Prices checked on Sep 11, 2026Things to do in Chicago
The Experience is more than a food tour. It is an immersive cultural experience that combines food, history, architecture, and storytelling in one of Chicago’s most influential neighborhoods. Guests will enjoy curated tastings from locally owned Black restaurants while learning about the people, businesses, and historical moments that helped shape Chicago’s Black cultural landscape. Along the route, we visit significant landmarks, including the site where Barack and Michelle Obama’s love story began, historic community gathering spaces, public art, and locations connected to the neighborhood’s rich legacy of entrepreneurship, music, education, and civil rights. Unlike traditional food tours that focus primarily on dining, this experience connects each tasting to the larger story of the community, providing travelers with insider knowledge and meaningful cultural context.
Obama Kissing Rock Visit the Hyde Park landmark marking the spot where Barack and Michelle Obama shared their first kiss. This charming neighborhood stop offers a glimpse into the personal love story that began on Chicago’s South Side.
Harold’s Chicken Experience a true Chicago staple with a stop at Harold’s Chicken, a South Side favorite known for its crispy fried chicken, signature mild sauce, and deep roots in Black Chicago food culture.
Store offering a variety of African paintings, sculpture & carvings, as well as clothing & jewelry.
Mahari Enjoy a flavorful stop at Mahari, where guests experience warm hospitality and dishes that reflect the richness, creativity, and cultural influence of Hyde Park’s growing food scene.
14 Parish Step into 14 Parish, a Caribbean inspired restaurant and bar bringing bold island flavors, craft cocktails, and vibrant energy to the heart of Hyde Park.
This boutique specializes in creative jewelry & accessories plus hosts arts shows & music parties.
Kilwins Hyde Park End on a sweet note at Kilwins, a neighborhood favorite known for handcrafted fudge, chocolates, and classic treats that add a nostalgic finish to the tour.
Explore Chicago Black Culinary Heritage lasts about 2h 45min. The itinerary has 7 stops.
Prices start at $75 per person for this Chicago experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
The meeting point is Obama Kissing Rock located at: The rock is located near the shopping plaza at 53rd and Dorchester, with Dunkin and Subway. At the street corner next to the stop sign. It’s a large stone monument marking the spot where Barack and Michelle Obama shared their first kiss. . Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
The experience is available in EN, EN.
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 10 travellers can book together.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap Specialized infant seats are available
Wheelchair accessible Transportation options are wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
This felt like hanging out with a group of friends I had known forever, it was a highlight of my trip! Every food choice was a hit, I could've shopped in the store spots all day (hidden gems) and the history we went over gives you such a fond appreciation for Chicago and even more reasons to love this place! I'm considering even moving to Hyde Park. I'm so impressed! Loved the community.
This was an amazing experience. Not only was I educated on the black history and culture of South side chicago, my fiance and I ate great local food. Our guide did not rush us. She took her time! Would definitely book this again.
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explore Chicago Black Culinary Heritage | 2h 45min | 5.0 (2) | $75 | |
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