Archive of the Category 'In The Neighborhood'

Lakeview’s Thriving Arts Scene: Galleries, Theater, and Music

Nestled just north of Chicago’s downtown lies the Lakeview neighborhood, a bustling center of culture, business, and diversity. Though it might be most known for its adjacency to Lake Michigan and Wrigley Field, this northside staple is chock-full of notable concert halls, galleries, and art spaces. From indie rock performances to world-renowned theater productions, Lakeview offers plenty regarding arts, culture, and creative expression. 

Music Venues 

Wherever you are in Lakeview, there’s a music hall, concert space, or dive bar that’ll satisfy all your live music wishes. The neighborhood is a treasure trove of live performances, from indie rock, jazz, and pop to everything in between. 

The Metro

The Metro is one of the most famous and established music venues in the neighborhood. This beloved venue has hosted world-class shows on the buzzing and iconic Clark Street since 1982. Its multi-leveled interior makes it an incredible spot to watch huge acts and rock bands, while its intimate setting supports more minor acts and talent. With its stellar acoustics and breathtaking decor, it’s no wonder the Metro is still the premier spot for Lakeview residents. 

Schubas Tavern

Schubas Tavern is the place to go for those wanting to see some excellent local talent. Located in one of Lakeview’s historic Victorian two-flat, Schubas features live acts from small indie rock acts to massive, international talent. If you get hungry, the venue’s connected restaurant, Tied House, has quality eats and drinks for your tasting pleasure. With its cozy ambiance and high-quality sound system, Schubas is the perfect venue for a casual, music-listening experience. 

The Hideout

A little outside Lakeview’s parameters is The Hideout, a local hidden gem near and dear to Chicago’s heart. Inconspicuously situated in an industry district, this venue has transitioned from a speakeasy in 1934 to a beloved dive bar and music hall. Over the years, The Hideout has maintained a dedicated following due to its connection to the neighborhood music scene. From old-time bands to folk projects to jazz and R&B, this Chicago favorite is an undisputed destination for all live music enjoyers. 

Art Galleries 

Lakeview is not only an excellent area to see top-tier bands but also a neighborhood that deeply embraces visual arts and culture. Art enthusiasts will find themselves spellbound by the community’s diverse array of galleries, each offering a distinct perspective on contemporary artwork. From avant-garde installations to traditional paintings, these galleries represent something every cultural enthusiast can enjoy. 

Vertical Gallery

A standout destination in Lakeview is the Vertical Gallery, a dynamic space dedicated to urban and contemporary art. With rotating exhibitions featuring local and international artists, Vertical Gallery pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. Some of the gallery’s acclaimed exhibits focus on street art, graffiti, pop culture, and graphic design, modernizing visual art while captivating critics and residents alike. 

Jackson Junge Gallery

Jackson Junge Gallery provides a mind-altering optical experience for those interested in photography. Showcasing the work of talented photographers from around the world, this gallery invites visitors to explore the power of imagery through storytelling and self-expression. Jackson Junge is also highly committed to displaying the intersection of photography and technology, hosting exhibitions that explore digital art, virtual reality, and interactive installations.

Outside brick-and-mortar galleries, Lakeview is primarily known for its involvement in street art, outsider art fairs, and cultural events. Wandering through the neighborhood’s streets, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of murals on building facades and alleyways. During the summer, you’ll quickly stumble upon an outsider art fair or two displaying the widespread, unique talent around the Midwest. 

Theater 

Visit Lakeview would not be complete without immersing oneself in the neighborhood’s theatrical talent. From Broadway productions to unique, avant-garde stage plays, Lakeview’s theaters offer a captivating look into modern and traditional performance.

Athenaeum Theatre

The community’s most prized theater is the Anthaneum Theatre, a historic landmark that has entertained audiences for over 100 years. The Atheneum Theatre remains the Chicago center for cultural enrichment and artistry with its ornate, remarkable architecture and diverse programming. 

The Annoyance Theatre

For those craving a more intimate theater experience or wanting to see some local comedy, the Annoyance Theatre provides the perfect setting. Known for its stand-up and sketch comedy shows, the Annoyance Theatre also pushes the boundaries of experimental production with acting and stage plays. This local gem invites audiences to laugh and cry while excellently showcasing high-quality talent, writing, and theatrics.  

Though there are many fantastic Chicago communities where people can engage in cultural expression, Lakeview may be the best collection of diverse theater, music, and visual art. With its lively nightlife and endless local talent, spending a night in this northside neighborhood will leave you creatively satisfied for weeks to come. 

Historic Architecture in Lincoln Park: Unique & Landmark Buildings

Lincoln Park is home to the city’s iconic zoo, as well as a cornerstone for fine dining, entertainment, and nightlife. However, many residents of the area might not know about its historic nature and architecture, which has lasted hundreds of years. 

