Lavergne’s Cranios World Credit: NaBeela Washington
Just west of Chicago, Berwyn makes for an easy, low-cost afternoon built around public art, neighborhood eats, and historic bungalows.
Depot District Sign Credit: NaBeela Washington
Starting at the Berwyn Metra station, yellow banners hanging from light poles and lining nearby streets will signal your arrival in the Depot District, Berwyn’s historic downtown corridor. Established in the 1890s, the Depot District served as Berwyn’s original downtown and commercial center.
Head west toward Harlem Avenue, where murals like Green Cleaners at Obrien the Cleaner, Pillar Community Health’s 100th Anniversary, and Transition at Karasak Park begin appearing along the route. Back near East Avenue, Lavergne’s Tavern serves an inventive twist on a Chicago classic: Italian beef egg rolls. Stuffed with giardiniera, Monterey Jack cheese, and tender beef, the four-piece order comes with au jus for dipping and is substantial enough to share.
Green Cleaners Mural Credit: NaBeela Washington
Pillars Community Health 100th Anniversary Mural Credit: NaBeela Washington
After lunch, take a selfie with Cranio’s World beside the entrance of Lavergne’s, created by São Paulo artist Cranio.
Many of the Depot District’s murals, including Cranio’s World, were commissioned through the Berwyn Public Arts Initiative, a volunteer-led organization that has helped transform Berwyn’s Depot District into an outdoor gallery. Interested in seeing more? Head a few minutes north to the Art Park at 34th Street and Oak Park Avenue, where works from BPAI’s 2019 “Art on Track” installation were relocated in 2022.
Depot District Banner Signage Credit: NaBeela Washington
Lavergne’s Menu Credit: NaBeela Washington
BNSF Train Credit: NaBeela Washington
Italian Beef Eggroll Credit: NaBeela Washington
A map of public art installations is available online for visitors who want to continue exploring.
If you’ve still got room for dessert, head to Tastee Freez, the signless, seasonal walk-up stand known for classic soft-serve cones, banana splits, sundaes, and shakes. I recommend a banana Oreo milkshake.
Tastee Freez Cone Credit: NaBeela Washington
Tastee Freez Credit: NaBeela Washington
Depot District
Grove Avenue and Windsor Avenue, Berwyn, Illinois
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