Although The Smith is new to River North and Chicago, it has been a beloved New York favorite since 2007 when it opened its first location in the East Village.
This farm-to-table restaurant features an eclectic menu with seasonal dishes and innovative craft cocktails and serves over 1 million people annually. Enjoy tapas, a raw seafood bar, fresh takes on avocado toast, Italian, Korean, and Japanese dishes, and steakhouse fare—all with the same menu. For friends who can’t agree on where to dine, this spot will become a surefire go-to.
Hours most days are 7:30am to midnight and breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner menus are offered over the course of the day. In theory, you never have to dine anywhere else.
The Smith seems to place a strong emphasis on the importance of its culture. Its core values, mission statement, and story have a major presence on their website.
If The Smith’s current popularity is any indication of its reception in the River North neighborhood, we’re feeling optimistic. The Smith currently has six existing locations, four of which are regularly in the top ten “Most Reserved” restuarants on OpenTable.
The Smith Chicago is slated to open in River North the last week of April at 400 N. Clark St.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near all your favorite River North restaurants? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
While most apartment prices are gradually increasing as it gets closer to summer, these buildings’ prices just dropped! Check out this week’s spotlight deals and take a look this weekend!
Starting Rent: $1594
The Fulton River District is nestled between three major neighborhoods, equidistant from River North, the Loop, and West Loop, and is therefore considered by many to be the most convenient location for downtown living. This Fulton District studio is two blocks from the Loop, one block from West Loop, and two blocks from River North, as well as just a few blocks from CTA pink, green, blue, purple, and brown lines and the Metra trains.
This rare gem studio apartment features a balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows for taking in captivating city views as well as in-unit laundry and an expansive fitness center.
Starting Rent: $1780 + 1 month free ($1632 Net Effective)
Brand new South Loop high rise #167 is getting a running start into pre-leasing with burning hot pricing and specials. This brand new two-tower development offers all the space, quality, and intimacy of a condo building with the amenities, conveniences, and flexibility of a rental. Although each floor plan is unique, every unit features in-unit laundry, hardwood floors, and modern finishes.
See the gallery at the bottom of the post for more photos of this stunning new rental!
Starting Rent: $2410
The West Loop neighborhood is in high demand. Snag a spacious 2 bedroom unit with hardwood floors and great closet space just off Restaurant Row on Randolph, blocks to the Loop, and in close proximity to multiple transit lines and grocery stores!
Starting Rent: $5450
Looking for amenities and contemporary finishes in Lincoln Park? Look no further! Enjoy the tranquil charm of living on a tree-lined Lincoln Park street with the best of downtown high rise living. This brand new 3 bedroom features in-unit laundry, state-of-the-art appliances and finishes, and relaxing amenity space.
Want to hear more about Chicago rental deals? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago is known for being a tremendously lively city. There’s never a shortage on things to do on any given weekend in Chicago. Here are a few of our top picks of things to do this weekend.
This Friday watch the Blackhawks, currently ranked 7thin the Central division, play the Dallas Stars, currently ranked 4th, at the United Center. The game starts at 7:30 and tickets are available starting from $36.
Saturdays and Sundays at 4pm, check out the greatest sketches performed by Second City’s Touring Company. The troupe is well known for jump-starting the careers of a long list of well known comedians including Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Stephen Colbert.
Catch the 90-minute show this weekend at 1616 North Wells St in Old Town.
Get your tickets in advance here.
Enjoy all things bacon as well as a wide variety of cocktails and beer at Chicago Bacon Fest this weekend. Enjoy creations from an eclectic selection of over 100 top Chicago restaurants including Split-Rail, the Duck Inn, the Dawson, NoMI, Ruin Daily, Honey Butter Chicken, Fig and Olive, Batter and Berries, and many more! Click here for a complete list.
All proceeds benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
The event runs April 5thand 6that 725 West Roosevelt Rd, between Halsted St and Union Ave.
Get your tickets in advance here.
Feeling crafty? Discover over 90 emerging brands and craft makers at the Chicago Market for Makers. Enjoy unique photo walls, live music, crafting stations, and food trucks. Click here
to get your tickets . Parking is free for attendees!
The event runs April 6th and 7th at 4325 North Ravenswood Ave.
The South Loop frames Chicago at its most beautiful. It borders a large swath of Grant Park (known as Chicago’s front yard), extends from iconic Buckingham Fountain to McCormick Place, and touches the Museum Campus and dazzling Northerly Island.
Date night in this stunning setting can be a simple stroll on Michigan Avenue, moshing at Lollapalooza or catching the NCAA tourney perennial DePaul women’s team at Wintrust Arena. Fine dining, axe throwing, escape rooms, tradition-rich and cutting-edge music venues, historic hotels, and cultural exploration are all included on our list of 10 date night ideas:
Many of the South Loop’s former commercial and manufacturing spaces have been converted for other uses. One such area is the Motor Row District. between 14th and 24th streets along Michigan Avenue. This is where, among the lofts taking residence where Chicago’s earliest car dealerships once flourished, two microbreweries have established roots. Vice District Brewing, specializing in fresh craft ales, is especially micro with its intimate taproom at 14th and Michigan. Motor Row Brewing, at 23rd and Michigan, is a bit bigger, favoring live blues over Vice’s collection of board games. At both, dogs are welcome and you can bring your own food.Among the many joys of life in the South Loop is that it easily affords access to so many experiences — the Lakefront Trail; all manner of shows at McCormick Place; quick visits to neighboring gems such as Chinatown, Little Italy, Latin-laced Pilsen and Greektown. All you really need for a great date night is someone with whom to share the adventure.
If you know you want outdoor space but don’t need much indoor space, a studio apartment with a balcony could be the right option for you. However, layouts like that are rare finds. Luckily, we have a few options that could be the perfect fit!
River North
Property 26 – $2123/month
At 690 square feet, this River North studio is more spacious than most one bedroom apartments in the area. It features floor to ceiling windows, stainless appliances, an in-unit washer and dryer, granite countertops, ample closet and storage space, and stainless appliances.
Fitness fiends will love the amenities– which include a spacious fitness center with lots of free weights, a lap pool, basketball court, saunas, and last but not least, an outdoor running track.
Property 67- $1670/month
Oversized closets, 24-hour concierge, and the club-like amenities are favorites at these River North apartments. Having company? This building offers a guest suite residents can reserve for out of towners.
This River North studio apartment with a balcony is in a prime location. Step out your door into one of the liveliest areas for dining and nightlife. You’ll be less than a block from Whole Foods grocery store and the red line subway.
Property 10- $1755
The finishes and appliances at property 10 are sure show stoppers. Come for the all-glass balcony but stay for the bamboo wood flooring, built-in wine rack, 9-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, in-unit laundry, and stainless Whirlpool appliances.
If you’re looking to take in stunning city views in a space a little larger than your balcony, head up to the rooftop pool, which will make you feel like you’re at the chicest of boutique resorts. Residents love the many conveniences this River North high-rise offers, including private wine storage lockers and zip cars.
Looking for a studio apartment with a balcony for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Wondering about the best time to sell your home or condo in Chicago? Here are the three main factors to consider:
Courtesy of Crains Chicago
1. Demand
Although there has been a lot of new inventory on the market, absorption has been high as well. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand for luxury inventory” says Adam Valentino, a DRC real estate broker who specializes in luxury condos in the downtown area.
About 5,000 new luxury units were delivered in 2017, but downtown Chicago added 19,448 new workers, according to Integra.
Given the amount of demand for new inventory buyers and renters are more likely to make quick decisions about taking a unit off the market. “Although there is a lot of new inventory being built, it is paralleled by the number of buyers looking for it” says Valentino.
2. Rising Interest Rates
A trend of rising interest rates contribute to high demand. When buyers expect interest rates to be higher tomorrow than they are today, they are more likely to be decisive rather than waiting to buy.
3. Personal Goals
Determining the best time to sell your home is very personally specific. It will greatly depend on your personal goals and your specific home. Although it may be prudent to hold on to property longer in certain areas, it may be more advantageous to sell sooner rather than later in some Chicago sub-markets. If you know your personal goals will include moving within the next year, the next several months will give you the greatest likelihood at selling your home or condo quickly.
Do you have more questions about whether its the right time to sell your home? Contact us today. We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop.
For renters looking for modern finishes, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, pendant lighting, and mosaic backsplashes are the norm, but lately concrete accents have been a highly sought-after trend. Here are some modern apartments with concrete accents for rent in downtown Chicago!
Loop- Property 122
This Loop high rise has unique architectural features that make residents feel as if they are perched within the city skyline. Rather than being flush with the walls, windows protrude inches out to form creating a box-like extension which opens up 215 degrees of city and river views. The finishes include stainless appliances, matte grey and white cabinetry, dar wood-grained floorings, and white subway tile. With the exposed concrete ceilings and concrete pillars these finishes create a bold yet minimalist combination that lends itself to many different color palettes and styles of decor.
River West- Property 139
Residents love the custom features in these River West apartments. The walk-in closets with Elfa shelving, high ceilings, spacious kitchen islands, and of course, plenty of concrete accents on the walls and ceilings, really make these rentals stand out. Two-story townhomes and penthouses at this property have additional custom upgrades available.
Gold Coast- Property 100
With its prime Gold Coast location, on the cusp of River North and just blocks from Michigan Avenue, property 100 is a sure favorite. Floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooftop deck, and spacious balconies and terraces offer panoramic city views. Favorite features include the 9-foot ceilings, open-concept layouts, Whirlpool appliances, plentiful closet and storage space, and large in-unit washers and dryers. The concrete accent pillars in this clean-cut building add the perfect touch of character.
Streeterville- Property 118
Looking for boutique style apartments near Streeterville? At this contemporary building, each unit has 10 foot concrete ceilings, stainless appliances with a French door refrigerator an interior water dispenser, gas cooking, large islands with waterfall quartz countertops, soft-close cabinets, custom closets, wood plank flooring, and full-sized Whirlpool laundry machines as well as Nest thermostats. Although there aren’t many units in this building, the amenities are outfitted for a much larger building. Check out the fitness center, spacious rooftop, or dog run and spa.
Looking for apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago is one of the top cities for corporate relocations, with an average of 15,000 new jobs per year since 2013 and 20,000 new job last year alone. However, many employees say housing is a primary but overlooked issue in their relocation. Although many employees’ needs would be best suited with a rental, many human resource departments only offer assistance with purchase and sale housing transactions. If you’re relocating to Chicago for work, there are a lot of “moving” parts to consider.
Scope of Options
With 77 unique neighborhoods ranging in atmosphere, available transportation, style, and price range, it can be hard to narrow down your search. A broker can help you narrow the geographic scope of your apartment search based on your wants and needs. For instance, some areas are more convenient for dog owners, people who drive, or people who prefer to walk or take public transit. Some areas are known for being more lively and some areas are known for being quieter. Finding out which neighborhoods are best suited to your preferences can be research intensive and time consuming, especially when you have many other variables to coordinate in your move. Working with a broker who has an intimate knowledge of Chicago can save you time and energy.
Fluctuating Market
In the downtown Chicago rental market prices, availability, and concessions can change daily. It can be complicated to keep track of which buildings offer what specials under a multitude of various parameters (i.e. “2 months free on a 13 month lease if you move before the 15th or 1.5 months free on an 18 month lease if you move between the 21st and 30th”). The pricing system many managed high rise buildings use changes the pricing based on supply and demand. For instance, if there are 5 of the same layout available, the prices of all 5 will gradually decrease, but as soon as one or more is rented, the prices of the remaining apartments will significantly spike.
It’s typical for units to rent quickly, even a month before they are even vacated by the current tenant. With so many people moving at a given time, pricing and availability can be difficult to track. Brokers’ full time jobs are to know the special concessions, pricing changes, and availability at downtown Chicago buildings. By working with a broker, you won’t have to worry about keeping an eye on all these variables.
Specialization
Most brokerages specialize in either for-sale listings or rental listings, but seldom both. Leasing agents in the downtown area have intimate knowledge about each distinct Chicago neighborhood in which they have inventory. Working with a broker who is specialized in the area you’re looking in can not only help you find a great apartment deal, but can also serve as a tour guide and may know all the area’s great restaurants, salons, pet groomers, or even dentists.
Relocating to downtown Chicago for work? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Most downtown luxury apartment buildings offer top-of-the-line amenities. In a four-season city like Chicago, residents love having an indoor pool they can use year round. Looking for luxury apartments for rent with indoor pools? Check out a few of our favorite Chicago apartments with a pool below!
Property 85 offers amenities galore. Between two club-grade fitness centers, multiple levels of outdoor and rooftop terraces, a movie theatre, private dining lounge, co-working space, and more, we have to say the indoor pool area is the pièce de résistance. The indoor pool area also includes a large hot tub, steam room, and sauna. The back wall of floor-to-ceiling windows open, weather permitting, to a rooftop outdoor terrace, creating an indoor-outdoor feel. The versatile space is complete with lounge chairs, a light-up water wall, and trendy light fixtures, making it one of the most impressive Chicago apartments with an indoor pool.
Property 2 offers the best of both worlds: enjoy the spacious outdoor pool in the warmer months and the equally as spacious indoor pool year round. In addition to multiple pools, this Lakeshore East apartment building offers a plethora of other amenities and plenty of space to socialize or spread out and enjoy a moment of tranquility (80,000 square feet of amenity space, to be precise). The outdoor running track, spacious rooftop deck (that feels more like a large park), and media screening room are just a few of the additional amenities that make this downtown property feel like a resort.
River North apartment property 45‘s indoor pool area is a lower level oasis, away from the hustle and bustle of fast-paced downtown living. Between the tranquil sound of the waterfall wall, mood lighting, steam room, sauna, hot tub, and massage treatment room, a luxury spa experience is only a quick elevator ride away, anytime. Love wine as much as you love the spa? Among other amenities, property 45 also has a wine cellar and tasting room just down the hall from the indoor spa area.
Looking for luxury Chicago rentals with a pool? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Congratulations. You’ve finally scored that amazing South Loop loft near the Museum Campus, a Streeterville condo overlooking Navy Pier or the perfect Gold Coast pied-a-terre.
Now what?
