If you’re new to the area, you need to know where to live in Chicago if you work downtown. So, where do most advancing professionals live in Chicago? They live wherever their needs are met.
That means proximity to work — whether finance or fine arts — because they spend a lot of time honing their craft. Precious free time shouldn’t be spent in traffic or looking for a place to park. Advancing professionals are looking for easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, entertainment and recreation. Hopefully, living amidst the other go-getters will energize your own vocational climb all the more.
Advancing professionals who work downtown also want options. In Chicago, each of the best places for ambitious professionals to live come with their own distinctive personalities.
There are a lot of great places to live in the Windy City, but the best Chicago neighborhoods for advancing professionals who work downtown have one thing in common: There’s plenty to do after work.
Check out these neighborhoods to find your best fit.
Wicker Park: This former artists’ enclave (along with neighboring Bucktown) is eminently walkable and is relatively affordable. Two Blue Line stops get you into the Loop with ease — and between the lively boutique culture and vibrant dining scene, there’s so much to do around the neighborhood that work might be the only time you leave. For example, community events include the Bucktown Arts Fest, Wicker Park Farmers Market and Wicker Park Fest.
Lakeview: This area is really three neighborhoods in Chicago for advancing professionals. Wrigleyville is party-central, where the bar scene draws you in to keep the party going after a great game amid tourists and other baseball fans. In fact, when it comes to lifestyle, Lakeview offers the ultimate balance of work and play. Boystown hosts two of the biggest events on Chicago’s summer social calendar: The Pride Parade and North Halsted Market Days. West Lakeview puts a homier spin on things — the al fresco dining is terrific, and the atmosphere is very pet-friendly.
Lincoln Park: Think green and blue. The green park for which the area is named covers more than 1,200 acres, all of it essentially hugging blue Lake Michigan. Joggers and cyclists swarm the park and lakefront trails in droves. Just far enough from the Loop (15 minutes by train) to decompress on the commute home, the neighborhood offers a variety of housing styles, proximity to North Avenue Beach, and an urban lifestyle that is perhaps dialed down the tiniest bit from Lakeview’s fabulous excess. There are also many things to do, including spending the day at Lincoln Park Zoo or the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
Old Town: Just south of Lincoln Park, Old Town is home to Chicago’s famous Second City comedy club. Rich in history and close enough to the Loop to walk, this community is not so gentrified as to be completely shorn of its characters. It boasts a dense urban lifestyle and is home to many restaurants, bars, coffee shops and parks. Two of its biggest summer events — the Old Town Art Fair and the Wells Street Arts Festival — happen on the same weekend in June.
River North: Across the river from the Loop, River North puts power lunchers elbow-to-elbow with tourists along the burgeoning Riverwalk. Residents can walk to the theater district, Navy Pier, the Mag Mile and Millennium Park. Fun community events include the Mid Summer Art Walk and the Taste of River North. The center of Chicago’s gallery scene and loaded with high-end condos, this is upscale urban at its most posh.
The best way to start your search for your next home in Chicago is by visiting Downtown Apartment Company. We have thousands of constantly updated listings, filtered by price, size, neighborhood and amenities, that you can check out right now.
Looking for places to grab breakfast in Old Town? Check out these Wells Street restaurants!
Kanela Breakfast Club– 1552 N. Wells St.
The name Kanela (which means “cinnamon” in Greek) is apropos for this restaurant, which serves up brunch favorites with a Greek twist. Everything on Kanela’s menu is made from scratch with local and organic ingredients wherever possible. Menu favorites include chia seed pudding, loukoumades (Greek donuts), red velvet French toast, the California Benedict (made with avocado mash and vegetarian bacon), and the impossible burger.
The Vig– 1527 N. Wells St.
Brunch by day; bar scene by night. The Vig keeps a full house in it’s prime Wells Street location around the clock. With a brunch menu that includes lobster and waffles, breakfast nachos, and ginger donut holes, a dinner menu with king crab bar, superfood salad, and cauliflower au gratin, a large dessert menu, full bar, and a late night menu that even includes a bone in ribeye and roasted eggplant Bahn mi, you can find pretty much anything you’re looking for at The Vig.
Nookies-1746 N. Wells St.
Nookies has been a neighborhood favorite for over 47 years and still has original items on the menu! (Where else can you order a phosphate?) Nookies doesn’t just serve breakfast and brunch. Their eclectic menu also includes dinner entrees like steak, pasta, salads, stir fry dishes, and innovative sandwiches like their salmon pita.
Hashbrowns Cafe-1155 N. Wells St.
In addition to being a beloved and cost friendly neighborhood place to meet for brunch or a coffee meeting, Hashbrowns Cafe is known for pioneering sweet potato hashbrowns. Menu items are named after Chicago neighborhoods and are made from all fresh ingredients. Stop by for breakfast or lunch favorites all day. Gluten free options are available.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
If your move date is coming up and you’re wondering how you’re going to find a new apartment in Chicago while social distancing, we’re here to help! DAC is offering virtual tours for downtown apartment buildings.
How to virtual tours work?
When you reach out to our office, one of our team members will ask you about your search. After curating a list of appropriate options, you’ll select your favorites and we’ll send you video walk throughs of each apartment and the amenities in each building. The application process is all online as well.
How will I get a sense for the neighborhood?
Downtown Apartment Company agents live and work downtown and are experts on the local neighborhoods. Your agent can provide you with local recommendations, fill you in on what’s nearby, and send you photos or videos of the neighborhood, too. If you’re looking for more information on each neighborhood, visit our neighborhood guide for details.
Which buildings offer virtual tours?
Many downtown high rises are offering virtual tours. Since the list is always growing, contact one of our agents for a complete list. Here are just a few of the luxury apartment buildings offering virtual tours:
Old Town Park- located in Old Town just two blocks west of the Gold Coast and four blocks north of River North.
One of many thoughtfully curated lounge and co-working spaces at Old Town Park
NEMA- located in the near South Loop across from Grant Park.
The boxing ring at NEMA
Golf Simulator at NEMA
North + Vine- located on the border of Lincoln Park and Old Town in the Sono area (south of North ave).
Tranquil pool terrace at North+Vine
Eleven40- located in the South Loop near Printer’s Row.
Game room at Eleven40
Music room at Eleven40
For more information on remote virtual showings, contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Located on the northern most part of Old Town on the cusp of Lincoln Park, Eugenie Terrace offers elegant apartments in a prime area. The Clark street location puts you in the epicenter of an abundance of dining, culture, green space, and local attractions. With the lakefront, the park, Second City, and Wells Street all within a few blocks, the only hard part of deciding what to do will be picking which to do first.
The resort style amenities are second to none. From the 3,000 square foot fitness center with on site classes, to the penthouse sky lounge and open air grilling deck, there are plenty of spaces to enjoy your home outside your apartment. You can even get to know your neighbors at one of many thoughtfully curated year round resident events.
Among other resort style amenities, Eugenie Terrace has the highest rooftop pool of any residential building in Chicago.
Courtesy of Eugenie Terrace
Take in the panoramic lake, park, and skyline views from the indoor or outdoor parts of the rooftop amenities or from the floor to ceiling bay windows in each residence. Apartments also feature large private balconies, modern kitchens with quartz slab countertops and islands, stainless appliances, large walk in custom closets, hardwood floors, great separation, and rain shower heads in the bathrooms.
Eugenie Terrace is a pet friendly building and even has an on site dog run. For added convenience, residents also have access to complimentary storage, complimentary coffee and espresso, a full service concierge staff, on site dry cleaning with wash and fold service, an indoor private parking garage with Zipcars, 44th floor co-working space and business center, and 24 hour maintenance and door staff.
These Old Town apartments are known for being especially spacious, with 1 beds over 900 square feet, a rare find downtown! Layouts range from studio to 3 bedroom apartments and also include 2 bed and 3 bed town homes with expansive, private wrap around terraces.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Xavier offers apartments in Old Town that aren’t just modern in terms of design. The thoughtful, high tech, and sustainable features are state of the art and tremendously convenient! Xavier’s prime location on Division is a more mellow part of Old Town just south of the SoNo area of Lincoln Park. The 240 rentals are composed of studio, one bed, and two beds, with a broad selection of layouts.
Each apartment features sleek, modern finishes and appliances with soft loft accents. Quartz kitchen countertops and hardwood floors are accented by the blackened steel backsplashes and exposed concrete ceilings. Kitchens also feat integrated, cabinet faced appliances, which are Energy Star rated, a garbage disposal, gas range, Nest thermostats, a full sized washer and dryer in unit, and other materials sourced from local and recycled content. Water fixtures in each apartment are efficient, as are the LED lighting systems, and the finishes are sustainably sourced and non-toxic. Bedrooms come equipped with ample storage space and built in ELFA shelving systems. Select units also come with private terraces, an office nook or den, walk in closets, and 14 foot ceilings.
Courtesy of Xavier Apartments
In addition to the sustainable finishes and consumption conscious appliances, the LEED Gold certified building took additional measures toward environmental wellness. All residents receive complimentary non-toxic cleaning supplies, a seasonal crop box program through their rooftop produce garden, and complimentary fitness classes at Fit Body Bootcamp, an on site retail partner.
Xavier offers state of the art amenities. In the warmer months, enjoy the outdoor terrace with a pool, cabanas, grilling stations, fire pits, corn hole, and lounge space. Entertain in the rooftop lounge, complete with a chef’s kitchen, edible herb gardens, an outdoor deck with a fireplace, and sprawling city views, or head to the game room, where you’ll find air hockey, football, arcade games, a large flat screen TV, and group seating. The modern fitness center houses cardio and weight equipment in addition to a Peloton bike and a yoga terrace. Work from home in one of the private conference rooms, the lobby with a co-working table and fireplace, or on the wifi in any of the amenity spaces. Xavier offers excellent pet amenities as well, with both indoor and outdoor dog runs as well as two dog wash stations.
Courtesy of Xavier Apartments
For added convenience, Xavier offers bike parking and maintenance facilities, reserved car parking with 5 electric car charging stations, a Luxer package receiving system, 24/7 concierge, on site maintenance and management, and Pear Chef, a service that offers residents meals and cocktails prepared by an on site personal chef delivered via room service with no delivery fee.
Sun deck, courtesy of Xavier Apartments
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
If you’re looking for a tranquil, homey loft to live in near Old Town but don’t want to compromise being close to all the action, Cobbler Square Lofts could be right for you. The front entrance of this boutique rental building is located right on Wells Street, surrounded by shops, restaurants, nightlife, boutique fitness studios, and more. In the warmer months, there’s even a weekly farmers market right outside the door! However, the apartments at Cobbler Square still have a private, quiet feel. Once you walk through the front entrance into the main building, you’ll go through a gorgeous courtyard to access the residences. It feels like you’ve just been transported to a small, charming village hidden in plain sight.
Courtyard, courtesy of Cobbler Square
Each loft apartment is unique but all of them have spacious, open layouts. Most units have 12 to 18 foot ceilings, open kitchens with large, granite islands and countertops, gas stoves, central AC and gas forced heat with individual climate control, dishwashers, and generous closet space. Some units also have loft style accents such as exposed brick walls, wood beam ceilings, stainless steel appliance packages, a balcony or terrace, walk in closets, espresso cabinetry, dens, French door separation, double vanity sinks in bathrooms, sun rooms, tiled kitchen backsplashes, split level layouts, and wood plank flooring.
Living area, courtesy of Cobbler Square
The amenities at Cobbler Square include a 24 hour fitness center, on site laundry, a sundeck with grilling stations, package receiving, business center and conference room with wifi, resident lounge with popcorn and a pool table, parking, dry cleaning service, concierge, on site 24-hour maintenance, on site salon, a landscaped spacious courtyard, recycling, and on site maintenance. Cobbler Square lofts also offers dog friendly apartments!
Resident Lounge, courtesy of Cobbler Square
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The Old Town neighborhood is beloved for its tree lined streets, lively Wells Street strip, and abundance of culture, including Victorian era architecture and Second City. The Scott Residences are located just off Wells on Scott Street, so you can enjoy being in close proximity to the hustle and bustle while also enjoying living on a quiet, tree lined residential court.
Courtesy of The Scott Residences
Each luxury apartment at The Scott Residences comes equipped with a full sized washer and dryer, plank flooring throughout each unit, 9 foot or higher ceilings, individually controlled heat and AC, and elegant interior lighting. Each kitchen features custom European inspired cabinetry, GE Artistry appliances, and granite countertops with a glass tile backsplash. You’ll also find ceramic tile flooring in the bathroom. Select apartments come with a balcony.
Elegant kitchen finishes, courtesy of The Scott Residences
The Scott Residences is a full amenity building. Residents enjoy access to a billiards parlor, a private resident club lounge with chef inspired kitchen, a state of the art fitness center, and a professionally landscaped rooftop sun deck with grilling stations and a fire pit.
One of the resident lounges, courtesy of The Scott Residences
The Scott Residences also offer service based amenities including concierge staff, package receiving, a private ground floor dog run, storage lockers, private garage parking with bike storage, and valet dry cleaning service for added convenience. Perhaps the most convenient of all is the on site and nearby retail. On site retail includes Starbucks and Massage Envy. Plum Market grocer and Soulcycle are just across the street, as are a multitude of other dining and nightlife options, boutique fitness studios, salons, and green space.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Porte is a new set of luxury apartment towers in the West Loop at the corner of Madison and Green. The units will be a composition of studio, 1, 2, and 3 bed apartments, as well as town home apartments, each with it’s own private ground level entrance. The townhomes at Porte will surround the parking garage, concealing it from the street. The 586 unit rental project will begin pre-leasing this spring and is being developed by The John Buck Company, Lendlease, GREC Architects, and Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation.
A rendering of Porte West Loop apartments from John Buck
The interiors of these pet friendly West Loop apartments will feature stainless steel appliances and white quartz finishes. The outdoor amenities include an expansive green space with a pool, lounge seating, cabanas, fire pits, a dog run, and outdoor dining areas. Indoor amenities include co-working spaces, a game room, a chef’s kitchen, and a fitness center. There will also be 11,000 square feet of on site retail space.
The prime West Loop location of the X makes it convenient for commuting. Porte is just a block west of Greek Town on Halsted Street, a couple blocks north of the blue line train, blocks from the Metra at Union and Ogilvie stations, blocks from the Kennedy and Eisenhower expressways, two blocks south of Restaurant Row on Randolph Street, and less than a block from Mariano’s and Whole Foods grocery stores. Residents can check out the Green City farmer’s market, movies and yoga, as well as a whole host of other neighborhood events at Mary Bartelme Park, which is located one block southwest of Porte.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
1225 Old Town offers boutique style living on lively Wells Street in the heart of Old Town. With modern finishes, spacious layouts, luxurious amenities, and a convenient location, these apartments are in high demand.
The open floor plans at 1225 Old Town make these apartments great for entertaining. The 9 foot ceilings and floor to ceiling windows in most apartments also add to the spacious, bright feel.
Open apartment layouts are conducive to entertaining, courtesy of 1225 Old Town
Each kitchen is outfitted with espresso finish cabinetry with nickel hardware, stainless steel Whirlpool and Energy Star appliances, pendant and track lighting, and quartz countertops and islands. Each apartment also comes equipped with an in unit washer and dryer, individual climate controls with no seasonal restrictions, wood style flooring, abundant closet and storage space, and ceramic tiled modern bathrooms. Most units also have spacious balconies.
Kitchen finishes, courtesy of 1225 Old Town
1225 Old Town is a full amenity building with both indoor and outdoor spaces for residents. Residents enjoy access to an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, game room, indoor fire place, outdoor fire pit with grill stations, a demonstration kitchen, and 24 hour fitness center.
Outdoor heated pool, courtesy of 1225 Old Town
Work from home accommodations include a tech room, dedicated co-working spaces, a conference room, and wifi throughout the building. There are also plenty of conveniences from 24 hour concierge service, on site laundry and valet dry cleaning, package receiving, and a coffee lounge, to the outdoor dog run located on the second floor. Residents also love the convenient selection of on site retail. Soul Cycle, Plum Market grocery store, and Intelligentsia coffee shop are all connected to the building.
Co-working space, courtesy of 1225 Old Town
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
North and Vine apartments at 633 W North Ave are now leasing in Old Town. Developed by White Oak Realty and designed by Fitzgerald Associates, North and Vine features 261 rental apartments ranging from studios to 3 beds. This luxury apartment building offers resort style amenities, modern design, stunning views, and smart home technology.
North and Vine is a full amenity building including indoor, outdoor, service, and pet amenities.
Indoor amenities all include wifi and feature a health club with cardio and strength equipment, a yoga studio with Wellbeats fitness on demand, co-working space with a conference room, an acoustically engineered media library, and a resident lounge with a chef inspired kitchen space. Outdoor amenities include a resort style pool and sundeck, a spacious private terrace with fire pits, and grilling stations. Service based amenities include 24 hour package pick up, on site storage and bike room, valet dry cleaning, a residents perk program, controlled access parking with reserved spots, and a resident app. North and Vine offers pet friendly apartments as well as pet amenities, including a dog run and pet spa.
Apartment feature full size stackable washers and dryers, USB outlets in the kitchen and bedrooms, high ceilings, keyless entry systems, hardwood style flooring throughout the kitchen and living space, large windows to maximize natural light, spacious walk in closets and abundant storage space, and custom roller shades. Each kitchen comes equipped with GE Cafe Series stainless steel appliances, including a slide in gas range with convection, a built in microwave, an under counter wine cooler, a French door style refrigerator, and an under mount sink with disposal, as well as custom cabinetry with soft close drawers and under cabinet lighting. Kitchen finishes include quartz counter tops and tile backsplashes.
Each spa inspired bathroom features Moen designer finishes with ceramic and porcelain tiles, vanities, and 42″ full width back-lit mirrors.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Old Town Spice House has graced Wells Street for over 60 years. From Michelin starred chefs to people who only know how to make pasta, the Spice House is a neighborhood favorite. The Spice House was founded in 1957 by Bill and Ruth Penzey and over the years has scaled into a global brand. Because they have such a broad global network of suppliers, Spice House has built a reputation for having some of the highest quality products and widest selection. The Spice House is also a go-to resource on recipes and all things spice. Although the business has grown, Spice House has still retained its quaint character.
Courtesy of Calum Lewis
After a fire last July caused significant damage to the original structure, which was constructed in the 1800s, Spice House used it as an opportunity to blend modern renovations and repairs with elements of the original building, and even preserve some of the original features. For instance, the reclaimed wood rafters that were previously covered have now been painted and cleaned so they could be left exposed. The building’s original exposed brick has also been refurbished. They also uncovered two of the windows at the back of the store to add natural light. Gensler architects led the way on the renovations.
The historic charm, loyal neighborhood customer base, wafting spice aromas, and overall engaging experience of visiting the Spice House has kept the brick and mortar store competitive in an age of increasingly popular e-commerce. The brick and mortar store is also central to their wholesale business, which supplies to local restaurants, bakeries, and breweries in Chicago.
Whether you’re looking for a specific rare form of truffle oil or just looking for a unique place to stop in and “spice up” your weekend stroll, be sure to check out Old Town Spice House (and grab a sample of the delectable crystalized ginger while you’re in there)!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Whether you’re adopting a kitten from a shelter or buying a pooch from a reputable breeder, caring for a pet is a great responsibility. Your new furry friend will require a lot of love, attention, training and plenty of supplies. Properly preparing your home is essential to ensure your animal companion is safe and protected, especially on those occasions when you’re away. If you’re wondering how to puppy proof your apartment, here are five ways you can plan for your pal’s arrival.
A new kitten or puppy may feel scared or anxious in an unfamiliar place. Creating a space in your apartment that your pet can call its own will help it feel safe and relaxed. Try to choose an area that has tile or vinyl flooring so it’s easier to clean up messes. If the floor is all carpet, use a piece of hard plastic — such as the kind you put under a rolling desk chair — to cover it.
Wondering how to puppy proof the apartment so that your pet doesn’t wreak havoc on the whole house? Consider using baby gates to keep it in a particular room that doesn’t have a door. Supply the designated space with a bed, litter box, food and toys to keep your dog or cat occupied.
Crate training can help your pup slowly learn house rules and boundaries. This can make your pet’s puppyhood a more pleasant and fun experience for you both. If you plan to keep your dog in a crate while you’re away, the designated space mentioned above would be a great spot to put it.
Animals are curious by nature. As a result, it’s important to keep all harmful chemicals, such as bleach, floor cleaner and dishwasher liquid safely locked away to prevent your pet from getting into them. Be sure to place medications out of reach and avoid storing human food on tables or counters. Foods such as chocolate, raisins, grapes and onions are harmful to dogs and could result in an emergency trip to the vet if your canine ingests them.
You can dog proof the apartment by thoroughly inspecting it for potentially hazardous objects. Be sure all electrical cords, remotes and small objects are safely tucked away so your pet can’t use them as chew toys. Cover wires that you can’t remove, such as computer, television and lamp cords.
Have breakable objects that you still want to display? Store them in a china cabinet or glass encased shelving unit to showcase your objects in a safe, accessible way. Make sure to keep plants that are toxic to dogs and cats out of reach too, such as tulips, lilies and Aloe vera.
Dogs love to chew and shed their fur on sofas, and cats are notorious for clawing on the backs of couches. You can cat proof the apartment by buying a scratching post or spraying your furniture with a non-toxic, bitter-tasting pet-deterrent spray. This can help your pet learn that your soft furnishings aren’t for scratching or snacking.
Puppy proofing your apartment might feel like a lot of work, but keeping your animal companion safe in your home should be a priority. These helpful tips on how to cat proof an apartment can help you establish a welcoming and secure environment that your furry friend will appreciate.
If you’re looking for your next pet-friendly residence, Downtown Apartment Company can help you find a luxury apartment rental in the Windy City. Click here to start the search for your new home in Chicago.
This week, Moody Bible Institute created a preliminary agreement to sell 10 acres in the Near North Side’s Old Town neighborhood to luxury high rise developer, JDL.
Courtesy of Erin Hooley/Chicago Tribune
According to the Chicago Tribune, the land at 820 N. Lasalle will be developed into 2500 or more luxury apartments and condos between a half dozen high rises totaling up to 5.3 million square feet. The land for sale is mostly vacant with the exception of a few smaller structures. The soccer field west of Walter Payton College Prep is also included in the sale. The same stretch of Old Town has seen significant residential development in the past couple years and already has several projects in the works, namely, Onni Group’s Old Town Park phases I-III at Atrium Village.
Rendering of phase I (right), II (center), and III (left). Courtesy of Onni Group and Hartshorne Plunkard Architects
When the land went up for sale in the summer of 2019, Moody Bible president, Mark Jobe, stated that the decision to sell the land was motivated by the desire to expand the impact of Moody Bible’s ministry. Moody Bible intends on staying in the southern portion of it’s Old Town campus, its home since 1886.