Though the Chicago Fire destroyed many buildings in 1871, some parts of Lincoln Park have remained untouched. Here are some of this northside neighborhood’s most unique and essential architecture and structures. 

Elks National Memorial

In the heart of Lincoln Park, there’s a significant structure that has stood since the early 1920s. The Elks National Memorial is a dome-like monument constructed to honor the bravery of soldiers who died in World War I. 

The Elks War Relief Commission was responsible for finding the site and overseeing the monument’s construction. They chose the Lincoln Park area for its centralized location and its closeness to Lake Michigan. The commission wanted to make a structure that was so breathtakingly beautiful that those passing by would have to stop and admire it. The memorial was finalized in 1926 when it was officially dedicated to those who had perished in World War I. 

Today, the structure still stands on Lakeview Avenue between Wrightwood and Diversey.   

Biograph Theater 

The Biograph Theater, converted recently into a live-production venue, is a historic landmark for deadly reasons. It’s most famous for the John Dillinger incident, where the notorious gangster was shot outside the premises by FBI agents. Since the shooting, it has become an essential landmark in the Lincoln Park Neighborhood. 

Built in 1914, the Biograph Theater was designed in the style of other 20th-century movie theaters of the time. It has a storefront-width lobby, an indented entrance, and an extensive canopy marquee. The theater was known in its early days as a hangout spot for gangsters and residents alike and continued to be a premier place for midnight showings. 

Today, the Biograph, known as Victory Gardens, is less of a venue for recent movies and more of a spot for live theater productions. 

Francis J Dewis House 

Francis Joseph Dewis was a prominent figure in Chicago in the late 1800s. He was an established brewer, as part of the Busch Brewing Company, and quickly rose the ranks to become a certified millionaire. His mansion, with notable European architecture, is now a historic landmark that still resides in Lincoln Park. 

Dewis’s house was built in 1896 by Adolph Cudell and Arthur Hercz. They modeled the mansion off of Baroque European architecture, with two exterior pillars in the shape of human figures holding up the building. After Dewis passed away, the home was owned by various Chicago socialites and artists, including Chuck Renslow and famed dancer Dom Orejudos. For its opulent and rich design, the mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s. 

The mansion resides right off of Lake Michigan, on the quiet and quaint Wrightwood Avenue. Just walking west of Lakeview Avenue, you’ll be able to find this colossal building in all of its glory. 

Lincoln Park Conservatory 

Though many visitors and residents are familiar with the Lincoln Park Zoo, its adjacent attractions don’t get the same recognition. The Lincoln Park Conservatory is just as special and historic. With its serene interior and luscious greenery, it’ll easily transport you to a subtropical landscape. 

The conservatory, constructed between 1890 and 1895, is an updated 19th-century greenhouse. It was designed by acclaimed architect Joseph Lyman Silsbee using brand-new iron and glass building technology. 

With the certainty of industrialization, many cities, including Chicago, wanted to bring nature to their urban landscape. This need for foliage pushed the Lincoln Park Conservatory into a showhouse with various subsections, including orchid, palm, and fern rooms. 

Today, the conservatory is as lush and inviting as ever. It’s open between ten in the morning and five at night every day except Monday and Tuesday. If you ever catch yourself near the zoo, stop by the conservatory for a scenic getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

Wellness in Lakeview: Best Spas, Yoga, and Self-Care

In such a fast-paced city, finding relaxation amongst the hustle and bustle is imperative. Luckily for Chicago residents, there’s plenty of opportunity to care for one’s body and mind. Whether you’re into taking a fitness class or something more lowkey and meditative, there are many options tailored to specific self-care goals. 

On the north side, there are plenty of spas, yoga studios, and wellness clinics to visit for deep 

relaxation. Here are some of the best spots in Lakeview to get your mind and body-centered. 

Elite Chicago Spa 

Located on the busy Southport Ave, Elite Chicago Spa offers numerous services to its distressed clientele. This clinic provides therapeutic massages and exfoliating treatments like facials, but they also administer chemical peels, botox, and laser hair removal. 

If you’re looking for a spot for maximum relaxation but also need a skin cleanse, this spa is the perfect place to visit. This spot has numerous specialized options for clearer skin, like ultrasonic facials, LED treatments, and microdermabrasion (a non-invasive exfoliating procedure). You can also receive other treatments like microneedling for your eyebrows and cellulite reduction. 

Are you having stomach and bloating issues? Elite Chicago Spa has an extensive colon detox regiment with abdominal massages, acupressure, and audio therapy. The program intends to rid your body of toxins through bi-weekly pressotherapy and special herbal drinks, encouraging the body to drain unnecessary fluids and bacteria. 

Spavia 

A little further south of the Lakeview neighborhood lies the healing Spavia Day Spa. It’s famous for its extensive spa packages, high-end amenities, and body treatments. 

