Neighborhoods Guides
Leslies Chicago Neighborhood Guides
There's no shortage of things to love about Chicago, from the deep-dish pizza and world-class museums to the bustling city streets and beautiful architecture. If you're thinking about purchasing a home in the Windy City, Leslie Glazier Group is here to help. Leslie has been working as a real estate agent in Chicago for over 20 years, and she knows the ins and outs of every neighborhood. She's put together a series of Chicago neighborhood guides to help you find your dream home, no matter what you're looking for. From downtown high-rises to quaint bungalows in the suburbs, Leslie will help you find the perfect place to call home.
Andersonville & Edgewater
Stretching from the northern lakefront inland to Andersonville’s bustling commercial center along Clark St., the Andersonville/Edgewater region offers everything from beautiful mansions in the Lakewood-Balmoral Historic District to high-rise condominiums and apartments just off Lake Shore Drive. History is pervasive through both neighborhoods.
Meanwhile in the western part of the neighborhood, Andersonville offers a unique cultural mix that culminates every summer in Midsommarfest - a boisterous street festival that is among the biggest and most popular in all of Chicago. With quaint shops, nightlife, numerous top restaurants, great schools, and easy access to the lake and greenspace, Andersonville/Edgewater offers something for everyone.
Bucktown & Wicker Park
Over the past two decades, thousands of new Wicker Park residents discovered that the quick commute downtown, unparalleled nightlife offerings, and never-ending string of new bars and trendy restaurants called to them. As a result, the shabbier apartment buildings have gone down, and in their place are new homes, condos, townhomes, and a variety of all of Chicago’s housing stock.
Meanwhile, just up Milwaukee Ave. from Wicker, Bucktown proceeded to take in everyone who wanted the convenience of Wicker Park with a slightly quieter and more family-friendly feel. Bordering Wicker to its north and northwest, Bucktown offers more single-family homes and quieter streets that are great for families and young professionals alike.
Evanston
Evanston combines a college town with new development for a trendy lifestyle that is sure to impress. Located 12 miles north of downtown, it’s bordered by Chicago to the south, Skokie to the west, Wilmette to the north, and Lake Michigan to the east. Evanston is home to a world-renowned college, wonderful public schools, tons of parks, and plenty of dining and shopping options – making it a great choice for families and people from all walks of life.
Glencoe
If you’re looking for a cozy neighborhood feel with a convenient big city in your backyard, Glencoe is a great option. With a smaller population and plenty of natural beauty and green spaces in the area, this tightknit area affords homeowners privacy along the North Shore.
As an overwhelmingly residential community, Glencoe has a great public-school system, multiple beach and park options for recreation, a family-focused housing stock and a strong small business scene.
Glenview
For a recently revitalized business scene with a big-city backyard, Glenview is the suburb to be. Nestled in the North Shore about 20 minutes north of downtown Chicago, this suburb offers homeowners a lively lifestyle, with no shortage of entertainment and dining options. At the same time, it's ideal for commuters with easy Metra access to the city.
Glenview is conveniently positioned among other great North Shore neighborhoods and is well within reach of all of the amenities downtown Chicago offers. It's bordered by Glenview to the south, Winnetka to the east, Northbrook to the north, and Mount Prospect to the west.
Gold Coast
Located within walking distance of various city hotspots – River North, The Loop, and Old Town – the Gold Coast neighborhood is home to the Magnificent Mile, two university campuses and various tourist destinations. With a gilded history, the convenience of world-class amenities and shopping, and a mix of beautiful old-style homes and modern high-rise buildings – there is something for everyone.
Irving Park + Old Irving
Irving Park’s rich history is evident in its parks, manicured neighborhoods, and historic homes. Independence Park is one of the neighborhood’s finest, and is home to parades, sports events, and concerts. There’s also easy access to the CTA Blue Line and Expressway which makes this a much-desired neighborhood.
Kenilworth
Ranked the second most affluent neighborhood in the United States by Forbes, Kenilworth is peaceful village 15 miles North of Downtown Chicago. One of the newest of the nine suburban North Shore communities bordering Lake Michigan, Kenilworth is the only one developed as a planned community.
The properties in Kenilworth are known to be luxurious single-family homes that range in style from Victorian mansions to distinguished single-family homes. Famous people have called Kenilworth home including: Christopher George Kennedy, son of Robert F. Kennedy, and billionaire co-owner of Reyes Holdings Inc, Jude Reyes.