JDL has another large development in the works on the border of the Gold Coast and River North called One Chicago. One Chicago is slated to be a megadevelopment with rental apartments, condos, retail, a premiere lifestyle fitness center, and commercial space, including a large new Whole Foods. Additionally, JDL is the developer behind the Chicago luxury rental buildings 1000 S. Clark, 640 N. Wells, Two West Delaware, Halsted Flats, Eight Eleven Uptown, 1225 Old Town, and The Scott Residences, as well as Chicago luxury condo building, No 9 Walton.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Whether you live in the South Loop or are looking for places to eat before you visit Museum Campus or Grant Park, here are a few of the top breakfast and brunch places in the South Loop.
Courtesy of Rachel Park
Yolk- 1120 S Michigan Ave
Yolk offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch options with creative twists on classic favorites, like the smoked salmon scrambler, the brisket breakfast burger, and red velvet French toast. Diners love the sizable portions and reasonable pricing. Yolk even has their own private label coffee and house made Greek yogurt.
Eleven City Diner- 1112 S Wabash Ave
Eleven City Diner was created in the vision of the “classic friendly diner”. The black and white family photos on the walls, nostalgic “band box”, neon signage, counter seating, milkshakes with barbershop straws, subway tile, and ice cream parlor style tables and chairs create the reminiscent ambiance. Eleven City Diner offers breakfast all day (including vegan and vegetarian breakfast options) as well as a walk up deli to go.
Courtesy of Matheus Frade
Spoke and Bird- 205 E 18th St
Spoke and Bird is a rustic chic breakfast spot that uses local, organic, and fair trade ingredients sourced from over 30 local and urban farms. The employee owned restaurant strives to offer delicious and healthy food at a reasonable price in a welcoming environment. Try a homemade quiche or Spoke and Bird’s many pastries.
Meli Cafe- 500 S Dearborn St (in Hotel Blake)
Meli serves up favorite American breakfast and lunch dishes with a Greek twist and is known for its farm to table dishes, fresh squeezed juice, large portions, and homemade marmalade. Meli has great daily specials and full service juice, espresso, and liquor bars. If you can’t decide whether to get a corned beef hash Benedict or a wheatgrass shot, get both.
Courtesy of Ben Kolde
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Printer’s Row is a highly sought-after sub-neighborhood in Chicago’s South Loop. Living in Printer’s Row, Chicago, residents love the historic character reflected in the architecture and facades of old buildings, (like the Pontiac Building, 1891, and the Duplicator Building, 1886), the creative energy from the abundance of music venues, art schools, and independent coffee shops, and all the green space and tucked away parks and hidden gems. Printer’s Row is generally designated by the Chicago River as the western border, Plymouth Court as the eastern border, Ida B. Wells Drive to the north, and Polk Street to the south.
After Dearborn Station was completed in 1885, the Printer’s Row neighborhood began to take shape as the printing center of the Midwest because it allowed materials (and workers) to move conveniently in and out of the neighborhood. Dearborn Station is still in tact today and has been converted into retail space.
Courtesy of Hannes Wolf
Major publishing houses like Rand McNally, M.A. Donohue and Company, Franklin Printing, and R.R. Donnelley and Sons all set up shop in Printer’s Row.
Many of the buildings in Printer’s Row that were used as printing and publishing facilities have retained landmark status and have mostly been converted into residential lofts. These buildings are characteristic of what’s been deemed, the “First Chicago School” of architecture, a style which dates to the 1880s and includes work by the revered Daniel Burnham, one of the masterminds behind the World’s Fair. Many of these buildings feature large windows that were originally installed with the hope that they would let in maximum natural light for book binding, type setting, and other highly detailed printing work.
The Printer’s Row literary scene is very much alive today. Each June the Printer’s Row Literary Festival draws about 150,000 attendees to Dearborn Street, making it the largest book fair in the Midwest, according to Publisher’s Weekly.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in Printer’s Row near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The South Loop is conveniently situated near public transit and access points, making it an easily accessible neighborhood whether you’re commuting to or from the suburbs, other Chicago neighborhoods, or even from out of town.
Courtesy of Maarten Van Den Heuvel
CTA Orange Line
The orange line runs through the South Loop and takes riders around the Loop and out to Midway International Airport. If you’re looking for the fastest way to or from Midway or just looking to save on Uber fare, the orange line could be a great option.
CTA Red Line
The red line runs south to 95th Street and north through River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Uptown, Edgewater, and Rogers Park, with on campus stops at Loyola and DePaul Universities. Northwestern University in Evanston is also conveniently accessible via red line, as multiple red line stops are also serviced by the purple line to Evanston and Wilmette.
CTA Green Line
Take the green line for direct access to Oak Park or the best way to McCormick Place. The green line also provides access through the West Loop and west side near Rush University Medical Center.
CTA Blue Line
If you fly in and out of O’Hare International Airport often, the South Loop has multiple blue line stops that provide direct access to O’Hare. The blue line takes passengers either through the West Loop, UIC’s campus, and out to Forest Park, or through the Loop, Fulton Market, River West, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, Jefferson Park, Rosemont, and directly inside O’Hare Airport.
Courtesy of Jeremiah Higgins
Metra and Amtrak
Catch the Metra trains out to the western, north shore, and south shore suburbs and Indiana from the Lasalle and Van Buren stations in the South Loop or Ogilvie and Union Stations, which are just a short walk from the South Loop and are also serviced by Amtrak.
Highways
Multiple major highways pass directly through the South Loop. Hop directly on I-90 for access throughout Chicago’s northern or southern neighborhoods and suburbs, I-290 for access to Chicago’s western neighborhoods and suburbs, or I-55 to head southwest past McCormick Place toward Saint Louis.
Courtesy of Jake Blucker
Lakeshore Drive
Lakeshore Drive runs through the South Loop and is one of the most expedient ways north and south along the eastern edge of Chicago. Take Lakeshore south through Hyde Park to the University of Chicago campus or north through Rogers Park.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
In keeping with the mega development trend of the last two years, Southbank is bringing luxury rental apartments, restaurants, retail, green space, and culture to the south branch stretch of river front in the South Loop. Southbank is being developed by Lendlease.
Rendering courtesy of Perkins + Will
The Cooper at Southbank is the first residential rental high rise to be completed in the development. With 452 apartments and town homes, this property is making a splash in the South Loop’s rental market.
Rendering of one of the lounge spaces at The Cooper at Southbank
The Cooper at Southbank offers state of the art amenities including an expansive fitness center, music room, outdoor movie theatre, a large outdoor roof deck with a pool, hot tub, bocce ball court, hammocks, grills, and an herb garden, an upper level skyline terrace for taking in panoramic views of the city skyline, a game room with ping pong and billiards, a chef’s kitchen, a library, curated resident events, co-working spaces with private offices and conference rooms, a shop and craft space, entertaining spaces, 24 full service concierge, and even a salon!
Southbank’s new two acre park will use the foundations of the demolished Grand Central Park and is being designed by Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects. Prairie grasses and landscape features (like the bird houses created in partnership with UIC students) were selected for their low maintenance qualities and with local wildlife in mind. The .2 miles of continuous river walk will feature ample seating, lighting, and a mural created by Pilsen artist, Ruben Aguirre. The Southbank development will also include 15,000 square feet of retail space.
The mural by Pilsen artist, Ruben Aguirre
Courtesy of Curbed Chicago
Southbank strives to be an oasis in the center of the city, just minutes from the Loop and easily accessible from most of Chicago.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
There are a lot of terrific places to sample Chicago deep dish pizza. To get to any of them, be careful not to ask for recommendations on the best Chicago-style pizza — the answer could point you toward the legendary cracker crust, square-cut tavern-style pie at Vito & Nick’s on the far South Side, or the delicious pizza pot pie at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. in Lincoln Park.
Both are great, but neither is an example of Chicago deep dish. That particularly big-shouldered pie will come at you in a pan blackened over years of use, with an inch or so of buttery crust, chunky sauce and elastic strands of mozzarella that never quite seem to snap when transitioning to the plate.
Exactly who has the best deep dish pizza in Chicago is a question to be answered over years of research — contented, glassy-eyed research. The search will take you to funky, ancient restaurants and chains alike. Here, in no particular order, are some great places to start:
It doesn’t matter if you’re all about the best deep dish in Chicago or the best dim sum. Life in downtown Chicago has delights for every palate and all of your senses. The key is finding a place that helps you indulge in everything a luxurious urban lifestyle offers. Downtown Apartment Company has the inside track to the best spaces in the best neighborhoods. Check out our listings today.
The South Loop is one of the most dog friendly neighborhoods in Chicago. Here are some top dog friendly parks.
Courtesy of Joe Caione
Coliseum Dog Friendly Area- 1466 S Wabash Ave
At .65 acres with plenty of shaded benches, this fenced in dog park is the perfect place to let your pup run off the leash. Coliseum offers water stations open seasonally. Make sure to visit a participating vet to get a permit to bring your dog to Chicago Park District dog parks.
Grant “Bark” Dog Park- 1000 S Columbus Dr
Grant Bark Dog Park has water stations and bag dispensers, but no designated small dog area. Pets are permitted to run off the leash in this 18,000 square foot grass and gravel, tree lined park. Access the park from one of two paths on the 11th Street bridge or Columbus.
Fred Anderson Dog Park- 1629 S Wabash Ave
Fred Anderson Dog Park has two entrances– one for small dogs and another for large dogs. The park is also equipped with water stations and bag dispensers. Because it is reported to be well maintained and cleaned nightly, Fred Anderson is a favorite among many South Loop dog owners.
D’Angelo Park- 438 S Franklin St
D’Angelo Park is a “full amenity” dog park, well lit and equipped with water stations for both people and dogs, bag dispensers, a designated small dog area, and seating. The 5,000 square foot park is located between Congress Freeway and the Thermal Building.
Prairie District Dog Park- 2051 S Prairie Ave
The Prairie District Dog Park has been called a “hidden gem” and “small dog sanctuary” by neighborhood dog owners. The quiet, newer dog park is right next to a kids park and offers water stations and a designated small dog play area.
Click here for a list of dog friendly parks by neighborhood.
Looking for luxury dog friendly apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The South Loop is a hub of universities, colleges, and graduate schools, with an emphasis on arts and medicine. With the South Loop as your college campus, you’ll get to experience the lively city while still having a community feeling. Here is an overview of some of the major schools near South Loop.
Courtesy of Ben Duchac
Columbia College- 600 S Michigan Ave
Columbia College specializes in arts and media and was originally founded in 1890 as an oratorial school in anticipation of the need for speakers at the World’s Fair. It has gained notoriety in the journalism field, especially through its student produced publications, including The Columbia Chronicle, which has won “Best College Newspaper” in both the state and the nation.
DePaul University- 1 E Jackson Blvd
DePaul University has a large focus on experiential learning, internships, study abroad opportunities, and civic involvement programs. DePaul is also on the quarter system, which means each school session is shorter, giving students an opportunity to maximize the amount of opportunities and courses they get to experience.
Roosevelt University- 430 S Michigan Ave
Roosevelt University is a smaller school comparatively, with enrollment around 4,400 students, with a focus on the performing arts. Social justice is also cornerstone in the school’s curriculum and has been intentionally embedded into the curriculum with many student led research projects and initiatives. Notable people including Eleanor Roosevelt and Albert Einstein have served on the advisory board. Classes are held in the Auditorium and Gage buildings.
School of the Art Institute- 36 S Wabash Ave
SAIC is one of the nation’s largest accredited independent schools of art and design and was named “Most Influential Art School in the United States” by Columbia University’s National Arts Journalism Program. It’s Visiting Artists program brings in highly esteemed artists from around the world for hands on experiences. SAIC also has many gallery and showcase opportunities for students.
University of Illinois– Chicago- 1200 W Harrison St
UIC is a public research university between the South Loop and West Loop with over 33,000 students, a hospital and health sciences system, and 16 program specific colleges. UIC is known for it’s excellent nursing, technical, and medical programs. UIC’s John Marshall Law School campus is also near the South Loop.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The South Loop is a cultural hub in Chicago’s art scene between the high density of museums on Museum Campus, the city’s top art and film schools, and the history of creativity established by Printer’s Row. The South Loop is also home to some of the most long standing live music venues, like Buddy Guy’s Legends, Jazz Showcase, and Reggie’s Music Joint.
Buddy Guy’s Legends- 700 S. Wabash St
Buddy Guy is a 7 time Grammy winner, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, 37 time Blues Music Award winner, the Presidential National Medal of Arts recipient, ranked 23rd on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time”, and a major influence on prolific musicians including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. At 82, he still performs on a regular basis at his blues club, Buddy Guy’s Legends, which hosts live music 7 nights a week as well as free acoustic shows during lunch and dinner. Looking for a great open mic? Stop by for the Blues Jam every Monday night at 9pm.
Jazz Showcase- 806 S. Plymouth Ct
Jazz Showcase has been one of Chicago’s premier jazz clubs since the 170 seat venue first opened in 1947, and is currently the oldest in the city. See live music 7 nights a week with a Sunday matinee event at 4pm geared towards an all ages audience. Discounts are available for students and musicians. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming performances and events.
Courtesy of Konstantin Aal
Reggie’s Music Joint- 2105 S. State St
All under one roof, Reggie’s Music Joint hosts a rock venue, a bar and grill, a a record store, and dog friendly patio and rooftop with outdoor games. The venue was formerly an auto repair shop until Reggie’s opened its doors in 2007. Between the live music, walls lined with memorabilia, calendar of events, and the in house recording studio, Reggie’s is every rock fan and musician’s dream come true.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
From the few thousand new rental units that have been or are about to be delivered, and the new restaurants and retail that seem to open by the handful, to the multiple mega developments currently underway, the South Loop has been growing rapidly the past two years and is only continuing to boom. Community amenities have been cornerstone in these mega developments, which are large scale projects that include residential, commercial, and green space.
One of the most highly anticipated South Loop mega developments is Riverline, a $2B project designed by Perkins + Will and developed by CMK, with landscape architecture by Hoerr Schaudt. The development will include ten residential buildings for a total of 3,600 residential units, with a mix of apartments for rent and condos for sale, in addition to an abundance of community amenities and retail space.
Rendering Courtesy of CMK
Some of the community amenities will include open walkways connecting the Wells Street corridor, an additional 1,000 square feet of Riverwalk with parks, trails, and green gathering spaces, and a natural riverbank providing easy access for activities on the river, like kayaking and fishing. Riverline will have a heavy emphasis on nature with features like aquatic grasses and sedges to create a habitat for amphibious and aquatic wildlife and large, open green spaces.
Rendering Courtesy of CMK
With its convenient location, Riverline is just a short distance to multiple public CTA and Metra transit stations and highway entrances, three major grocery stores, Michigan Avenue, Museum Campus, Grant Park, and several major universities like Depaul, Roosevelt, UIC, Rush Medical School, University of Chicago, School of the Art Institute, Kent School of Law, and Columbia College.
Rendering Courtesy of CMK
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the South Loop near Riverline? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The South Loop is one of the most rapidly growing Chicago neighborhoods. In fact, it’s growth includes the development of a new 62 acre neighborhood on a currently vacant site.
The 78, by Related Midwest, is one of the largest South Loop projects currently in development with a social, community, environmental, and economic components all Chicagoans can appreciate. Its name comes from the idea that of Chicago’s 77 existing neighborhoods, this will be the 78th. The 62 acre site is surrounded by Clark Street, Roosevelt Road, 16th Street, and the Chicago River and cornerstone of the development is the use of the riverfront, which will extend the existing Riverwalk by over a half mile to Chinatown.
Rendering of new river front, Courtesy of Related Midwest
Although it is still early in development, plans show that this mixed use mega development will include residential high rises, cafes, restaurants, retail, and an abundance of community amenities and 12 acres of green space. Community amenities will include the Riverwalk extension, bike paths, an expansion of Clark Street to make it more walkable, the dedication of a community resource center to foster the growth of local minority and women owned businesses, a 5 acre riverfront lined with dining and entertainment, and 7 acre Crescent Park.
Rendering of 7 Acre Crescent Park, Courtesy of Related Midwest
The 78 development will also improve transportation in the area. The project includes the addition of a new CTA red line stop on site, water taxi service, additional bikeways with Divvy rental bike stations, and a Metra stop relocation to reduce noise and improve air quality.
The 78 will potentially be home to one of the country’s newest research institutions, Discovery Partners Institute, an interdisciplinary innovation center that will span over 1 million square feet and service over 10,000 students every five years.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The South Loop is dense with new inventory and continuing to develop at a fast pace. Between all the new mega developments, namely Lendlease’s Southbank development, CMK’s Riverline development, and Related Midwest’s 78 development, the South Loop is in for new residences, community amenities, retail and entertainment, and green space on a massive scale. In response to all this new inventory, prices in the area are quite competitive. If you’re looking for a great deal but don’t want to compromise on quality, South Loop is a great place to look. These South Loop 2 bed apartments all have in unit washer and dryer and are available now!
Property 14- Clark & Polk
Since this Printer’s Row apartment building was originally designed as a condo building all units have unique, high grade finishes, massive walk in closets, and balconies. Each layout is also more spacious than a typical apartment in the area, with 1 beds up to 963 square feet and 2 beds up to 1535 square feet. Some units even have home offices, dens, and extra half baths. Even though this building is only a few years old, it already revamped all amenities, keeping it highly competitive with all the area’s brand new inventory.
Two bedroom, two bath apartments are currently starting at $2525.
Property 18- Delano Court & Roosevelt
Looking for a 2 bed loft apartment? Look no further! These 2 bed, 2 bath loft style rentals are a steal! The finishes are modern but still warm and homey, with light hardwood in the living space, carpet in the bedrooms, concrete ceilings, a mosaic backsplash, and dark, espresso cabinetry.
This prime location is tucked away on a court with lots of retail and dining, but is only a few blocks west of State Street and the Roosevelt CTA, which provides direct access to Midway Airport, the Loop, and north and west through the city. There are also three major grocery stores within walking distance and a target less than a block away.
Modern bathroom finishes at Property 18
Property 147- Wells & Financial Place
**Ask About 2 Months Free!**
This stunning new construction rental building offers multiple styles of 2 bedroom apartments, including both traditional high rise style rentals as well as townhomes for rent. The amenities in this new luxury building are unparalleled and include multiple spacious outdoor areas, a rooftop pool, expansive fitness center, a music room, craft shop space, an outdoor movie screening area, hammocks, co-working space, and even a hair salon! All units feature state-of-the-art finishes, high quality appliances, and thoughtful layouts with ample storage space.
Finishes in the traditional 2 bed layout
The 2 bed townhouse rentals are two stories and feature a balcony as well as a powder room on the living area floor.
Townhome floor plan
2 bedroom apartments are currently starting at $2770.
Looking for luxury 2 bed apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Museum Campus is a 57 acre park in South Loop along Lake Michigan and encompasses some of Chicago’s most notable museums as well as Soldier Field and Northerly Island. If you’re in the South Loop and looking for things to do near you, here are the days these museums offer free admission to Illinois residents in 2020!
Courtesy of Nathan Anderson
Did you know that in Chicago’s dark sky you could see 4500 stars with the naked eye? The Adler Planetarium is the first planetarium in the United States and has exhibits and sky shows that are “out of this world”! Even better, Adler Planetarium has plenty of events to keep your attention so you don’t “space” out. Check out monthly events like Sun Salutations Yoga or Adler After Dark with upcoming dates on Saturday, February 1st and Thursday, February 20th.
The Field Museum houses over 30 million historical, cultural, and scientific artifacts and collections designed to “inspire curiosity about life on Earth”. Right now, check out the exhibit, “Fantastic Bug Encounters”, which includes hands on activities and workshops for all ages.
Courtesy of Fan Yang
Courtesy of Andrea Lightfoot
The Museum of Science and Industry is located in South Loop’s Jackson Park, the historic site of the 1893 Columbian Exposition World’s Fair.
Learn about the differences between the genetic versus epigenetic factors that play into an animal’s physiology as you watch chickens hatch right before your eyes. “Invent the Future” in the Fast Forward exhibit, as you surround yourself in a world of tomorrow’s inventions. In addition to numerous exhibits, the museum also features interactive experiences like a submarine simulation and a virtual reality space walk.
The Shedd is a 5,000,000 gallon aquarium housing over 32,000 animals. Visit Annik, the new born Beluga whale, get some quality time in a meet and greet with a Magellanic or Rockhopper penguin, touch a stingray, or see the aquarium at night during one of the “Asleep With The Fishes” events.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
A record breaking 430 restaurants, 16 of which are in South Loop, will offer special prix fixe menus during Chicago’s annual Restaurant Week, from January 24th to February 6th. Here’s where to dine during Restaurant Week in the South Loop.
CheSa’s at the Bureau Bar & Restaurant
724 W. Maxwell St
CheSa’s at the Bureau, in the heart of University Village, stands out on the list because of it’s dietary restriction friendly menu and kitchen. Whether you’re looking for vegan, vegetarian, nut allergy or gluten free options, all are served up in the allergy friendly kitchen at CheSa’s. (Of course, be sure to check with your server if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies). The $24 brunch menu includes an omelette bar, chicken and waffle station, fruit and pastries, shrimp and grits bar, and other southern favorites like collard greens, buttermilk biscuits, and country sausage gravy. The $48 three course dinner menu includes modern twists on classic southern meat, fish, and pasta dishes.
$48 prix fixe restaurant week dinner menu
Grant Park Bistro
800 S. Michigan
Take in the stunning views and lively energy of Grant Park at this contemporary American bistro. The $36 dinner menu includes three courses. Choose from wild mushroom soup, burnt endive salad, or ceviche for your first course, duck breast, seared scallops, roasted butternut squash, or celeriac steak for your entree, and either a teurgoule tarte or dark chocolate entremet for dessert. Grant Park Bistro also features a selection of desserts from local bakery, Vanille Patisserie.
Courtesy of Grant Park Bistro
Mercat a la Planxa
638 S. Michigan Ave
Enjoy modern, Catalan style tapas, meats, seafood, vegetarian fare, and charcuterie at Mercat a la Planxa for either the $24 3 course brunch menu or $48 4 course dinner menu. Mercat a la Planxa is located just across from Grant and Millennium parks and is perfect if you’re looking for a trendy, semi-casual spot in a lively location.
Courtesy of Mercat a la Planxa
Check out the complete list of participating South Loop restaurants here.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Unlike many big cities, Chicago has a reputation for a relatively reasonable cost of living. Compared to New York, Boston, or Los Angeles both rentals and for sale properties can be surprisingly affordable. When you’re moving here from another city or state, one of the biggest challenges you’ll face is whether to rent or buy in Chicago.
Does it make more sense to choose a less-expensive rental or to make a bigger financial commitment by purchasing a home or condo? Should you shop rentals or real estate listings? Here’s a look at the factors to consider when making a decision about renting vs. buying in Chicago.
If you already know that you’ll only be in Chicago for a short time or plan to put down roots, that’s important to factor into your housing decision. When you buy, you have the security of a monthly mortgage payment, rather than potentially rising rental rates. On the other hand, buying involves an upfront financial commitment that renting doesn’t require. Generally speaking, one of the biggest benefits of home ownership — a return on investment due to appreciating real estate values — comes over time. On the other hand, when you own a property and decide to move, buying requires a more involved process of listing, showing, negotiating and eventually selling your home. Renting, on the other hand, is as simple as fulfilling your lease and moving on. These are all important considerations as you weigh whether to rent or buy a Chicago residence.
