International Society for Krishna Consciousness
International Society for Krishna Consciousness is rated 4.8 / 5 from 383 Google reviews and sits about 1.1 km (14 min walk) from Howard station.
General overview
About International Society for Krishna Consciousness
ISKCON Chicago, also known as the Hare Krishna temple in Chicago, is a Hindu Vaishnava temple and community center dedicated to Krishna devotion. Visitors can generally attend worship ceremonies, chant kirtan, hear talks on the Bhagavad-gita and other Vaishnava texts, and join the popular Sunday gathering and vegetarian feast. The temple is an active place of worship rather than a conventional ticketed attraction.
- Colorful Krishna and Radha altar worship
- Traditional kirtan with mantra chanting and music
- Sunday spiritual program and vegetarian prasadam feast
- Lectures on Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam
- Celebrations of major Vaishnava festivals such as Janmashtami, Gaura Purnima and Ratha-yatra
Things to do here
Temple darshan
View the deities and observe or participate respectfully in scheduled worship ceremonies.
Kirtan and mantra meditation
Join congregational chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra, usually accompanied by traditional instruments.
Sunday Feast program
A community gathering commonly featuring kirtan, a spiritual discourse, arati and a vegetarian prasadam meal.
Scripture classes
Classes or discussions based on Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam and the teachings of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.
Festival celebrations
Major holy days can include extended chanting, special altar decorations, cultural performances and large vegetarian feasts.
Check the current program calendar, arrive 10โ15 minutes early, wear modest clothing and remove shoes before entering the worship area. Street parking can take extra time.
Ordinary worship generally does not require booking. Contact the temple in advance for group visits, school visits, ceremonies, retreats or major festivals.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source โ verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
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Most asked
How to reach
International Society for Krishna Consciousness is about 1.1 km (~14 min walk) from Howard station on the Chicago "L".
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to International Society for Krishna Consciousness from Howard station?
International Society for Krishna Consciousness is about 1091 m (roughly 14 min walk) from Howard station on the Chicago "L". Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is International Society for Krishna Consciousness rated?
International Society for Krishna Consciousness has a Google rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 383 reviews.
What's near International Society for Krishna Consciousness?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Honeybear Cafe, Loyola Park, Indian Boundary Park.
Is International Society for Krishna Consciousness wheelchair accessible?
Yes โ Google lists the following accessibility features for International Society for Krishna Consciousness: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom.
Is there parking near International Society for Krishna Consciousness?
Google lists these parking options near International Society for Krishna Consciousness: paid street parking.
Is there an admission charge?
Ordinary temple entry and the public Sunday program are generally free, with voluntary donations welcomed.
Do I need to be Hindu or an ISKCON member to visit?
No. Respectful visitors of all faiths and backgrounds are generally welcome at public services.
What should I wear?
Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Shoes are normally removed before entering the principal worship area.
Can I join the chanting?
Yes. Visitors are usually encouraged to participate in kirtan or to sit quietly and observe.
Is food served?
Vegetarian prasadam is commonly served at the Sunday Feast and major festivals, though availability and timing should be confirmed.
Is the food vegan?
Not necessarily. ISKCON meals are vegetarian but may contain dairy. Ask volunteers about ingredients and allergy concerns; temple kitchens may not guarantee allergen-free preparation.
When is the best public program?
The Sunday gathering is generally the easiest and most welcoming introduction, often combining chanting, a talk, worship and a vegetarian meal.
May I photograph the altar?
Ask temple staff first. Photography rules can vary by ceremony, and worshippers should not be photographed without permission.
Is parking available?
Nearby street parking is generally the practical option. Allow extra time and observe posted restrictions.
Can groups arrange a visit?
Groups should contact the temple in advance so staff can confirm timing, etiquette, accessibility and whether an introduction or meal can be arranged.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 11, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change โ confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.