Spavia wants you to feel like you’re taking a vacation in the middle of the city, so upon entering, you’ll get a plush robe, sandals, and an aromatherapy neck pillow. As you slowly unwind in the spa’s retreat room, you’ll prepare for your following healing treatments: Fijian hand and foot, deep tissue, or hydraderm facials. 

Though singular treatments may be expensive, there are a few different membership deals for those considering monthly or bi-weekly excursions. Standard memberships include one massage, facial, and beauty therapy per month, ensuring you can maintain calm throughout your hectic schedule. 

Hilltop Yoga 

Hilltop Yoga is a renowned studio in Lakeview with a few different locations, including Lansing, Michigan. The studio specializes in re-energizing you, keeping stress levels at bay, and allowing your body to develop strength and balance. 

With so many yoga studio options in Chicago, Hilltop is one of the most affordable spots, with new students two-week unlimited classes for $20. The Lakeview location has many diverse yoga options, from advanced power and strength courses to meditative and outdoor sessions. For those who aren’t feeling well or who are COVID-conscious, many of the instructors offer online sessions to ensure that everyone feels safe while practicing. 

Ritual Hot Yoga 

Over the past decade, hot yoga studios have been more popular than ever. This type of yoga involves warm and heated studios to increase the intensity of the workout. The added heat is supposed to replicate the climate in India, where yoga originated. 

The Ritual Hot Yoga studio in Chicago is a perfect place if you’re looking for a vigorous yet meditative session. Each room will be dimly lit and full of flickering candles, ready to transport you to a relaxing and soothing mindset. Each hot yoga session lasts fifty minutes, with specifically tailored playlists to ensure each student feels in touch with their poses and surroundings. If you need more of a workout, Ritual offers ab sessions to get your stomach tight and your body sweating. 

Cuddle Bunny 

In-person workouts and spa days are lovely, but some people need relaxation through a different avenue. If you don’t have time for an hour-long massage, stopping by this bunny café may be your instantaneous ticket to stress relief. 

Built-in 2020, Cuddle Bunny’s mission is to provide a quick and calming atmosphere for its customers with an array of cute and friendly rabbits. People can book a session at the café where you can lounge about and pet the bunnies. The shop holds special events like yoga sessions, where you can participate in a course while bunnies prance around the studio.  

Whether you are consistently on the go or don’t have the funds to pay for extensive spa visits, there are plenty of opportunities for affordable and accessible self-care excursions. Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood has a diverse assortment of wellness clinics, yoga studios, and animal-focused cafés ready to enjoy after a busy workday.

Northside Chicago’s Best Sledding Hills: Thrills for Winter Enthusiasts

Winter is approaching, and Chicago’s residents are fully ready to embrace the snow-filled sidewalks and chilly temperatures. There are plenty of ways to celebrate winter in the city, like ice skating, visiting the Zoo Lights, or attending the Christkindlemarket downtown. But everyone knows the best way to enjoy the frosty weather is to find the optimal sledding hill. 

Though Chicago is not known as a mountainous city, there are nearby hills big enough for a fast-paced toboggan adventure. Here are some of the best places in the city for exceptional sledding. 

Oz Park

Most Chicagoans are familiar with the north side’s Wizard of Oz-themed park. Located in the residential Lincoln Park, each entrance is monumented with a character from the iconic movie. Though Oz Park is most famous for its statues, it’s also known by locals as the premier place to go sledding. 

Just east of Halsted, you’ll find this tremendous hill. Often used as a hangout spot for Lincoln Park High School attendees, Oz Park’s elevated mound turns into a wintery fantasy once December rolls around. Snowfall perfectly transforms this green domain into an exceptional sledding spot for north siders. 

On a typical winter day, you’ll find kids of all ages using cardboard, lunch trays, and more as sledding vehicles, attempting to achieve the perfect ride. Oz Park’s bunny hill is also an excellent option for families with young kids ready for outdoor fun. 

Horner Park  

Over the summer, Horner Park has lively events, athletics, and food trucks. Its gigantic baseball field is home to countless high school teams, and its ample green space makes for the perfect Fourth of July picnic. While this northside park blossoms during the summer months, it’s just as active in December and January. 

Thanks to Horner Park’s massive hill, kids flock in droves to this neighborhood favorite for maximum sledding fun. At almost 60 acres, Horner Park is one of the largest parks on the north side, and its elevated peak is no different. Once the first snowfall hits, the park’s hill turns into a wintery, mountainous slope. Kids and adults alike will enjoy catching air while sliding expeditiously down Horner Park’s iconic hillside. 

Humboldt Park 

Many locals might know Humboldt Park’s eponymous greenspace as the center of the Chicago alligator fiasco. In 2019, residents found a freshwater alligator hanging out in the park’s lagoon. This mishap created a media frenzy and a loving nickname for the lost reptile, “Chance the Snapper.” Fortunately, the park has way more to offer than an alligator headline. 