There are lots of different neighborhoods in Chicago, each with its own selling points. If you already know which area(s) you’re interested in, take a look at comparable rates for rentals and purchases. Which option offers lower monthly costs? How many of each type are available? Finding out the vacancy rate or the number of real estate listings where you want to live can help you think through the choice to rent vs. buy in Chicago.
The bottom line is that owning involves more obligation than renting. When you own your home, you not only need to take full responsibility for your bank or mortgage company debt, but you also have to manage all repairs and maintenance yourself. If there’s outdoor space, you need to take care of that, too. You also may have HOA dues or building community fees. With renting, on the other hand, you avoid many of those expenses. If the dishwasher breaks, your landlord has to handle it, not you.
Buying a home requires a significant down payment, while renting doesn’t even typically require a security deposit in Chicago high rises. If you aren’t ready to put down a significant chunk of change to get your new home, renting can afford you time to save up for a later purchase.
Is it better to rent or buy in Chicago? The decision is up to you, but if you’ve determined that renting will work best, let Downtown Apartment Company make the process of searching for an apartment easier. We’re here to help you find your next Chicago property, and we have the extensive research and thousands of listings to help you do it. Contact us at your convenience!
Moving to the city and wondering where to live? While apartment-hunting can get a bad rap, it doesn’t have to be a discouraging experience. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, to attend school, to be near family and friends or just for an adventure, understanding Chicago’s neighborhoods, transportation and rental prices can make your search easier.
So, before you begin your hunt for a new home, consider these time-tested tips for finding an apartment in Chicago!
The best way to find an apartment in Chicago is to start by choosing a neighborhood (or two) that you like. While Chicago is one of America’s largest cities, it’s divided into distinct neighborhoods that each have their own features and feel. Can you see yourself living near Wrigley Field, clubs and the lakefront, for example? Lakeview, Wrigleyville or Boystown may be the right fit. Would you rather be in the heart of downtown, surrounded by skyscrapers and near the retail establishments on State Street? If so, check out Loop apartments. Wicker Park has a quirky, bohemian vibe. River North is a cultural hub of art galleries, antique stores and famous architecture. Explore the various communities on our site and see which appeal to you.
The next tip for how to find an apartment in Chicago that you’ll love is to consider your transportation needs. If you’re working, going to school or taking part in other scheduled activities, you’ll need a way to get to them from wherever you live. Chicago has easily accessible CTA, bus and Metra routes, as well as a grid system of roads that makes navigating the area fairly simple. What are your transportation needs, and how will that affect your apartment hunt? Use this information to help you decide where to live.
In a city as big as Chicago, even narrowing your search by neighborhood can still yield a huge number of apartments. When you see such a variety of price points, amenities and features, how do you make meaningful comparisons? One solution is to work with Downtown Apartment Company. When it comes to finding an apartment in Chicago, we save you time and trouble. In fact, one of the most efficient, effective ways to find a new place is by coming to us. You can give us your wish list and let us do the work of scouting out listings that will work for you. We know what’s out there and how prices compare. We also know how to find apartments that meet your specific needs. Let us help you simplify your search! If the unit you want, in the location you need is available, we will find it. You can browse the thousands of rentals we offer anytime, or talk to us about streamlining your search. Our service is 100% free for you to use.
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Chicago is a big city. New York is a big city. How different could living in one be from living in the other?
In the broad strokes, maybe not much. Both offer tons of culture, entertainment, posh living and professional possibility. If you’re moving to Chicago from New York, however, you’re going to have to get used to a few things.
For instance:
More space — Chicago’s 2.7 million residents are spread over 227 square miles — a population density of 11,777 per square mile. New York (total population 8.7 million) crams 27,476 people in each of its 300 square miles.
Easier transportation — Owning a car is easier in Chicago. Average commutes are shorter (by about 12 minutes). Chicago is notably bike friendly, with more than 200 miles of on-street bike lanes, plus off-street paths and more than 13,000 bike racks and sheltered bike parking at public transit stations.
More fun — OK, this is highly subjective, but with wages that are comparable to New York City and a cost of living that is substantially less, Chicagoans should have a bit more cash to throw around — which means more fun to be had.
We can’t deny, however, Chicago is colder than New York.
No one says they move to either New York or Chicago for the climate, but both cities give you true tastes of all four seasons (though you get a bigger bite of winter in Chicago). Basically, the weather difference between New York and Chicago is more sweater weather in the latter.
On average:
In many ways, Chicago and New York are remarkably similar. For instance, Chicago and New York both have world-famous dining scenes (of course, in Chicago there’s roughly 10,000 fewer diners, per capita, fighting you for reservations at restaurants with at least a Bib Gourmand rating in the current Michelin Guide).
New Yorkers and Chicagoans alike appreciate the vibrant and distinct culture of each neighborhood in their cities. If you like the elegant brownstones of The Village, Chicago’s Gold Coast and Lincoln Park will make you feel at home. Or if SoHo is your vibe, check out the chic brick and timber lofts, galleries and world-renowned restaurants of Fulton Market. Brooklyn’s mix of hipster artist hangouts, leafy residential streets, boutique shopping and farmers markets is echoed in Logan Square, Wicker Park and West Town.
As the birthplace of the skyscraper (the Home Insurance Building, erected in 1885), Chicago embraces architecture like no other American city. Few locales take better advantage of warm weather, as Chicago makes festivals of art fairs, garden walks, musical and food events and more from April through October.
Especially grand is Chicago’s devotion to its lakefront. Moving to Chicago from NYC will help anyone appreciate how great the Great Lakes can truly be. Chicago embraces Lake Michigan with 26 miles of open and free lakefront to enjoy.
Included there in are:
Moving from New York to Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions. We are also offering both virtual and in-person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!
As one of America’s largest and most dynamic cities, Chicago has plenty of areas to call home. From city neighborhoods to suburbs to rural areas, each one has its advantages — but that’s especially true when it comes to living downtown. If you want to put yourself in the middle of the action surrounded by opportunities and conveniences, choose one of our modern apartments in downtown Chicago as your new home.
Perfectly situated in some of Chicago’s most exciting neighborhoods, our luxury high-rise apartments for rent offer all the best benefits of living downtown, including doormen, gyms/fitness centers, community centers, grilling stations, on-site dry cleaning and pools. The prime locations and luxurious appointments of these downtown high-rise apartments put them in high demand, so whether you’re looking for a place in Lakeview, Gold Coast, River North, Wicker Park, West Loop, South Loop or Lincoln Park, check our available units today.
Our comprehensive listings make it efficient and convenient to apartment hunt with Downtown Apartment Company. Our units range from studios to four bedrooms, with amenities that may include stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and hardwood floors. The luxury living space you’ve always wanted is waiting for you. Don’t let it get away!
Choosing to rent a luxury apartment in downtown Chicago means gaining the opportunity to enjoy all the Windy City offers, while also having a comfortable and stylish place to call home. First, when you rent, there’s no hefty down payment, no maintenance costs and lower insurance rates.
On top of that, there are so many obvious location benefits of living downtown. You are surrounded by entertainment that’s only available in a world-class city, for example. Walk or ride a train to cultural attractions, concert halls, galleries, shops, restaurants, nightlife, parks and more.
Chicago has more than 70 neighborhoods, each one unique. You don’t even need a car, since the city’s public transportation makes getting around easy and convenient. Whether you choose the bars and bistros of Lakeview or the fine dining and art galleries of the West Loop, you’ll be minutes from the attractions and amenities of other city neighborhoods. Once you’ve moved into one of our beautifully appointed units, you may never want to leave!
When it comes to finding apartments for rent downtown, Downtown Apartment Company is proud to be your best source for luxury rentals. Simply put, we do all the research so you don’t have to waste time looking at apartments that don’t meet your criteria.
Browse our listings to find a great selection of apartments, curated to give you the best amenities and the best deals. We have thousands of units listed, with real-time pricing and a description of features to aid in your decision-making. More than that, our service is completely free for you to use. At Downtown Apartment Company, we are committed to 100% client satisfaction from beginning to end. Get in touch with us anytime to learn more about the benefits of living downtown, and let us help you find your new home.
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With the holiday season behind us, lights and decorations disappearing, and social calendars calming down, January can seem cold, dark, and uneventful. Fortunately for Chicagoans, there’s restaurant week, a bright light in the Chicago winter. Each year Chicago foodies (and really anybody who likes going to restaurants) look forward to restaurant week when over 400 Chicago restaurants will offer multi-course prix fixe menus and specials to diners over the course of 17 days. Here are some of the top places to eat in the Loop during restaurant week!
Atwood- 1 W Washington St
Atwood serves all day upscale American cuisine. Diners enjoy the imaginative menu, lively location off State Street, and modern decor juxtaposed with the 19th century historic Reliance building it’s located in. Atwood’s restaurant week menu includes appetizer, entree, and dessert courses for both lunch ($24) and dinner ($36).
Courtesy of Atwood
Cherry Circle Room- 12 S Michigan Ave
This James Beard Award winning concept is located on the second floor of the Chicago Athletic Hotel and is a hidden gem with an old time Chicago ambiance. The three course meal offers a choice of soup or salad, a fish, burger, or chicken entree, and apple tart by pastry chef, Angela Diaz and is available both for lunch ($24) and dinner ($48).
Courtesy of The Cherry Circle Room
Prime and Provisions- 222 N Lasalle St
For a classic steakhouse dinner, satisfying lunch, or a more extensive brunch menu than you could imagine, Prime and Provisions has it all. Choose between the very wide selection of brunch options ($24), a 2 course lunch menu ($24), or a 3 course dinner menu, complete with a starter, entree, side, and dessert ($48) while you enjoy views of the Chicago river and skyline off Wacker Drive.
Courtesy of Prime and Provisions
Restaurant week begins January 24th and runs until February 9th. Click here for a list of all participating restaurants in the Loop.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The stretch of Michigan Avenue that runs through Chicago’s Loop is affectionately known as the “Cultural Mile”, with its high density of museums, theatre, and cultural events. Check out these things to do on the Cultural Mile!
Art Institute
The Art Institute is one of the oldest art museums and second largest (after the Met) in the United States. It houses more than 300,000 permanent pieces in addition to 30 annual temporary exhibits. Some of it’s famous collection pieces include Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Seurat, The Old Guitarist by Picasso, and Grant Wood’s American Gothic. The current spotlight exposition is Andy Warhol’s From A to B and Back Again, through January 26th.
The Art Institute also hosts art driven events and will be hosting a celebration of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, February 8th, from 1 to 4:30pm, with gallery tours in both English and Mandarin, performances, music, art making, artist demonstrations, and interactive experiences. The celebration is included with museum admission. The celebration continues with a lantern procession at Millennium Park at 5pm.
Better yet– general admission is free to Illinois residents each Wednesday from 5 to 8pm, all the time for children under 14, and for children under 18 on weekdays from January 27th to March 4th and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Auditorium Theatre
The Auditorium Theatre is a national historic landmark building and was designed in 1889 by Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan. The Auditorium has been home to the Joffrey Ballet for over 20 years and hosts a multitude of live performances and dance companies. Upcoming performances include Alvin Ailey dance company, the American Ballet Theatre, and National Geographic-Live. Click here for all upcoming performances and ticketing.
The Auditorium hosts daily tours. See the stunning 24 karat gold ceiling arches, ornate sculptural designs, floor and wall mosaics, and murals by Charles Holloway and Albert Fleury.
Second Fridays at the Fine Arts Building
The second Friday of each month, the Fine Arts Building opens its doors to the public, free of charge, to showcase the work of its resident artists. The historic building is located on Michigan Avenue and is home to a collective of visual artists, musicians, teachers, book stores, writers, craft instrument designers, yoga studios, dance and theatre performances, and artisan workshops.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
If you’re moving from San Francisco to Chicago, know this: You’re moving from a great city to a great, big city.
San Francisco has not quite 900,000 people jammed into not quite 47 square yet hilly miles. Chicago is home to nearly 2.7 million, over 228 square and largely flat miles. Both are steeped in the things great cities have — culture, history, diversity, noteworthy architecture and amazing dining and entertainment. But Chicago’s brand of urban sophistication is characterized by a decidedly Midwestern neighborliness, and you will fall in love with it.
Yes, you’ll love Chicago. But you have to get there first. When moving more than halfway across the country, here are some things to remember:
Unemployment is a bit higher in Chicago. Housing costs are a lot higher (some 500 percent) in San Francisco. The cost of living in Chicago is slightly more than the national average, while San Francisco’s is nearly triple. The average commute is a little over a half-hour in either city.
But numbers don’t tell the real story. Chicago life is characterized by many things, among them:
In San Francisco, there’s a stability to the weather many find comforting. The average high temperatures, by month, range between 55 and 73 degrees, while the average lows go from 45 to 59. You can expect around 67 rainy days per year.
Chicago will require an adjustment and a more adaptable wardrobe. The average highs range from 30 to 84 degrees and the average lows from 12 to 63. Days with precipitation should number around 140. But think of the possibilities that weather diversity brings: Sunning in the summer, sledding in the winter and brilliant bursts of fall color are built into the Chicago calendar.
Certainly, no one Chicago neighborhood is exclusive to any one housing style. But Loop residences are largely high-rise luxury. Streeterville, the South Loop and Lakeshore East have a stunning array of newer residential skyscrapers. Loft conversions are plentiful in River North and the West Loop. Historic manors can be found along the Gold Coast, and chic brownstones and funky flats can be had in Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview and Wicker Park.
Many Chicago neighborhoods sprang from specific cultures and retain that character to this day. To live in Chicago’s Loop is to be within six miles of Chinatown, Greek Town, Little Italy, Ukrainian Village and Boystown — not to mention Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, the United Center, Guaranteed Rate Field, the theater district, the museum campus, the opera, the symphony, the Magnificent Mile’s incredible shopping and the tourist mecca that is Navy Pier.
Finding your Chicago home is incredibly easy with Downtown Apartment Company. Learn about the city’s neighborhoods — including housing, shopping, dining, transportation and more — with our guide to the most desirable areas. Find your perfect place by scanning our list of available properties today.
To embrace Chicago’s amazing dining scene is to embrace opinion. With restaurant options that rank with any great city in the world, foraging foodies can debate which of the 25 Chicago restaurants with Michelin Stars truly earned that distinction, which joint has the best Italian beef, whether to point out-of-town visitors toward deep-dish or crispy tavern-style pizza and, always, where to find the best hamburger in Chicago.
Ranking the best burger places in Chicago is a daunting task. You can find ground greatness in almost any neighborhood, whether it is presented on fine china or sliding across a counter on wax paper in a plastic basket. Here are 10 options to consider if you’re seeking the best burger in Chicago, 2019:
It doesn’t matter if your palate favors burgers, pizza, Michelin Star stalwarts or molecular gastronomy — the best way to access Chicago’s world-class food scene is to live in one of its amazing neighborhoods. And there is no better way to find your new home base than by starting your search today in Downtown Apartment Company’s luxury listings.
Luxury living in Chicago isn’t simply a matter of inhabiting a great space. It’s inhabiting the great neighborhood, and the iconic city, in which the space exists. It’s finding other outstanding spaces in which to enjoy a food and bar scene with few parallels in the world.
The best cocktail bars in Chicago are, simply, among the best places anywhere to indulge in a luxury libation. When you find your place to live in the city, be assured you’ll find your special place or places to live it up — no matter if the cocktail bars in Chicago that you favor are Lakeview lounges, Old Town taverns or Gold Coast cabarets.
Cocktails at Every Corner
Chicago’s best neighborhoods can each lay claim to some truly amazing destinations for craft cocktails. Here are some of our top places to savor unique and next-level concoctions in some of our favorite neighborhoods:
Wicker Park: The Violet Hour makes demands on its patrons — no cellphones, no baseball hats, a request that you “do not bring anyone to the Violet Hour that you wouldn’t bring to your mother’s house for Sunday dinner.” Yet the James Beard Award winner gets away with it because of a slate of pre-prohibition-style artisanal libations, served in candlelit salons.
Lakeview: Wrigleyville, where being something other than a Bud Man and a Cubs fan once drew scornful glances, can claim the coolest among the cool cocktail bars in Chicago with Mordecai and its upstairs offshoot, Hush Money, in the Hotel Zachary across Clark Street from Wrigley Field. The same team that developed Logan Square’s Billy Sunday has cultivated a menu of several rare distillates along with local craft beer.
The Loop: The Chicago Athletic Association is a jewel on Michigan Avenue, an 1893 skyscraper with stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. While scenesters vie for the view at the wonderful Cindy’s rooftop atrium bar, Milk Room will amaze the true cocktail connoisseur. A second-floor, eight-seat micro bar, Milk Room utilizes rare, vintage spirits and hard-to-find ingredients to build its takes on classic cocktails.
River North: With a tagline like, “Come as you are, leave as you want to be,” The Drifter intoxicates with possibility. It has a rotating list of more than 100 cocktails — cultivated to capitalize on its basement space, a former speakeasy, below the Green Door Tavern. Nightly performances, from magicians to burlesque, add to the funky, forbidden flavor.
West Loop: Grant Achatz is among the most famous chefs in the world and a bit of a gastronomic mad scientist. The Aviary, in which he is a partner, offers all manner of inventive intoxicants. Chicago craft cocktails get no craftier than drinks like the Junglebird, which plays with liquid densities to deliver drops of rum suspended in pineapple-lime syrup.
Gold Coast: On the 18th floor of the Raffaello Hotel, Drumbar sets a luxurious tone with a dark, intimate indoor lounge, then marble floors and arched windows leading to one of Chicago’s premier rooftop spaces. With stunning views of Chicago, have an Old Fashioned or four — that’s how many varieties are on the cocktail menu. Or partake of one of many limited-release products meant to make the Drumbar drinking experience something that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
Live on the Leading Edge
There is no better way to keep up with the constantly evolving list of the top cocktail bars in Chicago than to live amid the shifting scene. Taking best advantage of Chicago’s trendy bars is as simple as finding the perfect home base by browsing Downtown Apartment Company’s listings.
Gut rehabbed historic buildings turned into luxury apartments was 2019’s trend in Loop construction. These three luxury Loop apartment buildings opened in 2019 and were rehabbed historic buildings.
The Alfred by FLATS
The Alfred apartments (named after architect, Alfred Alschuler) opened in the former Hartman Building, which was built in 1925. To keep the character of the building, the exterior brick and terra-cotta were repaired and many of the historic interior fixtures, like elevator doors and lights, were salvaged and used in the current design.
The open layout apartments at The Alfred feature high, vaulted ceilings, in unit laundry, poured concrete or herringbone wood floors, with walk-in closets and dishwashers in select units. Residents have access to luxury functional amenities like the 13th floor lounge, a spacious outdoor terrace with seating and fire pits, and a coffee shop in the lobby.
Millennium on Lasalle
Each rental features stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, a tiled kitchen backsplash, and premium Italian cabinets in the kitchen, marble bathroom tile, in unit washer and dryer, and hard surface floors. Layouts include ample storage space– even the efficiency studio floor plans include walk in closets. The apartments at Millennium on Lasalle are also pet friendly! Amenities include bike storage, co-working space with wifi, a movie theatre, dry-cleaning service, an expansive fitness center, an indoor multi sport court, a roof top pool with lounge space and grilling stations, a poker room, chef’s kitchen, dog wash, 24/7 maintenance, and more! Millennium on Lasalle opened in the heart of the financial district in the Loop in fall of 2019.
330 S. Wells
330 S. Wells is a newly rehabbed historic insurance building. The boutique style building has a quiet, community feel despite being so centrally located. Interior finishes are stunning, with quartz countertops, GE stainless steel appliances, modern cabinets, and tile flooring throughout each kitchen, Brizo and Kohler plumbing fixtures in each bathroom, and an in unit washer and dryer in each apartment. The 16 story building houses retail and office space in addition to rental apartments. Both commercial and residential tenants get access to the bike storage room, fitness center, and rooftop lounge. The rooftop is complete with grill stations, fire pits, a chef’s style “sky kitchen”, and an indoor sky lounge. The 5th floor also houses a chef’s style kitchen and lounge, as well as a yoga studio, conference room, and fitness center. Residents also enjoy controlled building entry, close proximity to the blue, red, and brown line CTA trains, and that these apartments are pet friendly.
Looking for new luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Seeing downtown Chicago is fun, but there’s nothing that can’t be made more fun by bringing your dog along! Here are some dog friendly places and activities to do with your pet near the Loop!
312 Chicago
Courtesy of 312 Chicago
312 Chicago is located in the heart of the theatre district in the Loop and serves northern Italian fare, brunch, bakery items, and craft cocktails. The charming patio is dog friendly and even offers homemade dog treats on Saturdays and Sundays 11am to 2pm. Insider tip– bring your Christkindl Market mug to 312 Chicago for a complimentary refill of mulled wine with purchase through January 15th, 2020!
O’Brien’s Riverwalk Cafe
Enjoy waterside dining with your dog at O’Brien’s Riverwalk Cafe. O’Brien’s regularly hosts live music and is a festive place to celebrate favorite Chicago holidays (like dyeing the river green on St. Patrick’s Day) as well as lesser known Chicago holidays (like Cheeseburger day). If you’re looking to switch up the traditional patio scene, you might enjoy bringing your dog for a day on the Riverwalk!
Mercury’s Canine Cruise
What’s even better than the classic architectural boat tour? One that your dog can enjoy, too! Sightsee in Chicago’s Loop along Lake Michigan and the river with your furry friend as you get a detailed tour of Chicago’s architectural marvels. The 90 minute tour departs from 112 E Wacker Drive. There are dog water bowls and relief stations on board to keep the ride comfortable for your pet!
Small Dog Tea Party at the Drake Hotel
February 9th, 2020 stop by the Camellia Room at the Drake Hotel from 1 to 3pm for the Small Dog Tea Party, hosted by the Dog Moms of Chicago. The tea party will have a Valentine’s Day theme and all proceeds will go to local dog rescue organizations.
Looking for dog friendly apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
A new year (and new decade) means a new apartment! If you’re looking to live in the Loop in the heart of downtown Chicago, here are some great new year specials on Loop luxury apartments.
$1755 (net $1609 with specials) available now!
This Loop apartment building is offering great specials including 1 month free on vacant units and a $750 sign on bonus for students at Kaplan and nearby schools, as well as employees of select preferred employers. Find out if there are any apartment buildings offering specials and discounts for employees at your company!
$1975 (net $1810 with specials), available now!
Property 152 in the Loop is a beloved historic landmark with newly renovated interiors and amenities. This location is great if you’re looking to be close to public transportation with convenient access to O’Hare and Midway airports, as this Loop luxury apartment is located less than a block from the blue, pink, green, orange, and brown line trains at Clark and Lake and two blocks from the red line at State and Lake.
Get 1 month free when you lease a newly renovated apartment!