Kenilworth has its share of natural beauty. The Kenilworth Beach on Lake Michigan is divided into a sailing beach and a bathing beach. The Ware Garden is a public courtyard on the East Side where many residents walk their dogs.
Lakeview
Chicagoans will find more than a few of their favorite things in Lakeview, one of the largest neighborhoods on the city’s North Side.
There’s Lakeview’s proximity to the beach and public transit, quiet residential streets, thriving restaurant and bar scene and Wrigley Field, for starters.
Then there’s the neighborhood’s historic churches, theaters and notable architecture. The Music Box Theater has been operating since it opened in 1929, originally showing silent films accompanied by a live organ player, and now playing independent and foreign films.
Did we mention the outdoor festivals, farmers’ markets, nightlife and cultural attractions? Lakeview is home to the Belmont Theater District with over 30 theaters and live performance venues near the Belmont “L” station. Residents also have a front-row seat to the Chicago Marathon, Chicago Pride Parade and Bike the Drive.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park residents have it all – from the arts to its famed zoo – right in their backyard. It’s no wonder the North Side neighborhood is one of the most sought after in the U.S.
The neighborhood includes quiet tree-lined residential blocks, top-rated schools, DePaul University, and two major museums in addition to the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the country’s oldest zoos. There’s also a wide array of entertainment, eateries and hotspots.
An evening in Lincoln Park might include seeing a play at the acclaimed Steppenwolf Theatre and dining at a Michelin-rated restaurant or a quaint neighborhood café. Sports fans will find as many dive bars with the game on as foodies will find fine-dining restaurants with al-fresco seating.
Lincoln Square
Lincoln Square manages to be both trendy and old-world charming at the same time.
The community celebrates its heritage with a number of ever-popular restaurants and bars, while Lincoln Avenue offers an eclectic mix of sophisticated eateries, corner cafes and favorite neighborhood hangouts.
Centered around a bustling shopping and dining district on Chicago's North Side, Lincoln Square became one of Chicago's first commuter suburbs when the Ravenswood elevated train line was completed in 1907. Today residents have convenient access to the CTA Brown Line and Metra’s Union Pacific North Line.
The neighborhood’s quiet residential streets are lined with bungalows, greystones and brick two- and three-flats, many recently rehabbed. Lovely Victorian and Prairie School homes can be found along the North Branch of the Chicago River. Although single-family homes in Lincoln Square can run upwards of $1 million, vintage apartment buildings restored as condominiums offer a more affordable option. New-construction options are also available in the neighborhood, including single-family homes, townhomes, three-flat condominiums and mid-rise buildings.
Logan Square
Logan Square proves that it is hip to be square after all. The Northwest Side neighborhood, named one of the coolest in the country, attracts residents with its artistic bohemian vibe, park-like boulevards and thriving dining scene.
The Logan Square Boulevards District, lined with beautiful homes and mature trees, is a designated Chicago landmark.
Although it’s surrounded by some of Chicago’s trendiest areas for nightlife, the neighborhood definitely holds its own. Logan Square is home to locally-owned restaurants, bars and bistros, including hotspots noted by Bon Appétit as among Chicago’s best. Artists and musicians live and work in the neighborhood, performing and displaying their art at local coffee shops, cafes and theaters.
Known for its historic greystones, large bungalows and stately mansions, Logan Square is undergoing a boom of residential development, including condominiums, lofts, townhomes, three-flats and single-family homes at a variety of price points. While there is ample new construction, the community still retains its historic charm by repurposing and preserving its landmarks.
North Center
Located at the center of the north side, give or take a block or two you can see where this neighborhood gets its name. North Center has many great bars and restaurants branching out from the five-way intersection of Damen, Irving Park and Lincoln Avenue. Western Avenue is a busy thoroughfare and commercial strip that provides easy access by car to other destinations in the city.
Many of the neighborhood's old warehouses and factories have been converted into housing featuring a mix of both condominiums and rental units. Late 19th and early 20th Century architecture remain a strong theme in the North Center with two and three flat buildings lining the tree-lined side streets. Single family homes are also in ready supply and townhouses and other new construction housing can be found along Irving Park Road. For those who want to be at the center of a vibrant neighborhood, North Center will put you there.
Northbrook
Northbrook is a popular North Suburb located 25 miles from Downtown Chicago. It is one of the largest communities on the North Shore yet still maintains a small-town feel. It has some of the most diverse housing options offering single-family homes in architectural styles ranging from mid-century ranch to contemporary and recently constructed townhomes and condominiums in every price range.
