See Beautiful Art in the Chicago SouthlandThe Chicago Southland has quietly built one of the most diverse art scenes in the greater Chicago region. From a world-ranked sculpture park to working glass studios, historic galleries, and outdoor public art trails, there's something here for every kind of art lover. 🖼️🎨AuthorsSteller
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Art Galleries & Museums

Christopher Art Gallery (Prairie State College)
The Christopher Art Gallery offers an intimate setting to appreciate contemporary works by both emerging and established artists. They frequently update their collection with rotating exhibits and special events, so check their schedule to see what's on during your visit.
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Lotton Art Glass Gallery & Studios
Lotton Art Glass Gallery & Studios in Crete is one of the region's most distinctive stops — a working studio whose pieces have been displayed at the Art Institute of Chicago, the Corning Museum of Glass, and the Smithsonian Institution. For the best experience, visit on a weekday when the artisans are crafting glass pieces. It's a rare chance to witness the artistic process up close and talk with the artists about their work.
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Mc Cord Gallery & Cultural Center
Housed in a historic 1830s farmhouse in Palos Park, McCord Gallery & Cultural Center is a community-driven nonprofit showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Art classes, music lessons, workshops, and cultural events round out the calendar — check their schedule to see what's on during your visit.
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Union Street Gallery
Union Street Gallery is a nonprofit art gallery and studio complex in Chicago Heights, home to 16 artist studios and two floors of gallery space in a three-story historic landmark building. Admission is free, and the collaborative atmosphere makes it a great place to connect with local artists, browse community art projects, and pick up a one-of-a-kind piece.
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Palos Heights Recreation Center
Spend an afternoon exploring an extensive sculpture collection surrounding the rec center, featuring 28 pieces, four murals, and an Art Garden. The garden showcases works from local and national artists, and a self-guided map is available to help you spot standout pieces like the Butterfly Girl and Kissing Fish.
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Sculpture Parks

Flossmoor,IL Sculpture Art:
Take a leisurely stroll through the town's public art installations, perfect for a self-guided walking tour. The sculptures set against the backdrop of Flossmoor showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of a diverse roster of artists.
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Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park — known locally as "theNate" — is a collection of 30 large-scale master works spread across 100 acres of prairie landscape on the campus of Governors State University in University Park. Voted Best Sculpture Park in America by USA Today readers in 2021, it is free and open 365 days a year. The park is expansive and worth at least a couple of hours to take in the full range of sculptures, so wear comfortable shoes.
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Breakfast & Lunch Spots

STACKED
Stacked in Crestwood is a popular breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot known for its hearty comfort foods and creative takes on morning classics like Red Velvet Pancakes and Banana Foster French Toast. The breakfast menu is packed with fluffy pancakes, thick French toast, skillets, and the lunch menu features favorites including the Chicken Chorizo Burrito and Greek Lemon Soup. Good food and generous portions at Stacked that have made it a local favorite!
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Darlene's Breakfast & Brunch
Darlene's in Orland Park serves up chef-driven brunch in a sunroom-like space filled with greenery. Birra chilaquiles, brisket hash bowls, house-made crème brûlée doughnuts, and boozy brunch cocktails keep the menu interesting. Weekends fill up fast — join the online waitlist before heading over.
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Country House Restaurant
A family restaurant with a from-scratch kitchen, Country House serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, with a menu built around fresh ingredients. The breakfast menu is the draw for many regulars, and the casual, community-minded approach has made it a neighborhood staple.
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Lunch & Dinner Restaurants

Aurelio's Pizza of Homewood
This iconic spot is famous for thin-crust pizza — don't miss the original cheese and sausage, highly recommended by locals. The classic decor and welcoming atmosphere give it a genuinely nostalgic feel.
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Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Brewery
Sample their craft beers brewed on-site — the beer sampler is a great way to work through their lineup. The historic train station setting adds real character, and the menu features hearty pub fare to complement the drinks.
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Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
A diverse menu of American cuisine with global influences pairs well with an extensive wine selection — the wine club is especially popular among visitors. The elegant setting and attentive service round out a strong overall dining experience.
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Spotlight Lounge
Located inside the DoubleTree Hotel in Alsip, Spotlight Lounge offers a relaxed, contemporary dining experience with a touch of artistry. The space features warm wood tones, leather seating, and tables showcasing commissioned artwork, creating an inviting, design-forward setting. Serving American cuisine (from breakfast through dinner), along with a full bar, it’s a convenient and cozy place to gather before or after events or a night out in the Chicago Southland.
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Franklins Public House
Franklins Public House in Palos Heights is a modern American gastropub offering high-quality made-from-scratch comfort food alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of craft beer, wine, as well as Scotch and Bourbons. The all-day menu features house-smoked meats, hearty sandwiches, and signature dishes like pot roast and burgers, all served in a lively, casual setting. Open since 2017, it has become a popular neighborhood gathering spot with both indoor and dog-friendly patio seating in the Chicago Southland.
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Evil Horse Brewing Company
Evil Horse Brewing Company in Crete is a locally owned craft brewery known for its small-batch, “true-to-style” beers and relaxed taproom atmosphere. Founded in 2016, the brewery focuses on quality brewing and community, offering a rotating selection of house-made beers in a casual, welcoming space — enjoy the pet-friendly patio! While there is no kitchen on-site, guests can order food from nearby restaurants to enjoy while at Evil Horse.
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Labas Seafood Steak & Wine Bar
Labas Seafood Steak & Wine Bar in Monee is a refined dining destination that blends fresh seafood, premium steaks, and an extensive wine program in an intimate, upscale setting. Known for its carefully sourced ingredients, plated elegantly, the restaurant emphasizes both quality and presentation. With its warm atmosphere, outdoor patio, and strong wine and cocktail offerings, head to Labas for lunch or dinner.
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Hotels

La Banque Hotel
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, this boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations and impeccable service, making it a wonderful retreat. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring nearby attractions and dining options.
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Homewood Suites by Hilton Orland Park
Ideal for longer stays, with spacious rooms, kitchen facilities, and complimentary breakfast. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality and the hotel's proximity to shopping and entertainment venues.
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DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago - Alsip
Located in Alsip just minutes from Chicago Midway Airport, DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago–Alsip is an updated hotel with urban flair known for its convenient access to the Chicago Southland area. The property offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center, free parking, and over 15,000 square feet of meeting and event space. It also has an on-site restaurant and lounge.
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Wind Creek Chicago Southland
Located in East Hazel Crest, Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino & Resort brings together hotel accommodations, dining, gaming, and wellness in one expansive property — over 70,000 square feet! The hotel features 255 luxury rooms and suites, plus more than 1,400 slot machines, 56 table games, entertainment, on-site dining, and a spa.
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