$3022 available January 2nd
This rental building on the Magnificent Mile offers spa like amenities, including a steam room, lounge pool, two fitness areas, a hot tub with a waterfall wall, a movie theatre, and multiple sun decks. This two bed two bath layout has a spacious living area, great storage space, and a modern kitchen.
$4444 available now!
This modern, soft loft apartment offers great separation between each bedroom, each bath, and the living space, making it perfect for roommates. Living in this 3 bedroom apartment with roommates comes out to less than $1500 per person, making it the most cost efficient option!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Whether you’re a Chicago resident looking for a downtown “stay-cation” or in from out of town looking to explore Chicago, there are so many ways to spend New Year’s Eve in the Loop!
Courtesy of Jude Beck
360 Chicago
360 Chicago is the 94th floor observation deck at the John Hancock Center. 360’s New Year’s package includes unlimited rides on TILT, a firework display, a live DJ, party favors, drinks, and stunning views of downtown Chicago from over 1000 feet above the Magnificent Mile.
Courtesy of Sapan Patel
ROOF on the Wit
From 9pm to 1am on New Year’s Eve, ROOF will be transformed into a French Riviera and Monte Carlo themed extravaganza, featuring gaming tables, acrobats, French cuisine from award winning chefs, an open bar, and music. This 27th story Loop rooftop bar is a great place to watch all of Chicago’s lively festivities, city lights, and fireworks.
Courtesy of Billy Huynh
Hilton Chicago
The Hilton is the happening place to be on New Years in Chicago! This multiple ballroom soiree features seven party areas, twelve acts, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and champagne, celebrity DJs, live casino, live video mixing, a confetti “storm” at midnight, table service, discounted hotel rooms, and more! It will be hosted by Kiss FM and televised by NBC 5.
New Year’s Eve Blast
New Year’s Eve downtown in any city can get pretty pricey. Looking for free things to do for New Years in downtown Chicago? Look no further! Enjoy fireworks and celebrations along the Riverwalk from Wolf Point to Lakeshore Drive with New Year’s Eve Blast. You can also watch the midnight fireworks live on WGN.
Courtesy of Max Bender
Travelle at the Langham
If you’re a foodie, head to Travelle at the Langham hotel for your New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy a five course fine dining experience at Travelle, followed by an Andy Warhol’s “silver factory” themed celebration at the bar. The dinner menu includes: Butternut Squash Soup with crème fraiche, Ossetra Royale Caviar, and chanterelle conserva; Rohan Duck Confit with beets, citrus, frisée, radicchio, braised salsify, and black truffle; Monkfish with Manila clams, bouillabaisse, braised fennel, and saffron touile; Wagyu Short Rib with pommes mille feuille, cippolini agrodolce, horseradish, and celery root; and Citrus Pavlova with grapefruit granita, black currant ice cream, and yuzu curd.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The supply of luxury apartments has doubled since 2015 and another 11,000 luxury rental units are in the pipeline. What’s even more baffling is how quickly all these units are being absorbed. (To put this in context, the downtown market historically absorbs about 2,200 luxury rentals per year). Of the 30,000 luxury rentals in downtown Chicago, 46% have been built since 2015, and most of them have been leasing up quickly.
So, who’s renting all these apartments? For the sixth consecutive year, Chicago was named as a top corporate relocation target. According to articles in Multihousing Pro Magazine and Connect Chicago CRE News, the steady increase of job growth and corporate relocations is largely responsible for the absorption of the influx of luxury rental inventory. Ben Creamer, principal and managing broker of Downtown Apartment Company, says “Chicago continues to enjoy robust job growth, especially in the tech sector where jobs are concentrated in the city’s urban core (…) This perpetuates the increased demand for Class A rentals in the city, as does the large percentage of millennials and empty nesters who prefer renting to owning. With demand at an all-time high, expect to see rents continue to rise in tandem.”
Speaking to the very different demographics dominating the market– millennials and empty nesters, with Gen Z closely following– means creating amenity spaces and design that will appeal to all of those groups. Another focus on amenity spaces stems from the expected wants and needs of Gen Z and millennials, demographics that tend to value prime locations, short commutes, great common spaces, and tech-integrated features and services and are willing to compromise on the square footage of actual units in exchange for those features. The increase of corporate relocations also means an increased demand for short term and corporate rentals. In response to all the corporate relocation traffic, some of the downtown buildings even offer incentives for employees of nearby companies.
A new West Loop luxury rental building near McDonald’s new headquarters, currently offering preferred employer incentives to McDonald’s corporate employees
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago with preferred employer incentives? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Living in the heart of downtown Chicago in the Loop doesn’t have to be hard on your wallet. If you’re interested in having the space of a 1 bed apartment but don’t necessarily need a door, renting a convertible apartment is a great way to save on your rent! Many convertibles are like hybrids of studios and 1 beds, but these Loop convertible apartments have incredible separation. Some even have sliding doors, giving you a fully enclosed 1 bedroom without paying 1 bedroom rent prices.
Property 82- Michigan/Lake
This Loop apartment building has incredible convertibles. The sliding, light blue sea glass door fully encloses the bedroom, creating the same separation from your living space you would have in a 1 bedroom. Each unit features plenty of storage space and large kitchen islands as well as expansive, floor to ceiling windows overlooking views of downtown Chicago and the lake. Apartments in this building have in unit laundry.
Property 41– Wells/Lake
Travel for work often? Whether you fly out of Midway or O’Hare, this Loop apartment building is in a convenient location for direct access to the airport, less than a block from the blue line and two blocks from the orange line. With floor plans ranging in size from 652 to 968 square feet, the convertible apartments are more spacious than most 1 beds. Each convertible also has a sliding door, giving you a fully enclosed bedroom. Apartments in this building have in unit laundry. Looking for a great pet friendly apartment? The onsite dog run and pet amenities ensure your furry friends will love living here, too!
Property 35– Wells/Randolph
This historic high rise has fully renovated interiors and unique amenities (life-size chess, movie theatre, or hammock lounge, anyone?). The bedroom area is an enclosed alcove with a spacious walk in closet. Apartments in this building have in unit laundry. This building is offering 1-2 months free for a limited time!
Living in the Loop gives you a central location to some of the best entertainment, convenient transit, and stunning outdoor amenities, like the Riverwalk and lakefront trail, in the downtown area!
Looking for great deals on luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
If you’re looking to see holiday lights in downtown Chicago, the Loop is the place to be! Here are some of our favorite places in the Loop to get in the holiday spirit.
City of Chicago Christmas Tree
Courtesy of Max Bender
The 106th annual Christmas Tree in Millennium Park was celebrated with a lighting ceremony in late November. However, the 60 foot evergreen will be brightening up the city every nigh through January.
Menorah Lighting at Daley Plaza
The annual menorah lighting in Daley Plaza is a great way to celebrate Hannukah! Enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment by AD the DJ and Charlie the Rapper.
Museum of Science and Industry Holiday Lights & Christmas Around The World
The 45 foot tree is adorned with 30,000 lights and surrounded by over 50 smaller trees, each decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s different communities to reflect their cultures. The occasional indoor “snow” flurries add to the charming holiday ambiance.
CTA Holiday Train
Ever wonder why the downtown area is called “The Loop”? The neighborhood gets its name because the CTA L train tracks make a “loop” around the center of the city. During the holidays, hop aboard the CTA’s holiday train for meet and greets with santa and his reindeer and holiday cheer. The special holiday trains are covered in multicolored lights, red bows, garlands, and candy cane striped ribbon. The tradition started in 1992 and has grown in popularity and decadence over the years. Click here for a schedule of when to check out the CTA holiday train.
Courtesy of Sawyer Bengston
Macy’s on State Street
Macy’s on State Street is known for having eye catching, festive windows. Step inside and head to historic The Walnut Room, where you’ll see the Great Tree and enjoy a holiday themed cocktail. With the whimsical decorations in the Macy’s windows, Christmas music coming from speakers in the flower beds, and tree covered lights, hopping along State Street takes on a whole new atmosphere
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The only thing that rivals summertime in the Loop is the holiday season in the Loop. Whether you’re looking to see holiday lights, the striking architecture, or a little of both, here are some holiday tours to soak up festive holiday cheer.
Chicago Architecture Center Holiday and City Lights
See holiday lights in the Loop with the Chicago Architecture Center. During the 90 minute tour, you’ll learn about the architects who shaped Chicago while seeing the dazzling city lights aboard a double decker bus. Tickets include admission to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your holiday tour. Tickets are available through the end of the year. The CAC will also be extending it’s holiday season hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 8pm.
Holiday Lights Segway Tour
A segway is a unique way to see Chicago’s downtown Loop. You get a more intimate and thorough look at the city than you would in a car but can cover more ground more quickly than on foot. See Cloudgate, also known as “The Bean”, head down The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue, stop by Christkindl Market, and ride past the Art Institute. Holiday light segway tours run Wednesday through Sunday at 6pm until December 21st.
Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Holiday Tour
The holiday tour bus makes two stops– one at the Christkindl holiday market in Daley Plaza, and another at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoo Lights. Each rider will get a pair of 3D glasses, to view Zoo Lights at a whole new dimension, and a bag of Hot Cocoa Caramel Popcorn from famous Garrett’s Popcorn. Private tours are also available. Click here for tickets!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago’s Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The Loop is home to Chicago’s vibrant theatre district. Between Broadway in Chicago, live musical performances, dance, and smaller theatre productions, there are plenty of exciting and thought provoking shows to see. Here are some of the most popular holiday performances in the Loop.
Joffrey Ballet’s Performance of “The Nutcracker”
The Joffrey Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker is a longtime holiday tradition. The classic ballet, composed by Tchaikovsky, follows the story of a young girl and her mother preparing for a Christmas dinner in 1892 just before the World’s Fair. When everyone has gone to bed, the girl is transported to a dreamlike world where her Christmas gifts come to life.
Courtesy of the Joffrey Ballet
The Nutcracker runs through December 29th at the Auditorium Theatre in the Loop. Click here for tickets.
“Merry, Merry, Chicago!” at Chicago Symphony Orchestra
In Merry, Merry, Chicago! the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus perform holiday favorites, carols, and an appearance by Santa Claus. The performance will be conducted by guest conductor, Emil de Cou, and runs December 14th-23rd.
See below for the program!
“A Christmas Carol” at the Goodman Theatre
A Christmas Carol has been a holiday favorite for over forty years. The story, originally written by Charles Dickens, follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns about compassion, kindness, and redemption. Tickets are available through December 29th.
Courtesy of the Goodman Theatre
Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre
Broadway in Chicago’s White Christmas is sure to leave you full of holiday cheer! Choose Chicago says White Christmas is full of, “dancing, laughter, and some of the greatest music ever written”. Don’t miss out! This Broadway musical only runs through mid December.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop’s theatre district? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Ever wonder what it’s like to work at Downtown Apartment Company? If you’re looking for a career that keeps you on your toes, where everyday is different, and you can always learn something new, with a culture of welcoming, hardworking, approachable team mates, the DAC pack may be the right fit for you! Here’s an inside look at what it’s like to work at DAC.
You’ll Have A Growth Oriented Environment
DAC is a growth conducive environment. The leadership is extremely approachable, cares about agents’ personal and professional fulfillment, and encourages trying your best without fear of failure.
Managing broker, Ben Creamer, recently sat down with Chicago Agent Magazine to discuss learning and coaching from your mistakes. “There’s no greater source of teachable moments than your own personal experience in the business” he said.
The article also discussed how Ben and the DAC leadership develop agents by running through problem solving exercises. “Regardless of whether they give the right answer, they’ve learned something valuable through the thought process.” He emphasized the importance of putting your team first, being humble, and preparing your team for a range of situations, as well as having a team with diverse skill sets and knowing how to play to everyone’s strengths.
There’s No Shortage of Things To Do
Between team events, like the famous annual DAC Holiday party, industry exclusive looks, like hard hat tour previews, and whole industry networking opportunities, like broker open houses and new inventory openings, there’s no shortage of team building and professional development activities at DAC.
“I love working at DAC because my calendar is so full” says Alexa Morgan, an agent at DAC. “There’s always an opportunity to build great, lasting relationships whether its with other members of the team or other industry professionals.”
There’s Never A Dull Moment
No two days are the same at Downtown Apartment Company. The constant influx of new rental inventory, new clients, a growing team, and regular agent trainings, there’s no shortage of new places to see, things to learn, or people to meet.
DAC broker, Adam Valentino, says “The market is booming and areas that weren’t as residential have been rapidly growing and are therefore, now in higher demand. The popularity in these rapidly growing areas brings new real estate inventory, restaurants, green space, and an overall developing sense of community, so even as a local there’s always something new to learn about the city because of how regularly it’s growing and changing.”
Due to the growing team, Downtown Apartment Company recently opened an innovative new office in River North.
The Conference Room at Downtown Apartment Company’s New River North Office Space
If you like being in a fast-paced environment that regularly challenges you to learn, DAC could be the place for you.
At DAC we build our team based on our values of integrity, desire to learn, resourcefulness, work ethic, professionalism, and above all else, kindness, with culture as our top priority. If DAC sounds like the right fit for you, contact us or email your resume to Kati at careers@downtownloop.com.
Your furry friends shouldn’t have to “sit” and “stay” home while you soak up all the West Loop has to offer. Bring them with you to these dog friendly spots in West Loop.
Ericka Rios, Director of Leasing, with Ruben Oliver, the “DAC Doodle”
Saint Lou’s Assembly- 664 W Lake St
The patio at Saint Lou’s Assembly is a prime pooch social spot. Bring your dog for a “dog beer”, which comes in a regular beer-esque bottle. Stop by for one of many dog oriented events, like the dog halloween costume contest!
Courtesy of Saint Lou’s Assembly
Wishbone West Loop- 161 N Jefferson St
Chef Joel Nickson serves up southern classics and a mix-and-match menu of side dishes. Wishbone has been a West Loop favorite for 30 years. Their dog friendly patio is a great place to go for Monday through Friday happy hour light bites, including fried chicken sliders, jambalaya, and catfish nuggets.
City Mouse Chicago- 311 N Morgan St
Looking for great brunch in West Loop? Look no further! City Mouse Chicago serves up seasonally inspired fare in the Ace Hotel. Dogs are welcome in the indoor lounge, where both you and your pet can order food. The pet menu includes meat based items and water is served in doggie bowls. The “human” lounge menu has great selections and happy hour specials as well.
A reservation is recommended for the dog friendly lounge area.
Photo Courtesy of Anjali Pinto, citymousechicago.com
Kuma’s Corner- 852 W Fulton Market
Kuma’s Corner is known both for serving up some of the best burgers in the city with unique twists, as well as their support of local heavy music artists. Bring your pet to their dog friendly patio to check out their eclectic menu and hear a great mix of Chicago heavy musicians. You can also listen to the Kuma’s playlist on Spotify.
Looking for dog friendly apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Halsted Street in West Loop is known for its high density of Greek shops, restaurants, museums, and other cultural sites, many of which are long time neighborhood treasures. Athenian Candle is a specialty spiritual goods shop that’s stood the test of time as Halsted Street has evolved over the past century.
Athenian Candle was founded nearly 100 years ago by Themistocles and Efthimia Godelas in 1920. This fourth generation store is the only original Greek Town business standing.
Themistocles Godelas in the original Athenian Candle store in the 1940s
Athenian Candle offers over 7,000 products, including handmade candles as well as cultural and spiritual goods imported directly from Greece for use in special events and ceremonies. Products range from incense, essential oils, statues, rosaries, tapered candles, oil lamps, books for a variety of religious and spiritual faiths, and English/Greek greeting cards, and Greek flags and cook books, to Greek wedding and baptismal items like stafana (wedding crowns) and martirika (baptismal ribbons). Each year, Athenian Candle produces thousands of hand dipped paraffin and beeswax candles, ranging from 8 inches, for candles lit during most Sunday liturgies, to 5 feet, for candles used in wedding and baptismal ceremonies. These specialty candles are then sold in both the Halsted Street store and online and via catalog worldwide. The use of top quality paraffin and beeswax is crucial, as most religious and spiritual groups do not condone burning animal fat. Athenian Candle also offers candle burning and other on-site services.
With the blend of historic character and modern additions, Greek Town is a cultural cornerstone of West Loop. Greek Town is conveniently accessible from most of the city via the CTA blue line, the metra trains at Union and Ogilvie stations, and the Kennedy and Eisenhower expressways, making it an equally as convenient place to live as it is to explore on weekends.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Halsted Street in West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The West Loop Old Main Post Office has been closed since 1996, but following the recent major redevelopment, is now welcoming its first tenants in the newly revamped building at 433 W Van Buren.
The structure was first built in 1922 and greatly expanded in 1932. At the time, Montgomery Ward and Sears were the largest retailers in the United States and the post office needed to expand its capacity due to all the mail order traffic the two retailers brought in. There were a few variations on proposals for the building’s redevelopment from 2011 to 2014, but none that secured the proper funding. In the interim, when it was not being used as a post office but prior to the redevelopment, the Old Main Post Office was used in filming for Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and Transformers: Dark of the Moon films.
In 2016, Mayor Rahm Emmanuel threatened that the city would take possession through eminent domain if it remained undeveloped. The owner, Bill Davies, sold the Old Main Post Office later in 2016, just one day before his passing.
The 2.8 million square foot building has already secured large tenants including Walgreens, which will be relocating from Deerfield, as well as Ferrara Candy, The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, and Uber. The lobby at the Old Main Post Office will also feature a food hall which is open to the public. There will also be a plethora of tenant amenities, including a bar and bocce court on the second floor, a gym with free weights and a boxing ring, and scattered luxury meeting and co-working spaces throughout the building.
Courtesy of Michael Zajakowski
The mail chutes have been repurposed as architectural accents.
Courtesy of Michael Zajakowski
Roughly 16,000 new employees will work in the building, stimulating the Southwest Loop area along the river, where office buildings and high-rises meet.
The Old Main Post Office redevelopment is consistent with the trend of corporate relocations and new amenity filled office construction in the West Loop.
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The West Loop has been an attractive spot for corporate relocations the last two years. McDonald’s garnered significant attention in 2018 when it moved its headquarters from its home of 47 years in Oakbrook to downtown Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood.
The new headquarters office building was built at the former site of Oprah’s Harpo Studios. The relocation brought over 2000 jobs downtown and had a positive impact on this year’s earnings. CEO Steve Easterbrook says the move downtown was motivated by a desire to become a more modern company by tapping into a wider range of top talent and being hip with trends in food and beverage– both things he hopes will be improved by being being centrally located right on Randolph Street. Easterbrook also noted that the downtown move has had a positive impact on recruiting. McDonald’s received over 200,000 job applications sine their relocation, which is a large increase from years prior.
Courtesy of McDonald’s
The new McDonald’s headquarters features a restaurant with menu items from around the world which is open to the public. The second floor houses Hamburger University, where McDonald’s trains its managers. The third floor has a test kitchen for new potential menu items and the sixth floor has an employee cafe with co-working space, a barista style coffee bar, and an IT help bar. Over 300 conference rooms equipped for audio and video, cafe style meeting spaces, unassigned benches and cubicles, and large meeting spaces are scattered throughout the building to promote collaboration. The innovative headquarters has multiple open floor plan sub office “neighborhoods”, each with private phoning rooms, tables, meeting rooms, and lockers. Last but not least, the ninth floor features a fitness center and terraces overlooking the city.
Courtesy of McDonald’s
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The West Loop is home to many of Chicago’s higher education institutions. Whether you’re looking for a four year degree or a specialized technical certification, the West Loop is full of excellent schools and training programs.
The University of Illinois Chicago
UIC is a public research university which offers degrees in the arts, business, humanities, sciences, technology, health care, public administration, and urban planning. Although many students opt to live on campus, UIC is largely a commuter school with many students living in apartments in the West Loop and other nearby neighborhoods.
UIC is also easy to access with a blue line stop just a block from campus and the Halsted bus #8, which runs right through campus.
Courtesy of UIC
Rush University and Medical Center
Rush University is the private, academic branch of Rush University Medical Center. Rush University has colleges of nursing, health sciences, and medicine, as well a graduate college. Whether you’re looking to become an internist, speech pathologist, speech pathologist, or researcher, Rush University has highly regarded accredited programs and is well known for its advanced research.
Rush University and Medical Center are located just off the Polk green and pink line stop, which provides access to Oak Park through the West Loop and downtown to the Loop.
Paul Mitchell School of Chicago
Do you have a passion for styling hair? The Paul Mitchell School offers placement assistance and career path planning with hands on experience on the floor throughout the program. Students also get access to prestigious additional programs and experiences, including the opportunity to attend events like Caper, Beacon, and the North American Hair Styling Awards.
The Paul Mitchell School is located off Halsted near Maxwell Street with service from the Halsted bus #8.
Courtesy of The Paul Mitchell School Chicago
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2019 was a busy year for both residential and commercial development in West Loop. The residential inventory went above and beyond in terms of visionary design and creative amenities. These four West Loop apartment buildings stole the show with their lease ups this past year.
The Van Buren
Although the Van Buren opened September 15th of 2018, most of their lease up took place in 2019. Residents of The Van Buren love that this boutique style midrise offers a quieter, more private feeling atmosphere while still offering the advantages of luxury high rise living, like resort style amenities, great management, and curated social events. Between the light finishes, large windows, and high ceilings, the apartments at The Van Buren are filled with natural light.
727 West Madison
727 West Madison opened its doors to its first residents December 1st of 2018. This high-rise is striking, rising nearly 500 feet with its glassy elliptical shaped exterior, and is known for being the tallest skyscraper west of the highway. The curved exterior makes each unit feel like a corner unit with panoramic views of the city and skyline. The high ceilings, eye catching metallic accents, and elegant terrazzo flooring add to the lobby’s grandeur. 727 West Madison exudes elegance from the moment you walk in.
The Mason
The Mason opened its doors in spring of 2019 and filled up quickly. Residents love the unique design and trendy accents throughout the building. Black matte appliances and distressed kitchen backsplashes against white tile, quartz countertops, and wide plank grey flooring give apartments an elevated twist on the standard black, white, and grey palette. No detail was spared, especially in terms of lighting. From the street outside, you’ll notice the eye catching multi-tiered chandelier that hovers above what feels like most of the room next to the lobby. The Edison bulb pendant lighting hangs above kitchen islands and the frameless bathroom mirrors are complete with excellent built in lighting around the perimeter.
Milieu
Milieu residents first moved in September 3rd of 2019. In addition to the wonderful amenities like a fitness center, dog run, outdoor terrace, media room, pool and spa, and several other resident spaces, Milieu adds its own creative touch. Residents enjoy having an onsite barista crafting complementary La Colombe coffee drinks, a hammock lounge area, and an outdoor fitness area. Additionally, residents on the 18th floor have access to club level living services, which include in home package delivery, daily newspaper delivery, morning coffee and refreshments, monthly housekeeping, priority parking, and monthly happy hours.
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Looking for 3 bedroom apartments for rent in West Loop? Check out these soft loft new construction rentals!
