Pilsen is bounded by the South Branch of the Chicago River on the south and east, with the Metra rail lines along 16th Street marking the northern edge, and Damen Avenue the western edge. Most of the Mexican restaurants and businesses are located along 18th Street, primarily between Carpenter and Wood streets. Pilsen East is the informal tag adopted by the artist community clustered near Halsted, 18th and 19th streets. The Orange Line Halsted stop on Archer puts you south of the river, with a 15-minute walk up Halsted before you reach 18th Street. Traveling by public transportation during the evening is not convenient.
Parking is plentiful and easy to find.
Monday through Friday parking is restricted on Halsted during morning rush hour on the east side of the street and during evening rush hour on the west side. Locals who support the Save Halsted movement are working to eliminate this restriction, along with rehabilitating the street and reducing commercial traffic along the stretch. New sidewalks along 18th Street have made walking easier. All rights reserved.