Dog Walkers in Lower West Side (Pilsen)

The Lower West Side of Chicago is a region that encompasses an industrial area and residential areas with the predominant neighborhood being Pilsen. This region is large and there are multiple commercial areas distributed throughout the community. Cermak Road and 18th Street are two main thoroughfares in the neighborhood with a high concentration of commercial businesses including retail shops, restaurants, bars, eateries, and other services that residents in this region can access on foot. There is a large Mexican-American presence in the area and many local businesses and community activities reflect this culture. The ethnic cuisines, art, and museums contribute to the neighborhood's walkability. 

Chicago weather can hamper walking in the winter with cold temperatures and snow while spring weather can be unusually wet. Take a warm coat and an umbrella during poor weather when you and your dog venture outside. Summers are hot and humid so be prepared with water on long walks for both you and your pooch.

Pilsen and the surrounding Lower West Side community is flat with no steep elevation changes to impede walking. There are commercial areas along main thoroughfares with heavy traffic that can be noisy. The largely industrial area along the river, as well as the train tracks, are not pedestrian-friendly locations and should be avoided while walking your dog. There are plenty of beautiful historic areas and residential roads to stroll down There are also many murals and street art displayed on the Lower West Side that provide interest and color to the terrain. 

The Illinois and Michigan Canals which form the South Branch of the Chicago River run along the south side of this neighborhood, although access is limited. Some nearby structures, such as the large brick commercial building along Cermak Road and Carpenter Street and warehouses near the river, provide a change from residential streets. There is plenty of unique architecture in this old established region.