Property 120- Randolph & Halsted
This building’s curved exterior and floor to ceiling windows offer stunning views of downtown Chicago. The two toned interiors, dark hallways, and soft loft accents give this three bed its distinct West Loop character. The kitchen features quartz countertops, Whirlpool stainless steel appliances, a tile backsplash, a full size washer and dryer, a Nest thermostat, and a spacious island with room for barstool seating. The master bathroom features a frameless glass shower and double vanity sink. The other full bathroom features a soaking tub. There is also an additional half bath off the kitchen area.
This layout starts at $4756.
Property 17- Jefferson & Lake
This three bed, three bath apartment offers great separation and newly renovated interior finishes. The kitchen features granite countertops and stainless appliances, including an in unit washer and dryer.
This layout is unique– two of the three bedrooms have their own ensuite bathrooms and walk in closets so that there are effectively, two master beds. This apartment also has two balconies, one off the living space and one off the second bedroom.
This three bed starts at $4419 for an immediate move.
Property 171- Ada & Randolph
This contemporary West Loop three bed features black, matte finishes, Edison bulb pendant lighting, a distressed, two toned metal kitchen backsplash, and premium blackout roller shades in the bedrooms as well as convenient features like full sized in unit laundry, a built in “tech shelf” with USB outlets, and a keyless electronic entry system.
Both bathrooms have double vanity sinks and great “selfie” lighting around the mirrors. Despite the large, open layout, the spacious kitchen peninsula creates separation between the kitchen and living areas. An expansive patio spans most of the length of the living space.
This layout starts at $4700 with 2 months free on select lease terms.
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Looking for a luxe penthouse for rent in West Loop? Look no further! This 2 bed 2 bath penthouse at 727 West Madison features elegant finishes, stunning views, and state of the art amenities in a prime location.
Take in 360 degree views of downtown Chicago, amplified by the floor to ceiling windows and 10 foot ceilings. The kitchen finishes and appliances are top of the line with Grohe Concept faucets, a marbled backsplash, Viking stainless steel appliances, spacious quartz countertops, a wine fridge, a six burner gas range, ample storage space, a Nest programmable thermostat (which you can also control remotely), soft close cabinetry, and hard surface plank flooring throughout.
The bathrooms feature Kohler fixtures, a frameless glass shower, a stand alone soaking tub, double vanity sinks, premium tile, and plenty of storage. The custom walk in closet and built in shelving systems make closet organizing a breeze.
The layout of this spacious penthouse makes it feel like a full home perched in the skyline. Enjoy the space and separation of a home with the amenities of a high rise. Indoor amenities include a private rooftop sky lounge, a TV and media theatre, a lounge with a coffee bar, coworking space, conference rooms with presentation screens, a club room with pool tables, private party rooms, an expansive club grade fitness center, a yoga studio, Peloton bikes, and a pet spa.
Skylounge, Courtesy of 727 W Madison
Outdoor amenities include the resort style pool and spa, pool side cabanas, sun terrace, outdoor grills and seating, and the dog park and water station. Residents also get access to convenience services like 24 hour concierge, wifi throughout the common areas, curated resident events, package lockers, EV charging stations, bike storage and repair, and away from home services.
This West Loop penthouse at 727 West Madison is located conveniently on Halsted and Madison, a couple blocks from the highway and UIC blue line stop, with service to O’Hare and the Loop, and is less than a block from Whole Foods and Mariano’s super markets. This penthouse is priced at $10k per month.
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Looking for a place to eat with friends can be tricky in West Loop because there are so many great options– it’s hard to agree on just one! That’s where Time Out Market comes in…If you haven’t already jumped on the food hall trend, it’s not too late to start! Food halls are essentially a trendier take on the classic food court, with kiosks where patrons can get their favorite items from a variety of local restaurants.
Rendering courtesy of Time Out Chicago
Time Out Market Chicago is the second largest Time Out Market, after the Lisbon location and will be opening soon in Fulton Market. The 500,000 square foot, three story food hall will house 18 kiosks which will vary in cuisine and style, from fast casual to high end Michelin starred fare. The venue will also have three bars, a demonstration kitchen, and event space, complete with bleacher seating.
So far, the chef roster includes Jimmy Bannos Jr. of Purple Pig, Thai Dang of HaiSous, Brian Fisher of the Michelin starred Entente, Bill Kim of Urban Belly ramen, Dana Salls Cree of Pretty Cool Ice Cream, Zoe Schor of Split Rail fried chicken, Edward Kim of Mott St., and Art Shabez of The Art of Pizza.
Courtesy of Mini Mott by chef Edward Kim
Chefs have one year contracts, which they can renew, but Time Out is looking to keep bringing in new dishes and concepts to keep things fresh and interesting for customers. Time Out also shared a vision for the space to function as a multipurpose venue for private events and weddings. According to Chicago Eater magazine, customers can expect to spend about $20 to $30 on lunch or dinner.
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It’s that time of year– it’s too cold to do fall things and not quite holiday season. Fortunately there are plenty of things to do near West Loop this weekend!
Brooklyn Boulders
Try rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders with or without ropes. Brooklyn Boulders offers intro classes for beginners as well as memberships for more regular climbers. Gear rental and climbing shoes are included with your reservation.
Emporium Fulton Market
Spend your evening having some nostalgic fun at Emporium bar and arcade. Enjoy pool tables, pin ball machines, air hockey, ski ball, arcade games, and a full live music events calendar.
Bad Axe Throwing
Looking for a new activity to spice up your usual weekend plans? Check out axe throwing! (Think: a heavier version of darts). Walk ins start at $27 per hour, or book a group ahead of time for $35 per person flat rate. Get in free on your birthday!
Open Books
Open Books is a nonprofit book store with a selection of over 50,000 donated books. Stop by the location at 651 W Lake for the Snowy Soiree holiday party on November 20th at 5pm to support literacy. Your tickets get you half off any books you purchase plus free gift wrapping!
Bottom Lounge
Bottom Lounge has a full calendar of live music. Check out Jaymes Young and Phil Good this Saturday or click here for a full schedule of upcoming concerts
Courtesy of Bottom Lounge
National Hellenic Museum
The National Hellenic Museum on Halsted Street is the first and only major museum in the nation dedicated to Greek-American culture. Try one of the weekly event offerings, like Greek dance classes, or attend one of their annual events, like the gala or golf outing. Take a tour of the museum which concludes with a visit to the building’s rooftop overlooking the skyline, weather permitting.
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The former West Loop Church of the Epiphany, at 201 S. Ashland, is being converted into one of the newest event venues and art centers. The high ceilings, mosaics, and historic windows add to the striking elegance and charm of this space, which will be used to house local art events and private events like weddings and rehearsals.
Courtesy of Epiphany Center for the Arts and Chicago Tribune
When owner and developer, David Chase, initially applied for liquor and entertainment licenses, West Loop residents had trepidation about what they interpreted as the conversion of this historic landmark into a nightclub. However, Chase explained that his vision for the site was to “not to profit, but to ‘activate’ something beautiful for the community that would preserve the architectural glory of the church”.
He explained plans to turn it into a single destination wedding and event venue and 42,000 square foot hub for a multitude of practicing artists, including several distinct spaces. These include Epiphany Hall, located in the venue’s sanctuary with capacity for 1000 people, The Sanctuary, an upstairs lounge with live magic and cabaret performances with a 100 person capacity, and The Catacombs, an underground space for live jazz performances that holds 400 people.
Chase has emphasized that he intends to keep Epiphany Center for the Arts open to the public as much as possible, with public live music and events booked on Sundays through Thursdays and weddings predominantly on Fridays and Saturdays.
The church was originally built in 1885 in Romanesque style, complete with a bellower and sandstone exterior. The historic West Loop gem was the site of many historically significant events, like the funeral of Mayor Carter Harrison Sr. following his assassination, an event profiled in Devil in the White City.
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As electric vehicles have become more popular, newer construction buildings have begun to include electric car chargers in their garages. With so much new rental inventory in the West Loop, many buildings in the neighborhood offer electric car charging.
Courtesy of Chicago Tribune
727 W Madison
727 West Madison is known for being the tallest downtown building west of the highway. It just opened in Q4 of 2018 and has built a reputation for being the pinnacle of luxury in West Loop. Among its many top of the line amenities, 727 W Madison offers electric vehicle chargers in the garage.
727 W Madison also offers pet amenities like the large dog run
Courtesy of 727 W Madison
Spoke
Spoke offers many state of the art amenities, like a recording studio and video gaming lounge, so it’s no surprise Spoke’s garage features electric vehicle charging stations as one of its many amenities.
Take in skyline views from one of many rooftop lounges
Courtesy of Spoke Apartments
Spoke’s whimsical resident lounge
Courtesy of Spoke Apartments
Arkadia West Loop
Arkadia is only a few years old, but its amenities recently underwent a significant renovation, keeping it highly competitive with this year’s brand new inventory. One of Arkadia’s modern features is electric car charging in the garage.
Arkadia is known for its expansive amenity deck– one of the largest in the city!
Courtesy of Arkadia West Loop
Landmark
Landmark has a wide selection of parking amenities in addition to electric car chargers. Choose from monthly or hourly parking options or discounted rates on the on site Zipcars. Enjoy discounted parking for guests and on site eco friendly car washes from in house vendor, Sparkl.
Residents love the tranquil rooftop pool
Courtesy of Related
What if you’re out and about in West Loop and need a quick charge? Here are some public EV charging locations downtown!
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Whether you’re looking to commute downtown to the Loop, out to the suburbs, or to the furthest stretches of the Earth, the West Loop is outfitted with so many transit options that it makes most commutes a breeze.
Union and Ogilvie Stations
Whether you take the Metra to the suburbs or the Amtrak even further, both Ogilvie and Union Stations are right on the boarder of the West Loop.
Courtesy of Union Station
Blue Line CTA to O’Hare International Airport
The blue line train runs through West Loop at UIC on Halsted and on Clinton, providing a quick and efficient way to get to O’Hare, taking you anywhere in the world! Skip the unpredictable rush hour traffic on I-294, save your Uber fares, and take the blue line instead!
Green and Pink Line CTA to Rush University Hospital and the Loop
Catch the green and pink line trains the the Loop at Ashland and Ogden, on Clinton and Lake, or at the Morgan Street L station, which has been in operation since the 1800s and is located right on the bustling Restaurant Row strip on Randolph Street. The green line is also a convenient way to Rush Hospital and University.
Courtesy of CTA
Highway Entrances
It seems like half of rush hour traffic is sitting in the downtown area before you even get on the highway. Live in the West Loop and skip it with the nearby highway entrances on nearly every block from Ogden to Van Buren. Hop directly on I-94 or I-294.
Work Remotely?
If you work from home and don’t commute, the West Loop could still be the most convenient neighborhood for you, too. There’s no shortage of co-working spaces and coffee shops.
Courtesy of WeWork
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Whether you’re looking for a place to work from home, dive into a good book, or make a quick caffeine stop on your morning commute, these West Loop coffee shops are worth checking out!
Courtesy of Sawada Coffee
Fairgrounds Coffee
Fairgrounds is located on Fulton Market and Ada and features unique takes on coffeeshop favorites. This West Loop coffee shop can be your one stop shop around the clock. Stop in for all day breakfast, super food elixirs, an expansive variety of coffee, and great happy hour specials each day of the week in the evenings. If you’re looking for coffee shops open late, Fairgrounds stays open until 8pm on weekdays. Are you a fan of last year’s big trend, nitro cold brew? Check out Fairgrounds’ nitro matcha.
Courtesy of Fairgrounds Coffee
Limitless Coffee
Limitless Coffee’s bright interior is both energizing and tranquil– perfect for focusing. Whatever you’re looking for in a coffee shop, from something conducive to large meetings to a place where you can spread out in peace and quiet, Limitless has all the bases covered. Each high top table has its own small dry erase board. There are plenty of outlets along the booths and comfortable lounge chairs, as well as several large meeting tables, one of which has a large dry erase board.
Courtesy of Limitless Coffee
The menu features classic coffeehouse favorites as well as “instagrammable” unique lattes, like the popular rose beet and charcoal glitter lattes pictured below. Limitless also offers smoothies, kombucha, tea, bulletproof coffee with MCT oil and collagen protein add ins, and a great keto friendly menu featuring multiple stellar avocado toasts and an avocado and egg umami biscuit that will leave you both full and wanting more.
Traditional, rose beet, and charcoal glitter lattes. Courtesy of Limitless Coffee
Sawada Coffee
Sawada Coffee is owned by world renowned latte art expert, Hiroshi Sawada, and is located at 112 N Green Street, near many of the new office developments that house tech companies and notable headquarters in the area. Patrons love the industrial aesthetic and quirky charm (namely the pinball machine, ping pong table, and punching bag).
Pro tip: Tired of waiting in line every Saturday morning at River North’s Donut Vault for your donuts? Grab your Donut Vault favorites at Sawada Coffee!
Courtesy of Sawada Coffee
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The West Loop office market saw a huge increase in momentum in 2018 and is not showing signs of slowing up anytime soon. The West Loop has become an attractive area for tech companies, many of which appear to place an emphasis on employee work-life balance and healthy lifestyle. In turn, newer office building developments have started to include features and amenities geared toward the desires of these tech-culture companies. The amenities in many of these office buildings resemble the amenities you might see in residential buildings in the area.
320 N Sangamon is a 13 story office tower that recently broke ground in what was formally the AmeriGas Propane facility. The Fulton Market building will feature 268,000 square feet of office space, 7,800 square feet of ground level retail space, and plenty of additional amenity space. Office tenants will enjoy use of a fitness center with group fitness classes, a lounge space with curated services, a bike room, and an open-air communal penthouse with an outdoor terrace and fire pits. 320 N Sangamon has a 2021 expected completion date.
Courtesy of Tishman Speyer
176 N Halsted (also known as 167 N Green Street) is a planned 15 story commercial development with 234, 600 square feet of office space with additional retail space. Amenities will include a state-of-the-art fitness center, multiple outdoor terraces, a drawing room, and a group fitness studio. Renderings also include a walkway between the development’s two buildings.
The amenity deck at 176 N Halsted, Courtesy of Shapack Partners
333 N Green Street is another creative Fulton Market office and retail space, being developed by Sterling Bay and designed by Gensler, in the site of what was formerly Coyne College. As far as amenities go in West Loop office space, 333 N Green takes the cake. Office tenants will have access to a skydeck overlooking the skyline, a lounge with grab-and-go food service, a bar, gaming area, a full service fitness center (that looks more like a health club), yoga studio, shuttle service to and from Ogilvie and Union stations, bike room, conference center, 24-hour door staff, on site retail, parking, and valet dry-cleaning.
Courtesy of Sterling Bay
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Arkadia West Loop has four new luxury two and three bedroom penthouses available, each with it’s own terrace and unique layout.
All penthouses feature white quartz countertops, two toned white and espresso cabinetry with soft close drawers, Frigidaire stainless steel appliances, white glass mosaic tile backsplashes, gas stoves, frameless glass showers, hard surface floors throughout, walk in closets, and side by side full sized laundry.
The floor plans below of the available units show unique features of each penthouse.
#3305
The terrace in unit #3305 spans the length of the apartment with floor to ceiling windows, allowing in maximum natural light. The kitchen island in the center creates more separation between the living and dining areas.
#3304
The terrace in apartment #3304 also spans the length of the unit, then opens up into a larger square terrace, perfect for entertaining or setting up outdoor furniture. The kitchen and living space is more open, with a peninsula adding counter space in the kitchen.
#3302
This 3 bed penthouse has an abundance of closet space, with two large closets in the master bedroom. The kitchen opens directly into the dining area, making this layout the most open.
#3301
#3301 is a 3 bed 3 bath penthouse with lots of separation between the living area and bedrooms. The double vanity in the master bathroom and extra hall closets are star features of this layout.
Arkadia is known for having one of the largest amenity decks in a residential building. The 24,000 square foot outdoor terrace features lounge seating, a fire pit, outdoor dining areas with grills, a resort-style pool and hot tub, and putting green, as well as stunning views of the West Loop and Chicago skyline. Arkadia’s fitness center features both cardio and strength training equipment, a stretching area, and towel service. Entertain guests (and yourself) in the game room, complete with a billiards table and big screen TV, or head to the reservable resident party room and chef’s kitchen. Work from home in the technology lounge, equipped with complementary coffee, or anywhere else in the building, as all common areas have complimentary Wifi access. Residents also enjoy conveniences like a private dog run and grooming station, a 24 hour on site micro market with food and beverage options, 24 hour concierge and maintenance, 24 hour package receiving, storage, a bike room, attached parking garage, and electric vehicle charging stations.
Check out the gallery below for more photos!
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845 W Madison sits in a prime West Loop location– less than a block from neighborhood favorite, Mary Bartelme Park, two blocks from the trendy “Restaurant Row” strip on Randolph Street, and just three blocks from Fulton market, the highway entrance, and blue line to O’Hare and the Loop. 845 W Madison is also less than a block from Whole Foods and Mariano’s grocery stores. The development is just up the street from last year’s 727 W Madison high rise, known for being the tallest building downtown west of the highway.
This new West Loop apartment building will include 586 rental units, featuring one, two, and three bedroom apartments, as well as 10,000 of ground level retail space. Additionally, 845 W Madison will include 14 rental duplex townhomes, each with a private entrance.
The 2-level townhomes will create a quaint neighborhood ambiance around the base of the development
Courtesy of GREC
The two towers will rise 15 and 17 stories and will be connected by a two level podium which will contain the retail space as well as parking. An amenity deck will sit atop the podium and will be shared between the two residential towers and townhomes. The amenity deck will include an outdoor pool, lounge seating, grills, fire pits, and open green space for residents. Other building amenities will include a fitness center, co-working space, recreational courts, a game room, and other common space.
845 W Madison is slated for completion Summer of 2020 and is being developed by Lendlease Development and The John Buck Company and designed by GREC Architects. The site was home to H2O Skincare before the company moved its headquarters to San Francisco.
Renderings courtesy of GREC Architects
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2019 has been a big year for West Loop hotel development. Early next year, its likely Nobu Chicago will join the likes of the Fulton Market’s Hoxton and Ace Hotel, two West Loop hotels that both made splashes as hot spots for locals. The 12 story boutique West Loop hotel has been highly anticipated since it broke ground three years ago. The Nobu brand has garnered a loyal consumer base and a reputation as the pinnacle of trendiness and modern luxury. Nobu Chicago was designed by Modif architecture and features interiors by local Studio K interior design firm.
With its minimalist lobby, dimly lit zen hallways, and generous placement of candles in common areas, as well as the dark accent walls and sleek lighting in its 115 guest rooms and suites, Nobu Chicago will combine the casual sophisticated ambiance of the West Loop with influences from Classical Japanese art.
No detail was spared in the design of Nobu’s guest rooms. All pictures courtesy of Nobu Chicago
The indoor pool, rooftop lounge, and restaurant and bar concepts are likely to be lively hangouts for West Loop locals and visitors alike.
The 10,000 square foot Nobu restaurant will occupy the ground level retail space and feature both indoor and outdoor bar and lounge space along Randolph Street. The first Nobu restaurant opened in New York in 1993 and is among the most popular of the 10 locations, along with Malibu, CA. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa says his team will be using all local ingredients. His fresh take on upscale Japanese fare grabbed the attention of actor, Robert De Niro, who became an investor in Nobu Chicago.
The West Loop is eagerly awaiting the completion of the Nobu hotel. Its as if the three years of delays and a change of developer and ownership have only increased the buzz and anticipation of this new hot-spot-to-be.
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Looking for new construction apartments in the heart of West Loop? Union West offers a prime location on Washington Boulevard. Residents love that the calm of Washington Blvd is sandwiched between the lively Restaurant Row strip on Randolph to the north and coffee-shop lined Madison Street to the south. Union West is also adjacent to neighborhood gem, Mary Bartelme park, where West Loop residents flock for the Green City farmers market, yoga in the park, movies in the park, and more! Union West is also just two blocks from the Morgan CTA L station to the Loop as well as a few blocks from the Metra and Amtrak stations.
Enjoy amenities galore at Union West apartments. Conveniences like on-site pet amenities, bike amenities, 24 hour package receiving, electric car charging stations, co-working space with conference rooms, high speed internet, and printing, and the fact that you can access the rooftop fitness center 24/7, make living in this West Loop community a little simpler for anyone with an on-the-go lifestyle. However, when you’re looking to ick back and relax, there are plenty of spaces to entertain yourself or guests. The multiple outdoor terraces are complete with fire pits, an outdoor pool with cabanas, lounge furniture, and grill stations.
In the winter, head to the yoga and spin studios, one of several resident lounges, or the aqua lounge for indoor entertainment. From the warming drawers in the private dining room to the steam room and sauna in the spa area, no detail was spared.
Each apartment comes equipped with a full sized washer and dryer in unit, Nest thermostat, high ceilings, USB charging ports, premium finishes, hard surface flooring throughout, rain shower heads, walk-in closets, and Whirlpool appliances, with floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies and terraces, concrete flooring, and quartz or granite countertops in select units.
Pictures Courtesy of Union West Apartments
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Looking for things to do in downtown Chicago this weekend? From Lincoln Park to the South Loop’s Museum Campus, here are some great ways to enjoy what downtown living has to offer!
Spice Up Your Morning Yoga
Looking for mix up your Saturday morning yoga practice? Get more grounded at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park. Every Saturday morning at 8:30am, join all varieties of butterflies in the Butterfly Haven for butterfly yoga. Tickets are $15 in advance.
Courtesy of Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Elevate your yoga practice (to about 1,000 feet) with a 60 minute vinyasa style class in the 94th floor Hancock Observatory in Gold Coast. Stop by every Saturday or Sunday at 9am to take in unobstructed views of the downtown Chicago skyline and lakefront. Bring your own mat to class. Tickets are $18 in advance and include a day pass to the observatory.
Fall Festival at Maggie Daley Park
Fall is in the air! Head to Maggie Daley Park of Michigan Avenue in the Loop for this free outdoor event, 12pm to 5pm on Saturday, October 19th. Enjoy games, crafts, and fare along the skating ribbon. Afterward, head to the Arts in the Dark parade on State Street.
Courtesy of Eventbrite
Imagine the Moon Sky Show at Adler Planetarium
This show is the Adler’s newest addition and explores how the moon has been the inspiration for human creativity. The run time is 30 minutes and tickets can be purchased here.
Lit & Luz Festival of Language, Literature, and Art
This annual festival at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Gold Coast celebrates the cultural exchange between writers and visual artists from Mexico City and Chicago. Stop by Saturday, October 19th for readings, artist talks, performances, showcases, and a magazine finale to conclude the event.
Courtesy of Lit & Luz Festival
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
CMK has had quite a few new residential developments in South Loop, especially in the past two years. From earlier projects, like the successful lease up of 1333 S Wabash, to newer projects, like two towered Coeval or the multiphase Riverline development, as well as several condo developments, CMK has garnered significant attention for their back to back high volume deliveries of luxury inventory. These are some of the more recent rental developments in CMK’s portfolio.
717 S Clark
The most recent CMK development to break ground is 717 S Clark. 717 S Clark is a glassy new rental apartment development that began construction in Printer’s Row this year in what was the former site of Palmer Printing. The 29 story residential luxury high rise will house 329 units and was designed by Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture. It is slated for 2020 delivery.
Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture
Riverline
Riverline will be an 8 acre community with 1000 feet of continuous riverwalk. CMK is developing the southern portion of the 15 acre parcel, the northern 7 acres of which are being developed by Lendlease as the Southbank development. Riverline will feature 10 new residential buildings in addition to an abundance of public green space. The Riverline project was masterplanned by Perkins+Will architecture.
Courtesy of Perkins+Will
Coeval
Coeval, on 14th and Wabash, is a two towered development offering amenities and boutique style rental apartments in one tower and condos in the other, as well as 10,000 square feet of retail space. With over 15,000 square feet of amenities, residents have access to a roof terrace, fire pits, a fitness center, co-working space, and indoor and outdoor lounge an entertainment space as well as indoor and outdoor dog amenities. Coeval apartments began leasing in early 2019.
Courtesy of Coeval
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
In 2015 the West Loop started to see the first wave of a residential development boom, followed by an influx of new office development in the past two years. This year, the West Loop is seeing an increase in hotel development.
Hotels Locals Love
Currently bustling hotels, including The Hoxton, Ace Hotel, and Soho House, have become social hubs which seem to be frequented at least as much by locals as out of towners. The top notch restaurant, coffee shop, and bar concepts in each of these West Loop hotels are major draws, namely Cabra— a Peruvian concept by Girl and the Goat’s Stephanie Izard and one of this year’s hottest new restaurants– located on the rooftop of The Hoxton. The Allis at Soho House and Waydown at Ace are both high-traffic spots locals frequent as part of the neighborhood nightlife scene.
Cabra Chicago at The Hoxton Hotel
Hyatt House
When Sterling Bay and Skender Development broke ground on Hyatt House in 2018 it was slated to be the first extended-stay public lodging option in Fulton Market. Hyatt House opened this summer with 200 rooms. Unlike The Hoxton, Ace Hotel, and Soho House, Hyatt House functions more as a traditional out-of-towner lodging place and meeting space and less as a local night life destination.
Coming Soon
After several delays, Nobu hotel is slated to open on Randolph Street’s “Restaurant Row” in early 2020 with 115 rooms. It’s rooftop bar and sushi concept is highly anticipated, making it likely to be another trendy spot locals love. The Nobu project was first announced in 2013 and highly publicized in part because of the notoriety of one of it’s owners, Robert DeNiro.
Equinox hotel, by Related Midwest, is a mixed use high rise development that will feature 240 rooms, as well as 30,000 square feet of amenity space and 370 residential units. The 58-story development will be geared toward fitness-focused clientele and locals looking for a wellness based “staycation”.
Another boutique hotel was approved this summer for a Pendry concept at 1043 W Fulton Market. The Pendry will be on the smaller side, at 12 stories with 200 rooms. Part of the Pendry will be allocated to full time office space, making its rooms a convenient choice for office tenants bringing in out-of-towners.
Last but not least, Chicago-based Marc Realty is developing a 250 room Standard Hotel at 1234 W Randolph, just west of City Winery. The Standard will feature a ground level restaurant concept, expansive terrace, and rooftop bar or restaurant concept. It will likely cater its restaurant and bar concepts to local traffic.
Rendering of Nobu Chicago, Courtesy of Bisnow
Proposed Developments
In July F & F Realty and FitzGerald Associates Architects proposed a new hotel development at 920 W Lake that will likely be a more affordable Marriott concept upon completion. This proposed project is just up the street from another proposed hotel at 800 W Lake by North Park Ventures and GREC Architects.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
The Chicago Architecture hosts Open House Chicago, a free public festival which showcases 350 downtown Chicago architectural gems, every October. From well known skyscrapers, to repurposed mansions, contemporary high-rises, and historic landmarks, get a behind the scenes look at stunning Chicago architecture across 39 neighborhoods. This year, check out these stunning residential apartment buildings garnering attention from the architecture world for their exemplary design.
Essex on the Park
This Michigan Avenue high rise first broke ground in 2017 and was designed by Chicago based firm, Hartshorne Plunkard. Essex rises 680 feet and offers sweeping views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan. Among many other resort inspired amenities, the crowned jewel of Essex on the Park is the four story indoor winter garden, complete with an infinity pool overlooking the park.
Indoor Winter Garden
Courtesy of Essex on the Park
Aqua
This internationally acclaimed mixed use skyscraper was designed by Jeanne Gang and James Loewenberg, is 859 feet tall, and functions as apartment rentals, condos, 55,000 square feet of retail and commercial office space, and a luxury hotel concept, Radisson Blu Aqua. The amenity deck spans over 82,000 square feet and features indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, gazebos, lounges, a rooftop running track, and more. Residents and hotel guests enjoy direct access to the Pedway as well. Aqua has won numerous awards for its innovative design, including the 2009 Emoris “Skyscraper of the Year” award.
Courtesy of Chicago Architecture Center
The Alfred
Before it was converted into 176 luxury apartment rentals last year, The Alfred was known as the Hartman Building, originally built in 1924. Each unit has been renovated with modern finishes but retains some of its historic character, such as the herringbone inlays in the flooring and Chicago style windows. It is one of several Loop office buildings this year that has been successfully converted into luxury rentals.
Courtesy of Flats Chicago
465 N Park
Designed by Pappageorge Haymes Partners in 2016, this Streeterville apartment high rise is as eye-catching on the inside as it is on the outside. 465 N Park’s cylindrical, metallic exterior creates stunning views whether you’re inside or outside the building. It reflects sunrises, sunsets, the lake, and the city and also maximizes stellar views for residents from the inside with its cylindrical shape, giving every unit the “corner unit” feel.
Courtesy of 465 N Park
Open House Chicago will take pace October 19th-20th. Click here for a full roster of sites.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
In 2017, Vancouver-based developer, Onni Group, delivered phase I of Old Town Park, a 4-phase residential development in Old Town on Division and Wells. Upon completion of the project, the first tower will be the shortest of the four at 32 stories, with state-of-the-art amenities and a $45k per month penthouse that is completely unprecedented in the market with features that easily justify the top dollar price tag.
Rendering of phase I (right), II (center), and III (left). Courtesy of Onni Group and Hartshorne Plunkard Architects
Onni’s very first Chicago development, The Hudson, was delivered the year prior. With lots of very high quality inventory coming on the market, Onni sets its apartments apart by creating a boutique condo-style environment for renters with high quality, condo-grade finishes, full sized top notch appliances, separate entryways, eat-in kitchens, custom closets, and a high amenity space to resident ratio. This approach proved popular with renters and The Hudson leased up very quickly despite the competitive, high supply market. Old Town Park phase I was no different, as the 405 rental units were absorbed quickly. Renters who prioritize quality of finishes and appliances as well as an overall atmosphere of elegance throughout the building appreciated the thoughtful design of phase I and there’s no reason to think phases II and III won’t be embraced with the same enthusiasm.
Courtesy of Old Town Park
Old Town Park phase II is slated for delivery in early 2020 and will include a total of 428 rental units as well as commercial space on the lower level.
In the meantime, ground work recently began for phase III, which will be the tallest of the four towers upon completion. It will house 456 rental units in addition to a 6th floor amenity deck and office space.
Want to learn more about availability at Old Town Park or apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
The last few years have been big for River North development, and it doesn’t show signs of slowing up anytime soon. Here are some of the most highly anticipated residential rental developments under construction in River North this year.
Wolf Point East
Rendering by Steelblue
Wolf Point East is the second of three Wolf Point towers in the development. The first completed tower, Wolf Point West, is known for its breathtaking river and skyline views, club-grade amenities, spacious layouts, and prime location at the intersection of River North, Fulton River District, and the Loop, just across Wacker Drive. However, the fact that the Wolf Point development is surrounded by the river on three sides as well as a four acre riverfront park gives it a tranquil feeling despite its central location.
WPE’s indoor-outdoor pool will offer stunning city and river views
Courtesy of Wolf Point East
One Chicago
One Chicago is a massive 78-story, two-tower development featuring both residential and commercial space. The 810 dwelling units will be a mix of for-sale condos and rental apartments. In addition to ample office space, One Chicago has reportedly locked in Whole Foods Market and Lifetime Athletic Club as anchor tenants in its commercial space.
Goettsch Partners/Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture
353 W Grand
This new River North high-rise is one of several buildings Vancouver based developer Onni Group has in the works in Chicago. Following the big success of their first Chicago development, The Hudson in River North, and last year’s Old Town Park Phase I, Onni is currently developing Old Town Park Phases II and III, as well as 353 W Grand. This 41-story high rise will offer 356 rental apartments, retail space, and a small park along Orleans Street. Onni is known for delivering high quality finishes, condo grade appliances, thoughtful layouts, and spa-inspired amenities. Although little is known about 353 W Grand, there’s no reason to think this project will be any different.
Brininstool + Lynch
810 N Clark
Last year, Cedar Street Companies’ conversion of Bush Temple of Music into Bush Temple Apartments, 101 studio and one bedroom apartments, was a big hit in the neighborhood. This year, Cedar Street is adding a 16 story glassy addition, complete with 129 rental units and a rooftop pool. Residents of the addition will have full use of the outstanding fitness center (and full sized boxing ring) at the original Bush Temple development.
HPA
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Century Tower is a stunning historic landmark in Chicago’s Loop. It was built in 1930 and was originally the Trustees System Service Bank Building. At the time of its construction, Century Tower was the tallest reinforced concrete building in the world. Architects, Thielbar and Fugard, spared no detail. Even the red marble used in the lobby is from an ancient Roman quarry!
Courtesy of Century Tower
This high-rise has had many lives. In addition to the time it was a bank, before it was converted into condos in 2005, Century Tower was home to a total of nine countries’ embassies, two radio stations, and was used as a location in Batman Begins Gotham City in 2004. Today, Century Tower has its same regal character but offers modern, luxury rental apartments.
The 2-story lobby greets residents and visitors with a statement chandelier, gold and marble accents, and a grand staircase that seamlessly blends old and new. Being on the first floor of the lobby feels like being in the golden age of 100 years ago when the building was constructed, but climb the staircase and you’ll find a second floor amenity space out as modern as it gets.
Courtesy of Century Tower
The common area’s modern design includes a glass fireplace, succulent wall, wifi, coffee bar, and chic, furnished lounge spaces for working from home or entertaining. The fitness center comes equipped with cardio machines, free weights, a peloton studio, TRX stations, as well as a yoga and group fitness studio with fitness on demand.
Courtesy of Century Tower
Century Tower’s rooftop also seamlessly weaves together the past and present. Head up to the top floor for city views, including the river and Merchandise Mart, as well as fire pits, modern furniture, and barstools with bar style seating around the perimeter.
Each renovated luxury apartment features white quartz countertops, plank flooring, pull-down faucets and deep stainless steel sinks, tiled bathrooms, and espresso finish wood cabinetry, as well as in-unit laundry and terraces in select units. Most bedrooms are loft style and do not have doors. Starting prices are around $1650 for studios, $1925 for 1 beds, and $2350 for 2 beds.
Courtesy of Century Tower
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
It’s officially fall! Although summer may be technically over, there’s no shortage of festivals in downtown Chicago this weekend. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor live music or all the gourmet you’re your heart desires, these Chicago festivals won’t disappoint!
World Music Festival
Courtesy of World Music Fest
This week enjoy live music by 50 artists from over 20 countries across multiple venues at the 21st annual World Music Festival. The eleven day event will run through Sunday, September 29thand is free to attend. With participating venues in multiple neighborhoods, including Navy Pier, Pritzker Pavillion, Old Town School of Folk Music, Concord Hall in Logan Square, Beverly Art Center, and more, the World Music Festival is a great way to see the city. Click here for the official program.
Chicago Gourmet
Courtesy of Chicago Gourmet
Chicago Gourmet, presented by Bon Appetit, features over 250 Chicago restaurants, chefs, and international breweries. From tastings to book signings, this event is a foodie’s dream come true. Rick Bayless and Stephanie Izard will be among featured talent in attendance. The main event will take place on Saturday, September 28thfrom 12pm to 6pm and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm at Millennium Park. However, there will be after parties, additional showcases, and other off-site gourmet events throughout the weekend. Click here for the full schedule, packages, tickets, and list of events.
Courtesy of Chicago Gourmet
Hyde Park Jazz Festival
Stop by the 13thannual Hyde Park Jazz Festival to enjoy live performances from over 36 artists. The 14 stages around the neighborhood will showcase local Chicago artists as well as national and international talent. The event will run on Saturday, September 28thand Sunday the 29thfrom 1pm to 10:30pm. Click herefor the full lineup. No tickets are required.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
There’s no question living in an amenity building makes life much more convenient. The on-site fitness centers, complementary coffee, package receiving, coworking space, and dog runs are just the tip of the iceberg, With the current trends in amenities, like salon service rooms, penthouse lounges, and sports facilities, it won’t be long before residents never need to leave the building to find anything they want or need.
1. Penthouse floors being allocated as shared space
Multiple high rise rental buildings have begun to make their most coveted penthouse floors available for many residents to enjoy. Ben Creamer, managing broker and founder of Downtown Apartment Company, recently noted in Forbes, “While the penthouse level usually commands the priciest and most exclusive square footage in a rental building, we’ve seen changes to this peak space in Chicago’s new rental model. Many developers are now using the space for shared recreation, to the benefit of all residents rather than just a select few.”
Streeterville’s Optima Signature is one such building. Residents of their larger Apex units, have access to the 52nd floor penthouse space as one of many common spaces in this luxury rental building. The penthouse space offers wine lockers, indoor and outdoor lounge space, and an alfresco kitchen.
Courtesy of Taylor Johnson Public Relations
In the West Loop, The Parker Fulton Market and 727 West Madison have followed suit. The Parker’s penthouse space houses a kitchenette, lounge space, and an atrium-style fire pit. 727 West Madison is Chicago’s tallest residential building west of the highway. The club style space on the top penthouse level gives residents 24-hour access to some of the most sought-after views of the city, as well as exclusive curated events, like mixology classes.
2. Heavy emphasis on recreational sports spaces
In addition to its penthouse level amenity space, Optima Signature has been a front-runner in the trend of sports based amenity spaces. Residents can enjoy racquet ball and basketball courts, a putting green, and golf simulator, in addition to other fitness amenities like a group fitness and cycling studio, full-floor fitness center, indoor and outdoor sauna and steam rooms, as well as cold plunge showers in each locker room. Fulton Market’s K2 and Alta K Station are also apartment buildings with basketball courts.
Although boxing equipment, like speed and punching bags, has made its way into the gyms of many rental buildings over the past few years, 2019 saw buildings with full-sized boxing rings. Included with NEMA Chicago’s 70,000 square feet of amenity space is a boxing ring, the centerpiece of its unparalleled fitness center, which frankly feels more like a 5-star health club. Bush Temple Flats in River North also features a full-sized boxing ring in its spacious, loft-inspired fitness center.
In addition to its expansive fitness center and yoga studio, Streeterville’s two-towered McClurg Court has three full-sized tennis courts (or shall we call them, the McClurg “Courts”).
Courtesy of McClurg Court
3. Salon and spa focused spaces
Luxury buildings are increasingly offering spa spaces and services to residents. The worst part of getting a massage is having to drive in traffic afterward and forget keeping your hair blowout in tact on a windy day. These amenities help residents to avoid such inconveniences.
Both the Gold Coast’s Sinclair apartments and River North’s Parc Huron offer massage rooms which are BYO masseuse. The Cooper at South Bank has a salon space for residents to book services with their own stylists.
Alternatively, the massage room at NEMA has dedicated building masseuses as well as its own stylists for the salon.
Aurelien in the Gold Coast offers on-site hair services on select Fridays in the womens’ locker room on the amenity level.
Courtesy of NEMA Chicago
Looking for luxury apartments with great amenities for rent? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
It’s no secret that River North is the place to be for great food, and that includes juice bars! Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go bulletproof coffee or green juice, or want a place to meet a friend over smoothie bowls, these are some of River North’s top unique spots to grab a healthy lunch.
Left Coast Juice Bar- Great “Hang Out” Spot to Work or Meet
Left Coast offers cold pressed juices, salads, wraps, smoothies and smoothie bowls, and California-inspired dishes like the Laguna avocado toast or Montocito Hash. The River North location is a great coffee shop alternative if you’re looking for a place to work. The upstairs seating area has plenty of quiet tables to spread out. The spacious, semi-enclosed park is really what makes Left Coast River North so special. In the warmer months, work or meet friends at the park on premise, which features ample seating and always seems to be buzzing with social activity. Left Coast is located in the retail space of Exhibit on Superior apartments.
Laguna Avocado Toast
Hi-Vibe Juice Bar- Extensive Menu With Something For Everyone
The eclectic menu at Hi-Vibe is really what sets this spot apart. Stop by Hi-Vibe for a great selection of vegan, paleo, raw, and keto options as well as adaptogens and superfoods galore. It truly seems that no detail was spared in the curation of this menu. Try one of several nutrient dense smoothies, juices, power shots, pitaya or acai bowls, keto coffees, matcha and adaptogenic teas, as well as a multitude of snacks and salads. A go-to favorite is the G8 juice. With its low sugar content, stacked all-vegetable ingredient list, and light, refreshing taste, there’s nothing more you could want in a cold pressed juice. If cold pressed juice isn’t your beverage of choice, there are lots of other great options. If you’re looking for a caffeine free hot beverage this fall, be sure to try the grassed activated bone broth. This paleo soup comes in a coffee cup and is packed with nutrients and protein to curb midday cravings. It doesn’t hurt that it tastes incredible! The Kill Shot is another fall go-to, as its ingredients, like oil of oregano, are propertied to fend off the sniffles. Hi-Vibe has two River North locations: One is located on the second floor of Merchandise Mart and the other is on Kinzie Street, across from EnV Chicago apartments. Click here to see the menu!
8 of the featured smoothies currently on the menu
Courtesy of Hi-Vibe
Real Good Stuff Co- Best Healthy Dessert
Everything on the menu here is very good, but the “Noyo Froyo” is real good. The vegan, chemical-free, unpasteurized soft serve is made with almond milk, filtered water, coconut nectar, and vanilla. Its finally possible to enjoy soft serve without deviating from your clean eating lifestyle. Choose between chocolate charcoal or blue vanilla flavors. Add some healthy toppings (like bee pollen, cacao nibs, or chia seeds) to top it off or get it in a gluten-free cake cone. Noyo is available at the Old Town, Southport, and River North locations. Real Good’s River North location is located across the street from 640 N Wells apartments. Although indoor seating is limited, the outdoor patio is a great quiet place to enjoy your snack. This incredible delight is truly one of a kind and just part of what makes Real Good unique.
Toppings available on Noyo
Courtesy of Real Good Stuff Co
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
You’ve had some great times in your studio apartment. It’s served your needs and been the quaint home you wanted and needed, but now you’re thinking it’s time for something new. You’re ready to say “yes” to that L-shaped couch you’ve been eyeing for months and don’t want to have to keep making your bed whenever you have company over, but a 1 bed layout isn’t quite in the price range yet. Thankfully there’s a happy medium to give you the space and separation you’re looking for without breaking the bank. Check out these convertible apartments for rent near Fulton Market. Let us upgrade you.
Property 137- Lake/Desplaines
From $2126
Fulton Market apartment 137 offers in-unit laundry, integrated white appliances, marble style backsplash, and hardwood throughout. This brand new property has trendy, contemporary design down to the last detail and was built with non-toxic, sustainable materials. The wall that separates the bed alcove from the kitchen also houses additional storage space, removing the need for a dresser. Check out the state-of-the-art fitness center, abundance of co-working space, and trendy, tranquil rooftop with a pool and fire pits. The incredible amenities are the cherry on top at this stunning rental building.
Property 76- Fulton Market/Halsted
From $1982
The only material difference between the convertible and 1 bed apartment layouts at this Fulton Market building is that the 1 bed has a door and the convertible doesn’t. The living space, bedroom size, and amount of separation are fundamentally the same, as are the finishes and in-unit washer and dryer. If you want a 1 bedroom apartment but don’t care about having a bedroom door, this convertible layout is a great way to save a few hundred dollars per month.
Convertible floor plan at Fulton Market apartment 76
Enjoy amenities galore at this Fulton Market apartment building. From the basketball court, steam room, movie theatre, or gym, to the lively pool scene, billiards table, yoga classes, and resident lounges, there’s never a shortage of things to do. This building also offers residents private, direct access to a plaza with Jewel Osco supermarket, Starbucks, Chase bank, a pet store, nail salon, and more.
Property 55- Huron/Milwaukee
From $2135
The living space in this apartment is larger than in most 1 bedroom apartments. Between the walk-in closet, spacious private terrace, expansive island (which can comfortably seat 4 people), and open, square living room area, this apartment is great for anyone who loves to cook or entertain. It also has a separate, doorless alcove for the bedroom area.
The spacious terrace is the piece de resistance of this rental
This layout is a great option if you have a lot of living room furniture and not much bedroom furniture. The expansive rooftop at this building offers unparalleled views of the downtown Chicago skyline.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Fulton Market? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
There’s never a shortage of things to do in downtown Chicago. If you’re looking for events happening this weekend near you to add to your calendar, check these out!
Printer’s Row Art Festival
Courtesy of Amdur Productions
This second annual art festival will take place in South Loop on Dearborn Street (between Harrison and Polk) on 9/14-15, and will showcase of a variety of art. The selection will include paintings, street art, beauty products, crafts, jewelry, up cycled art, photography, and other mixed media pieces, as well as food vendors from local restaurants, like Magic Circle Crepes and Judy’s Pizza, and live music by Cirrus Falcon.
Some of the artists that will be featured at Printer’s Row Art Festival
Bourbon and Barbecue Festival
Stop by this lively event for fare from local vendors like Lexington Betty Smokehouse, Big Joe’s Backyard BBQ, and I-94 Ribs. The event will feature live music from Chicago based tribute bands, including 16 Candles and the Trippin Billies. The Chicago Bourbon and Barbecue Festival will be held in Roscoe Village on Damen Ave 12pm to 5pm on 9/14-15.
Courtesy of Jacly Rivas
2019 Blackhawks Training Camp Festival
The Blackhawks Training Camp Festival will open at 8am on Sunday, 9/15 and will include appearances by former Blackhawks, live music, and other entertainment. At 11am, attendees can head inside to watch a scrimmage on the ice. The Blackhawks Training Camp Festival will be in Lot C at the United Center (1901 W. Madison St) in the West Loop. There is no cost to attend the outdoor portion. Tickets for the indoor scrimmage are $5 and can be purchased here.
Courtesy of Blackhawks Staff
All three of these events happening this weekend will be held outdoors and is free to attend.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Looking to soak up the last few weeks of summer? Your furry friend probably is too. Here are some dog friendly patios where you can enjoy the last bit of summertime (and tasty snacks) together.
Saint Lou’s Assembly
The dog friendly menu on the patio at Saint Lou’s Assembly in West Loop features dog biscuits a la mode, pig ears, and dog friendly beer. Click here to check out the calendar of pet events and fundraisers all summer and fall! Past favorites include “Haute Dogs” dress up day, Dog Days of Summer fundraiser, and Dogtoberfest, a Halloween themed free entry party for dogs and their owners.
