This May, discover the beauty of Chicago’s local Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) cultures.
During AANHPI Heritage Month, we honor the extraordinary impact of AANHPI communities. Recognizing that there is no singular narrative encapsulating the AANHPI experience, we acknowledge their profound imprint on Chicago and the broader history of the United States. AANHPI contributions enrich our communities, underscoring the strength and power found in unity and diversity.
We proudly introduce the AANHPI Heritage Month Signature Ventra Card, crafted in partnership with a diverse panel representing the AANHPI community. Our panel is comprised of individuals from a spectrum of backgrounds, including South Asian, Samoan, and Asian American. The card represents symbols of inclusivity, beauty, and discovery, reflecting the richness within these vibrant communities. Use Ventra to explore local AANHPI destinations, exhibitions, and communities. Enjoy authentic cuisine, cultural events, and traditional celebrations right here in Chicago and create lasting memories.
Enjoy the vibrant offerings of Chicago's diverse AANHPI cultures and communities. Catch a bus or train to savor authentic Asian cuisine on the Southside.
For a scenic spring outing, watch the cherry blossoms bloom at the Garden of the Phoenix or marvel at the murals in Ping Tom Memorial Park. Explore the shops on Devon Avenue in Little India and discover the pan-Asian charm of Chinatown and the outskirts of Bridgeport.
With Ventra as your ticket, you can explore the sights, sounds, and flavors of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage without leaving Chicago. Purchase your AANHPI Heritage Month Signature Ventra Card today.
AANHPI cultures and elements featured on the AANHPI Heritage Month Signature Card include:
Use your Signature Card to visit one of the AANHPI sites featured below. Share your picture on social media and hashtag #Ventra!
Devon Avenue in West Rogers Park, also known as Little India, is a vibrant corridor with a strong South Asian presence, particularly Indian and Pakistani cultures. Representation in this area also includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Croatia, and Syria. Check out the local businesses, including sari shops, restaurants, and grocery stores, which make this street a celebrated cultural hub.
West Argyle Street in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, known as Asia on Argyle, is a vibrant enclave of the city's Vietnamese community. It is known for its authentic Vietnamese eateries, bakeries, and shops, offering a flavorful immersion into Vietnamese culture. Visitors can savor steaming bowls of pho, delectable banh mi sandwiches, and more.
Eager to view art and artifacts from across Asia? The Heritage Museum of Asian Art, previously located in Chinatown and now in Bridgeport, highlights a wide range of items from various countries, such as China, Japan, Korea, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar. They are currently hosting a Year of the Dragon exhibit, running until June 17, 2024.
Ping Tom Memorial Park contains over three acres of native prairie and wetland habitats. Visit the Pagoda Pavilion across the street, snap a photo in front of the floral murals, and go kayaking along the Chicago River.
The Garden of the Phoenix stands as a symbol of friendship, dating back 130 years to the World’s Columbian Exposition. Meditate inside the metallic lotus at SKYLANDING (Yoko Ono), stroll along the stone paths to the waterfall, and engage in the practice of Hanami by enjoying the cherry blossoms.
The Aloha Center Chicago developed the Chicago’s Legacy Hula exhibit with the Field Museum to celebrate the Hawaiian tradition of Hula. Take a day trip downtown to learn from audio recordings of Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) and Kumu Hula (master Hula teachers), and view lei, instruments, and kāhili (feather royal standards).