Moving into a downtown area is stressful but moving more than a couple of floors above street level adds a degree of difficulty that would challenge even a seasoned relocator. Before you start packing, there are several things you should keep in mind:
A move into a downtown high-rise might be the best you’ll ever make. Soul-renewing views will be yours at a glance. Your life will be filled with sunlight. An open window will bring fresh air instead of exhaust and insects. You’ll be close to everything, yet just an elevator ride away from seclusion. And given the amenities most luxury high-rises offer, your home will be a place to truly relax and recharge rather than just another item on the to-do list.
Whichever luxe Chicago neighborhood you prefer — be it Lincoln Park, the Loop, River North or beyond — finding the high-rise apartment that fits your needs is as easy as reaching out to Downtown Apartment Company.
Chicago may be among the most bike-friendly cities in the country, but its residents embrace running as well. With a running season unofficially bookended by the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8K in March and the Chicago Marathon in October, interesting and available running trails are a year-round must for the many residents training for their big race.
Fortunately, many neighborhoods have access to lovely and lively running trails. Here are a few favorites:
Lincoln Park — At 1,188 acres, Lincoln Park offers runners a patchwork of trails that take you past or through a zoo, a stunning nature sanctuary, five playgrounds and an archery range, as well as by statues, a conservatory, a lagoon and a museum. Residents from the Gold Coast, Old Town and Lincoln Park can easily access the trails. A simple loop from the south fields, past the south lagoon, around the zoo and down Stockton Drive will put you in 5K range.
Chicago Riverwalk — Though it can be a bit crowded with pedestrians and construction on its eastward expansion is ongoing, the Riverwalk is great for a quick run through a canyon created by some of Chicago’s signature architectural achievements. Its south bank route is through Lakeshore East, and the Loop, but just across the river are Streeterville, River North and the West Loop. Out and back over its entire length — from Lake Shore Drive to the confluence of the river’s branches near Randolph Street — will get you a roughly 3-mile run. If you want to amp up the cardio, run the Michigan Avenue stairs.
Lakefront Trail — As of December 2018, what had been an 18-mile combined use trail has been divided into an 18-mile bike path and an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail. Essentially all of it is sandwiched between Lakeshore Drive and Lake Michigan, with stunning views throughout. The Lakefront Trail stretches from 71st Street on the South Side to Ardmore Avenue on the north, but the most magnificent miles might be where it skirts the South Loop. This leg takes runners past McCormick Place, Northerly Island, through the Museum Campus and along Grant Park while offering iconic skyline views.
Jackson Park/Midway Plaisance Park/Washington Park — The annual Chicago Half Marathon starts and finishes in Jackson Park, where the Lakefront Trail begins. This 500-acre eastern border of the Hyde Park neighborhood still holds remnants of the 1893 World’s Fair and is the future home of the Barack Obama Presidential Center. Runners with a love of Gothic architecture will pass natural beaches and bird sanctuaries to reach the Midway, a mile-long swath of green through the University of Chicago campus that connects to 372-acre Washington Park. This run is roughly three miles from the center of Jackson Park to the Center of Washington Park.
There are a lot of places to find luxury living in Chicago — if your definition extends only as far as the walls of the building in which you live. But being in a neighborhood that urges you to get out and break a sweat, to remain vital in a vital city, is a luxury worth prioritizing.
Looking for great deals on luxury rental apartments near downtown Chicago? Check out these spotlight deals of the week!
Studio
Rent Amount: Net $1508 ($1645 + 1 month free on a 12 month lease)
New construction alert! Between great amenities, modern finishes, in-unit laundry, and the convenient location, Property 161 has it all. This luxury apartment is located just a few blocks from Whole Foods, the CTA blue line train, and the Metra trains at Union Station. The amazing concessions include the ability to waive the move-in fee and one month free rent, which mean this West Loop studio apartment could be yours for the cost of the $50 credit check! These concessions won’t last, so click here for more pictures & details!
Convertible
Rent Amount: $1431 Net Effective ($1561 + 1 month free)
If view and square footage are your most important criteria, this apartment may be for you. We love this apartment for its abundant closet and kitchen storage space, stunning views of the river, skyline, and Lake Michigan, and convenient access to the Pedway, a subterranean system of walkways that shields pedestrians from the elements by connecting the downtown area underground.
1 Bed
Rent Amount: $1573
Looking to live in a 1 bed off Michigan Avenue for under $1600? Here’s your rare unicorn apartment! With hardwood floors, newly renovated amenities, and on-site conveniences (like valet dry-cleaning, package receiving, high-speed internet, door staff, and a resident coffee bar), this apartment is an amazing value! Pet friendly property 75 is less than a block from the John Hancock Center, two blocks from the Chicago CTA Red Line train, and three blocks from Lake Michigan’s Oak Street Beach. Name a better steal– we’ll wait.
2 Bed
Rent Amount: $2550
We love the location of this stunning 2 bed rental. Printer’s Row property 14 is located just a few blocks from multiple major grocery stores (including Jewel, Trader Joe’s, Target, and Whole Foods) as well as the CTA Red, Orange, and Green Line trains to the Loop, Northside, and Midway international airport. This pet friendly building has outstanding amenities and a club-grade fitness center. Residents love this 2 bed for its spacious balcony, reclaimed wood accents, huge bedroom closets, and “homey” feeling.
Looking for great deals on luxury apartments near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
“A convertible? Like a car with a retractable roof?”
To those in the know, renting a convertible apartment is one of the best ways to score a deal. The term, “convertible”, simply means that a layout is a hybrid of a studio and 1 bedroom layout and can refer a broad range of unit styles. Renting a convertible can be a great option if your price range doesn’t allow for a 1 bed but you want more separation than a studio would typically provide.
Some convertible apartments in Chicago have fully enclosed bedrooms with a sliding door instead of a hinged door (as you’d typically find in a traditional 1 bed). Some have four partial-height walls or have 3 1/2 walls with no door. However, some convertibles are essentially large studios with an alcove for a bed.
Here are a few of our favorite convertible studio apartments in Chicago (all of which have in-unit laundry)!
Property 85- Michigan/Lake
Property 85’s convertible made the list because we love the sliding sea glass door separating the bedroom from the living space. Although the bedroom is fully enclosed and the layout is comparable in size to a 1 bed, this layout tends to run anywhere from $150-300 less than the traditional 1 beds in this building.
Property 5- Kingsbury/Grand
Looking to be in the heart of River North without breaking the bank? Convertibles at River North property 5 have full-sized one bedrooms with wooden, sliding doors, plenty of closet space, and even an ensuite Juliette balcony. We love this layout because it offers terrific separation and is currently $450 less than a traditional 1 bed layout in this building. What a deal!
A note to pet owners: the spacious dog run (adjacent to the building’s private portion of the riverwalk) makes this building a must-see! Looking for dog friendly convertible apartments for rent in Chicago? Check out property 5!
Property 82- Illinois/Michigan
At 695 square feet, this convertible is even larger than most 1 bedroom layouts. The floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city bring in maximum natural light and add to the grandeur of the unit. The bedroom area in this floor plan has an alcove with two half-walls separating it from the living area. We love this building for its outstanding amenities and convenient location, as it provides covered access to Whole Foods and is right on the border of Gold Coast and Streeterville. The unique layout can be hard to picture, so see the floor plan below!
Why Choose a Convertible Apartment?
Choosing to rent a convertible apartment has many perks. For example, it enables you to save on rental costs while allowing you the flexibility and feel of a one-bedroom apartment. Moreover, a convertible apartment offers you privacy through defined sleeping and living spaces. Additionally, it’s small enough to make cleaning easy.
At Downtown Apartment Company, we can help you find the perfect convertible apartment that suits your needs and lifestyle. Our team stays well informed on the market and has the expertise to help you find the perfect one.
Browse our luxury apartment offerings and reach out to us today for more information!
Depending on who’s counting, a list of Chicago’s neighborhoods can number into the 200s. Come summer months, it seems as though each of them hosts a festival of some sort, defined by the local culture, commerce, cuisine — or just a desire to get outside with neighbors and invite the whole city over for a beer.
The beauty of Chicago is finding your favorites. Here are five festivals that are always among the best.
If the preceding festivals don’t pique your interest, don’t give up. Maybe Bike the Drive is more your thing, or Riot Fest or Lincoln Park Greek Fest would be more to your liking. With so many festivals in easy reach, developing your own “best of” is half the fun.
Millennium on LaSalle is a luxury apartment rental building in the Loop’s financial district and was originally built in 1902 as the National Life Building, which was designed by Jenney and Mundie. The 13-story building was recently converted from an office building, most recently known as Barrister Hall, into an amenity-rich residential property. The 216 units will include studio, one, and two bedroom apartments as wel as 7,000 square feet of retail space in the ground level.
The contemporary units will have sleek, elegant finishes. Kitchens will feature stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, premium Italian cabinetry, a tile backsplash, and an in-unit washer and dryer. Bathrooms will have marble tile and premium lighting.
Units will also have hardwood throughout and be outfitted with smart home technology. Technology features include integrated USB power sources, a pre-wired media hub, and integrated Bluetooth audio.
The fourteenth floor will feature a portion of the resident amenities including a pool, sports court, fitness center, common lounge, and a landscaped rooftop terrace with grilling stations.
The lower level will house a media screening theatre, two gaming media rooms, a computer room with co-working space, and a music rehearsal and recording room. Residents will also have access to many conveniences on the lower level, including valet dry cleaning and wash-and-fold service, additional storage, 24-hour maintenance, and bike amenities—which include bike storage, a workshop, part and supply vending, as well as other resources.
Pet amenities include a dog run on the fourteenth floor and a dog spa on the lower level.
The renovated lobby will provide a “modern aesthetic within the historic marble-clad space” according to the architecture firm on the job, Fitzgerald Associates. Residents will have a morning coffee lounge on the first floor, as well as outdoor café-style seating, pending approval.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Noca Blu is a new luxury apartment building in Logan Square.
Looking for state-of-the-art amenities and contemporary finishes in a neighborhood away from the downtown hustle and bustle?
Step inside the apartments at Noca Blu for modern kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and trendy nickle finish fixtures. The appliance package includes a garbage disposal, microwave, dishwasher, ice maker, and in-unit washer and dryer in every unit. Each unit will also feature spacious, custom walk-in closets, wood-like flooring throughout, track lighting, and an efficient VRF HVAC system. Select units will have spacious, private terraces and IOTAS Smart Home technology. All units on the 5thand 6thfloors will have high ceilings, as well.
Units will be comprised of studio, one bed, and two bed layouts. Starting prices will be around $1700 for studios, $1850 for one beds, and $2575 for two beds. See the gallery at the bottom of the page for more pictures of the stunning interiors!
This pet-friendly apartment building will house plenty of resident amenities and conveniences.
Amenities will include a fitness center with free weights, a rooftop resident lounge with grilling stations, billiards, a bocce ball court, and a resident co-working lounge with free, high-speed Wifi.
Noca Blue will also offer services to make residents’ lives a little simpler, like Amazon Hub package receiving lockers for 24-hour secure package pickup, bike storage, on-site parking, and Butterfly MX. Butterfly MX is a virtual concierge that allows residents to remotely grant access to guests and deliveries via smart phone with a live front-door video feed. Furthermore, Noca Blu is just a couple blocks to the CTA Blue Line train– the ultimate convenience. The Blue Line goes directly to the Loop and O’Hare International Airport.
Noca’s fantastic move-in specials can change daily, so contact us today for details! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago is everything: City of Big Shoulders and of intimate neighborhoods, home to blue collars and high culture, where the residents can point you to the best Italian beef or the nearest Michelin star with equal alacrity. Living in the Second City is an adventure of the first magnitude.
Here are 10 facets of the diamond that is Chicago.
All the sports: You’ve got the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox and Fire covering the major pro sports. If just making the scene is your thing, Wrigley Field is one of the oldest venues in sports and the United Center is one of the most frenetic. Northwestern University provides bowl-caliber football just across city limits in Evanston, while Loyola and DePaul universities offer big-time college basketball north and south of the Loop. And if you’re running devotee, more than 44,000 of your like-minded friends took on the Chicago Marathon in 2018.
All the brains: University of Chicago and Northwestern University are two of the most prestigious universities in the country. University Village, around the University of Illinois-Chicago campus, is a diverse and energetic neighborhood, while DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus is as much a part of that neighborhood as the bordering green space. DePaul’s Loop Campus, Columbia College and Roosevelt University flood the South Loop with students, creating something of a college town in the heart of downtown.
All the seasons: As the saying goes: “Chicago has two seasons, winter and construction.” As the other saying goes: “Don’t like the weather? Wait 10 minutes.” The truth is, few cities are as beautiful as Chicago in the summer. Seeing the city come to life at the first blush of spring is inspiring. Sweater weather can prompt an easy day trip in any direction to see the fall colors or pick apples. As for that other season, well, there’s a certain pride in surviving a Chicago winter and the very specific ways of reserving a parking space you’ve meticulously shoveled out.
Transportation: Two major airports — one on the north side, one on the south — serve the city. Rail lines and the interstate highway system recognize the city as a Midwest hub. In 2016, bicycling.com named Chicago the Best Bike City in America for its many miles of dedicated bike lanes and trails and its expansive bike-sharing network. Whether you’re cabbing it, catching a CTA bus, riding the El, taking a carriage ride past Water Tower or a bicycle rickshaw in Wrigleyville — or enjoying a sightseeing cruise on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan — Chicago has a way to get you there.
The greatest lake: Chicago has done a terrific job of making Lake Michigan a gem to be shared by everyone,. From Jackson Park on the south to Edgewater Beach on the north, the 18-mile-long Chicago Lakefront Trail offers dedicated biking and pedestrian paths over the length of the city’s most scenic real estate. Many of Chicago’s public treasures hug the lake, from the museum campus to Navy Pier and Grant, Millennium and Lincoln parks. Whether you’re taking a dip off North Avenue Beach or finding a perch on Northerly Island from which to watch the Fourth of July fireworks, there is plenty to enjoy.