Humboldt Park also has one of the northside’s favorite sledding hills. Easily visible off of Kedzie Avenue, this immense hill is the premier spot for hanging out, sunbathing, and any wintertime activity imaginable. Once snow starts to fall, the slope becomes the ideal winter wonderland for sledding aficionados. 

Riis Park 

Riis Park is a vast, communal area that rivals Horner Park on the north side. Spanning almost 60 acres, this Belmont-Cragin park has a fieldhouse with a gymnasium, countless soccer fields, and even an ice skating rink. 

Though Riis Park’s sledding hill isn’t the tallest on the list, it still provides an excellent slope for its residents. Its expansiveness means abundant room for snowball fights, snow angels, and snowmen. If you get bored of sledding, you can also walk to the park’s center for a leisurely ice skating adventure. Though you might not get the most intense thrills from its hill, Riis Park is the quintessential place for a well-rounded, wintery excursion. 

Warren Park 

At the edge of Chicago’s northside is Rogers Park. With Lake Michigan at its eastern border and Little India to the west, it’s an essential neighborhood for nightlife, dining, and outdoor activities. It’s also home to a massive green space called Warren Park.

Warren Park sits east of Western Avenue and offers plenty of physical activities for people of all ages. Its nine-hole golf course and putting area are renowned on the northside, while its winding paved paths make for the perfect jog or bike ride. However, Warren Park mutates into a tranquil, snowy escape in the winter. 

Both kids and adults consistently visit the park’s hillside, and its adjacent stairs with railings create a safer atmosphere for parents with young children. If you foresee your children or loved ones having a tough time climbing up and down an icy hill, Warren Park is an excellent option for stress-free sledding access.  

Chicago’s chilly weather might frighten some, but real residents know that there are plenty of outdoor escapades to pursue during the holiday season. If you’re ready to grab a sled and hit the slopes, check out any of these parks for an extraordinary ride. 

Our Favorite Cafes and Coffee Shops in Lakeview, Chicago

Now that the weather is chilling out in Chicago, many will flock to their favorite coffee spot for a warm cup of joe. The problem in the city isn’t finding a cafe to go to but which one to choose from. Especially if you live on the north side, there are sometimes too many options, which makes finding the perfect spot challenging. If you’re a longtime Lakeview resident or happen to be visiting the area, here are some of the finest cafés and coffee shops to patronize. 

Hero Coffee Bar

Founded in 2014, Hero started as an independent shop in the heart of Chicago’s downtown. Through years of perseverance, Hero has grown and expanded through the city’s north side. Today, the coffee franchise has spread across the northside due to its delicious roasts and rustic interior design. 

The Lakeview location is right inside the 2950 North Sheridan building, making it the essential spot for residents and their neighbors. Hero’s menu options will overjoy espresso drinkers; from classic drinks like lattes and cappuccinos to seasonal drinks like the pumpkin pie latte, there’s a coffee option for everyone. There are plenty of bagel sandwich choices, too, if you’re in a hurry and need a quick breakfast. 

Osmium 

Dark Matter is a popular coffee company in Chicago with locations all over the city. Situated right on Belmont Avenue, Osmium is one of the quintessential Dark Matter cafés locals flock to daily. With its delicious drinks and strong cold brews, Osmium is a go-to shop for lounging or getting that quick caffeine re-up. 

Osmium is easy to walk to for those in the Lakeview or Boystown Neighborhood. It’s just a few blocks from the Belmont Red Line, making this café easily accessible to most Chicagoans. Stepping inside Osmium, you’ll find psychedelic wall decor and ample tables for taking a breather or getting some work done. During the summer months, the outdoor patio converts into a perfect away-from-home office, with long, colorful picnic tables for productivity and chit-chatting. 

Of course, the coffee is delicious at Dark Matter establishments, too. They have both single-origin and coffee blends for drip and iced coffee, as well as flavorful and imaginative latte drinks. If you’re ever adjacent to Boystown, you must make a pit stop at Osmium. 

Intelligentsia 

Intelligentsia is a coffee chain that takes itself very seriously. For patrons, this makes for the optimal cáfe experience. This neighborhood spot is a reputable local favorite with perfectly crafted espresso drinks and aesthetically pleasing decor. 

Walking up the busy street of Broadway Avenue, you’ll find Intelligentsia consistently buzzing with patrons. Their drinks are wonderfully caffeinated, and the cafe interior is sleek and inviting, perfect for an effective workday. There are plenty of fluorescent lights and communal tables, which are excellent for meetings or casual hangouts. The coffee menu has all the drink classics, from mochas to lattes to tea drinks like matcha. 

Doppio Coffee House      

Doppio Coffe House, named after the Italian double-shot espresso drink, is a hidden gem with exceptional eats and lattes. Despite plenty of competition, this Chicago husband-and-wife team has created a café staple in the heart of Lakeview.   

