Grand Boulevard, now part of the larger Bronzeville district, is a historic artery through the heart of Chicago's African American community. This vibrant neighborhood is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and significant contributions to American music, particularly jazz and blues. Grand Boulevard has been a cradle of African American culture since the Great Migration.

Did you know that Grand Boulevard was once home to legendary musicians like Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong? This area thrived as an epicenter for jazz music in the early 20th century, hosting some of the most famous performances in Chicago's history at venues like the Sunset Cafe and Dreamland Cafe.

The transformation of Grand Boulevard during the Great Migration is a story of resilience and cultural evolution. Thousands of African Americans moved from the South to Chicago between 1916 and 1970, seeking better opportunities. They brought with them a rich cultural tapestry that reshaped the social and cultural landscape of Grand Boulevard, turning it into a hotspot for musical innovation and civil rights activism.

For an authentic local experience, visit during the Bronzeville Summer Nights event, which showcases live music, local art, and food from neighborhood restaurants. Also, don't miss a chance to see the Bronzeville Walk of Fame, which celebrates influential figures from the community with commemorative plaques along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

Imagine walking down the same streets where Michelle Obama grew up! Yes, before she became First Lady, Michelle Obama's childhood was spent in this very neighborhood. Her formative years here have made her one of Bronzeville's most famous former residents.

Just a short distance from Grand Boulevard, you can explore other significant landmarks such as the Guaranteed Rate Field, home to Major League Baseball's Chicago White Sox; and McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America which often hosts major national and international events.