Art appreciation: The Art Institute of Chicago houses an incredible collection of works from every conceivable movement. The Museum of Contemporary Art has a narrower focus but is no less spectacular. Beyond that, Chicago’s dedication to public art affords up-close glimpses of thousands of works, from Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate sculpture (known affectionately as “the bean”) to statues honoring historical figures and modernist sculptures by Picasso and Miro. Beyond that, Chicago embraces its varied architectural history and the art in its edifices is a gift to be unwrapped over years.
Food: A reasonably ambitious walker could have lunch in Chinatown, a snack and a visit to the National Museum of Mexican Art in Latin-tinged Pilsen, dinner in Little Italy and dessert in Greektown. A seriously ambitious diner could have a third Chicago-style hot dog (always with celery salt, never with ketchup) or a generous slice of deep-dish pizza. An incredibly ambitious restaurateur could attempt to join Chicago’s crop of 22 eateries that have earned at least one Michelin star as of 2018
Culture: According to the New York Times, Chicago has emerged in recent years “as the go-to city for Broadway tryouts.” That’s not to mention the city’s percolating theater scene, which along with the Lyric Opera, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, The Second City, Joffrey Ballet and Hubbard Street Dance barely scratch the surface of all that Chicago’s performing arts community offers.
Neighborhoods: Chicago is a city of neighborhoods — roughly 200 of them.; some maintain the character and cultures of their founders, some have evolved to reflect the roots of their current residents; some are devastatingly hip, some are immune to changing trends. Whether you’re considering Andersonville or Old Town, Bucktown or Ukrainian Village, Printers Row or River North, there’s a neighborhood that’s sure to feel like home.
The best fests: Taste of Chicago draws more than a million visitors to Grant Park each year. The Chicago Blues Festival celebrates the music first electrified on the city’s South Side. Pride Fest is the annual weekend-long celebration of Chicago’s LGBTQ community. There are fests that celebrate music, art, literature, different foods and various ethnicities. In fact, by city hall’s count, there are more than 400 neighborhood festivals in Chicago each year.
Whether you’re considering a brand-new high-rise in Lakeshore East, an artist’s loft in River North or an elegant Gold Coast condo, the experts at Downtown Apartment Company can help. Contact us to get started.
The Chicago real estate market is abundant with opportunities and competitors who are ready to jump on that perfect pad. Before you sign a year lease, make sure you know what to look for (and what to avoid) when apartment hunting in Chicago.
Here are the top 15 tips we give our clients:
1. Know what you want (and what you can afford). Before you even browse listings, think about what you want and what you can afford. How many bedrooms? What amenities? Vintage building or new luxury condo? Look at your budget and determine what you can realistically afford. If you start searching without this data, you run the risk of falling in love with someplace you can’t afford.
2. Start your search early. Savvy apartment hunters leave themselves two to three months to find their next Chicago apartment, so they can see what’s out there and find something ideal. The Chicago real estate market can be tight. Waiting until the last minute may not give you as many options
3. Look in spring or fall. Summer is the most popular move time in Chicago, which means peak competition and pricing. If you can move in spring or fall, you’ll enjoy better inventory and may even save money.
4. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Yes, you can still get a good deal on a Chicago apartment, but there are many scams out there. Use your discretion. If something feels off about the landlord or the situation, trust your gut. If an apartment is listed for way below market price, then it might not be available.
5. Don’t overlook hidden costs of commuting. If you work across the city, you’ll have higher commuting costs. Over the lifetime of your lease, you will pay hundreds of dollars more in commuting fees. Crunching the numbers puts that in context and can help you decide what’s a better deal — that perfect apartment on the outskirts or the runner-up that’s walking distance from work.
6. Never overlook the neighborhood. There are tons of great neighborhoods in Chicago, but not all are right for you. It’s better to have a good apartment in a great area than a dream apartment in a neighborhood you don’t enjoy.
7. Work with an apartment company. Navigating the rental market yourself is stressful. Get help from an apartment company that knows the Chicago real estate market.
8. Ask about AC. In Chicago, you need an air conditioner, yet not all buildings come with central air. Always ask, never assume. If there is no central air, inquire whether the landlord provides window units (and if so, how many) or whether it’s your responsibility. If it falls to you, measure the windows and make sure they accommodate a standard unit, so you don’t have to purchase a pricey specialty unit to beat the heat.
9. Check the water pressure. Check the water pressure — make sure you have more than a trickle before moving in.
10. Don’t try to hide bad credit. If your credit is poor, it will come out sooner or later. Be upfront with your real estate agent, so he or she can identify landlords who place less importance on a credit check.
11. Drill down with crime data. Chicago neighborhoods can vary block by block. Rather than be spooked over something you hear, check the crime statistics for your block and the surrounding areas. CLEARMAP from the Chicago Police Department is one tool to use.
12. Never pay cash. Think about it: If someone is asking for cash for first, last and security, he or she doesn’t want a paper trail. What is the likelihood that he or she is a legitimate landlord versus a con? The Chicago area has seen many scams where someone rented an Airbnb apartment and posed as a landlord advertising a rental. If someone needs immediate payment and asks for cash, find a store that sells money orders and keep the stub as proof of payment.
13. Be ready. Competition is steep. When you find a place that fits your criteria, do your due diligence, but do it quickly. If everything checks out, take the apartment or someone else will.
14. Always read the lease. Even if a landlord tells you the lease is boilerplate, read it and make sure you understand what you’re signing. Some landlords require tenants to pay a portion of maintenance costs. If so, this should be written in the lease.
15. Always get renters insurance. Not only is renters insurance required by many landlords, but it’s the best way to safeguard your possessions from theft or damage and protect yourself from liability. You never know what could happen, so don’t go without.
To get help with your Chicago luxury apartment search from a leading apartment company serving downtown Chicago, contact us today.
Coeval luxury apartments, located at 14th and Wabash, are new rentals in the South Loop.
The pair of towers will have a combined total of 261 luxury units, 95 parking spots, both indoor and outdoor resident amenities, and retail space in both buildings. Units will range in size and include studios, 1 beds, including some with guest half baths, and 2 bed layouts.
The two towers were designed by Chicago-based architecture firm, Pappageorge Haymes Partners and will be managed by Greystar. Developer, CMK Companies, purchased the parcel in 2017 and broke ground the following Spring. CMK has several other notable, recent South Loop developments. 1345 South Wabash, a 16-story condo building, half of the massive 8-acre Riverline project, and 1333 South Wabash, a 28-story apartment rental building just up the block from Coeval, have all been CMK developments.
The prime South Loop location is just blocks to the lake front as well as three major grocery stores, night life, shopping, public transportation, and public green space. These pet friendly apartments are also just steps from multiple dog parks, including Grant Bark dog park at Grant Park.
Apartments at Coeval start around $1475. Contact us below to stay up to date on specials and availability.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Here are some of our favorite deals on luxury apartments downtown this week.
Best Studio Apartment Deal
West Loop Property 36: $1470
Property 36’s studio apartments offer abundant closet space. Coming in just shy of 600 square feet with a square layout and separated kitchen area, these studios feel more like the open version of a 1 bedroom apartment. A variety of finishes are available, ranging from carpet and black appliances, to hardwood with stainless appliances. The best priced studio is currently $1470.
Best Convertible Apartment Deal
Streeterville Property 43: $1673
Convertibles at property 43 offer great separation at a lower price point than a traditional 1 bed. With layouts up to 647 square feet, these convertibles are quite spacious. The bathroom, linen closet, and desk nook are accessible via the living space as well as directly from the bedroom via a traditional hinge door.
The bedroom and living space are separated by two French doors. The amenities in this Streeterville apartment building are unparalleled. Between the indoor tennis courts, sprawling fitness center, pool, hot tub, sundeck, co-working lounge, and more, there are plenty of spots to get out of your apartment without leaving your home.
Best 1 Bedroom Apartment Deal
West Loop Property 161: $2022 Net Effective
Great concession alert! This new construction property is offering up to 3 months free! Property 161 is a brand new boutique building with high end finishes, in-unit laundry, quartz countertops, hardwood floors throughout, and glamorous amenity spaces (that feel more like a high-end Manhattan hotel than a residential building).
The 1 bedroom layouts have spacious closets and bathrooms, many of which even have an additional panel of under-sink storage as well as a linen closet. Check out property 161 for 1 to 3 months free!
Best 2 Bedroom Apartment Deal
South Loop Property 14: $2544
Looking for a spacious two bed, two bath with in-unit laundry? This layout is available up to 1300 square feet plus a balcony! Property 14 is walking distance to three major grocery stores, target, and the CTA red line, making this building centrally located for daily convenience. Check out the floor plan below!
Looking for great deals on luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
If you’re living in, or planning to move to, Chicago in 2019, congratulations. A truly great American city awaits you.
Whatever you do, don’t become one of those Chicagoans who never ventures to Western Avenue on a hot summer day to sample an iconic Rainbow Cone. Don’t let your time in Chicago end without loosening winter’s icy grip with a visit to the tropical environs of the Garfield Park Conservatory.
Do check as many items as possible off this bucket list of traditional and trendy experiences:
Grab a tin of Garrett Mix: You might be a block away when you first smell the gourmet popcorn churned out of copper kettles in the heart of downtown since 1949, now available at locations in the Loop, West Loop, Streeterville, Lakeshore East and beyond. The classic combo of caramel and cheese popcorn is what you want — and napkins.
Baste in the bleachers: Wrigley Field, the second-oldest ballpark in the Major Leagues, is a must-do. The only way to do a game at Wrigley is a day game in the heat of the summer. In the bleachers, wearing as little clothing as is legally allowed, while drinking a draft beer.
Chime in at The Second City: The Second City is ground zero for sketch and improvisational comedy in the United States. This Old Town institution often riffs off audience suggestions, and nothing quite beats the exquisite tension you feel just before shouting “marsupials!” in a crowded room.
Drinks at The Signature Lounge: Have a cocktail and take in the amazing views 96 floors above the convergence of the Gold Coast and Streeterville — and one floor above The Signature Room at the 95th — in the edifice formerly known as the John Hancock Center and now referred to by its address, 875 North Michigan Avenue. Unless you’re a local.
Do the Lakefront Trail: Except during the harshest storms, this 18-mile Chicago Park District trail extends across the most-photographed areas of the city — from the South Loop to Lincoln Park and points beyond. Newly divided into lanes for bicyclists and pedestrians, there are few better places to sightsee and work up a sweat simultaneously.
Get the blues: Chicago electrified the blues. At Buddy Guy’s Legends in the South Loop, the namesake owner is still electrifying audiences during an annual January residency. However, Kingston Mines, opened in Lincoln Park in 1968, helped (along with some British Invasion superstars) launch the blues out of South Side clubs and is a great place out of which to stumble in the wee hours (Saturday night sets start as late as 3:30 a.m. on Sunday morning).
Remember, a list of all of Chicago’s attractions would be impossible to finish — and ultimately incomplete. Part of the beauty of Chicago is not just visiting its acclaimed restaurants — Alinea, for example — or to know the traditional favorites in Little Italy. It’s discovering places yourself that you can tell other people to put on their bucket lists.
Whether you live downtown and have guests coming to visit, live in the Chicago suburbs and are looking for a downtown stay-cation, or are a visitor yourself, check out our “24 Hours In Each Neighborhood” posts. Here’s a great way to spend a day in Lincoln Park!
9:00 AM Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is a unique place to experience the juxtaposition of the concrete jungle and natural jungle or “see gorillas climb trees as the Willis Tower looms in the distance” as LPZ’s website puts it. See a wide variety of species, enjoy the tranquil paths, or rent a paddleboat on the zoo’s pond. Lincoln Park Zoo has a full events calendar between Fall Fest, ZooLights, Fitness at the Zoo, Breakfast with Animals, and more. Lincoln Park Zoo has free admission and is open 365 days per year.
12:00 PM Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum features multiple rotating exhibits as well as educational programs and events. One currently featured exhibit is “Modern By Design: Chicago Streamlines America”, which features 300 objects, photos, and other various materials, like Radio Flyer wagons and Wrigley Gum, from the 1930s to 1950s that highlight Chicago’s role in shaping popular American designs and products.
2:00 PM Shopping on Armitage
Armitage Street is lined with boutiques, cafes, novelty gift shops, juice bars, galleries, medspas, and even a cryotherapy bar. Stop by Cynthia Rowley, Art Effect, or Lori’s Shoes to get a taste of Armitage Street shopping in Lincoln Park.
Lori’s Shoes is a boutique with specialty shoes known as the “sole” of Chicago. Lori’s customers come for the shoe selection, personally curated by Lori herself in her world travels, and keep coming back because of the personalized experience. Lori’s customers feel as though they are working with a personal shopper and leave with a uniquely curated look.
4:00 PM Happy Hour at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba
In your new shoes, walk around the corner to Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba on Armitage and Halsted Streets. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba serves Spanish tapas and paella, both of which are great for sharing, as well as a great selection of sangria. Stop by from 4-6pm on weekdays for excellent happy hour specials.
5:00 PM Dinner at Alinea
Food, art, and live entertainment collide at Alinea. The multi-sensory, multi-course tasting menu gives fine dining an experimental twist. Reservations are required in advance and seatings are available at 5pm and 9:30pm nightly.
See the gallery at the below for some of the sensational creations at Alinea!
9:00 PM Live Theatre
Lincoln Park is a prime location for excellent theatre in Chicago. Go to Second City to see some of the best improv in the country. Steppenwolf Theatre is also known as one of the best theater companies in the country and shows feature-length plays in an intimate setting. Tickets are required well in advance for Steppenwolf.
11:00 PM Live Music
Wrap up your day in Lincoln Park with some live music at Kingston Mines or Lincoln Hall.
Kingston Mines blues club features live bands on two stages until late at night. Kingston Mines is more of a bar setting that has live music as opposed to Lincoln Hall, which is a designated music venue. Shows at Lincoln Hall typically range from $15-35 per ticket. Click here to see Lincoln Hall’s upcoming schedule.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
With roughly 2,000 new rental units slated for delivery, 2019 will surely be a big year for residential development in the South Loop. Here are the four primary high-rise projects expected for completion this year.
