South Shore Cultural Center - Historic Pelican Inn, Pawleys Island S.C.
1 / 10

South Shore Cultural Center

4.6
·2k reviews·Chicago, United States

A historic landmark with a breathtaking solarium and 65 acres of lakefront parkland, offering culture, dining, and scenic beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
South Shore Cultural Center - Historic Pelican Inn, Pawleys Island S.C.

South Shore Cultural Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic landmark with a breathtaking solarium and 65 acres of lakefront parkland, offering culture, dining, and scenic beauty.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Gorgeous grounds, serene and peaceful with great views of the city and ocean!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Solarium Photo Ops

The solarium is a photographer's dream! Visit during golden hour for magical light.

🍽️ Nafsi Restaurant Vibes

Enjoy happy hour or brunch at Nafsi for great food and a lively ambiance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Solarium

The Solarium

Inside the Cultural Center

A stunning architectural gem offering panoramic lake views, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Lakefront Park & Beach

Lakefront Park & Beach

Outdoor grounds

Expansive 65-acre park with a serene beach, ideal for sunrises, sunsets, and peaceful strolls.

Nafsi Restaurant

Nafsi Restaurant

Inside the Cultural Center

Experience delicious soul food and a vibrant atmosphere at this popular Black-owned restaurant.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Check Event Schedules

The South Shore Cultural Center hosts various events, from concerts to weddings. Check their schedule before visiting to ensure access and to catch any special happenings. Some areas might be closed for private functions.

Parking & Access

While parking is available and affordable, it can fill up, especially during events. Consider arriving early or exploring public transport options if you're visiting during peak times.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Friday evenings
Why
Sunset bonfires & events
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Beautiful grounds & beach access
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nafsi (at the South Shore Cultural Center)
7059 S. South Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60649 SOUL OF SOUTH SHORE Open Tuesday through Sunday
3:00pm — 11:00p #southshore #blackowned #blackrestaurants #blackexcellence #blackchicago #blackchicagoeats #wegotcobbs #everybodyeats #blackbusiness
blackchicagoeats
993 likes • 23.9K views

📸 Solarium Photo Ops

The solarium is a photographer's dream! Visit during golden hour for magical light. TikTok

🍽️ Nafsi Restaurant Vibes

Enjoy happy hour or brunch at Nafsi for great food and a lively ambiance. Instagram+1

This happy hour at nafsi southshore @nafsisouthshore is a hidden gem nestled inside the south shore cultural center. Perfect for a date night or girls night out. #chicago
richoffimpact
3.6K likes • 70.9K views
Brunchin' with my girls at a new restaurant located in the South Shore Cultural Center. There were four dishes that didn't make the video because we were too busy enjoying the food. This place is doing a soft opening (Their official opening date is October 9th) and only offered small plates and a couple of items that were not listed on their preview menu. Nafsi's sort of reminds me of a tapas st...
blackbutterfly413
4 likes • 111 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

The 65-acre park is perfect for walks, beach visits, and enjoying lakefront views. Reddit

🚗 Affordable Parking

Paid parking is available and reasonably priced, but can fill up during events. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting: any reason to walk Lake Michigan from South Shore Cultural Center all the way to the north side .. or keep it manageable?

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Solarium Photo Ops

The solarium is a photographer's dream! Visit during golden hour for magical light. TikTok

🍽️ Nafsi Restaurant Vibes

Enjoy happy hour or brunch at Nafsi for great food and a lively ambiance. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

The 65-acre park is perfect for walks, beach visits, and enjoying lakefront views. Reddit

🚗 Affordable Parking

Paid parking is available and reasonably priced, but can fill up during events. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Listings

Look out for summer concerts and other events held on the grounds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the South Shore Cultural Center for its stunning architecture, particularly the solarium, and its beautiful lakefront park. The presence of the popular Nafsi restaurant adds a culinary highlight. However, some guests have experienced access issues to certain building areas due to private events, leading to minor frustrations.

"The culture center event was great each entainer was very good. Food truck were fast and delicious Josephine Nachos were a hit. The smoothies were top notch. October London was last and a delite to wait for as the last singer. 🎉"

lorraine mccurry

"I actually spent time at the beach there for sunrise and sunset!
Beautifully kept grounds, very serene and peaceful with great views of the city and ocean! (lake? Ehh?)
Check the pie app for the sunset bonfires on Friday night with Roman!"

Yahbriel St. James

"Gorgeous grounds etc. Our family were interested in the building, history, & architecture. Unfortunately, we were politely but actively discouraged from checking out the public building & restaurant by a woman who worked there who overly encouraged us to check the outdoor grounds we'd already seen.

At one point she walked us towards the closed doors of the ballroom, took her keys out (to show our family the space, we assumed) only to lock said doors once we all arrived at them. :(

Somebody ought to let her know the place is no longer a private, exclusive club."