Courtesy of Saint Lou’s Assembly
312 Chicago
This Loop favorite is a great spot for brunch with your dog. 312 Chicago offers a menu for dogs on weekends including entrees like chicken and pasta or salmon and rice, with snacks like peanut butter biscuits and beefsicles. Step out to the patio on summer weekends 11am-2pm to enjoy brunch with your four-legged best friend!
Dog Friendly Patio
Courtesy of 312 Chicago
Your pup won’t be the only one satisfied with the menu at 312 Chicago. The contemporary Italian cuisine and exquisite plating make this a classic favorite for human dining, too!
Courtesy of 312 Chicago
freestyle food + drink
This patio at the Dana Hotel offers a pet patio package. For $10, your dog will get a stuffed animal, signature water bowl, and gourmet treat. For guests staying at the Dana, the concierge will go above and beyond to schedule doggy massages, pet psychics, and provide a signature doggy bed.
Courtesy of freestyle food + drink
Clark Street Ale House
Mix and mingle with other pets and their owners at the spacious, enclosed patio at Clark Street Ale House in River North. Stop into one of multiple monthly dog gatherings to grab some freshly popped pop corn while you watch your dog’s active social life.
Courtesy of Clark Street Ale House
Looking for dog friendly apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Luxury apartment buildings in downtown Chicago have been offering residents an increased number of service based amenities over the past year. From housekeeping, to dry-cleaning, and even private chef service, these services provide residents ultimate convenience for their busy schedules.
The Minte
The Minte offers hotel-style housekeeping (as well as deep cleans) in managed residential high rises. Each building has designated, on-site housekeepers which allows for same day booking. For a starting price of around $35, the hotel style housekeeping service will make your bed, load the dishwasher, sweep, wipe countertops, and clean bathrooms. The best part? Your housekeeper will leave a mint chocolate on your pillow, making it feel truly like hotel style housekeeping. Request service via The Minte app, the in-home service request button, or online. Use code “MINTE20” to save $20 on your first service!
Courtesy of The Minte
Pear Chef
Pear Chef is an on-site private chef service that is available in luxury apartment buildings Sunday through Thursday evenings. Each meal is made fresh upon order and delivered directly to your door with no delivery fee. The menu, which includes appetizers, entrees, sides, desserts, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, changes weekly. Check out the calendar for cooking classes, too!
Courtesy of Pear Chef
Pear Chef is currently available in a handful of downtown apartment buildings, including Mila, Xavier, Optima Signature, Hubbard Place, Sono East, 2 W Delaware, The Sinclair, 3Eleven, Eugenie Terrace, Kingsbury Plaza, Eleven40, SixForty Wells, NEMA, and 727 West Madison. Click here to see the current menu at your building.
Tide Cleaners
Tide Cleaners is a valet dry-cleaning service which also offers wash and fold service and alterations. Tide installs pin-pad access lockers in the lobby of each residential building they partner with so residents can put their items in a locker and request service through the Tide Cleaners app. Items will be returned to a locker in the resident’s building with an access code, typically with a 2-3 business day turnaround time.
Courtesy of Tide Cleaners
Looking for luxury apartment buildings with service amenities? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Looking to keep your workout fresh? Whether you’re in River North, West Loop, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, the Loop, or Gold Coast, these downtown Chicago boutique fitness studios will never let you get too comfortable or bored in your workout.
Solidcore
Courtesy of Solidcore
This megaformer class is different each time and is sure to keep you on your toes (or elbows and knees if you need a little rest from holding the seemingly endless planks in this class). Solidcore aims to target your slow twitch muscle fibers with slow, high resistance movements. Solidcore has downtown Chicago locations in the retail spaces of The Hudson in River North, 1611 West Division in Wicker Park, and 727 West Madison in West Loop. Click here to get your first two classes at a discounted rate (save $25).
Chill Chicago
Courtesy of Susan Moskop/Chicago Tribune
Retreat from the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago city life in the tranquil oasis of Chill Chicago. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the chic, soft-loft, bright, and minimalist aesthetic, lots of craft candles, and given a cup of tea by the friendly desk staff. Unwind by the waterfall fountain or with a short massage before yoga class. The dimly lit yoga studio is a perfect place to decompress. Stay for a 30 minute guided meditation session following select yoga classes and be sure to check out the unique “chilling” swings after class. Chill Chicago is located on Kinzie Street near Merchandise Mart in River North.
RowHouse
Courtesy of Rowhouse
For those of you who are a little “out-spun” from enjoying the last few years’ boom of new spin studios, RowHouse offers something new in a similar SoulCycle type atmosphere. RowHouse has locations in the retail spaces of 1225 Old Town on Wells in Old Town and The Parker Fulton Market in West Loop. Click here to try a free workout class!
Cycle Bar
For those of you who are still “riding” the wave of trendy spin studios, be sure to check out Cycle Bar. You’ll enjoy all the best parts of spin class (like the great leg and cardio workout, awesome playlists, and cool lighting) with the added “bar” bonus. The weighted bar is used to make sure you get in a solid upper body workout while spinning. Cycle Bar is located in the ground level retail space at Exhibit on Superior in River North and The Parker Fulton Market in West Loop. Get your first unlimited week for $29 here.
Sweat
Courtesy of @Sweatfitnessstudios
HIIT all the muscle groups at Sweat! These high intensity interval training sessions are a total body workout. The 8 exercise circuit makes the hour fly by and feel like you got a killer workout by the end. Sweat has locations in the SoNo area of Lincoln Park and in Gold Coast. Click here to get your first class at a discounted rate.
Looking to live near one of these awesome downtown Chicago boutique fitness studios? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
It seems like the weather started cooling off as soon as the clock struck “September”. Warm up with some ramen at one of these spectacular spots near West Loop.
Courtesy of Ramen Takeya
Ramen Takaya
Ramen Takeya tops the list for its ambiance and great menu selection. The pork belly buns, poke bowl appetizer, and classic Tokyo shoyu are go-to favorites, but with the vegan seitan ramen option, there’s something everyone can enjoy. The trendy-casual decor and narrow, deep layout makes Ramen Takeya feel like a spot in Tokyo only locals would know about. Ramen Takeya is on Fulton Market in the heart of West Loop. Click here to see a menu.
Courtesy of Ramen Takeya
High Five Ramen
If a ramen restaurant was a speakeasy, it’d be High Five Ramen. This hidden gem is located under Green Street Smoked Meats in the heart of West Loop and is a Hogsalt concept, the same restaurant group that manages Au Cheval and Bavettes. Seating is extremely limited to make sure to arrive early!
Courtesy of High Five Ramen
Oiistar
Oiistar Wicker Park is just a rocks throw from West Loop and combines traditional ramen with French and Italian influences to get the best of multiple cuisines. The pork-based broth is made daily and stewed for 18 hours and combined with fresh ingredients. Unique appetizers, like a kimchi French onion soup, give Oiistar its unique flare. Based on the minimalist aesthetic, you’d never guess the complex array of dishes on Oiistar’s menu. if you’re looking for traditional ramen with a twist of something a little different, check out Oiistar Wicker Park.
Courtesy of Oiistar
Ramen San
Courtesy of Ramen San
Watch the lively West Loop scene on Green Street from the outdoor patio seating at Ramen San. The hip decor, 90’s music, and great beer selection make Ramen San the perfect spot for a laid back Sunday afternoon.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Enjoy your last few weekends of Chicago summer with these unique Gold Coast brunch spots!
Somerset
This gem is hidden in plain sight on the first floor of the Viceroy hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Somerset is a Boka Group concept with a focus on American cuisine. Ever seen oysters and pop tarts on the same menu? The eclectic brunch spread at Somerset includes the best of breakfast, like benedicts, avocado toast, and skillets, lunch favorites like burgers and salads, as well as a great selection of pastries. Click here to see a brunch menu.
Courtesy of Somerset Chicago
Margeaux Brasserie
James Beard award winning chef, Michael Mina, brings this 1920s inspired Parisian concept to the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Meargeaux Brasserie offers locally sourced ingredients and a rotating selection of French cocktails. The brunch menu features classic French favorites like escargot, croque madame crepes, and a rotating quiche of the day, as well as an extensive seafood selection. The tin ceilings, dark leather booths, live jazz trio, and pewter topped bar contribute to the charming ambiance.
Tomato Tarte Tatin, Courtesy of Matt Haas
3 Arts Club Cafe
This posh brunch spot is a garden courtyard located inside Restoration Hardware offering brunch, dinner, wine, and coffee selections. Exposed brick, lavish chandeliers, manicured greenery, and of course, signature RH accents give 3 Arts Club Cafe its upscale atmosphere.
Blue Door Kitchen and Cafe
Blue Door Kitchen offers farm to table fare with a seasonal menu. The brunch menu has a New Orleans flare with classic dishes like beignets, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, andouille eggs and hash, and chicken and waffles. Locals love the quiet but spacious patio for al Fresca dining in the summer and fall.
Courtesy of OpenTable
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s Gold Coast? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Looking for great deals on 2 bedroom apartments near South Loop? These luxury 2 beds all features premium appliances, contemporary finishes, in-unit washer and dryer, and great amenities!
Property 167-14th/Wabash
Between the exposed concrete, high ceilings, and artfully curated common spaces, this South Loop building’s sophisticated aesthetic gives it unique character. If you’re looking for the perfect canvas for contemporary minimalist interior design, this is a place to see. The smart home technology and premium appliances deliver convenience and efficiency. Enjoy an in-unit washer and dryer, surface mounted dome lighting, high speed internet, and a smart thermostat in each unit. Each kitchen features ample storage space, flat panel European style cabinetry, quartz countertops, deep sinks, and a garbage disposal. Each tranquil bathroom comes equipped with Grohe appliances, a vanity length frameless mirror, integrated sinks, and either a large soaking tub or glass-encased stand up shower. Stop into the state of the art fitness center for a ride on one of the Peloton bikes or curl up by a fire pit on the 3rdor 16thfloor terraces. Pet owners love having a spacious dog run on site. Other conveniences include around the clock concierge service, resident events, on-demand dry cleaning, complimentary bike storage, and Luxer package receiving.
2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $2920
Property 116- 8th/State
The master suite in this 2 bedroom floor plan features a walk-through walk-in closet, a double vanity sink in the ensuite bathroom, and both bedrooms are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate a king sized bed and dresser set. Every layout has a full sized Whirlpool washer and dryer, floor to ceiling windows, USB ports, a smart home thermostat, keyless entry, and is wired for 1 gig internet.
Sleek design features include a glass tiled backsplash, grey tone plank flooring throughout the whole apartment, dual tone kitchen cabinets, and white quartz countertops.
2 Bedroom Apartments starting from $3160
Property 117– 13th/Wabash
High concrete ceilings, floor mounted vanities with ample storage space, and brushed chrome fixtures are just a few of the accents that make this South Loop rental building unique. Residents love the lounge seating and fire pit on the expansive, landscaped private terrace (almost as much as four-legged friends love the pet spa and onsite dog run). With a 94 walk score, 97 transit score, and 93 bike score, property 117 is in a prime location with two major grocery stores, the CTA red, orange, and green lines, and Grant Park on Michigan avenue all within two blocks!
2 Bedroom Apartments starting from $2659 (For a limited time– find out if you can get 1 month free on this unit!)
Chicago, perhaps more than any other major urban metropolis, is a city of neighborhoods, each a unique flavor.
Viewed for generations as a largely ethnic mosaic, these neighborhoods still dance to different beats — but now it is culture by choice. Every Chicago neighborhood has distinct architecture, its go-to outdoor activities, its brand of dining and drinking. Whether you favor taverns or tea rooms, fine dining or funky diners, indie rock or opera, Chicago has a neighborhood for you.
There is never a shortage of things to do in Wicker Park, Chicago. This venerably chic community has been a go-to destination since the 1980s, where cheaper rents could be found. It checks more boxes than most. Here’s a short list of some of the top Wicker Park attractions:
When “park” is part of the name, going to them ought to be among the best things to do in Wicker Park‚ and it is.
If you can find The Violet Hour, a devilishly discreet cocktail lounge, it’ll sizzle your swizzle with pre-prohibition libations. In addition to lining up the music acts at the wildly popular Wicker Park Fest each July, the brilliant minds behind Subterranean are busy programming their divine dive with rock, hip-hop, reggae and rap acts. The UP Room is a rooftop lounge atop the tallest building in the area, the Robey Chicago hotel, and offers spectacular views from the intimate indoor bar and terrace.
Dining spots sample tastes from around the globe, including Filipino (CEBU), Costa Rican (Irazu), Southern (Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods, The Delta) and something called New Haven-style pizza (Piece). The veggie-centric are nibbling at Clever Rabbit. The adventurous never fail to find the Michelin-anointed molecular madness at Schwa.
Yes, there are major retailers along Milwaukee Avenue, but for those who appreciate urban exploration, among the best Wicker Park things to do is discover the hidden gems of its bounty of boutiques.
The Midwest’s only women-specific bike shop, BFF Bikes, makes its home in Wicker Park; as does Myopic Books®, a home to poetry nights, concerts and 80,000 used books. Asrai Garden has been wowing locals with floral arrangements, hand-crafted jewelry and exclusive apothecary items since 1999. Fashion fans flock to p.45, known for carefully curated collections of famous and emerging designers.
You can put all these Wicker Park, Chicago things to do at your doorstep quickly and with confidence. Browse apartments or penthouses for rent and call us today.
You can put all these activities at your doorstep quickly and with confidence.
With over 10,000 square feet of amenity space, living rooms with wall to wall windows, elegant interiors, spacious layouts, and a prime River North location, 640 North Wells offers residents an elevated lifestyle.
Choose from a selection of 22 layouts including studios, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments. Each open concept layout at 640 North Wells features 9 1/2 foot ceilings, floor to ceiling windows with panoramic views, hardwood floors, front loading washers and dryers in unit, and oversized master suites. The chef-inspired kitchens feature 3 centimeter thick stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, chef grade wall mounted ovens, hood ranges, kitchen islands, subway tile backsplashes, and ample storage space.
Select units offer large private terraces and balconies as well.
The amenities at 640 North Wells are second to none. Step out to the rooftop terrace to take a dip in the pool or sprawl out in one of the sundeck cabanas adjacent to the hot tub.
Although all amenity areas offer high speed wifi, residents enjoy working from home in the fireside library. The game and media lounge features shuffleboard, foosball, and a large TV with comfortable group seating. In addition to the grilling terrace and indoor private dining suite, the 23rd floor sky lounge social club is another great place to relax, entertain guests around a fire pit, and take in views of downtown Chicago’s skyline. Whether you’re an avid golfer or your busy schedule has your clubs collecting dust, check out the pro grade golf simulator and rooftop putting and practice green.
The fitness center at 640 North Wells features a wide variety of cardio and weight training equipment, free weights, and a yoga studio with free classes. Having an on site fitness center is just one of many conveniences residents at 640 enjoy. Pets are welcome at 640 North Wells and the on-site oversized dog run makes pet care much more convenient.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Summer time is coming to a close, but Chicago’s event calendar isn’t showing signs of slowing down anytime soon. Looking for things to do near downtown Chicago this weekend? Check out some of these events!
(Michael Tercha/Chicago Tribune)
Air & Water Show
Saturday and Sunday, August 17th-18 at 9am
The Chicago Air and Water Show showcases aerial maneuvers and rescue simulations from the U.S. Navy and Airforce as well as Chicago police department. The U.S. Leapfrogs (active duty SEALs and Special Forces crew members) will be doing a parachute freefall and the Chicago Fire Department Air and Water Rescue Unit will perform demonstrations as well.
This year will also feature a guest performance from the U.K.’s Royal Airforce Red Arrows. The headline attraction will be the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, featuring over 100 enlisted members of the Navy and Marines.
You can watch the Air and Water Show from one of many places this weekend, including for free at North Avenue Beach or aboard the Anita Dee II boat cruise for $60, which boards at Dusable Harbor.
Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
Saturday Night Standup Comedy at Laugh Factory
Saturday, August 17that 7:15, 9:15, and 11:30pm
Laugh Factory is located in the new Belmont Theatre District in Lakeview. Seasoned comedians as well as brand new faces have graced the stage at Laugh Factory. Featured guests have included Das Chapelle, Bob Hope, Tim Allen, Jim Carrey, George Carlin, Adam Sandler, Wanda Sykes, Eddie Murphy, and many more. Stop by for one of three comedy sets for free with registration prior to the show, or $10 at the door.
Courtesy of Laugh Factory
Chicago Westside Music Festival
Saturday, August 17that 2pm
Check out the Westside Music Festival this weekend in Douglas Park! The headliner will be Faith Evans and the event will feature a collection of local artists. The Westside Music Festival is sponsored by the West Side Cultural Foundation and is free to attend.
Looking for apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Looking for a modern apartment with soft-loft aesthetic for rent near Lakeview? Check out Centrum Lakeview new luxury apartments! These rentals are pet friendly and come with top-of-the-line finishes, appliances, and amenities.
The soft-loft accents, like the concrete ceilings and beams, as well as the Balterio gray toned plank floors, give these apartments character while also making them a perfect canvas for a multitude of styles and color palettes.
Each kitchen features Snaidero Italian cabinetry, Energy Star appliances, Kohler fixtures, and white quartz countertops. Each apartment at Centrum Lakeview features thoughtful design, including windows that have been acoustically treated to muffle the noise of the neighborhood’s liveliness and energy efficient lighting.
Amenities include an outdoor terrace with lounge seating, BBQ grills, and a fire pit, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a residents’ club which includes an Internet cafe, kitchenette and entertaining space, and pool table. In addition to amenities, residents enjoy the conveniences Centrum Lakeview offers, such as on-site valet dry-cleaning, Luxer One secure package receiving lockers, complementary wifi in amenity areas, onsite fast-casual dining at Brown Bag Seafood, bike storage and maintenance, and close proximity to transit and shopping.
Centrum Lakeview is in a highly sought-after location. The brown line train to the Loop is less than a block away and makes commuting a breeze and both Target and Whole Foods are under three blocks away. Coffee shops, bakeries, boutiques, parks, and charming restaurants are scattered between the quaint homes on the tree-lined surrounding streets.
Enjoy the convenient location with less noise! The Paulina Brown Line CTA train stop is just a few hundred feet from Centrum Lakeview. Each apartment has been acoustically engineered to muffle city noise.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeview? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Artists and professionals — lured west by cheaper rents than could be found in Lincoln Park and Old Town — made Wicker Park a bohemian-chic hot spot in the 1980s. Its trendiness was firmly entrenched when MTV filmed a season of “The Real World” there in 2001. Many of this neighborhood’s shops and hangouts feature prominently in the current Netflix series, “Easy,” a low-key comedic love letter to Chicago’s coolest locales.
If you’re looking into Chicago living, the search has to include Wicker Park’s hip array of vintage single-family homes, funky apartments and modern lofts — especially if you’re into checking out what’s new and unique in a neighborhood of enterprises that value small pleasures and independent treasures.
Here are some of the reasons that Wicker Park is a great neighborhood:
Wicker Park is either the place to be or place to be-adjacent. It’s ranked as one of the fifth-most-walkable neighborhoods in the city — due to its fantastic layout for public transportation and biking.
Wicker Park is surrounded by equally on-trend enclaves such as Bucktown, Logan Square, Ukrainian Village, Humboldt Park and Old Town. The 606, a percolating recreational trail, contributes to the walkability and bike-friendliness of the neighborhood. Two Blue Line stations provide easy access to Chicago’s “L” trains. North Avenue grants instant access to I-90, which could have you enjoying lakefront dining in 90 minutes — in Kenosha, Wisconsin or New Buffalo, Michigan.
The Wicker Park Historic District — surrounding the triangular public park that neighborhood developers Charles and Joel Wicker donated to the city in 1870 — was designated a Chicago Landmark in 1991.
Hoyne Avenue — known as Beer Baron Row for its large number of opulent homes built by brewery owners, and Pierce Avenue, in particular — offer some of the city’s best examples of late 19th- and early 20th-century Victorian architecture.
The 606 is, at 2.7 miles, the longest converted greenway from a former elevated rail line in the United States. It has 12 access points, including four along Wicker Park’s northern border, and bubbles with permanent and temporary artworks and performance spaces.
The park for which the neighborhood is named is nearly 5 acres and features a fieldhouse, a children’s playground with an interactive water feature, ornamental community gardens, a dog-friendly area, a baseball field, basketball courts, and a field used for soccer and football.
In a city full of festivals, Wicker Park Fest is an annual standout. The longest street fest in the city — occupying more than a half-mile of Milwaukee Avenue between North and Ashland Avenues — this three-day July bash features 50-plus bands, interactive art installations and 100-plus vendors.
Wicker Park embraces the boutique culture. Though Milwaukee Avenue has a big box or two, this is a place where, among many other options, you can find:
Big Star will cure your craving for elevated takes on Mexican street food. Whether it’s a deconstructed lobster roll or chocolate tower French toast, Bongo Room has you covered for brunch.
Small Cheval’s menu is limited to insanely good burgers, fries, shakes and cocktails. The Violet Hour, a proudly pretentious cocktail lounge, doesn’t allow cellphones or baseball hats, but will dazzle you with its pre-prohibition-style libations. Rock out at Subterranean.
Ten Chicago Public Schools are in the Wicker Park/Bucktown area, along with seven private schools. You can start here sharing an apartment and grow into a homeowner.
If you’ve decided the “where” is Wicker Park, let us help you with the “when.” Contact us today. We’ll find the perfect place in no time.
Viridian on Sheridan offers open-concept one, two, and three bedroom apartments with designer finishes, breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan, and smart home technology features.
Residents at Viridian on Sheridan enjoy access to plenty of common space. With the amenities at Viridian on Sheridan you’ll never be at a shortage of places to relax in the building. The state of the art fitness center features premium equipment including Precor connected cardio machines, curved treadmills, Expresso bikes, and stair climbers. The penthouse level is open to all residents with a co-working lounge, an entertainment and party hosting room, as well as a demonstration kitchen. The green rooftop is used to grow produce, available for residents to purchase.
On-site conveniences include Latch keyless entry system, Amazon Hub package receiving system, Tide Cleaners valet dry-cleaning lockers, a bike room, a dog wash and on-site dog run, as well as access to retail on the ground level.
The Italian inspired two-tone, soft-close cabinets in the kitchens make the finishes the perfect fit for many interior decorating styles and color palettes. Kitchens are also outfitted with Delta Trinsic fixtures, stainless steel whirlpool appliances, undercount rectangular sinks, and deep quartz countertops. Each unit comes equipped with in-unit washer and dryer and wood plank flooring throughout. The 9-foot ceilings and large windows provide optimal natural light and a spacious feeling.