Though Doppio is known for its espresso, the shop is also proud of its artisan drip coffee for both service and retail. The café has diverse roasts that range from dark blends with chocolate notes to lighter, single-origin ones. If you show up to Doppio hungry, there are terrific breakfast and lunch options like the ancient grain toast with homemade garbanzo and tahini spread and a decadent avocado toast. 

Doppio is open at six in the morning every day, so make sure to stop by if you’re in Lakeview bright and early. 

Heritage Bikes & Coffee

What if you love caffeine, but you’re also an avid biker? Heritage Bikes & Coffee is the ideal spot for athletes who enjoy the café experience. 

Founded in 2011, Heritage has served the Lakeview community with high-end bikes, general repairs, and, naturally, espresso drinks. When you enter the café, you’ll see mechanics working away while sleep-deprived residents order caffeinated beverages. The interior is cozy and inviting, with some counter and table space for working and hanging. The menu features plenty of coffeehouse staples but also features creative, delectable specials like Heritage’s tart and sweet hibiscus matcha latte. 

Lakeview is definitely not devoid of cafés and coffee shops. If you’re visiting the area but don’t know where to go, start with these four spots for excellent coffee and inviting ambiance. 

Family-Friendly Activities in Lincoln Park Chicago: Fun for All Ages

There are plenty of fun-filled adventures to take your children on in Chicago. Whether you’re taking a trip to Navy Pier or relaxing along the lake, there are infinite spaces in the city for both adults and kids to enjoy. Here are some of the best spots for family-friendly activities on the north side. 

Lincoln Park Zoo 

What would a list about Lincoln Park be without the illustrious Lincoln Park Zoo? Located just north of Armitage and west of the lakefront, this massive zoo has mammals, reptiles, and insects from all over the world. The zoo also has programming designed for kids, ensuring they have tailored learning and exploration experiences. 

Inside the park, you’ll find the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo area, which is filled with interactive exhibits and play spaces. The zoo includes an impressive treehouse for kids to explore and the Wild Sapling Play Forest for climbing and crawling through. 

Alongside the playground, there’s Lincoln Park’s notable Farm-in-a-Zoo attraction. This area allows for hands-on learning excursions for both kids and adults, showcasing real farm animals and everyday tasks farmers do to keep their companions strong and healthy. It’s a fantastic introduction for children excited to interact with cows, chickens, and goats in a safe, controlled environment. 

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 

One of the most family-friendly museums in the city, the Peggy Notebaert Museum has been a cornerstone in the Lincoln Park neighborhood for over 100 years. 

There are many exhibits to peruse, but the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is the most iconic. This 2,700-square-foot greenhouse hosts over 1,000 butterflies of 40 different species that glide through the space freely and majestically. Kids and parents can see these insects up close and personal, providing an unforgettable and educational encounter for any age. The greenhouse also contains immaculate birds from the southern hemisphere and tropical flora unlike anywhere in the midwest. 

For the family’s youngest members, the museum has a specifically designed play area for toddlers and young children. This playground recreates outdoor habitats indoors, with life-size bird nests and beaver logs for kids to climb and relax in. There are over 25 activities in this play area, too, including unique touchable, interactive games that teach children about our various ecosystems. 

North Avenue Beach 

Before the autumn weather gets too cold, take your children to the lakefront for quality outdoor time. Though many beaches in Chicago exist, the beach on North Avenue has some of the best amenities for family-oriented adventures. 

While swimming and making sandcastles are expected at the lakefront, you’ll also be able to rent kayaks and paddleboards for optimal fun on the water. Lakeshore Bike N’ Tune is also nearby, providing bike rentals and same-day purchases if you need a more stimulating group activity. 

Are your kids into team sports? There are beachfront volleyball nets and equipment rentals, with courts operating for $10 an hour. Even though the summer weather is coming to an end, there’s still plenty to do on the North Avenue shoreline this fall. 

Lincoln Park Conservatory

If your kids have gone through all the Lincoln Park Zoo exhibits and aren’t tired yet, you can walk just a few hundred feet north until you reach the iconic Lincoln Park Conservatory. Located adjacent to the zoo, this conservatory is perfect for kids of all ages and sizes. 

For over 100 years, this humungous greenhouse has hosted thousands of tropical and subtropical plant species from around the globe. Take a stroll through the orchid room and watch your kids admire all the colorful, exuberant flowers on display. 

If strolling through exotic landscapes isn’t stimulating enough for your youngins, there’s a playscape located just outside the conservatory. This play space includes slides, swings, and climbable, rocky formations intended to inspire connection with nature. 

Chicago’s northside is home to unlimited adventures for kids and their parents. With Lincoln Park’s inimitable zoo and sprawling lakefront, it’s almost impossible to run out of family-friendly activities that’ll satisfy everyone. 

