Chicago

Chicago

Chicago Facts

  • Chicago is the third-largest U.S. city, just behind New York City and Los Angeles.
  • Its nickname, “Windy City” stems from the perpetual breeze from Lake Michigan.
  • A city of neighborhoods, you’ll find nearly 80 designated community areas in Chicago.
  • This city is home to the world’s first skyscraper, The Home Life Insurance Building.
  • Not surprisingly, it’s considered The Birthplace of Modern Architecture.
  • It’s home to the world’s only backward-flowing river, the Chicago River.

Chicago is known as the Windy City but not for the reasons you might think. The nickname actually comes from the politicians there who “blow hot air” and have been doing so pretty much since the city’s founding in 1833. Of course, being right on the southern shore of Lake Michigan makes the nickname appropriate, as well, and perfect for a number of outdoor activities like sailing, windsurfing, kite flying and more. And while the city has dozens of incredible parks and marinas for these exciting activities, the city of Chicago is also home to over 250 live theaters, dozens of both well-known and obscure museums, art galleries, incredible shopping, historical sites and monuments and incredible dining experiences. 

Love Chicago but not sure which neighborhood will be the best fit for your lifestyle? Here are a few of our favorite neighborhoods in the Windy City:

West Loop

This centrally located neighborhood in Chicago is at the heart of the city’s bustling entertainment and shopping district. Apartments in the neighborhood typically are airy and modern with access to a wide range of amenities, depending on the building. The neighborhood itself is home to multiple big-name tech employers, art galleries, fine dining, historical sites and attractions and amazing bars. You’ll also find some amazing shopping and plenty of popular attractions to enjoy with friends and family when they visit. West Loop is incredibly accessible to public transit and is highly walkable for most of your daily activities and needs.

Bridgeport

Bridgeport is a residential, walkable neighborhood on the Southwest Side of Chicago. You’ll find charming cottages, landscaped row houses and brick townhouses and flats – all with a beautiful historic charm and great prices for renters. You’ll find lovely parks and delicious dining establishments all around, along with the Bridgeport Arts Center with classes and events within easy walking distance.

North Center

North Center is a quiet neighborhood bordering the North Branch, revolving around Lincoln Avenue where you’ll find Irish pubs and breweries, plenty of storefront theaters and cozy coffee shops. It’s a great neighborhood for students and families looking for plenty of activity without all the bustle of some of the nearby neighborhoods like Roscoe Village and Avondale. Horner Park is a great neighborhood park, along with many others and the longest pedestrian bridge in the city and 312 River Run, leading to Clark and California Parks.

Uptown

Uptown is an affordable neighborhood with loads of lakeside apartments, lively entertainment and plenty of historical charm. You’ll find the Green Mill – Al Capone’s old favorite jazz club – and tons of other live entertainment venues are scattered all around the neighborhood. You’ll also find locally owned dining establishments of all cuisine types, easy shopping with boutiques and big box stores and plenty of parks. Public transit is extremely accessible and bike lanes are plentiful. The whole neighborhood is extremely walkable and connects to the Lake Shore Trail.

Lincoln Park

The neighborhood is home to the city’s largest park, which it shares the name with. The Lincoln Park Zoo is also located within the park, along with marinas and unique attractions and lush gardens. The neighborhood offers several lakeview apartments, many trails, a nature museum, history museum and more, plus plenty of shopping and dining. The neighborhood is one of the most popular spots for young couples and families, thanks partially to the nearby attractions but also for the vibrant nightlife and the affordable apartments. The neighborhood is accessible to all forms of public transit and is exceptionally walkable. Joggers and urban cyclists especially enjoy this neighborhood for the many trails nearby.

River North

This sleek, upscale neighborhood is one of the most popular among college students and young adults but is equally loved by mature families who love easy accessibility and plenty of activities. The neighborhood offers some of the finest dining opportunities, dramatic skyline views, an incredible art scene and some of the liveliest nightlife in the city. It’s almost one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city with easy access to public transit as well. There are plenty of walking paths and urban playgrounds, new bars and entertainment venues of all types.

Lakeview

Another popular neighborhood north of the Loop is Lakeview, which, as the name indicates, is situated on the edge of Lake Michigan. The neighborhood is home to Wrigleyville – a smaller neighborhood within a neighborhood – where Wrigley Field resides, along with some of the most enjoyable casual dining in the city. The neighborhood is an accessible arts center in town as well, with eclectic venues of all sorts, quick local eateries and Irish pubs. The neighborhood also adjoins parts of Lincoln Park where you’ll find trails and playgrounds, public art and more. Lakeview is another one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city.

Gold Coast

For those who are looking for the finer things in life, the Gold Coast of Chicago is your must-investigate neighborhood. The trendy neighborhood has the finest luxury apartments and access to the most upscale restaurants and shopping in the city. Here you’ll find the Magnificent Mile, the Water Tower, plenty of lakeview apartments and the most celebrity spotting opportunities in the city. The neighborhood is also one of the oldest in the city, so if you’re a history lover, you’ll also enjoy the many historic sites located throughout the neighborhood. The neighborhood is very walkable, though stress can be crowded during peak tourist season.

Hyde Park

Once home to former President Barack Obama, Hyde Park has become one of the most up-and-coming neighborhoods of Chicago in recent years. With boutique dining and shops, plenty of parks, easy public transit access and beautiful architecture, the newest art center of Chicago is the perfect location for folks looking for plenty of activity without being in the Loop.

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