Skip to main content
Sightseeing

Nelson Algren House

📍 1958 W Evergreen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
No photos yet
3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Introduction

The Nelson Algren House is a three-story apartment at 1958 W Evergreen Avenue in Chicago's Wicker Park, where American writer Nelson Algren lived for 16 years (1959-75). He won the 1950 National Book Award for his 1949 novel The Man with the Golden Arm, set in the city's underbelly, and wrote the caustic prose poem Chicago: City on the Make (1951). It is now a private residence, marked by a street plaque inscribed 'Lyrical, tough, tender, compassionate. He showed the people's pain.'

Highlights

1
Plaque reading 'Lyrical, tough, tender, compassionate. He showed the people's pain.'
At Nelson Algren House, Plaque reading 'Lyrical, tough, tender, compassionate. He showed the people's pain.' is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
2
Setting where The Man with the Golden Arm won the 1950 National Book Award
At Nelson Algren House, Setting where The Man with the Golden Arm won the 1950 National Book Award is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
3
Nelson Algren Day marker on the writer's birthday (March 28)
At Nelson Algren House, Nelson Algren Day marker on the writer's birthday (March 28) is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.

🛈 Practical Info

Best time to visitAvoid the midday heat; mornings or late afternoons are more comfortable and better for photos.
TransportArrange via local public transport, driving or a chartered transfer; check latest local transport info.
Climate & clothingPrepare for the local climate with sun protection, water and suitable footwear; some outdoor spots can be sunny.
On-site notesFollow on-site signs and rules, protect the heritage/environment, and do not climb or touch exhibits.
AccessibilitySome areas have natural or uneven ground and may be physically demanding.

💡 Tips

Ticket prices, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: Private residence; not open to the public, exterior visible at all times; admission: Free (viewing the exterior plaque requires no ticket).
Prepare for the local climate (sun, hydration) and pace your visit accordingly.
Respect local culture, customs and any religious norms; dress and behave accordingly.
Combine with nearby sights and plan around local transport and accommodation.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Nelson Algren House?

Ticket prices, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: Private residence; not open to the public, exterior visible at all times; admission: Free (viewing the exterior plaque requires no ticket). Prepare for the local climate (sun, hydration) and pace your visit accordingly.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.