Gold Coast/Streeterville
As with most neighborhoods, its exact borders are subject to dispute, but generally extend from Oak Street north to North Avenue and from Lake Michigan west to Clark Street. Home of the world-famous Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue, the Gold Coast is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Chicago. Usually considered to be part of downtown Chicago, the Gold Coast is just steps away from Lake Michigan and the Loop, making it one of the most expensive and exclusive areas in Chicago. Streeterville is the area east of the Magnificent Mile and is a smaller neighborhood within Gold Coast. The entire neighborhood is made up of 19th century brownstones, single family homes, co-ops, high-rise and mid- rise condominiums which are vintage or modern. Residents in these areas are within walking distance of almost everything. The John Hancock Center, Water Tower Place, Oak Street Beach, Magnificent Mile and Oak Street Boutiques are only a few of the attractions in this area.
New Eastside
The new Eastside Neighborhood is the area between Grant Park and the Chicago River bounded on the east by Lake Shore Drive and on the west by Michigan Avenue. The site is mostly man-made land southeast of the old mouth of the river where Fort Dearborn was built in 1803. Until the 1970’s the land was used as a vast rail yard by the Illinois Central Railroad. It was developed gradually in several stages. Development is expected to be finished by 2010. This area includes Illinois Center, Aon Center, Hyatt Regency Chicago, Prudential Plaza, Fairmont Hotel, Park Millennium Condominiums, and the ongoing Lakeshore East developments, etc. Getting around this area can be confusing. This neighborhood includes a 3-tier street system. Use the upper levels to get to the buildings in the neighborhood, the middle level is for through traffic and the lower level is for deliveries.
Lincoln Park
Adjoining the Gold Coast to the north along the lake is the popular Lincoln Park neighborhood. Although boundaries are not precisely defined, the Lincoln Park neighborhood is bordered on the north by Diversey Parkway, on the west by Clybourn Avenue, on the south by North Avenue, and on the east by Lincoln Park itself. This area has some of Chicago’s finest and most expensive homes, impressive greystones and charming row houses. The neighborhood is very popular as it is a quick drive or commute to Chicago’s downtown and has many cultural offerings, exciting restaurants, and Lincoln Park which is the home to our free famous zoo.
Old Town
Immediately north of Chicago’s downtown, is an historic area of quiet tree - lined residential streets with many charming cottages, row houses and townhouses of brick or frame. This area is a neighbor of Lincoln Park. Old Town’s main streets include North, Division, Armitage, Clark and Halsted. The Old Town area which began in the 1960’s retains much of the atmosphere of early Chicago. Antique street lights identify the parameters of the area which has some of the finest restaurants, theaters, boutiques and clubs. Each summer the oldest juried outdoor fair in the country is held here.
Bucktown/Wicker Park
Bucktown is located between North and Fullerton Avenues from the Kennedy Expressway to Western Avenue, and shares a common hub with Wicker Park at North, Milwaukee and Damen Avenues. After many years of gentrification, the architecture includes restored cottages decked with skylights, factories converted to lofts, new condos, brownstones, two and three flats, and the occasional elegant mansion. These areas are home to local artists, hip boutiques, and trendy restaurants.
River North
Immediately north of Chicago’s downtown (the Loop), River North is bounded by Rush Street to the east, Chicago Avenue to the north, and the Chicago River to the south and west. This area is an eclectic blend of architecture and transformation. Former warehouses have been converted to lofts and new townhouses and mid-rise condominiums are attracting people who love the proximity to the Loop and the financial district. River North is often considered the Chicago version of New York’s SoHo. The area is home to many galleries and trendy restaurants, and south of it is the theater district.
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