Wrigleyville History: Evolution from Baseball to Modern Neighborhood

Wrigleyville is one of the most well-known and visited neighborhoods on the north side of Chicago. Though it gets its name from the iconic baseball stadium Wrigley Field, it has a more extensive story apart from its sports team connection. Before being incorporated into modern Chicago, this neighborhood’s lengthy history led to its current Midwest prominence. 

Beginning of Wrigleyville   

The Wrigleyville story starts outside the Chicago city borders, inside a small community called Lakeview. Lakeview was a town situated north of the city, mostly known for its agricultural significance. The area was famous for growing celery and was sometimes referred to as “America’s celery capital.” In 1887, town officials decided that Lakeview couldn’t survive on its own without incorporation. After a democratic vote, the northern farming town became an official Chicago neighborhood. 

After several years, Lakeview grew as an industrialized area, with factories lining the always bustling Diversey Avenue. The neighborhood’s sudden prosperity and ample jobs led many from Chicago’s center up north, growing the northside’s general population. As Lakeview’s economic opportunities grew, entertainment moguls began scouting the area for recreational opportunities. This economic boom informed the migration of the Chicago Cubs and the eventual creation of Wrigley Field. 

Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field was built in 1914 in the heart of Lakeview, hosting the Chicago Whales baseball team. The team played in the Federal League, colloquially known as the Third Major League for baseball. Unfortunately, this third league was disbanded in 1916, opening Chicago’s Wrigley Field for a Chicago Cubs’ takeover. 

Originally the arena was known as Weeghman Field until it was purchased by the Wrigley family in 1920. Once purchased, it was primarily called Cubs Park until it was renamed in 1926 after the team’s owner, William Wrigley Jr. 

The Cubs played their first home game in 1916 against the Cincinnati Reds, marking the team’s longstanding connection to the Lakeview neighborhood. Today, the team are permanent residents on the north side of Chicago and have become a point of immense pride for Wrigleyville residents. 

Wrigleyville Today 

As Lakeview became an industrialized epicenter and Wrigley Field welcomed fans from all over the city, Wrigleyville has grown into a flourishing microneighborhood on Chicago’s eastern border. The area has plenty to offer new transplants, longtime residents, and tourists with its vibrant nightlife, historic buildings, and sports-related entertainment. 

Surrounding Wrigley Field is a wealth of sports bars and eateries, perfect for game day or a casual day out. The Cubby Bear, founded in 1953, is one of the neighborhood’s premier spots for pregaming and enjoying live music. The bar has been around for some of the Chicago Cub’s most iconic victories, making it the perfect accompaniment for Wrigley Field’s enthusiastic fans.  

Though this northside community is named after its baseball field, Wrigleyville is packed with venues, nightlife, and outdoor spaces, making it a beautiful place for all types of residents.

To the east is Chicago’s famous Lake Michigan, with miles of lakefront trails for running, leisurely strolling, and biking. Plenty of green spaces are adjacent to the lake, with many playgrounds and dog parks for all walks of life to enjoy.  

The nightlife is also not exclusive to sports bars; Wrigleyville is known for having one of the Midwest’s oldest and most renowned house music clubs. Smartbar, next door to the music venue the Metro, has been open for over 40 years on Chicago’s notable Clark Street. Smartbar hosts house, dancehall, footwork, and techno DJs from around the world, while also creating space for the city’s eclectic local artists and entertainers.  

Lining the surrounding blocks of Wrigleyville has some of Chicago’s quintessential, gorgeous architecture. Two blocks north of the stadium is Alta Vista Terrace, a collection of rowhouses inspired by London’s two flats. The neighborhood is also known for its uniquely designed fire station. More than a century old, the Chicago Fire Department’s Engine Company 78 is the only engine house with a baseball-themed interior, with its walls decorated with Chicago Cubs memorabilia. 

Lakeview and Wrigleyville are two of the most prominent Chicago neighborhoods for their infinite amenities. With booming bars, beautiful architecture, and an iconic sports team, Wrigleyville is constantly inundated with new residents and eager tourists. If you haven’t visited the area yet, there’s still time this summer to grab a hot dog, catch a game, and enjoy all the sights this northside community has to offer.  

The Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Lakeview, Chicago

Most neighborhoods in Chicago are full of greenery, but Lakeview stands out as one of the premier areas for outdoor space and scenic foliage. Lakeview, evidently situated right by the lake, has ample trails, walkways, and parks for families and their furry companions to enjoy. If you’re trying to relish the outdoors these next few sunny months, here are some of the best spots to visit. 

Lakefront Trail 

The lakefront trail may be the most obvious answer, but its beauty makes it the top-tier spot for open-air fun. The path runs from the southside all the way to Evanston, complimenting the immense beauty of Chicago’s Lake Michigan. A specific, scenic area between Fullerton and Irving Park in Lakeview has plenty to offer its residents; from large public parks to tennis courts, this northside pathway provides all kinds of recreation. 