Kathryn Guelcher

What People Like

Beautiful solarium views
Well-maintained grounds
Nafsi restaurant's food

What People Dislike

Restricted building access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The South Shore Cultural Center is accessible by car via Lake Shore Drive. Public transportation options include CTA bus routes that stop nearby. Parking is available on-site for a fee. Reddit

Yes, there is a paid parking lot available. It's noted as affordable, but can get busy during popular events or weekends. Reddit

Absolutely! The lakefront trail is a popular route for biking and walking, offering scenic views on your way to the center. Reddit

For events, arriving early is recommended due to potential parking limitations. Consider ride-sharing services or public transport if you prefer not to worry about parking. TikTok

Several CTA bus lines serve the South Shore area, with stops within walking distance of the Cultural Center. Check the CTA website for specific routes and schedules. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General access to the park grounds and beach is typically free. However, specific events, concerts, or theater performances within the building may require tickets. Reddit

The building hours can vary, and some areas like the restaurant have their own schedules. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours for the building and any specific exhibits or facilities. TikTok

Entry to the park and beach is free. There might be fees for specific events, performances, or if you plan to use certain facilities like the golf course. Reddit

Yes, the South Shore Cultural Center is a popular venue for weddings and other private events. Inquiries for bookings should be directed to their events department. Reddit

While generally welcoming, some visitors have reported being discouraged from exploring certain interior public spaces if they are not attending a specific event or using a facility. It's advisable to be clear about your intentions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The solarium offers stunning architectural shots with lake views. The beach and lakefront provide beautiful natural backdrops, especially at sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed in public areas. However, for private events or specific exhibits, restrictions may apply. Always be respectful of ongoing activities. Reddit

Drone usage is typically subject to city regulations and may require permits. It's best to check with the Chicago Park District or the Cultural Center administration before flying a drone. Reddit

Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful lighting for both the solarium and the lakefront. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer crowds. TikTok

Engagement photos, wedding shoots, and general scenic photography are very popular due to the beautiful architecture and lakefront setting. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Nafsi, a Black-owned restaurant, is located within the center and offers soul food, brunch, and happy hour. Food trucks are also often present during events. TikTokInstagram+1

Picnicking is generally allowed in the park areas. However, alcohol policies may apply, and it's always good practice to check specific park rules. Reddit

Nafsi specializes in soul food, with popular items including sliders, truffle fries, and other delicious small plates and entrees. Instagram+1

While specific menus can change, Nafsi often has a variety of dishes. It's recommended to check their current menu or inquire directly about vegetarian and vegan offerings. Instagram

Nafsi is open Tuesday through Sunday, typically from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, but hours can vary. It's best to confirm their current operating times. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The South Shore Cultural Center offers a great mix of indoor and outdoor activities for families. The 65-acre park provides ample space for kids to run around, play on the beach, or enjoy a picnic. The lakefront views are also a hit with younger visitors. Reddit

While exploring the building, keep in mind that some areas might be reserved for events. However, the general public spaces and the beautiful solarium can be fascinating for children to see. Consider checking for any family-friendly events or programming that might be happening during your visit. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the South Shore Cultural Center is a goldmine. The solarium is particularly iconic, offering stunning architectural lines and expansive lake views that are perfect for capturing dramatic shots. TikTokInstagram The lakefront provides a beautiful natural canvas, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it ideal for landscape and portrait photography. Reddit

Beyond the main attractions, the well-maintained grounds offer various picturesque spots. Remember to be mindful of any private events that might be taking place, as access to certain areas could be restricted. Weekday mornings are often recommended for fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed photo opportunities. Reddit

🍽️ Foodies & Date Night Couples

Food lovers and couples looking for a unique dining experience will appreciate Nafsi, located within the cultural center. This Black-owned restaurant is celebrated for its delicious soul food, making it a perfect spot for a memorable date night or a gathering with friends. TikTokInstagram

Nafsi's ambiance, coupled with its popular brunch and happy hour menus, makes it a standout attraction. Visitors rave about the quality of the food, from sliders to truffle fries. Combine a delicious meal with a stroll along the lakefront or a visit to the solarium for a complete and enjoyable outing. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: The Solarium

The South Shore Cultural Center is renowned for its stunning solarium, a breathtaking architectural feature that offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan. This glass-enclosed space is a highlight for many visitors, providing a serene environment to admire the lake and the city skyline. It's a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the light creates a magical ambiance. TikTokInstagram

Many visitors are drawn to the building's history and architecture, appreciating its well-maintained facilities. While the solarium is a key attraction, the entire building boasts beautiful design elements that reflect its past as a former private club. Reddit

Pro-tip: If you're looking for the best light for photos in the solarium, aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The diffused light is incredibly flattering and enhances the beauty of the space. TikTok

Exploring the Lakefront and Beach

Beyond the building, the South Shore Cultural Center is set within a beautiful 65-acre park that stretches along the lakefront. This expansive green space includes a lovely beach, walking paths, and areas perfect for relaxation and recreation. It's a fantastic place to escape the city bustle and enjoy nature. Reddit

Visitors often praise the grounds for being beautifully kept and serene, offering great views of the city and the lake. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot for sunrise or sunset, or a place to enjoy a leisurely walk, the park and beach deliver. Some reviews even mention enjoying golf and sanctuary spaces within the broader area. Reddit

Community Insight: Redditors suggest walking the lakefront from this location, highlighting its scenic beauty and connectivity to other parts of the city's waterfront. It's a great starting point for a longer lakeside exploration. Reddit

Culinary Delights at Nafsi

A significant draw within the South Shore Cultural Center is Nafsi, a popular Black-owned restaurant that has garnered attention for its delicious soul food and vibrant atmosphere. It's become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of authentic Chicago flavors. TikTokInstagram

Nafsi is frequently mentioned for its excellent brunch and happy hour offerings. Dishes like sliders and truffle fries are highlighted as must-tries, contributing to its reputation as a hidden gem. The restaurant's location inside the cultural center adds a unique charm to the dining experience. Instagram+1

Traveler Tip: Many visitors recommend Nafsi for a date night or a girls' night out, suggesting it's a perfect spot for a relaxed yet upscale dining experience. Be sure to check their operating hours, as they are typically open Tuesday through Sunday. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2