NEMA
One of NEMA’s many common spaces
NEMA, formerly known as One Grant Park, is a 792 unit rental building being developed by Crescent Heights. The tower will be a stand-out addition to the Chicago skyline and is being designed by world-renowned architect, Rafael Vinoly. According to renderings, NEMA is expected to have over 70,000 square feet of amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, coworking space, basketball court, boxing gym, a golf simulator, playroom, multiple lounges, and a chef’s kitchen.
Essex on the Park
Essex on the Park is a 479 unit rental building being developed by Oxford Capital and Quadrum Global. The project broke ground in 2017. Essex on the Park will ofter spectacular amenities including an outdoor patio with grills, a fitness center with a yoga studio, multiple entertainment lounges, a conference room, and a four-story indoor lounge with a pool overlooking the South Loop’s Grant Park. Residents will also have full use of the services and amenities of the Hotel Essex.
4-story winter garden at Essex on the Park
The high-rise was designed to focus on wellness and includes technology that provide cleaner air and water and reduce light and noise pollution.
The Paragon
The Paragon, a glassy 2-tower high-rise formerly known as SoMI, will feature 500 rental apartments and 7,500 square feet of retail space. The Paragon is being developed by CIM Group and Murphy Development and will offer studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments.
14th and Wabash
CMK is developing the 261 unit high-rise at 14th and Wabash, and it’s not their first rodeo. CMK is also the developer behind three other recent South Loop high-rises including 1333 S. Wabash apartments, 1345 S. Wabash condos, and the southern half of the Riverline project which is currently under construction. Although the specifics aren’t fully disclosed, it is clear that 14th and Wabash will be an amenity-rich building with plenty of indoor and outdoor resident common space.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Whether you live downtown and have guests coming to visit, live in the Chicago suburbs and are looking for a downtown stay-cation, or are a visitor yourself, check out our “24 Hours In Each Neighborhood” posts. Here’s a great way to spend a day in Old Town!
The neighborhood was dubbed “Old Town” in the 1940s with an annual art fairs called “Old Town Holiday.” The name Old Town is still around today and the art fair is, too.
9:00 am Group Fitness Class
Whether you’re looking for a high intensity energy blast or a zen way to start the day, Wells Street in Old Town is a prime spot for boutique fitness studios. Check out CorePower, OrangeTheory, SoulCycle, Shred415, Kickboxing, or one of a number of smaller boutique studios, many of which offer introductory specials for first-timers!
10:00 am Real Good Juice Co
This juice bar serves up avocado toast, smoothies, bowls, juice, and other vegan snacks. The punny menu includes pop-culture inspired names like the “Punky Juice-ster”, “Juice Springsteen”, or the “RAMBOwl”.
11:00 am Spice House
The Spice House is a daily shopping stop for many of Chicago’s top chefs as well as for the Chicago Food Tour. Stroll through Spice House to get a whiff of the eclectic variety of spices or to soak up the charming ambiance. The store’s back garden is a charming hidden gem in the warmer months.
12:00 pm Small Cheval
The West Loop’s Au Cheval is home to the world famous Au Cheval Burger, but it comes with a long wait (usually to the tune of 2+ hours). At Small Cheval in Old Town, try the burger without the wait! The reclaimed wood, strands of lights, and neon cursive lettering make it a very instagramable spot.
2:00 pm Old Town Aquarium
Old Town Aquarium is a small storefront opened by Jim Walters and Ian Schakowsky in 1975. The two owners are environmentally conscious marine life enthusiasts and have spent years doing deep sea dives and research. Their knowledge is reflected in the eclectic selection of marine life on display. Stop by to see rare marine life.
4:00 pm Divvy Bike Ride
Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood is full of green space with plenty of access points to the lake front, making is a great area to see on a bike. Check out Divvy bikes using the Divvy app on your smartphone for 30 minute intervals and return them at any Divvy port around the city.
6:00 pm Orso’s
Orso’s is a family-owned Italian restaurant and one of the first to open in the original historic Old Town neighborhood. Orso’s has great specials every weeknight and live piano music on Fridays and Saturdays.
8:00 pm Live Show
Old Town has plenty of live entertainment. See a comedy show at Zanie’s, which has been one of Chicago’s most notable comedy clubs since 1985. Zanie’s also offers comedy classes and has played an instrumental role in the careers of comics including Jay Leno, Lewis Black, Emo Philips, Richard Lewis, Jerry Seinfeld, Frank Caliendo, Kathy Griffin, Larry Reeb, John Caponera, Hal Sparks, Bobby Slayton, and Roseanne Barr.
If you’re looking for live music, check out the Old Town School of Folk Music, which hosts live shows most evenings at 8pm as well as classes for all ages. Pete Seeger, Mahalia Jackson, Arlo Guthrie, and Steve Goodman are all among notable musicians who used to perform at the Old Town School of Folk Music. Click here for a schedule of concerts.
10:00 pm Old Town Pour House
Stop by Old Town Pour House to try a selection of over 90 beers on tap and American fare. If you’re ever looking for things to do near Old Town on a weeknight, be sure to check the events calendar here for events like Friends-themed trivia night or football game viewing events.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
It’s the holiday season which means Chicago has a lot of visitors. Whether you live downtown and have guests coming to visit, live in the Chicago suburbs and are looking for a downtown stay-cation, or are a visitor yourself, check out our “24 Hours In Each Neighborhood” posts. Here’s a great way to spend a day in South Loop!
10:00 AM- The Bongo Room
Start your day on the town at the Bongo Room for breakfast or brunch, where you can find new, unique takes on brunch classics. Some favorites include the lobster roll Benedict and the chocolate mousse French toast. The Bongo Room also offers a great vegetarian selection and strong coffee.
11:00 AM- The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, or Museum of Science and Industry
Spend the first part of your day at one of the incredible museums in South Loop’s Museum Campus. The Field Museum is home to Sue, a world famous Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Stop by the Museum of Science and Industry to watch chicks hatch, try your luck at a maze of mirrors, test out a rocket, submarine, or coal mining experience, or visit the current featured exhibits in honor of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8. The MSI also has a temporary exhibit on the science behind Pixar films.
The Shedd Aquarium features a multitude of aquatic ecosystems, from the Amazon to the Caribbean and down to the Arctic. Watch a live penguin or whale feeding or get a chance meet and greet an animal daily at 4pm.
Looking for free things to do near downtown Chicago? Below are some dates you and your guests can get free admission to the Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, or Shedd Aquarium.
January 21
February 1-28
April 5-7
May 2
June 26-28
January: 17-21
February 1, 4-8, 11-15, 18-22, 25-28
January: 7–10, 14–17, 21–24, 28–31
February:4–7, 11–14, 19–21, 25–28
3:00 PM- Lunch at Flaco’s Tacos
Flaco’s Tacos is a neighborhood favorite. If you’re looking for somewhere fast and casual with high quality food and an interesting menu, Flaco’s is worth checking out.
4:00 PM- Chicago Helicopter Experience
See the Chicago skyline from a whole new perspective with a helicopter tour! You’ll start in the 2400 block of South Halsted Street head North through the Loop, River North, and Lincoln Park to Wrigley Field, then back South and East over the lakefront and Navy Pier. Knock out all your site seeing in one tour! Even if you’re very familiar with Chicago, this is a great new way to see all your favorite landmarks.
6:00 PM- Adler After Dark
Each third Thursday from 6pm to 10pm, stop by Adler Planetarium for an exclusive event (21+) and access to all exhibits, unlimited sky shows in all three theaters, live entertainment, and educational outer space programs. Tickets are $20 with advance purchase or $25 at the door.
What if it’s not the third Thursday? Catch some live music at Brando’s!
8:00 PM- Karaoke at Brando’s Speakeasy
Brando’s Speakeasy is regarded as one of the best karaoke bars in Chicago, loved for its “classic Chicago” ambiance and phenomenal song selection (over 40,000!)
10:00 PM- Reggie’s
Is karaoke not your thing? Feeling shy? Looking for live music (by someone other than your friends)? Stop by Reggie’s Rock Club for events like bingo and trivia, as well as live rock music.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
New construction has been plentiful for the past three years in the West Loop and the development boom isn’t showing signs of letting up in 2019. Here’s what’s coming to the West Loop in 2019.
Union West (933 W Washington)
Union West will consist of two 15-story mixed-use buildings. The towers will be connected by a landscaped roof terrace which will sit above retail space and parking.
According to the architect, the exterior design was inspired by the existing feel of the neighborhood. “The brick base and masonry frame mid-section relates to the West Loop’s industrial feel, while the top glass portion provides a light and airy impression, offering expansive views to the city. The tower’s top roof terraces look toward the city, allowing a direct communication of the project to Chicago’s downtown Loop” according to BkL.
Union West will be located two blocks from the Morgan green line station and one block from the the lively restaurant row on Randolph Street.
172-180 N Ada
180 N Ada will be a 14-story, 263-unit luxury rental building with a modern design and L-shaped exterior.
The 180 North Ada Street site was formerly home to Takis Royal Foods grocery.
Current plans show that 180 N Ada will have multiple amenity areas including a second floor pool, fitness center, resident lounge, outdoor grilling space and green roof. The tenant who will occupy the 2,500 square feet of retail space is yet to be determined.
Milieu
Milieu will be a 20-story mixed-use luxury high rise with 275 rental units and 13,000 square feet of retail space. Apartments will include studios, 1 beds, and 2 beds. The boutique style building will be amenity-rich with abundant nearby green space at Mary Bartelme Park. This project is a joint venture between White Oak, Crayton Advisors and Pacific Life Insurance Company.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
It’s the holiday season which means Chicago has a lot of visitors. Whether you live downtown and have guests coming to visit, live in the Chicago suburbs and are looking for a downtown stay-cation, or are a visitor yourself, check out our “24 Hours In Each Neighborhood” posts. Here’s a great way to spend a day in Gold Coast!
10:00 AM
John Hancock Center
Stop by the John Hancock Center’s 360 (the new name for the observatory) where you can view Chicago and beyond the horizon from the 94th floor glass lookout. The observatory also includes the Tilt display– floor-to-ceiling windows that tilt out from the building for an even more exhilarating view of the Gold Coast and city.
Want to enjoy a drink over 1000 feet above the city streets? Come back later in the evening to take in the view from the Signature Room, a high-end restaurant on the 96th floor and cocktail lounge on the 95th floor.
11:00 AM
Water Tower Place
Water Tower is host to 111 shops as well as the Chicago Sports Museum, Broadway in Chicago Playhouse, and the American Girl Doll experience.
12:00 PM
Ralph Lauren
Tourists and Chicago residents alike enjoy dining at Ralph Lauren in the Gold Coast. Come for the dover sole or crab cake and stay for the upscale ambiance!
1:00 PM
MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art features minimalist, surrealist and conceptual photography collections, and permanent works by René Magritte, Cindy Sherman and Andy Warhol. The exhibits change frequently and often include interactive installations, like tunnels lit to simulate the experience of being inside a black-and-white film, making anything inside them turn grey (including your clothing and friends). The MCA features pieces from 1920 and later. Illinois residents get free admission on Tuesdays (just be prepared with your zip code at the door). The gift shop is also a fantastic place for chic, minimalist housewares and quirky books and jewelry.
In the summertime, the MCA hosts free live jazz music on the terrace 5:30 to 8pm every Tuesday.
4:00 PM
Happy Hour at Lux Bar- Rush Street
Lux Bar’s happy hour is one of the best deals in Gold Coast. Stop by Tuesday through Friday from 4pm to 7pm for $5 wines and drafts as well as great food like the $5 avocado kale salad (which is massive), $5 burger, or $3 truffle fries. Sit inside near the social bar or dine al Fresca along the flower boxes that line Rush Street’s sidewalks.
5:00 PM
Shopping on Rush Street
Rush Street is arguably one of the best shopping strips downtown. Between Vera Wang, Versace, Dior, Tom Ford, and many boutique appointment-only design houses, you’ll be able to find many high end shopping options. Additional shops like Aritzia and Lululemon have stores on Rush Street as well.
8:00 PM
Dinner at Gibsons
If you’re looking for an old time, classic Chicago steak house, Gibson’s in the Gold Coast is the place to be. As one of the most famous dinner spots in the city, there is a scene every night at this local original. Gibson’s is famous for its steaks, martinis, oysters, and large lobsters.
10:00 PM
Night Life on Division Street
Grab a beer at one of many dive bars or dance the night away at the Hangge Uppe. Many bars on Division Street are open until 4:00 AM on weekends.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Gold Coast? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
While some may call Chicago by its specious Second City moniker, we know it’s the best city in the world. But, don’t just take our word for it. Adding another feather to the city’s cap, Site Selection Magazine named Chicago the top metropolitan area for corporate relocation in 2018. With a high-tech workforce, world-class museums, winning sports teams and foodie-favored restaurants, all situated around the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan…what company wouldn’t want to relocate here?
The city added on average 15,000 jobs per year from 2013-2017, with the largest expansion of nearly 20,000 new jobs in 2017 alone. And, 2018 is looking just as promising.
As employees evaluate a corporate relocation, housing is generally their number one issue. While the most common (and expensive) form of housing relocation assistance is with a home purchase, an often-overlooked need is employee rental assistance. According to a recent article from the Human Resources Certification Institute, skipping rental support is one of three common mistakes made in designing relocation packages. As we discussed in the article, leasing often better suits an employee’s needs and budget, but finding the right apartment home requires more than a quick internet search, especially in a city with the size and diversity of Chicago.
In an effort to streamline their relocation services, companies all too often work with just one brokerage firm – typically a full-service firm that says its agents can help with all housing needs, including for-sale and rental. Most brokerages specialize in either for-sale listings or rental listings, but not both – especially in Chicago which is known for its 77 distinct neighborhoods and more than 100 suburbs. So, what inevitably happens is that an employee who wants to rent an apartment in the city is paired with an agent well-versed in the for-sale market. Without the in-depth knowledge of the hundreds of rental buildings in Chicago’s city center, the agent may never quite get it right and the employee is frustrated and confused.
Engaging the help of a professional who specializes in apartment leasing and has hyperlocal neighborhood knowledge, as well as insight into rental concessions and rate fluctuations, will ensure the employee finds the right home and has a positive relocation experience, enhancing the employee’s overall satisfaction with the new job assignment.
