provoking tour explores the history of the iconic West Side neighborhood through the public art proudly displayed along the six blocks of Division Street (Paseo Boricua) and in Humboldt Park. $25, $22.50 members Tour runs approximately 90 minutes. Meet at Ciclo Urbano, 2459 W. Division Street, Chicago, IL 60622. Tour also includes free admission to the Chicago History Museum, good for one week from tour date. Masks are optional for our outdoor walking tours. Learn more about our COVID-19 safety policies and procedures. Tour presented in partnership with Paseo Boricua Tour Company.