The outdoor tennis courts off Waveland Avenue are great for casual play or competitive singles matches. It lands right between Waveland and Irving Park Avenue on the bike path, surrounded by a large softball field and acres of greenery. If tennis isn’t your thing, a picnic in the adjacent parks is also perfect for needed vitamin D exposure. 

North Pond

A little south of Diversey Avenue lies North Pond, a public nature area home to native plants and aquatic life. The perimeter of the North Pond spans 13 walkable acres, with beautiful winding pathways and greenery to walk through on any warm day or night. 

Converted from a dumping ground, the North Pond is special for its biodiversity and migratory bird sightseeing. This Chicago body of water is home to various amphibians, fish, reptiles, and insects, as well as multiple species of geese, ducks, and herons. 

Getting to the North Pond from Lakeview is relatively easy. If you don’t have access to a car, a few different bus routes will lead you to this natural sanctuary. The Stockton and Clark buses running north and south take you right next to the pond, as well as the Fullerton and Diversey buses that run east and west. 

Belmont Harbor 

Heading north on the lakefront trail from the North Pond, you’ll find yourself next to one of Chicago’s largest and most historic harbors. Belmont Harbor, which started being constructed in the early 1900s, is a bustling area filled with tourists, locals, and boaters. 

An AIDS memorial, which doubles as a sculpture garden, adorns the lakefront south of Belmont Harbor. The park spans 2.5 acres, with countless sculptures to represent those living with HIV or who’ve passed from its complications. The memorial’s crowning glory is a 30-foot-tall green man designed by iconic gay artist and activist Keith Harring. The construction of the garden is also a memorium for the Belmont Rocks, a popular meeting place for LGBTQ+ Chicagoans before its demolition in 2003. 

Oz Park

Directly south of Lakeview is one of the northside’s most notable outdoor spaces, Oz Park. Known for its eponymous statues of Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow, it’s a wildly unique park with incredible summertime amenities.    

Many visit the park for its tennis courts and baseball field, but it’s also a popular meetup spot for dog owners and their pets, students between class periods, and group outdoor exercising.  There’s also a distinctive jungle gym and playground at the park’s center, perfect for adventurous kids from toddlers to elementary school ages.  

Northside neighborhoods have ample green spaces, but living in Lakeview makes those areas way more accessible. If you must leave your air-conditioned apartment this summer, these four spots are crucial for outdoor relaxation or entertainment.

Exploring the History and Architecture of Lakeview and Wrigleyville

In Chicago, neighborhoods on the Northside hold intricate and valuable stories about the city’s history. Since its inception, Chicago has grown to incorporate more areas, with newer communities becoming vibrant epicenters of culture, entertainment, and commerce. Though Lakeview was incorporated into the city 50 years after its establishment, its borders are rich with history and astounding midwestern architecture. 

History of Lakeview 

Chicago was officially formed in 1837 as a political move to capitalize on the United States expanding Western front. Surrounding the city’s center were primarily rural areas and truck farms, one known as Lakeview. In 1887, the town of Lakeview decided to incorporate with the city, worried that it couldn’t survive financially as an independent entity. Since then, Lakeview has become a thriving neighborhood on Chicago’s north side.

Lakeview quickly grew as a place for financial opportunity and commerce. Factories were erected on Diversey Avenue and lined the busy parkway up to the lake. Train tracks constructed for these past factories can still be seen in the neighborhood streets. 

Over the years, Lakeview transformed from a homogenous Swedish and German immigrant area to a multicultural one. Americans moving from the South flocked to the neighborhood in the 1970s, as well as families from Southeast and East Asia. 

It was during this time, too, that Lakeview and Wrigleyville grew popular with the LGBTQ+ community. Both Belmont Harbor and Boystown emerged as subcommunities in the neighborhood, known for their gay bars and cruising areas. Lakeview held the first pride in the city, only hosting 150 marchers in 1970. By 1980, thousands of allies, neighbors, and LGBTQ+ people had collected on Broadway Avenue to fight for gay rights. The pride parade still follows the same path in the Lakeview neighborhood, a tribute to the pride celebrations of the past. 

As the neighborhood’s names changed, gentrification and upscale housing followed. Though prices have increased in the area, many of Lakeview’s revered restaurants, venues, and clubs still remain. 

Architecture and Landmarks in Lakeview and Wrigleyville

Some of the Northside’s most famous buildings reside in these two neighborhoods. Wrigley Field is one of the most recognized structures on the Northside, but other entertainment centers, venues, and federal structures have just as substantial of a history. 

The Music Box on Southport Avenue has been showing independent and foreign films since 1929. With over 700 seats in the building, it’s still the largest-scale independent theater in the entire city. The architecture is undeniably noticeable for its vintage quality but also for its Italian and Spanish influence on its edifice. The loggia, or covered exterior on the upper level of the building, has a faux marble lining, purposefully reminiscent of an Italian courtyard. The Music Box stands out prominently from the neighboring brownstones that line Chicago’s city blocks. 