Starting prices are approximately $2000 per month for one bedroom apartments, $3200 for two bedroom apartments, and $5800 for three bedroom apartments.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeview? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Step inside Milieu, one of the West Loop’s newest luxury rental buildings. The 19-story, 275-unit high-rise will consist of studio, one bed, and two bedroom apartments as well as 13,000 square feet of resident-centered retail space. Milieu overlooks one of the West Loop’s most beloved green spaces, Mary Bartelme Park, where West Loop residents can catch community yoga, one of many community events in the area.
Each unit features dark chestnut finish flooring throughout, high ceilings, and large custom closets. Kitchens feature light finish European cabinetry with soft-close doors and drawers, Moen fixtures, white quartz countertops, white glass subway tile backsplash, and under-cabinet lighting. Each apartment comes equipped with a Nest thermostat, integrated entry door locks, and an in-unit full size washer and dryer.
The Milieu community amenities feature both indoor and outdoor spaces as well as a multitude of convenience based services.
The spacious fitness center features both indoor and outdoor spaces with group fitness classes, equipment, and private training available. Entertain guests by the fire pits, in the outdoor hammock and lawn lounging area, grilling and dining area, resort-style pool and spa, media room, or one of multiple resident lounge areas. Work from home in the library or any of the indoor or outdoor amenity spaces.
Pet owners also enjoy having the expansive onsite dog run. Milieu has enough to keep you entertained for a while without leaving the building, but if you do decide to head out and explore the West Loop neighborhood, check out a scooter or bike from the resident gear garage.
Convenience based services for all residents include a managed package receiving room with cold storage, onsite parking garage, valet drycleaing, complimentary coffee served by a barista in the lobby, resident social events, 24/7 door staff and maintenance, and 24/7 hotel-style concierge, providing services and daily essentials.
18th-floor residents will get access to additional conveniences through the “Club Level Living” package. Club Level Living includes housekeeping, dog walking and grooming, daily newspaper delivery, morning refreshments, in-home package delivery, priority parking, monthly happy hours, cooking and cocktail mixology classes, personalized chef meals delivered to your apartment, and additional wellness and fitness services.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent like Milieu near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Urban bustle? Check. Character and charm? Check. Entertainment options? Dining to please any palate? Check, check and check.
Anyone considering a move to Chicago would do well to investigate Lakeview, a neighborhood that pulses with energy and offers apartment hunters anything from vintage charmers to modern loft and condo spaces.
Here are some of the reasons that Lakeview is a great neighborhood to live in:
Not many spots in the city are better situated for access to all the things that make Chicago great. Lakeview is five miles north of the Loop. It hugs the most beautiful portions of the lakefront and a big chunk of Lincoln Park. O’Hare International Airport is only 30 minutes away. In a little more than an hour, you can be in Wisconsin or beaching it at Indiana Dunes National Park. And if you don’t want to use a car, you can access the CTA’s Red, Brown and Purple lines — plus a handful of bus routes.
The Great Chicago Fire in 1871 destroyed much of the city, leaving roughly a third of its residents homeless. Lakeview, established in the 1850s, lies north of the fire’s footprint and thus has some of the city’s oldest architecture.
Beyond its charming collection of frame Victorian, brownstone and greystone housing, notable Lakeview structures include:
Proximity to Lake Michigan is what gives Lakeview its name. A healthy segment of the Lakefront Trail — an 18-mile bike and pedestrian path — goes through the neighborhood, while Belmont Harbor gives you a local spot to dock your boat and Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course a place to tee it up.
Lincoln Park, with its zoo, conservatory, abundance of public art and more, juts into the neighborhood at its southeast corner.
At the northern border lies Graceland Cemetery and Arboretum, an oasis of striking landscapes and stunning memorial architecture that was founded in 1860. Lincoln Park landscaper Swain Nelson had a hand in laying out the grounds. This amazing retreat from the surrounding urban bustle is the final resting place of such Chicago luminaries as Marshall Field, Cyrus McCormick and George Pullman.
Rock out at Metro. Enjoy the Michelin-anointed fare at Entente or Wood. Nosh your way up and down the Southport corridor from Coalfire (pizza) to Ella Elli (fine dining) to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Dance the night away in the LGBT community’s Midwest epicenter, Boystown, at Sidetrack, or get at Berlin. All tastes are catered to in Lakeview.
In this neighborhood, strollers are common. People flock to Lakeview’s western environs. Nearby Walter Payton College Preparatory High School is one of the jewels of the Chicago Public School system, as is Hawthorne Scholastic Academy.
Once you’ve decided Lakeview is going to be your neighborhood, you’ll want to find the residence that’s just right for you. Contact us today. We’ll be happy to help you find that perfect room with a (Lake)view.
Uncommon is one of South Loop’s newest luxury rental buildings. The pet friendly boutique building consists of 43 loft-style apartments including studios, junior 1 beds, 1 beds, and 2 beds.
Each luxury rental features stainless steel, efficient appliances including a full-sized in-unit washer and dryer, a microwave, window coverings, air conditioning, and a dishwasher. Each kitchen has espresso cabinetry and white quartz counter tops, accented with the mosaic tile backsplash. These South Loop apartments also feature high ceilings and extra storage space.
Uncommon also features convenient amenities for residents including an on-site fitness center with free weights, high speed internet, a media room, outdoor space, resident lounge, pet washing station, and package receiving.
Residents will enjoy the wide selection of nearby grocery stores, the weekend farmer’s market down the street, proximity to Museum Campus and McCormick Place, and the easy access to both lakeshore drive and public transportation.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Historic charm and chic modern style converge at The Alfred, one of the newest luxury apartment buildings in the Loop. It was originally built in 1924 and known as the Hartman Building prior to its conversion into 176 rentals.
The high-rise features studio, junior 1 bed, 1 bed, and 2 bed apartments. Each apartment comes equipped with an in-unit washer and dryer, vaulted ceilings, and spa-inspired showers.
Each kitchen features subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and open shelving.
Although each interior is newly renovated, the building has retained its charm. Units on the third floor feature historic Chicago-style windows and the original hardwood floors with herringbone pattern and inlays. All other apartments feature poured concrete flooring.
The Alfred also features a spacious rooftop lounge and terrace, the design of which was inspired by local artists and architects. Heritage Outpost coffee shop is on-site, with convenient access for residents at The Alfred.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Travel often? The blue line is usually the fastest and most cost effective way to go between O’Hare International Airport and downtown Chicago. The blue line will take you directly inside the airport from any blue line station with zero time spent sitting in traffic! These luxury rental buildings offer studio, convertible, one, two, three, and four bedroom apartments just steps off the blue line. If you’re looking for convenient access to O’Hare, these apartments may be for you!
Property 115- Grand/Milwaukee Time to O’Hare: 38 min
River West rental building 115 is in a prime location– under a block from the blue line and Starbucks, three blocks from Jewel Osco grocery, and surrounded by restaurants and nightlife. The soft-loft interiors create a modern but homey atmosphere.
Although this apartment building is in a lively location, the tranquil amenity deck is a great place to relax.
Property 55- Huron/Milwaukee Time to O’Hare: 34 min
River West property 55 is perfect if you’re looking for maximum space and storage. The convertible layouts are larger than a typical 1 bed and even have large balconies and a walk-in closet. Residents have an option of darker or lighter kitchen finish packages and all units offer plenty of counter space, 10-12 foot high ceilings, and in-unit laundry. Relax by the fire pit or take a stroll down this tree-lined residential block. Pets also love the on-site dog run!
Property 111- State/Lake Time to O’Hare: 43 min
In the thick of Chicago winter you’ll be glad you live at Loop property 111! Residents can access both blue and red line trains directly from their building. Since the blue line takes you directly inside the airport, that means you could (in theory) go from your apartment to any spot on the Earth without going outside! Take in skyline views from one of four expansive terraces or the 38th floor observation deck.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near O’Hare International Airport and the blue line? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Whether you’re going to be living with multiple occupants, need extra home-office space, or plan on making one of the 4 bedrooms into a custom shoe closet, you won’t have to compromise on space in these 4 bedroom luxury apartments! Enjoy modern elegance and state-of-the-art amenities in any one of these brand new luxury rentals.
Streeterville: 4 Bedroom, 4.5 Bathroom, Corner Unit With Terrace- $22,400/Month
If you’re looking for classic elegance in a brand new building, this property may be the right place for you. Just beyond this grand apartment’s large foyer is an open-style kitchen with custom cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, dark, quartz waterfall countertops, and a wine fridge. Enjoy separation with the formal living room, dedicated dining room space, and large entertainment den. Take in sprawling views of the lake and skyline from the spacious, outdoor terrace or from the living space which offers north, east, and southern exposure. The walk-in laundry room with front-loading washer and dryer, roller shades, and six customized closets are other favorite features of this Streeterville apartment.
South Loop: 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, With Balcony $12,070/Month
Stuck choosing between a penthouse or a townhouse? Why not have both in the same unit! This South Loop 4 bedroom apartment is located on the 54th floor so you can be perched in the skyline while enjoying expansive views from your spacious balcony. It also has a two-story townhouse-style floor plan, creating a true “home” feel and plenty of separation. Relax outside your apartment without leaving the building in one of many amenity spaces, including the unique winter garden.
Gold Coast: 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, With Balcony $13,241
No detail was spared in this Gold Coast 4 bedroom penthouse. Kitchens, inspired by designer Mick De Giulio, feature quartz countertops, soft-close cabinetry, marbled porcelain backsplash, and a stainless steel island range hood. Walk-in closets come ready-to-use with built-in organizer systems. The large, open concept living space features high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, NEST thermostat, and private balcony. This Gold Coast property is in a prime location with a major grocery store, nightlife, restaurants, and plenty of green space all within two blocks.
Looking for luxury 4 bedroom apartments for rent near Downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Are you and your pet moving to West Loop? Find the perfect place for you and your furry friend to call home when you check out a pet friendly studio apartment from our list below!
Property 76-Lake/Halsted
Looking for a pet friendly studio apartment in the most convenient location imaginable? Look no further! This West Loop apartment building is located in the heart of Fulton Market just steps from nightlife, shops, and conveniences. Residents even have a controlled access direct walkway to Jewel Osco grocery store. This rental is near multiple transit options just off the highway, blue line train to the Loop and O’Hare Airport, and Metro from Union station so however you commute, it’ll be a breeze. Enjoy in-unit laundry and concierge housekeeping service at this West Loop high-rise!
Right now, this property is offering 1 month free on a 12 month lease, bringing the net effective price for a studio down to $1573 per month!
Property 36- Madison/Canal
If space and storage are most important to you in a pet friendly apartment, this studio layout at property 36 may be the right fit for you! At nearly 600 square feet with four closets, an entryway, and enclosed kitchen, this studio layout offers a more spacious feel than most one bedroom apartments. This building offers shared on-site laundry.
This spacious studio layout starts at $1555 per month!
Property 1- Lake/Canal
Pet friendly studios with balconies are rare gems! At this Fulton District apartment building, you’ll get plenty of natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows that lead to your balcony. This unit has in-unit laundry and a newly upgraded kitchen! Current pricing for this layout starts at $2029.
Looking for pet friendly studio apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Of course you’re thinking about moving to Chicago. It’s one of the world’s great cities.
With its glorious lakefront, year-round pro sports, thriving music and theater scenes, iconic architecture and more, Chicago makes it nearly impossible for a newcomer to go wrong when lining up a place to live in a bustling luxury real estate market. But there are varying degrees of right, and finding the perfect place for you in Chicago is mostly a matter of prioritizing its many pluses.
Here is a guide to the various vibes that characterize Chicago’s best neighborhoods:
Craving culture?: The Loop and neighboring South Loop offer some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, Grant Park and Millennium Park — and lining up a high-rise space in either neighborhood will put you steps from a downtown office job. You’ll also be steps from Lyric Opera, the Theater District, Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum Campus — featuring Field Museum of Natural History, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium — plus Harold Washington Library (Chicago’s main library branch) and Chicago Cultural Center.
Mighty neighborly: If sitting on the stoop in front of your gorgeous brownstone on a narrow, tree-lined street fits your image of urban life, consider Old Town or neighboring Lincoln Park. Beloved, long-running street fairs such as the Old Town Art Fair, Wells Street Art Fair and Sheffield Garden Walk dot the social calendar. Zoo Lights even make winter nights wonderful at Lincoln Park Zoo. Great pubs, blues and comedy clubs let you rip it up even when you’re dressing down.
Luxe life: Covering the roughly two miles between the south edge of Lincoln Park and the north border of Millennium Park, Gold Coast, Streeterville and Lakeshore East define Chicago’s poshest populations. In these neighborhoods, day-to-day life includes shopping the glam boutiques of Oak Street and the Mag Mile, taking high tea at The Drake, and mixing with the tourists flocking to Navy Pier and the Bean. Gold Coast is home to Chicago’s oldest lakefront mansions and most iconic luxury high-rises, Streeterville has residents looming over Navy Pier, and Lakeshore East is a booming development of glitzy new towers tucked on the south side of the Chicago River at Lake Michigan.
Cutting edge: River North is what happens when an artists’ colony grows up — great galleries and inventive dining vie for attention from loft-dwelling denizens, many of whom make their living in the area’s design and production companies. West Loop, revived from a former warehouse district, is newer, a bit grittier and every bit as hip and artsy as its chic older sibling. From your home base in either neighborhood, you’re likely to grab drinks by the river and dinner on Randolph Street’s restaurant row. Living here, you’ll get the feeling these neighborhoods are no more than five minutes from everything — and for the most part, you’d be right.
Whether you’re a Bears or White Sox fan looking for a spot in the South Loop, a Cubs fan longing for a place in Lincoln Park, a Bulls or Blackhawks fan hoping to land in the West Loop, or just a fan of fine living, Downtown Apartment Company is the ultimate resource for finding the right apartment in the right neighborhood. Call us now.
What’s better than summertime in Chicago? Summertime weekends in Chicago! If you’re looking for things to do near you this weekend, check out this list of action-packed activities!
Cirque de Soleil: Volta
Cirque de Soleil’s newest show is centered around a game show host who is on a quest for self-discovery. The show incorporates popular elements of extreme sports including BMX and aerial acrobatics. Volta runs 2 hours 15 minutes and opens May 18th at Soldier Field. Click here for tickets!
Chicago Critic’s Film Festival
The seventh annual Chicago Critic’s Film Festival will take place May 17th through 23rd at the Music Box Theatre. A few highlights include a fortieth anniversary screening of Alien, which Tom Skerritt is scheduled to attend, Yesterday, a film about a struggling musician who finds out he is the only person with any memory of the Beatles, The Farewell, a hit from Sundance Film Festival, written and directed by Lulu Wang who is also scheduled to attend, and Light From Light, starring Paul Harrill and Jim Gaffigan, both of whom are also scheduled to attend the event.
May Fest
Kick off the Chicago summer festival season with Lakeview’s 24th annual Mayfest. Enjoy live music, entertainment, Bloody Marys, and festival food rain or shine. Sixteen Candles, Seventh Heaven, The Boy Band Night, and Mr. Blotto will be headlining. Chicago Mayfest will be held May 17th through 19th at Ashland and Barry. Tickets are $10 and available for purchase ahead of time or at the gate.
Run a 5K
Are you a runner who likes glow sticks or meat? Take your pick this weekend at the themed Night Nation and Italian Beef 5K runs.
Get your glow on and dance the night away! The Night Nation 5K will be held on Saturday, May 18th at Soldier Field. Gates open at 5:30pm with the first DJ coming on stage at 6:30pm and the race beginning at 8pm, followed by the main stage afterparty.
The Italian Beef 5K will be at 9am on May 18th at Montrose Harbor and will benefit JDRF, a non-profit which funds research for type 1 diabetes. Participants will receive an Italian beef sandwich at the finish line.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
With seven new luxury rental developments within the past year, Printer’s Row has quickly become one of Chicago’s hottest residential neighborhoods. All this new inventory means a competitive market (read: great deals!) Here are some of our top picks this week near Printer’s Row.
Property 166– 1 Bedroom Apartment
$2063 Net Effective ($2250 + 1 month free)
It’s easy to see why this building, which has only been open three weeks, is already leasing up quickly. Amenities include a resort-style pool with cabanas, spa with a steam room, sauna, and indoor hot tub, a whole floor of co-working space with private conference rooms and phone call booths, pet amenities, 47th floor fitness amenities, and multiple other indoor and outdoor resident common areas. Resident conveniences include a coffee bar, away-from-home services, package receiving, 24-hour concierge, resident events, car charging stations, and rental bikes.
Residence features include Whirlpool stainless appliances, full-sized washer and dryer, floor-to-ceiling windows, quartz countertops, massive walk-in closets with built-in organizer systems, tile backsplash, smart outlets, Nest thermostats, and each unit is equipped with the IOTAS smart home system.
Property 158- Studio Apartment
$1463 Net Effective ($1585 + 1 month free on a 13 month lease)
Between the stunning, condo-like finishes, thoughtful layouts, lake views, and state-of-the-art amenities, this studio apartment is an outstanding value. Unwind by the fire pits, in the salt sauna, movie theatre, or in a poolside cabana.
The fitness center is top-notch, complete with HOIST premium equipment, half basketball court, and an indoor-outdoor yoga studio with complementary classes.
This studio apartment layout offers great separation between the kitchen and living areas with plenty of room for a breakfast nook or high top table. All units have stainless appliances, mosaic backsplashes, in-unit laundry, gas stove ranges, and white European cabinetry.
Property 164- 3 Bedroom Apartment, $6590
This new Printer’s Row high-rise offers over 70,000 square feet of amenities– 10,000 of which are allocated to the outdoor sundeck and resort-style pool area. Looking to go for a swim year round? This building also has an indoor pool adjacent to the steam room and sauna. The fitness center is home to a full-sized boxing ring, basketball and squash courts, yoga and Peloton studios with group classes, in addition to standard cardio and weight training gym equipment. Entertain by the fire pits, the terrace overlooking Grant Park, golf simulator, or one of multiple other indoor or outdoor resident spaces.
This 3 bedroom, 3 and a half bathroom comes in just over 1,800 square feet with a spacious terrace to take in unobstructed views of the Chicago skyline.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Printer’s Row? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Rich with important and adventurous architecture, big shouldering against a truly great lake, embracing greenspace and public art like few big cities do, Chicago is home to dazzling views at seemingly every intersection. It is also home to world-class dining. But which restaurants best blend Chicago’s food scene with the scenery?
Here’s our list:
Aba (302 N. Green St.) — This West Loop newcomer is a Lettuce Entertain You enterprise with a Mediterranean bent. Since Day 1, its enormous, greenery-filled rooftop patio has been a bustling and decidedly casual drawing card for its views of the Fulton Market District and the skyscrapers beyond.
Caffè Oliva (500 E. Grand Ave.) — Stick your toes in the sand at this seasonal, resort-style shack resting on Streeterville’s Ohio Street Beach. The views of the lake and skyline are stunning, and the vibe is full-on beach party. You can even rent cabanas while enjoying Mediterranean fare, burgers, beer bucket specials and more.
Cindy’s (12 S. Michigan Ave.) — The rooftop patio of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, 13 floors above Millennium Park in the Loop, might have the best views in the city. And the setting is spectacular — vaulted steel, glass ceilings and open-air seating atop an 1893 Venetian Gothic landmark that was for 122 years a private men’s club. The food is elevated American fare, often paired with organic wines and craft cocktails, but the atmosphere is decidedly unstuffy.
Cité (505 N. Lakeshore Drive) — From the 70th floor of Lake Point Tower, the only residential tower on the lake side of Lakeshore Drive, Cité diners get unparalleled, panoramic views of the lake and skyline. The menu leans toward French-inspired takes on American cuisine, and the ambiance is first-tier elegance. Definitely a place for the most important meals (and people) in your life.
Everest (425 S. Financial Place) — A private elevator to the 40th floor of the Exchange Building whisks diners to this Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of the Loop’s financial district. Commodities traders don’t even need to leave their office building to sample the amazing views and French cuisine proffered by Everest for more than 30 years.
The J. Parker (1816 N. Clark) — On the 13th floor of the Hotel Lincoln, where Lincoln Park meets Old Town, the J. Parker boasts 140 outdoor and 55 indoor seats. It has a retractable roof to ward off the occasionally fickle Chicago weather. The crowd tends to be young and casual. The food selection emphasizes small plates with creative takes on familiar fare.
North Pond (2610 N. Cannon Drive) — You don’t always have to scale the heights for incredible views. North Pond is on the edge of a pond in Lincoln Park where flora and fauna create a quiet remove from the bustle while the beautiful Chicago skyline remains within your gaze. The restaurant, built in 1912 as a warming center for ice skaters, has been reimagined in the Arts and Crafts image. The food, earning recognition from Michelin and the James Beard Foundation, emphasizes contemporary, seasonal fine dining.
River Roast Social House (315 N. LaSalle St.) — This River North spot has an amazing elevated patio hugging the north side of the Chicago River and affording not only views of this very active waterway, but many soaring structures and the percolating Riverwalk on the opposite bank. James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Mantuano’s contemporary American tavern fare — roasted and carved tableside — draws crowds for lunch, brunch and dinner. You can even get there via water taxi.
The Signature Room (875 N. Michigan Ave.) — On the 95th floor of what was formerly known as the John Hancock Center, The Signature Room takes you to the highest level of Chicago dining — literally. The views are jaw-dropping. The vibe is luxe, so you’ll want to dress up for this meal. The food is classic fine dining — oysters on the half shell, shrimp de Jonghe, rack of lamb, surf and turf. A bucket-list Chicago venue.
Terzo Piano (159 E. Monroe St.) — Stunning visuals are to be expected at the Art Institute of Chicago — and Terzo Piano is a sleek accompaniment to the museum’s Modern Wing. This Loop space is on the third floor of the wing designed by architect Renzo Piano, and can be accessed by a pedestrian bridge from neighboring Millennium Park. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner on Thursday and Sunday brunch, expect sophisticated renditions of Italian favorites.
These restaurants take advantage of Chicago’s world-class scenery. Downtown Apartment Company can help you find a place to live near any of them. Contact us and speak to an agent today!
The Mason West Loop luxury apartments are now leasing! This brand new high rise at Lake and Ada St, developed by Sterling Bay and Marquette Companies, combines the industrial charm of West Loop with contemporary finishes and state-of-the-art amenities.
Choose between a variety of studio, convertible, 1-bed, 2-bed, and 3-bed layouts, all of which offer in-unit laundry, wide-plank flooring, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, and blackout roller shades. Some units also feature kitchen islands, built-in “tech shelves” with USB custom outlets, and private balconies.
Entertain at The Mason in the private rooftop dining room, the resort style pool with cabanas, sundeck, and bocce court, the indoor aqua lounge, rooftop sky lounge and game room, or the outdoor rooftop deck complete with a fireplace, fire pits TVs, grills, and lounge space. Residents enjoy 24/7 conveniences such as Luxer One package receiving, door staff, an expansive fitness center with cardio, strength, yoga, and CrossFit equipment, covered dog run and wash, and an expansive bike storage and repair station. With its multiple dedicated co-working spaces and conference rooms, The Mason is also perfect for working from home.
The most unique amenity of all? The Mason residents will have access to an onsite restaurant and bar, which is only open to the public during select hours.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