Below are a few additional scenarios to consider when determining the best housing option in a corporate relocation:
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
While previous generations bought homes early and stayed in them for a long time, that is not the case today. Many people who would have moved to the suburbs in previous generations are moving to the suburbs at a slower rate, which means many are downtown renters-by-choice for a much longer time period. Many are trading in the suburban home for a maintenance-free rental penthouse or town home in the city. In short, housing needs are incredibly varied and available options are equally diverse.
Short-term Assignments
Many companies are leveraging short-term and temporary assignments as a cost-effective way to balance talent development and the employee experience with the company’s workforce needs. Employees relocating for a short-term assignment will benefit from leasing and often need help finding the right rental community to meet their needs.
Tax Implications
A change in the tax code in 2018 means relocation expenses paid by employers are now taxable, so there is an additional incentive for both employers and employees to forgo big real estate expenditures in a move.
Flexibility
Most employers recognize that working ‘wherever and whenever’ is a growing trend among mobile employees who crave flexibility. Those employees often gravitate toward renting, rather than buying, because they want the flexibility afforded by leasing. Chicago’s newest rental buildings are also known for their high-speed internet, co-working areas and tricked-out business centers, which make connectivity with the home office easier and more enjoyable than ever before. Again, engaging them with a professional to conduct a customized apartment search will yield far better results in finding a home that meets their specific needs.
Ensuring a smooth transition for the relocating candidate is critical to the overall success of the relocation. Engaging the help of a professional leasing service like Downtown Apartment Company is a smart move to guarantee an improved experience for all.
If you need help with a corporate relocation, contact us! We would be happy to talk about our full suite of services, including suggestions for vetted moving, cleaning and furniture rental companies.
It’s the holiday season which means Chicago has a lot of visitors. Whether you live downtown and have guests coming to visit, live in the Chicago suburbs and are looking for a downtown stay-cation, or are a visitor yourself, check out our “24 Hours In Each Neighborhood” posts. Here’s a great way to spend a day in Streeterville!
7:15 AM
During the warmer months, Streeterville residents love to start the day with Yoga on the Beach at Oak Street Beach. In the winter months, you can still start your day with yoga at Streeterville’s CorePower Yoga location. Students and teachers get a discounted rate. Click here to see the schedule.
8:30 AM
Streeterville is chalk full of great places to brunch. Stop by Kanela Breakfast Club (which also has locations in Old Town and Wicker Park) for Greek takes on brunch favorites, crab cake benedicts, avocado toasts, and cocktails. Kanela also offers the Impossible Burger, a vegan burger patty which many say is indistinguishable from meat.
10:00 AM
See Chicago by bike, kayak, or on foot with Bobby’s Bike Hike. Check out the calendar for special themed tours, including history, landmark, Halloween, mafia, and children’ tours. Tours depart from 540 N Lakeshore Drive and are available year round (with the exception of kayak tours which operate May through October).
12:00 PM
Navy Pier is famous for its iconic Ferris wheel and year round events. View fireworks over Navy Pier every Wednesday and Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day at sundown. Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier operates November 30th to January 6th and features 170,000 square feet of carnival rides, holiday-themed activities, and an Indoor Ice Skating Rink.
6:00 PM
An Odyssey Cruise is a great way to start the evening. Yachts depart from Navy Pier and each ticket includes a 3 hour cruise on Lake Michigan, a 3-course dinner (menu here), and a live DJ and dance floor. The views of the city from the water are unparalleled.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Streeterville? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
From the postcard perfect Buckingham Fountain to the convention mecca that is McCormick Place; from the main branch of the Chicago Public Library to the Museum Campus; from the Bears to Buddy Guy — all of these make their home in Chicago’s South Loop.
Many Chicagoans, as well, are choosing this neighborhood — or neighborhoods, given the expanding nature of what is defined as the South Loop and its diverse and engaging microcommunities.
What does the South Loop offer its residents (and, frankly, visitors from throughout the city, suburbs, country and world)?
Music: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island is a brilliant lakefront concert venue that features inspiring skyline views and national acts. Soldier Field books the biggest tours. Buddy Guy’s Legends, on South Wabash, draws stellar blues and jazz artists. On State Street, Reggie’s Rock Club is a perfectly grungy joint for up-and-coming acts, cold beer and great burgers.
Sports: Soldier Field is home to the Bears. Wintrust Arena, next to McCormick Place, hosts DePaul’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, along with the WNBA’s Chicago Sky. The White Sox play at 35th Street, basically a warning track fly from the southern border of the South Loop. For participation sports, Grant Park is the premier location in the city for that Chicago original — 16-inch softball (and the 12-inch variety), and the lakefront is filled with joggers, bikers, swimmers and boaters as long as weather permits.
Culture: The Museum Campus features the Field Museum, home to a cast skeleton of the largest dinosaur ever discovered; the John G. Shedd Aquarium, which houses beluga whales; and the Adler Planetarium, the first such facility in the western hemisphere. Then there’s the Harold Washington Library Center, the main branch of the Chicago system, occupying a full city block of State Street from Congress Parkway to Van Buren, housing more than 1 million holdings and open seven days per week.
Food: Chicago cuisine varies from neighborhood to neighborhood, and the South Loop includes or is adjacent to Chinatown, Greek Town, Little Italy and Pilsen, an enclave of Latin culture. Just north of Roosevelt Road on Jefferson Street, don’t forget Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, established in 1942 and arguably Chicago’s best Jewish deli.
Traditionally, the South Loop was loosely defined as the area bordered by Congress Parkway to the north, Roosevelt Road to the south, Grant Park to the east, and the Chicago River to the west. Many now push the southern and western boundaries to I-55 and the Dan Ryan Expressway, respectively. More important are the various communities that have woven themselves into the fabric of the South Loop: Chinatown, the Cultural Mile, Dearborn Park, the Prairie District, Printers Row, River South and the Wabash Corridor.
Here they are in the broad strokes:
Chinatown: The heart of Chicago’s Asian community and an important Chinese business hub in the Midwest, Chinatown bridges the gap between narrower definitions of the South Loop and the White Sox’s Bridgeport neighborhood.
Cultural Mile: This gorgeous, though less celebrated sibling of the Magnificent Mile, is a stretch of Michigan Avenue with breathtaking views of the lake, the Museum Campus and Soldier Field.
Dearborn Park: Notable for quiet, tree-lined streets and a decidedly residential bent.
Prairie District: A historic district that featured the city’s poshest homes in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire, the Prairie District blends landmarked buildings with high-rises and newer townhomes and row houses.
Printers Row: Home to Lit Fest (a great summer book fair) and many landmark buildings, this former printing and publishing hub is among the most intimate areas of the South Loop.
River South: Marked by lots of retail development in the last couple of decades, this area combines urban authenticity with suburban convenience.
Wabash Corridor: Columbia College has kept this South Loop area full of funky, artsy types for decades. Gritty, kinetic and evolving all apply.
The South Loop is full of dramatic and charismatic living spaces, from brick and timber lofts along State Street to the 21st century high-rises near Roosevelt Road and Michigan Avenue, a Wabash Avenue townhome or a Congress Parkway condo. Regardless, Downtown Apartment Company, with its extensive knowledge of architectural details and personal amenities, is the best resource for finding your perfect place in the bustling and beautiful South Loop. Contact us today!
Looking for new restaurants in downtown Chicago? From River North and Gold Coast to West Loop and Wicker Park, here are some of our favorites this holiday season!
Aba
Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group’s new Mediterranean concept, Aba, is located in Chicago’s Fulton Market. The West Loop restaurant and features a rooftop patio with fire pits and French-Mediterranean decor. According to their website, this Chef CJ Jacobson restaurant is an extension of Ema (mother in Hebrew) in River North. Aba, meaning father in Hebrew, incorporates a light style of cooking with a large emphasis on raw and cooked protein. Their beverage menu is centered around rare wines and Mediterranean spirits. Aba also offers Lettuce Entertain You’s largest event space of all its restaurants.
Address: 302 N Green St
Bar Sotano
Rick Bayless hits it out of the park with his restaurants and now has his first venture into bars on his list of successes. Bar Sotano is a speakeasy-like bar under River North’s Frontera Girl and features both cocktails and food.
Bar Sotano promises diners a stand-out experience. According to their website, “Bar Sótano’s lifeline is the markets. Where aromatic waves wash over you from the fruit stalls. Where meat vendors set out every part of the pig as a prize. Where herb stands promise health in a hundred or more flavors. Where chiles transform from a single-note spice to a symphonic full-body experience.”
The eclectic menu spotlights a variety of Mezcal cocktails, Mexican light bites, and an impressive raw bar and seafood selection.
Address: 443 N Clark St
Etta
The creators of Gold Coast sensation, Maple & Ash, recently opened Etta in Wicker Park, which offers wood-fired pizzas, pastas, vegetables, meats, and seafood, as well as a comprehensive brunch menu. The Wicker Park restaurant will feature a uniquely curated wine and cocktail list as well as a rooftop terrace.
Address: 1840 W North Ave
Aster Hall
Food halls are one of the greatest new trends in downtown Chicago’s dining scene. They allow groups of all sizes to have quality dining experiences while allowing each diner to choose their preferred type of cuisine. (It turns your Vegan friend, your gluten-free friend, and your Paleo friend can go out together in harmony!). Put the timeless, “where should we go to eat” question to rest– With food halls, you never have to get all your friends to agree on the same spot again!
Aster Hall is Hogsalt Hospitality’s newest food hall concept on the Magnificent Mile near Gold Coast. Diners can choose from a multitude of specialty favorites including Au Cheval burgers, Green Street Meats barbecue, sushi, ramen, tacos, lobster rolls, vegan bowls, pasta, cocktails, and more!
Aster Hall Menu
Address: 900 N Michigan
At Downtown Apartment Company and Downtown Realty Company, we live and breathe the downtown real estate market on a daily basis. Recently, we’ve shared some of our insider tips with many real estate publications and wanted to highlight some of our favorite key takeaways. Here are our top 6 tips from Ben Creamer and Ericka Rios, co-founders of DAC and DRC.
1. Your Realtor Can Be Your Quarter Back
There are many things to coordinate in a move– from insurance, electricity set up, and furniture, to movers, reserving elevator time, and changing your address at the post office. Your real estate agent likely has experience with moving related services and vendors and can help you quarter back all the “moving” parts. “One of the things we do is to connect clients to many vetted relocation service providers such as furniture rental and moving companies,” Creamer says.
Read the article in Apartment Therapy, 6 Things You Never Knew Your Real Estate Agent Could Do for You for more insider moving tips.
2. Winter = Apartment Sales
“As we get into the fourth quarter, demand ticks down,” says Ben Creamer. “You’ll see one to two months free concessions, which has been pretty common in new downtown construction…If job growth continues in Chicago, the thousands of new apartments currently under construction downtown will likely be absorbed”.
Check out the article, Rents May Be Stabilizing in Hot Chicago Neighborhoods, in Chicago Mag for more info!
3. Make Use of Storage Options
Many downtown apartments and condos offer on-site storage to minimize clutter in smaller apartments. “It’s particularly helpful to have storage available in the building for larger items and seasonal things you don’t need on a day-to-day basis,” says Ericka Rios, co-founder and director of leasing at Downtown Apartment Company. “For example, some buildings have free bike storage on the ground level, while others have basement storage units for larger or less-used items.” Take a look at more of Ericka’s tips in Apartment Therapy’s article, 6 Things Everyone Seeking a Small Apartment Should Know for more information.
4. Ask the Right Questions to Predict Your Average Utility Bill
In order to get an accurate picture of your total monthly expenses, ask your realtor, the utility provider, and your property manager the right questions. Some utilities tend to have an average historic range. “Your agent should be able to see the annual utility costs for similar homes that are a year or two older and give you a reasonable range,” says Creamer. Other, more fixed utilities, will just require a quick phone call. “Internet and cable can be calculated with a quick call to your local cable provider,” says Rios.
In response to any ambiguity over total costs, many downtown luxury high-rises are offering predetermined utility packages. “Most new apartment communities recognize that this is a concern for new residents and have established utility packages with prices that vary based on unit size,” Rios says. “(At most buildings) the major utility expenses – heating, air conditioning, gas, water, trash removal – are covered in a single monthly fee, eliminating much of the budget guesswork.”
For more information on estimating your total monthly costs, check out our article, How to Estimate Utility Costs, in U.S. News & World Report’s Money section.
5. You don’t need to put 20% down to buy a home or condo
Find a knowledgeable mortgage broker who can educate you on the financing options available. “Some financing options require as little as 3 percent of the purchase price. Others require 10 to 20 percent,” says Ben Creamer, a principal and managing broker at Downtown Realty Company. Check out our article, Think You’re Ready To Buy A House? Ask These 6 Questions First, in Huffington Post for more info!
6. Amenities are in Hot Demand
For an article about Apartments of the Future, Ben Creamer sat down with Mult-Housing News about trends in demand for high-rise amenities. He says:
“I think the future of multifamily will continue to trend towards enhancing service amenities and creating social spaces that encourage resident engagement. Many properties are adding wow-factor social amenities—spa-inspired pools, gourmet kitchens, music lounges, and entertainment spaces—in dramatic areas, such as rooftops or penthouses, to stand out with prospective renters. Equally important, hotel-style concierge services like on-site dry cleaning, housekeeping and in-home package delivery can ease the burdens of day-to-day life. Multifamily properties will continue to find new and creative ways to both socially engage residents and deliver white-glove service. Today’s tech-savvy renter wants everything at the touch of a button, and multifamily communities will have to keep up.”
727 West Madison (formerly known as One South Halsted) generated quite a bit of buzz as the tallest high-rise West of the highway. This new West Loop luxury apartment tower will feature extensive amenities, luxury interiors, and hotel-like services for ultimate convenience.
727 West Madison’s lobby decor gives a subtle nod to the building’s exterior. The elliptical-shaped furniture pieces, decorative accents, and light fixtures resemble the eye-catching, round shape of the building’s outside. The unique metals and wallpapers give visitors and new residents a taste of the striking design they’re about to see in the rest of the building.
The 7th and 45th floors house the bulk of resident amenity space. On the 7th floor residents have access to places to work, entertain, and relax.