Schubas, a popular venue off Belmont Avenue, was once a tied house for the Milwaukee beer company Schlitz. The Schlitz sign still hangs on the building’s exterior, showcasing its longstanding history in the Lakeview neighborhood. When the tied house was bought in 1988, most of its original interior was salvaged and maintained. The mahogany bar at the venue’s entrance and the green patterned tin ceiling are emblems of the Schlitz factory’s past. 

Though many architectural styles can be found in Lakeview and Wrigleyville, a dominating construction approach from the late 1800s is undeniably ubiquitous. The Classical Revival style is noticeable in many of the neighborhood’s banks and police stations, including the 42nd Precinct Police Station and the Belmont-Sheffield Trust and Savings Bank Building. This architectural variety is categorized by its use of pillars, pedimented windows with curved and pointed structures, and column-supported porticos. Walking up Clark or Southport will allow easy spotting of this technique in Lakeview’s theaters, banks, and bars.

A Local’s Guide to Apartment Rentals in Lakeview and Wrigleyville

Lakeview has some of the most desired apartments in the entire Chicagoland area. Its proximity to the lake, gorgeous architecture, and entertainment opportunities make it a versatile neighborhood for families and young folks alike. Though finding the perfect rental on the northeast side might be tricky, this quick guide to available, exceptional apartments will hopefully get you closer to your dream Lakeview or Wrigleyville apartment. 

3000 North Sheridan Road

Right off Sheridan and Wellington Avenue lies a luxurious high-rise with plenty of convenient rentals. Its timeless aesthetic has modern amenities and renovated apartments that will delight any future tenant. 

This North Sheridan apartment high-rise has everything from one-bathroom/one-bedroom apartments to family-sized four-bedroom lofts. Each apartment has gorgeous views of the Lakeview area and newly laid hardwood floors. Amenities include laundry rooms, bike storage, storage lockers, and private terraces for specific rentals. 

If exercising is essential to your livelihood, a Wirtz Fitness gym membership is luckily included in this rental agreement. The gym is only half a block away, making working out more accessible than most memberships. 

3260/3270 North Lake Shore Drive

Right off Chicago’s famous outer drive is 3260/3270 N Lake Shore Drive: an antique building with beautiful, luxurious apartments. 

This high-rise is adjacent to both Belmont Harbor and the lakefront path, perfect for anyone looking for Lake Michigan access. The building holds plenty of quality floor plans for all types of renters, from spacious one-bedrooms to uniquely designed three-bedrooms. There are only two units per floor, ensuring that your time at home will be peaceful and undisturbed. 

This building has plenty of essential amenities, including laundry rooms, bike storage, and in-unit laundry hook-ups for each apartment. This building also has the Wirtz fitness gym subscription, allowing renters to spend less on expensive memberships. 

2950 North Sheridan Road

Are you looking for an apartment with a more modern facade? Head over to 2950 North Sheridan; with its mirrored exterior and sophisticated rentals, this property will surely catch the eye of even the most critical tenants. 

2950 North Sheridan has a multitude of apartment layouts, from sleek one-bedrooms to lofty penthouse suites. The rentals include aesthetically pleasing open floor plans with high-end furnishings, Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliances, and Florence sustainable cabinetry. Each renter will have access to the building’s stunning urban garden, which gives an exceptional view of Lake Michigan and the Lakeview area. 

The high-rise includes a private gym, bike storage, temperature-controlled parking, and an activity room for your kids. The building is also environmentally focused, earning the coveted LEED rating certification for reduced carbon emissions and improved energy efficiency. 

529-41 West Wellington  

This apartment complex is just a few blocks from the bustling Diversey/Broadway intersection. Its vintage appearance, open courtyard, and roomy apartment layouts make it a crucial spot for potential renters. 

529-41 West Wellington has plenty of spacious studio and one-bedroom apartments. The complex’s one and two-bedroom rentals have large closets for extra storage and beautiful hardwood floors. All renters will have heat and cooking included, ensuring that more of your money can go towards your essential needs. 

Amenities include community laundry, outdoor space, bike storage rooms, and all-day on-site maintenance. You’ll also have access to 2950 N Sheridan’s luxury gym, only a few blocks from the Wellington building.

With quality restaurants, lively bars, endless lakefront access, and non-stop entertainment, it’s no wonder that Lakeview and Wrigleyville are the most sought-after northside neighborhoods in Chicago. Its comforting aesthetic and vibrant avenues are great for younger folks, while its accessibility and numerous parks make it inviting for new families. Whether you’re old or young, single or married, a longtime resident, or a recent transplant, this guide will provide insight into Lakeview’s most versatile and appealing rentals.  For more information about Lakeview, visit our Lakeview Neighborhood Guide and Resources or our Lakeview Chicago Pet Owners Guide.