It is home to several shopping centers including Northbrook Court, a large regional mall that includes high-end retailers like Coach, Burberry, Neiman Marcus, LouisVuitton, and great food establishments. The town also has an outstanding park district with top-notch facilities and year-round programs for just about every sport from baseball to golf to cycling.
Northbrook is connected to downtown Chicago by Metra's MilwaukeeDistrict/North Line, which makes two stops within Northbrook. There are five highly rated public school districts serve the community.
Northfield
While residents often cite a lack of demographic diversity as Northfield’s biggest downside, the suburb has a lot going for it. Families will find themselves right at home here with municipal government-hosted events almost monthly, spacious housing options and extensive bicycling and jogging trails.
Old Town
History and sophistication go hand in hand in the Old Town neighborhood, which features historical landmarks, unique cultural offerings, easy access to the lakefront and Lincoln Park, and a convenient location just north of downtown to make for a wonderful place to live. While much of the neighborhood is dotted with high-rise apartments and luxury condominiums, the side streets of Old Town hide some magnificent single-family homes and mansions that offer a combination of space and proximity to downtown that few neighborhoods can match.
River North
If River North had a motto, it would be “Build it and they will come.” First came the art galleries and restaurants, then hip, urban homebuyers followed. Stretching from the Chicago River to Chicago Avenue, west of the Magnificent Mile, the old loft district has found its groove.
Dozens of residential developments in recent years give buyers a lot of choices, from classic timber lofts and upscale row homes to contemporary high-rises. Development has also pushed west of the Chicago River into an area dubbed River West, which includes a number of new condominium buildings.
Chicago's biggest office building, the Merchandise Mart, anchors the southern edge of the neighborhood along the revitalized Chicago River and the new pedestrian Riverwalk that includes restaurants and park seating along with kayak and boat rentals. Residents have convenient access to several bus lines as well as the CTA Red and Brown lines.
Ravenswood
The area was originally conceived as a commuter community for affluent Chicagoans to live while they travelled for work downtown. In the late 1800s, Over time, as the town and city grew larger and closer to one another, the two merged into one seamless urban community.
With Lincoln Square located at its heart, residents of Ravenswood can take full advantage of the many bars and restaurants lining Lincoln Avenue from Lawrence south to Montrose. This hub of commerce features a wealth of small boutiques and shops providing the perfect spot for browsing on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. The Old Town School of Folk Music, The Sulzer Regional Library and the independently run, Davis Theater, are also located within a few blocks of each other on Lincoln Ave. An outdoor farmer's market in the summer and plenty of annual festivals increases the appeal, and Welles Park at Montrose and Western provides ample opportunity for additional outdoor activities. Winnemac Park to the north is also a great spot for biking or walking and jogging.
Ravenswood has a variety of housing options for both renters and would-be homeowners. The area is known for its courtyard apartment buildings, but there are also a mix of two and three flats, many of which have become condos in recent years. Single family homes can also be found along Ravenswood's many one-way streets.
Rogers Park
If River North had a motto, it would be “Build it and they will come.” First came the art galleries and restaurants, then hip, urban homebuyers followed. Stretching from the Chicago River to Chicago Avenue, west of the Magnificent Mile, the old loft district has found its groove.
Dozens of residential developments in recent years give buyers a lot of choices, from classic timber lofts and upscale row homes to contemporary high-rises. Development has also pushed west of the Chicago River into an area dubbed River West, which includes a number of new condominium buildings.
Chicago's biggest office building, the Merchandise Mart, anchors the southern edge of the neighborhood along the revitalized Chicago River and the new pedestrian Riverwalk that includes restaurants and park seating along with kayak and boat rentals. Residents have convenient access to several bus lines as well as the CTA Red and Brown lines.
Roscoe Village
If River North had a motto, it would be “Build it and they will come.” First came the art galleries and restaurants, then hip, urban homebuyers followed. Stretching from the Chicago River to Chicago Avenue, west of the Magnificent Mile, the old loft district has found its groove.
Dozens of residential developments in recent years give buyers a lot of choices, from classic timber lofts and upscale row homes to contemporary high-rises. Development has also pushed west of the Chicago River into an area dubbed River West, which includes a number of new condominium buildings.
Chicago's biggest office building, the Merchandise Mart, anchors the southern edge of the neighborhood along the revitalized Chicago River and the new pedestrian Riverwalk that includes restaurants and park seating along with kayak and boat rentals. Residents have convenient access to several bus lines as well as the CTA Red and Brown lines.