The coworking space, conference rooms with presentation screens, and library are perfect for anyone who works from home. Skip your morning Starbucks run and stop by the resident coffee bar!
The game room, party room, media theatre, and chef’s demonstration kitchen are excellent for entertaining year round.
The club-grade fitness center features a private yoga studio and Pelaton bikes! The 7th floor also has a lounge with funky swing-chairs and panoramic views of downtown Chicago.
New in town? Get to know your neighbors at one of many curated resident events!
Pet owners love the pet amenities at 727 West Madison! Keep your apartment bathroom for “people use only” and take your dog down to the on-site pet spa to wash up. Wintertime in Chicago can make dog walking inconvenient. Thankfully, residents have full use of the on-site dog run and watering station!
Enjoy beautiful weather and views of the city from the 45th floor. The outdoor terrace, pool deck with cabanas, spa, and indoor sky lounge are expected to open in May 2019.
Residents also enjoy the conveniences provided at 727 West Madison. Secured access-controlled parking, electric car charging stations, rental bikes, 24-hour package receiving, bike storage with repair tools, 24-hour concierge, 24-hour maintenance guarantee, WiFi in common areas, and Away-From-Home services are just some of the many luxuries available!
Starting prices are as follows:
$1735 for Studios $1900 for Convertibles
$2290 for 1 Bedrooms $3135 for 2 Bedrooms
It’s winter. There’s wind chill in the Windy City, which means the “feels like” temperature is “can’t feel my toes.” No matter. If you want to have winter fun while keeping warm, here’s a list of 10 great indoor winter activities in Chicago:
Have a Tom and Jerry: Miller’s Pub has been a Loop destination since 1935. Each holiday season (roughly Thanksgiving into early January), it breaks out its version of this classic hot toddy, the Tom and Jerry. Arriving in a simple brown coffee mug, this most traditional of Chicago winter activities — a foamy concoction of brandy, dark rum, sugar, egg white and nutmeg — will have you sinking into one of Miller’s amazingly deep, comfy booths and quickly becoming a local.
Visit Navy Pier: One of Chicago’s top tourist attractions can seem like a summer-only deal, with its giant Ferris wheel, boat rides and stunning lake views. Yet there’s ample indoor space — and indoor parking — not to mention Winter WonderFest, which covers 170,000 square feet of the pier’s Festival Hall with, among other things, indoor rides, giant slides, ice skating and holiday decor. It runs from late November through early January.
See Buddy Guy: The consummate Chicago bluesman presides over a string of gigs each January at his South Loop club, Buddy Guy’s Legends. For his January 2019 residency, he’s playing 16 dates at the club, 700 S. Wabash Ave., between Jan 3 and 27. Tickets to see one of Eric Clapton’s favorite guitar players range from $55 to $70.
Get Tropical: The Lincoln Park Conservatory, a Victorian-era glass house built in the 1890s, has four huge spaces devoted to lush greenery. Opening in 1908 on the West Side, the Garfield Park Conservatory is larger still, with 2 acres of indoor greenhouse space. Both sites offer a wonderful respite from the winter chill amid palms, ferns and many more exotic flora.
Train for Spring Training: Whether you’re a fan of the North Side team or the South Side team — you have to pick one — late January is the time to start gearing up for the season. The 34th edition of Cubs Convention takes place Jan. 18-20 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago. Seven years its crosstown rival’s junior, SoxFest will be held Jan. 25-27 at the Hilton Chicago. Both feature players past and present and coaches mingling with fans for autographs, panel discussions and more.
Laugh Out Loud: Nothing warms you up quicker than a good laugh. The Old Town neighborhood is home to two of Chicago’s comedy institutions: The Second City, for improv, and Zanies, for standup. Since Zanies opened in 1978 (The Second City opened in ’59), the competitors have been dishing out laughs half a block apart from each other on Wells Street.
Get Ready to Wait: The Walnut Room was the first restaurant opened in a department store, coming to the seventh floor of Marshall Field’s State Street store in 1905. Now Macy’s, the store still welcomes thousands of visitors each year to dine amid the Walnut Room’s Russian wood paneling and Austrian chandeliers. Each holiday season, with tables surrounding the great Christmas tree, waits to be seated frequently exceed three hours — all the more time to shop.
See ’em: The Art Institute of Chicago is a wonderful place to while away a day. TripAdvisor’s top-ranked American museum four years in a row, it has an envied collection of impressionist paintings and its modern wing is a spectacular 21st century addition. Yet just a few blocks north on Michigan Avenue sits one of Chicago’s newest attractions. The American Writers Museum — named 2017’s best new museum in the world by Fodor’s Travel and the best attraction in Illinois by USA Today readers — seeks to engage the public in celebrating and exploring the influence of American writers.
Go Deep: Eating is always among the top indoor winter activities in Chicago, and deep-dish pizza is THE top eating activity. Almost any time a list of the best Chicago deep-dish pizzas is compiled, Pizzeria Uno, Gino’s East, Pequod’s Pizza and Lou Malnati’s rate a mention. The first two have flagships in River North. Lou Malnati’s has several spots, including Wicker Park and the Gold Coast, and Pequod’s Pizza is in Lincoln Park.
Dream of the Open Road: The Feb. 9-18 Chicago Auto Show is the nation’s largest. First staged in 1901, the show now takes 1 million square feet of exhibition space at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive. Concept cars and the latest models from most of the world’s major auto manufacturers will be on display. Tickets are $13 for adults, $7 for seniors and children aged 7 to 12, free for children 6 and under.
Remember, 10 items make for just a short list of Chicago winter activities. We haven’t sent you to a Bulls or Blackhawks game; to the fabulous theatre district; or any of dozens of live music spots from Reggie’s Rock Club on the near south side to Metro, Martyr’s and the Aragon Ballroom up north. The point is, Chicago is no place to hibernate.
Yes, it’s cold outside. That’s no reason not to get into the many great outdoor things to do in Chicago in the winter. Here’s our list of 10 wonderful Chicago winter activities to enjoy in the frosty fresh air.
Ribbon cutting: If you own skates, you can take a free spin on the Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon, a serpentine, quarter-mile loop that does for the skating rink what lazy rivers do for the hotel pool. You can rent skates starting at $13, and some rental packages include extras such as hot chocolate and lockers. Skating amid gorgeous skyline views is available into March.
Sled at Soldier Field: Just south of the Bears’ home is a 35-foot-tall hill built for all sorts of sliding fun. The lakefront and skyline views aren’t bad, either. The hill is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., weather permitting. When Mother Nature isn’t providing snow, Soldier Field grounds crew members have been known to use snow machines to get the hill in sledding shape.
Lit Lincoln: ZooLights is a 24-year tradition at Lincoln Park Zoo. Some 2.5 million lights decorate the grounds through Jan. 6, from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Admission is free — just like it is every day of the year at the zoo. ZooLights’ added attractions include musical light shows, ice sculpture carving, carolers and spiced wines, among others.
Night sledding: Dan Ryan Woods is one of the few forest preserves within the city limits, and its 37 acres bordering the lovely Southwest Side Beverly neighborhood make it a popular destination year-round. When there’s at least three inches of snow on the ground, its lighted sledding hill is open from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Enter on Western Avenue between 83rd and 87th streets.
Window shopping: Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile features some 460 retailers spread from the Chicago River to Oak Street — or Tribune Tower to Drake Hotel. Everyone has a favorite window to linger in front of, and there are plenty of places to pop into for a quick warmup.
Macy’s holiday windows: Many Chicago traditionalists still refer to this State Street institution as Marshall Field’s — the name under which the department store opened in 1893 — but whatever you call it, visiting the holiday-themed windows has been among the things to do in Chicago in the winter for 51 years. Each window uses familiar animated characters to create a scene built around an annual theme — for 2018, that’s Reasons to Believe.
Skate by the Bean: Now in its 18th season, skating at the McCormick Tribune Plaza Ice Rink continues through March 10. The rink is in Millennium Park, a touristy, percolating patch of downtown holiday bustle. The Bean, a sculpture formally titled “Cloud Gate,” sits near the rink and is a great backdrop for family photos. Skating at the rink, which sits between Madison and Washington streets at Michigan Avenue, is free. Skate rentals start at $13.
Winterland at Gallagher Way: At the southwest corner of Clark Street and Waveland Avenue — perhaps better known as along the left field line at Wrigley Field — Gallagher Way is a former parking lot transformed into a social hub outside the Cubs’ ballpark. Winterland runs through January 27 and features, among other indoor and outdoor options, a skating rink, a schedule of holiday movies you can watch indoors or out, Learn to Curl classes and, new this winter, an interactive art installation featuring 30 lights and eight speakers called “Chimes at Gallagher Way,” designed to demonstrate chaos theory.
Adventure Days: Northerly Island, formerly home to a lakefront airfield, is now an extension of the lovely Grant Park and its Museum Campus. On three Saturdays throughout winter — Dec. 15, Jan. 26 and Feb. 23 — the man-made, 91-acre peninsula hosts Polar Adventure Days. Free events include the opportunity to explore the island on snowshoes; tours of the new Northerly Island Natural Area; winter crafts making; and viewing live animals including wolves and Siberian huskies.
Christkindlmarket: A growing tradition, this year marks the 23rd annual Christkindlmarket Chicago, which gives a decided German accent to holiday shopping for crafts, foods and all manner of other goods with a decidedly European flair. Located in the heart of the Loop at Daley Plaza, the market runs through Christmas Eve.
From cross-country skiing at Northerly Island to hitting buckets of golf balls at Diversey Park’s two-tiered, heated driving range, there are many other Chicago winter activities to enjoy. Don’t wait for the thaw — you’ve got things to do in Chicago in the winter.
As we close in on the holiday season, it’s time to start decorating your home. If you have a small space, decorating can be a daunting task. Don’t worry—we’ve got some great hacks for decorating small spaces this holiday season.
The holiday season is a great time to be in downtown Chicago! Here are a few of our favorite seasonal festivities.
Loop
Holiday Treasure Hunt and Tea Party
Stop by the Art Institute for a holiday treasure hunt followed by a tea party. Attendees will make 5 stops in the museum’s galleries and Ryan Learning Center.
The event will conclude with a tea party with live entertainment in the Stock Exchange Trading Room. Each child will receive a holiday themed gift bag.
When: December 9th at 10:45am
Admission: $50 for adults, $25 for children, free for children under 2
The Christkindl Market, inspired by German tradition, takes place annually at Daley Plaza in the Loop. Unique vendors with many handcrafted and specialty goods make for great holiday gift shopping. Grab a souvenir mug of spiced wine (and bring your mug back for discounted refills)!
Christkindl Market is a primarily outdoor event. However, between the live music and traditional German fare in the food hall and the specialty ornament shop, theres plenty to do indoor whatever the weather.
When: November 16 – December 24
Admission: Free
Click here for more free things to do in the Loop this holiday season.
Lincoln Park
Each winter Lincoln Park Zoo is illuminated by over 2.5 million lights. Photos with Santa, 3D displays, warm spiced wine and snacks, holiday gift shopping, live ice-sculpture carving, carnival rides, light shows, games, and zoo animals are just some of the holiday festivities available at Zoo Lights. In addition to the regular open admission days, there are also several holiday events like Brew Lights, a beer tasting event on December 6th.
When: Click here for a Zoo Lights calendar, BrewLights is December 6th
Admission: Free admission for Zoo Lights (all ages), $49 ticket for BrewLights (21+)
Streeterville
Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest hosts music, ice skating, carnival rides, games, and refreshments. In addition to admission, tickets include a ride on the Centennial Wheel anytime before March 31st 2019.
When: December 3, 2018 – Jan. 6, 2019
Admission: $20 for adults, $10 for children under 42″, free for children under 36″
West Loop
Randolph Street’s Holiday Market
Randolph Street Market is a great place to knock out your holiday gift shopping! The eclectic selection of both vintage and modern items ensures you’ll find unique gifts no one already has. Enjoy shopping through an array of housewares, clothing, art, and trinkets from over 125 vendors. Refreshments include a Bloody Mary bar, an assortment of beverages, and food from local eateries. Free parking for attendees!
When: December 15 – 16, 2018
Admission: $10 in advance or $12 at the gate, discounts available
Winter is a great time to rent in downtown Chicago. If you’re looking for 2 bedroom apartment deals in River North, Lakeshore East, South Loop, or the Loop, check out the hot units below!
Property 78
The spacious bedrooms can comfortably accommodate king sized beds
This 2 bedroom apartment’s star feature is its expansive balcony over 130 square feet. The bedrooms in apartment 78 are comparably sized, each with a walk-in closet, and the shared bathroom is in the middle, making this an ideal layout for roommates. The built-in kitchen island with outlets and in-unit laundry offer convenience. This Lakeshore East property is also steps from a semi-private 6-acre park (outfitted with public wifi) and Mariano’s grocery store.
Layout: 2 Bed/1 Bath + Balcony
Price: $2606 + 1 month free on a 12 month lease (nets at $2389)
Property 46
In Loop apartment 46 you’ll find Energy Star stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, cherry cabinetry, and an energy efficient washer and dryer. Floor-to-ceiling windows, large bedroom closet space, and spacious amenities are a few notable features.The convenient Loop location is ideal for anyone who works downtown and wants to keep their commute as minimal as possible.
Layout: 2 Bed/2 Bath
Price: $2855 + 1.5 months free on a 13 month lease (nets to $2526)
Property 18
South Loop apartment 18 has an open loft layout with in-unit laundry and a large balcony. This luxury apartment was part of a condo deconversion. Therefore, the finishes are on par with most condos in the area. This prime location is steps from Target, Whole Foods, and many other shops and boutique fitness studios.
Layout: 2 Bed/2 Bath + Balcony
Price: $2382
Property 97
Concrete wall accents, an all white kitchen, and high ceilings give this River North apartment 97 a striking modern interior. Appliances include a full-sized GE washer and dryer, stainless steel kitchen fixtures, garbage disposal, and Nest thermostat.
The lenient pet policy makes this rental ideal for owners of large dogs, German Shepherds, or Huskies.
Layout: 2 Bed/2 Bath + Balcony
Price: $3580
Looking for a luxury apartment for rent that won’t break the bank? Here are some of our top picks netting under $2000!
This fall and winter Printer’s Row is absolutely filled with great deals on luxury apartments for rent. Here are a few stellar deals that really stole the show this week!
This luxury apartment features large windows, white quartz counter tops, a gas range, garbage disposal, Nest thermostat, in-unit laundry, hardwood floors, and stainless appliances.
Community amenities include a rooftop terrace and pool, spa, 24-hour door staff, and even a bowling alley! Property 135 also offers on-site dry-cleaning and tailoring services as well as direct access to Dollop cafe and coffee shop.
Pricing: $2021 + 1 month free on a 13 month lease (Net Effective: $1866)
Between the dog run and abundance of nearby green space, this rental is a great option for pet owners. Modern finishes include designer Italian cabinetry, a rain shower and Grohe faucets in the bathroom, in-unit laundry, hardwood floors and a large walk-in closet in the bedroom.
At 850 square feet plus a balcony, there is plenty of room for entertaining. If you’re bringing large furniture pieces such as an L-shaped couch, dining table, or king sized bed to your new apartment, property 18 could be a great option for you!
Do you entertain often? Between the extra half bathroom by the entry, spacious balcony, kitchen island seating, and a living room large enough for an L-shaped couch plus 8 person dining table, property 14 is ideal if you plan on having company.
Certainly. at 908 square feet, this apartment is one of the more spacious 1 bedroom layouts in the market. Additionally, notable features include 9 foot ceilings, in-unit laundry, and 2 walk-in closets in the bedroom. This pet friendly building also offers a dog run.
Pricing: $1896
This Lakeshore East 1 bedroom apartment features a modern kitchen with quartz counter tops, stainless appliances, and a gas range. The large balcony is great for entertaining and offers sweeping views of downtown Chicago.
This apartment features in-unit laundry, ample closet space, hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Better yet- the rent price includes heat, air-conditioning, internet, cable (Showtime & HBO), gas, sewer, water and trash removal.
Pricing: $2021 + 1 month free on a 12 month lease (Net Effective: $1853)
The Fulton District joins the River North and West Loop neighborhoods. If you’re looking for a great value for rent in a prime location, check out this Fulton District convertible. This apartment features in-unit laundry, granite countertops, a kitchen island, and large windows to maximize natural light.
In addition to a large, 2-room fitness center, landscaped terrace, and billiards room, this apartment building offers a multitude of convenience-based features and services such as a resident coffee bar, co-working space with printing, door staff, and on-site dry-cleaning and bodega.
Pricing: $1806
For more information on luxury apartments for rent within your price range, contact us today. We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
We take a lot of factors into consideration when decorating an apartment. We pick new color schemes, hang our favorite paintings, and try to find that perfect feng shui. Many times, finding the ideal balance of style, comfort and serenity means including fresh flowers or living plants. Unfortunately, not all flowers and house plants are suitable for homes with pets, and many of them can cause serious illness if ingested by our furry friends. These common house plants are ones you should avoid having in your home if you live in a pet-friendly environment.
Aloe vera plants are common house plants that have been praised for their medicinal uses, but while the plants can be helpful to humans, they are often harmful for pets. The toxicity of aloe plants is in the skin and inner layers of the plant and is not typically found in the interior gel. Pets that ingest the leafy parts of the plant may experience diarrhea, vomiting or tremors. Be sure to keep aloe vera plants in a place your pets cannot reach if you prefer to have them in your home for medicinal purposes.
The holiday season often means decorating your apartment with festive holiday plants, such as poinsettia or mistletoe. Poinsettia unfortunately exudes a milky sap that can cause oral irritation, diarrhea or vomiting. Mistletoe contains the toxins pharatoxin viscumin and toxalbumin, which can cause gastrointestinal problems and even cardiac collapse in the most severe instances. Consider using fake versions of these plants for holiday decorations instead.
Sago palms, also known as cardboard palms or coontie palms, may look like a taste of the tropics in your home, but they are house plants poisonous to cats and dogs. Ingestion of the plant’s cycasin toxin can lead to symptoms as simple as increased thirst and vomiting to the extremes of liver failure, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis or death. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your pet has ingested the toxins of a sago palm.
Tulips are beautiful, and if you purchase a bouquet of flowers during springtime, they’ll probably be included. However, tulips contain the toxic principles tulipalin A and B, which can cause diarrhea, depression, hypersalivation and vomiting. The highest concentration of toxic principles is found in the bulb.
English ivy is another one of the several toxic plants for cats and dogs. Also known as sweetheart ivy, it’s commonly used as a decorative plant indoors. Though when English ivy is ingested, it can lead to irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and mouth — as well as abdominal pain, excessive salivation and diarrhea. Use nontoxic Swedish ivy instead.
Many pet owners ask, “Are orchids poisonous for cats or dogs?” The answer is often ambiguous. Phalaenopsis orchids are nontoxic for your domesticated pets. However, while orchids are house plants safe for dogs and cats, it’s wise to keep your animals away from them. Fertilizers and pesticides may have been used on the plants before purchase, and your pets could consume those toxic chemicals if allowed to nibble on the leaves.
It’s important to note that while some house plants are dangerous for pets, most of them are not. Consult the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® searchable database for a complete list of nontoxic and toxic house plants, so you can decorate your home in a way that looks and feels pleasant without causing any harm to your furry family members.
The crack-of-dawn blender user, the late-night AC/DC listener, the dog that barks at falling leaves. If you’ve lived in an apartment, you’ve probably dealt with a noisy neighbor. Sometimes it’s easier than others to pop in earplugs and go back to sleep. However, apartment life doesn’t mean you constantly have to sacrifice your serenity and relaxation to accommodate those living around you. The following ways to deal with noisy neighbors and other essential apartment living hacks can help ensure your apartment is the sanctuary you’ve been seeking.
The quest of creating a comfortable apartment environment begins before moving into your space. Ask the landlord or leasing agent about which floors or areas of the apartment complex are the quietest, and inquire about any recent noise complaints. Higher floors tend to be quieter than lower floors.
Communication is key to understanding your neighbors and coexisting in an apartment complex with minimal issues. Neighbors are typically unaware that they’re disturbing someone, so before consulting the landlord, speak directly to your neighbor about what’s bothering you. Ask for a phone number, so you can text him or her if the noise is too loud.
Sometimes neighbors are not as neighborly as we’d like, and complaints must be brought to the landlord for action to be taken. Many times, there are bylaws or lease clauses that allow your landlord to take more formal measures against the noisemaking. This way, the noisemaking is documented. If it continues, you may ultimately watch a new, hopefully quieter, neighbor move in.
Apartments are typically smaller than most single-family homes, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. Save space by using over-the-door storage racks, hooks and even risers to create storage space underneath your bed. Think about creating more vertical space when horizontal space is limited.
Renting an apartment usually means you don’t want to dump a lot of money into the space that you won’t get back when it’s time to move. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways to upgrade your space with budget-friendly items or those that you can take with you. You may not be able to update the entire bathroom, but you can purchase a new showerhead to make your shower more enjoyable. If you’re interested in a bigger upgrade, ask your landlord for a discount on rent for major improvements. The landlord will often agree, because upgrades will allow him or her to increase rent for future tenants.
Similar to upgrading certain areas of your apartment, you can take several energy-conserving measures to reduce power use and save money. Items as simple as window shades and LED light bulbs can save you a substantial amount of money each month — which can be used toward anything you please, including rent. A programmable thermostat can also guarantee you’re not using an unnecessary amount of heat or air conditioning when you’re not home.
Living in an apartment doesn’t have to be a struggle. Communicate well with your neighbors and landlord, make optimal use of your space, and upgrade items that will improve your daily life — and you’ll quickly see how easy it is to thrive in an apartment setting.
What do clients ask for most in their searches?
Clients always ask for convenient location first and foremost. Although what that means can vary from client to client, for the most part, convenience means being near grocery stores, coffee shops, entertainment, and transit to work. Many clients want to feel like they can walk to most places easily.
The other things my rental clients ask for frequently are closet space in the bedroom and countertop space in the bathroom, especially if there is more than one person who is going to be living in the unit.
My buyer clients tend to care more about layout, view, and HOA information than finishes. Often times clients shop or purchase with renovations already in mind. A lot of times I’ll be in the middle of a showing and a client will say, ‘this reminds me of an idea I got from HGTV!’
What advice would you give to someone looking to rent?
Have an open mind because sometimes the unit you end up falling in love with, isn’t what you’d think you’d like until you see it. I’ll send clients listings and some they’ll love, and about one or two they’ll say ‘maybe’ and more often than not they end up going with the ‘maybe’.
Write down your ‘wants’ and ‘needs’ to help define and prioritize your goals. However, some things aren’t quantifiable so its important to ultimately go with your gut feeling.
What advice would you give someone looking to buy?
Know your personal goals. There are a multitude of reasons someone may decide to buy like tax incentives, square footage, long term investment, rental income, a sense of long-term roots, proprietary control or being able to customize the interiors. It’s important to know your goals so you can select a property that is most in alignment with what you want to accomplish with your purchase.
Are most of your clients new to Chicago? If so, how do you approach acclimating them with the city?
Most of my clients lately have been new to Chicago, which I enjoy because I love showing them around. I always try to learn about their hobbies as an orientation for what kinds of things I think they’ll enjoy. Many of them like taking classes at boutique fitness studios like Crossfit, Barre, or SoulCycle. There’s a fitness studio that focuses on axe throwing. Sometimes I like to tell clients, ‘we Chicagoans don’t get many opportunities to chop lumber, so this is how we satisfy the need’. Who knows? Maybe I’ll take up a new hobby!
I also enjoy pointing out architecture and history. As a born and raised Chicagoan I’ve had the privilege of seeing many changes first hand. For example, when I was growing up, the West Loop was mostly meat markets. I remember going on trips there with my parents to pick up specialty salami and seeing meat hanging on hooks. There’s still a lot of meat in West Loop, but now it’s cooked and on trendy plates. It’s interesting to watch the growth of neighborhoods.
How did you get into real estate?
When I was a kid my parents used to manage three mid-rise apartment buildings. My mom was in charge of screening and tenant management and my dad was in charge of turning units for the next tenant. He did a lot of the maintenance work himself and I would help out. I remember when two and three bedroom condos started becoming really popular. All three rental buildings were converted into condos. That’s another example of the kinds of city changes I got to see first hand. I grew up intimately being around real estate and have loved it since.
Where do you like to go downtown in your free time?
I love River North, especially Hubbard Street, for its food, energy, and night life. For my friends and me, Barrio was our go-to spot this past year. We love their unique tacos, like truffle mushroom.
Tacos at Barrio River North
What is the best holiday activity in downtown Chicago?
Ice skating Maggie Daley park, followed by appetizers and drinks at Park Tavern. It’s never a complete winter without ice skating (even though I’m not very good at it).
Which “tourist” activity never gets old?
Going to the Sears Tower. Even though it’s formally known as the Willis, it’ll always be the Sears to me. Everytime we go its the same thing but with different people, and the different people make it special. I love waiting in the long line in anticipation. Every year I think I’ll have the urge to go on the ledge but I never have. I have a big fear of heights, but I enjoy watching others go on it! I’ll be the first one to volunteer to take their pictures!
Contact Leslie with questions about renting, buying, selling, or getting to know Chicago!
The past two years have been big for West Loop residential development and it shows no signs of slowing in 2019 either. 1125 and 1050 W Van Buren were first revealed in January 2018 by Chicago developer, Tandem Partners, and architecture firm, Antunovich Associates and were approved last week.
Both building exteriors will be metal paneling but 1050 W Van Buren will have more of a rust-color finish and rise 24 stories, while 1125 W Van Buren will have a dark grey finishand rise 21 stories. The two West Loop luxury apartment towers will replace Guy & Sons and Chicago Auto Centers.
Although 1125 W Van Buren will be on a smaller lot than 1050 W Van Buren, both towers will have comparable capacities, at 200 and 201 units, respectively. The majority of units will be studios, 30 percent of rentals will be one bedroom apartments, and just 10 percent of rentals will be designated at two bedroom apartments. Both buildings will include storage for 100 bicycles as well as luxury amenities. Amenities are expected to include fitness centers, roof top pools, and other common areas and lounges which have yet to be described.
There will be just 80 parking spots between the 401 rental apartments in the two transit-oriented buildings. Tandem plans to begin construction with 1125 W Van Buren in the third or fourth quarter of 2019, followed by the construction of 1050 W Van Buren.
Tandem Partners have contributed over $2.5 million into the neighborhood opportunity fund, 10 percent of which will likely be used to improve parks, landscaping, infrastructure, or other communal amenities within one mile of the development. To alleviate concerns about increased traffic in the area, developers included a designated area in their plans where two or more cars could pull out of traffic onto Van Buren, which would limit double parking and absorb some traffic flow from ride share users.
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 DAC team had the pleasure of attending the grand opening for Loukas Development’s The Van Buren, one of the West Loop’s newest luxury high-rises. The event, hosted by CS Modern Luxury, included tours of the artfully styled model units, a ramen bar, and a friendly crowd eager to check out the development. (As you can see, the photo booth also caught our attention!)
One of the most notable takeaways was the quality of the interiors, which feature Nest thermostats, high ceilings, abundant closet space, large windows that maximize natural light, and warm grey cabinetry. Top-of-the-line kitchens include soft-close cabinets, GE stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, spacious layouts, mosaic tile back splashes, and Edge to Edge 30 gas ranges.
Club-grade amenities include ample co-working space, a rooftop grill and lounge terrace, concierge service, onsite dry-cleaning, a modern fitness center, a 4,000 square foot deck on the third floor, and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
With competitive move-in specials, apartments at The Van Buren are sure to go quickly. Contact us today to learn more about the incredible deals available!
By Sophie Morrison
The Belden-Stratford in Lincoln Park is a 297-unit rental building at 2300 N. Lincoln Park West, just steps from the adjacent park. It is also known as the Beaux Arts building and was formerly an historic hotel which opened in 1923. It was recently purchased by PGIM Real Estate in 2013.
This week, Joe Mansueto, the founder of Morningstar, purchased the property for over $100 million, just five months after purchasing the Wrigley Building, another historic Chicago landmark building. Mansueto also bought a 49% stake in the Chicago Fire soccer team this summer.