South Loop & The Loop
We would call the South Loop a boomtown – but that would be an understatement.
Chicago's original Gold Coast in the late 19th century, the South Loop was once home to the likes of Marshall Field, George Pullman and Philip Armour. Today the vibrant neighborhood is known for its access to the lakefront, shops, restaurants, parks, Museum Campus and The Loop. The area continues to evolve and is in the midst of a major transformation, with residential construction booming.
Large developments planned and underway include mixed-use projects along the Chicago River and a number of supertall skyscrapers including 1000M – a 74-story luxury condominium tower designed by Helmut Jahn. Meanwhile, several apartment buildings are under construction, bringing thousands of new rental units to the neighborhood.
Existing homes offer more choices, from high-rises and mid-rises to townhomes and single-family homes. Buyers can also find unique loft conversions in areas like Printer’s Row.
Streeterville
Chicagoans will find more than a few of their favorite things in Lakeview, one of the largest neighborhoods on the city’s North Side.
There’s Lakeview’s proximity to the beach and public transit, quiet residential streets, thriving restaurant and bar scene and Wrigley Field, for starters.
Then there’s the neighborhood’s historic churches, theaters and notable architecture. The Music Box Theater has been operating since it opened in 1929, originally showing silent films accompanied by a live organ player, and now playing independent and foreign films.
Did we mention the outdoor festivals, farmers’ markets, nightlife and cultural attractions? Lakeview is home to the Belmont Theater District with over 30 theaters and live performance venues near the Belmont “L” station. Residents also have a front-row seat to the Chicago Marathon, Chicago Pride Parade and Bike the Drive.
Uptown
One of Uptown’s main selling points is that it offers classics lakefront living at affordable prices that you won’t find in some of its southerly neighbors. While high rise apartments and condominium buildings make up a large portion of the neighborhood, you’ll find no shortage of tree-lined blocks with stately mansions, historic greystone and brownstones in its west corners.
West Loop
Chicago’s hottest neighborhood has exploded from a formerly unwelcome industrial area into the area where everyone wants to be - from major corporations like McDonald’s and Google, to the trendiest restaurants in the city, to individuals and families who like the convenience of living close to downtown with a different feel from the corporate high-rises that line the Loop. Where else in the city can you find decades-old Italian groceries and butchers side by side with barbershops with speakeasies behind them?
West Town
Located just northwest of downtown in between Wicker Park and West Loop, West Town has a diverse history and culture informed by its Eastern European roots. The neighborhood’s borders are Chicago Avenue on the north, the Chicago River on the east, the Union Pacific railroad tracks on the south and Humboldt Park on the west.
West Town combines a little bit of its older ethnic roots and mainstays with the newer, more eclectic feel of the housing and dining in the area – which is a big reason why it’s one of the city’s up-and-coming hot spots. For residents living in the cultural melting pot that is West Town, there is no lack of variety as new spots and hidden gems are constantly popping up in its development into a world-class neighborhood.
The average resident age in West Town is about 32 years old, making it a great option for a millennial crowd. This area will likely become popular with new graduates or those in their second or third year of Chicagoland residency. Trendy new businesses and world-class eateries are beginning to establish themselves in the area to reflect the changing population. 26% of households are families, and the award-winning schools in the area make it a great place to raise children.
Winnetka
Long considered one of the best North Shore suburbs to settle down in, Winnetka was ranked number two on a recent 24/7 Wall St. list of America’s best cities to live in. Here, there’s a little bit of something for everyone in the family – from a welcoming community and affordable housing, to a high concentration of restaurants and parks.
Within Winnetka’s borders, you’ll find various award-winning school options, a fine dining scene that rivals downtown’s, theaters and tons of green space and recreational parks. It’s a village-style suburb, with the same quaint shops and neighborhood feel you would expect.
Wilmette
With easy access to down town, top- rated schools, and plenty of lakefronts, Wilmette is a family-friendly, eclectic suburb with something for everyone. In addition to a charming down town with a variety of retail shops and new restaurants, Wilmette is home to one of the best school districts in the nation. It is also known for its robust park district that offers tons of classes, camps, and programs for kids and adults alike. Not to mention, its own harbor for boating. Growing in population and diversity, Wilmette is a welcoming, affordable community that you'll feel right at home in.
15 Minutes
Buyer Consultation
Schedule a one-on-one no commitment consultation with our Real Estate Experts.