Little is known about Mansueto’s plans for the Lincoln Park building, which is fully stabilized at 99% occupancy. According to CoStar, the average rent is $2.63 per square foot, a 6% increase over 2017. Rents start around $1250 for efficiency studios, $1925 for 1 bedrooms with shared laundry, $2400 for bedrooms with in-unit laundry, and go up to the mid $3900 range for 2 bedroom apartments with 2.5 baths and in-unit laundry.
Although most units have undergone renovations, the lobby still has historic charm from its days as a high end hotel.
Belden-Stratford Lobby
Lincoln Park Neighborhood
Lincoln Park is known for its bustling nightlife, tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and some of the oldest restaurants frequented by native Chicagoans.
The streets are lined with mansions, restored Victorian flats, modern town homes, and brand new condominiums. Lincoln Park is north of downtown, making it less frequented by tourists and sprinkled with some of Chicago’s oldest gems, including restaurants, taverns, music lounges, parks, and quaint coffee shops.
By Sophie Morrison
Looking for great deals on studio apartments near downtown Chicago? Here are a few of the hottest specials in River North, Streeterville, Gold Coast, and West Loop!
It gets even better- all the listings below are pet and dog friendly apartments!
Property 75
Property 75 in the Gold Coast is a charming, classic building that just remodeled its units and fitness amenities! If you value great finishes, storage space, and location as your top priorities in your apartment search, this building could be the right fit for you! Bathrooms have gorgeous white marble, lighted mirrors, and jetted tubs. Most studio layouts offer high ceilings, great closet space, hardwood floors, and separate kitchens with breakfast bars.
Do you have a queen sized bed and lots of clothes? Check out property 75!
(If you prefer to have larger furniture pieces and finishes aren’t as important to you as living space, skip to property 43 below!)
$1350 + $500 off first full month of rent
Property 5
River North Property 5 features luxury rentals with in-unit laundry, granite countertops, hardwood floors, high ceilings, and lots of closet space. Between direct access to the River Walk, free hot beverages in the lobby, on-site dry-cleaning, 96 walk score, complementary storage, on-site dog run, and 24 hour door staff, residents love the convenience the building offers.
Rooftop terrace with fire pits, grill stations, hot tub, pool, gazeebo, and free wifi
$1610 + 1 month free on 12 months or 2 months free on 16 months
Property 43
Property 43 is located in the heart of Streeterville. These spacious apartments offer abundant closet space and room for larger furniture pieces, even in most studio layouts. Large windows allow for maximum natural light and gorgeous lake views. At 600+ feet, most studio layouts at this building are larger than most 1 bedroom apartments at other buildings. Do you value space as your top priority in an apartment? If so, Property 43 may be right for you!
$1435 + $1000 off first full month of rent
And last but certainly not least…
Property 161
This West Loop apartment building is offering unprecedented specials with up to 4 months free rent! Finishes are modern and luxurious, featuring quartz countertops, porcelain tile, glass stand-up showers, pendant lighting, hardwood floors, and in-unit laundry. Although this property offers plenty of amenities, including a rooftop pool and a club-grade fitness center, the 4,000 square foot patio deck is one of our favorites!
$1950 + 3 months free on 18 months or 4 months free on 30 months + 1 month free parking
This is brand new property! Please contact us directly for more information.
By Sophie Morrison
Do you telecommute or like to work outside the office? We love Starbucks just as much as the next crew, but sometimes its great to switch up your environment. Check out some of our favorite “work from home” spots in the River North, West Loop, and West Town neighborhoods!
West Town Bakery- West Town (with locations in River North and Wrigleyville)
West Town Bakery serves up unique pastries, diner fare, and Dark Matter coffee, which is known for being extra strong and flavorful. Although there are many bakeries with awesome food selections, this one made our list because of the abundant seating space and wireless printer, from PrintWithMe. West Town Bakery also has great daily specials. Stop in from 7am-9am daily for a $5 coffee-and-pastry special.
3 Greens Market and Coffee- River North
3 Greens is so much more than the average coffee shop; Its a one stop-shop for many famous Chicago favorites including the Au Cheval burger, Dillman’s pastrami, and Green Street smoked meats, as well as hot and cold salad bars, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. Unlike the coffee shops that close in the early evening, this work from home spot is open until 8pm. 3 Greens Market has eclectic decor with a variety of seating from large sofas and recliner chairs, 2-person tables, and bar seating, to long 12-person tables and standard 4-person tables.
The quirky, charming vibe feels more akin to being at a ski lodge than in the middle of downtown Chicago.
Click here for more information on luxury apartments near River North!
Limitless Coffee- West Loop
It’s hard to find something that isn’t spectacular at Limitless Coffee. The all white and gold decor, large windows, and skylights make Limitless a bright space with plenty of natural light. The large conference table in the back has its own white board on the wall for larger meetings and additional 2-seater tables and booths for smaller meetings.
Limitless customers enjoy the famous, very instagrammable lattes, including: charcoal-glitter (it’s much better than it sounds), rose-beet, reishi mushroom, and matcha, as well as a large selection of avocado toasts.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters- West Loop
The functional space at this West Loop coffee shop includes abundant countertop seating and outlets at every chair. Stumptown Coffee Roasters is in the lobby of the Ace Hotel and offers standard beverages, like drip coffee and espresso drinks, as well as unique options like kombuchade.
Click here for more information on luxury apartments near West Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Property 106 is a loft style building in the heart of Streeterville.
The industrial-style interiors include hardwood floors, stainless steel efficient appliances, gas ranges, and spacious closets. Although all apartments include in-unit washer and dryer, most units also include full sized laundry rooms– a rare luxury in a rental apartment.
Full-sized laundry rooms
Exposed brick and ductwork with high ceilings are just a few of the accents that give these loft apartments charm. One of our favorite features is the NANA wall– accordion style glass walls that lead to your balcony, open fully, and turn your living room into an indoor-outdoor space.
NANA wall
Property 106 includes plenty of indoor, outdoor, and pet amenities. Relax by the fireplace in the waterfront lounge, which opens to the building’s private portion along the Riverwalk. The fitness center is complete with state-of-the art equipment including TRX straps, training ropes, heavy punching bags, free weights, cardio machines, and free group fitness classes led by ChiTown Trainer.
The movie screening room indoor lounge are great spots for entertaining groups, large or small. This rental property also offers multiple conveniences including an onsite business center conference room, dog wash station, Pressbox dry-cleaning and laundry service, 24-hour front desk concierge, and onsite maintenance.
Head outside to enjoy the expansive rooftop terrace, complete with grilling stations, outdoor wifi to work from home, and plenty of spread out seating for entertaining your guests or having some quiet time to yourself.
Rooftop terrace
Streeterville is the place to find tranquility between Lake Michigan and the tree-lined streets, or lively, fast-paced Chicago action steps from downtown. Stop by one of Streeterville’s many brunch hot spots or grab tea at the iconic Drake Hotel. Check out the famous Ferris wheel and fireworks at Navy Pier. This neighborhood is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, Loyola Law School, and Northwestern Hospital.
In addition to being within close proximity to the Loop and walking distance from the heart of downtown Chicago, Lakeshore drive runs through Streeterville, allowing easy access to the neighborhoods further north or south. Avoid commuter traffic by taking Lower Wacker Drive or one of multiple bike baths, which both run directly through Streeterville.
By Sophie Morrison
The question of Rent vs. Buy depends on the properties in question, Chicago’s real estate market, and your personal circumstances and goals.
In certain climates, it is wiser to keep your assets liquid to capitalize on any general price drops. In a more bearish market, some homebuyers like to think of houses as being “on sale”. Prices tend to be lower, as do interest rates.
Furthermore, the market can vary by neighborhood and price point. Each area is its own economic ecosystem so its important to work with a knowledgeable broker who can keep you informed on which inventory is most likely to appreciate.
Home Buyers in Chicago Say That:
Renters in Chicago Say That:
Our home sales division, Downtown Realty Company, recently sat down with Huffington Post to discuss 6 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Buying a House.
Important questions included:
Other important questions to consider include:
By Sophie Morrison
It’s that time of year again for Chicagoans to bundle up! If you work near the Loop, Aon Center, O’Hare International Airport, Chase Tower, City Hall, or Merchandise Mart, here are some luxury apartments that will allow you to commute without going outside!
Property 111- The Loop
Get to these locations without going outside:
These Loop luxury apartments have direct, secured access to the CTA red and blue line trains from inside the building.
One of the greatest perks of living along the blue line is direct access to O’Hare International Airport! That’s right– if you live at property 111, you could get from your apartment to anywhere in the world without going outside! Who wouldn’t want that convenience on a blustery winter day?
Property 111 also provides direct access to Chicago City Hall without going outside.
The blue line also runs through Chicago’s Western neighborhoods including Bucktown, Wicker Park, UIC campus, River West, West Loop, and Logan Square. The red line goes South past Columbia College and Museum Campus, around the Loop, and North through River North, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and along the lake past Loyola and DePaul Universities. If you work near any of these locations and are looking to cut your commute time, the luxury apartments at property 111 could be right for you!
Rentals at property 111 start around $1900 and include washer and dryer in unit.
Property 2- Lakeshore East
Get to these locations without going outside:
Luxury apartments at Lakeshore East property 2 offer residents direct access to the Chicago Pedway system.
The Chicago Pedway is a system of underground tunnels linking more than 40 blocks of downtown Chicago, covering a total of five miles. The Pedway connects public and private buildings, CTA and metro stations, and is lined with convenient shops and restaurants along the way. Pedway users liken the feeling inside the Pedway more to an airport terminal than a tunnel.
A list of all buildings accessible via the Pedway system
Rentals at property 2 start around $1795 and include washer and dryer in unit.
Property 34- Lakeshore East (*Value Building*)
Get to these locations without going outside:
Property 34 is connected to the same part of the Pedway system as property 2 and could be a strong alternative if your price range is more price sensitive. Property 34 has its own dry-cleaner on site and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and Navy Pier’s Ferris wheel and fireworks!
Rentals at property 34 start around $1695 and offer shared laundry.
Property 138- River North (Merchandise Mart)
Get to these locations with <1 block outside:
Okay, this one is a bit of a stretch. You will have to go outside, but not far!
River North property 138 is connected to the RX Bar building as well as several popular spots in its retail space including Joe & The Juice juice bar and coffee spot, and Brown Bag Seafood Co, a casual seafood restaurant with reasonable prices. Property 138 is under a block from Merchandise Mart and the brown line train. The brown line CTA also provides access around the Loop and North through Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and past DePaul and Northeastern Universities.
See the gallery below for more photos of a 1 bedroom layout at property 138!
Rentals at property 138 start around $1995 and include washer and dryer in unit.
By Sophie Morrison
High-rise adjacent townhomes offer convenient access to the benefits of high-rise apartment living with the privacy and space of having your own home. Check out these luxury townhomes for rent!
Property 21- River North
River North’s Property 21 split-level townhomes have direct access to a sprawling, second-story outdoor terrace. The landscaped terrace features fire pits, outdoor wifi, grill stations, seating and entertaining areas, as well as access to other amenities including the fitness center, a heated indoor lap pool, and indoor lounges.
Gas grills are available first come, first serve to all residents
The full foyer entryway and half bath powder room on the lower level create a house-like feeling. Interiors feature premium appliances, in-unit laundry, vinyl wood flooring, large bedrooms that can comfortably accommodate king size beds, and spacious walk-in closets as well as linen closets.
Large windows for maximum natural light
2 Bed/1.5 Bath townhomes start at $2600.
Property 108-South Loop
South Loop Property 108 offers 2-story residences with high ceilings, hardwood floors throughout, a laundry room, and an attached private garage with a mud room entrance, as well as sidewalk-level front doors. Select units also have private terraces. Townhomes also feature penthouse-grade finishes with tiled, glass-encased showers, spacious bathroom vanities, and quartz countertops.
3 Bed + Den/3.5 Bath townhomes start at $6600.
Property 139- River West
The townhomes at River West Property 139 are essentially penthouses on the ground level. Each two-level home has upgraded, penthouse finishes, a private attached garage that leads to a mudroom entry, a sidewalk-facing front door entrance, and a laundry room. Each walk-in closet is complete with Elfa shelving and each kitchen has stainless appliances, a gas slide-in range, quartz countertops, and high ceilings.
Detailed pictures of exact units can be found in the gallery at the bottom of the page.
3 Bed/2.5 Bath townhomes start at $6500.
3 bedroom townhome sample floor plan
By Sophie Morrison
It’s no surprise that Lakeshore East, also known as the New East Side, has grown increasingly popular in recent years.
Although this downtown neighborhood is steps from Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the Loop, Lakeshore East is a tree-lined, tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life and steps to the lake front.
GEMS World Academy already has a popular private school in the neighborhood which services grades K-9 and is now developing a school for grades 8-12.
The 13-story building is expected to accommodate 1,440 students.
Initial renderings from architecture firm bKL are quite impressive and show student amenities including a landscaped rooftop overlooking the Chicago River, a media workshop and digital theatre, a 500-seat auditorium, an indoor gymnasium, and a two-story library.
GEMS students will have access to fresh air on the rooftop terrace
GEMS is on track to open in 2019 at 355 E Upper Wacker Drive, between Coast Apartments and the Wanda Vista Tower development.
The 6-acre park in the center of the neighborhood has gorgeous landscaping, fountains, and free wifi. Village Market houses Mariano’s grocery store, Filini contemporary Italian dining, III Forks Steakhouse, MingHin Chinese restaurant, as well as other shops, coffee shops, and a nail salon. Lakeshore East is also one of Chicago’s most dog friendly neighborhoods.
Lakeshore East is blocks from CTA train stations serviced by brown, orange, green, red, blue, and pink line trains, which access to Midway and O’Hare International airports. Millennium Station provides access to the northern, southern, and western suburbs via the Metra trains. Many buildings in Lakeshore East connect to the Pedway, and underground system of walkways frequently used by locals in the wintertime. The Pedway is lined with plenty of restaurants, stores, salons, and after work hangouts. The entrances to Lakeshore Drive and Lower Wacker Drive are both in close proximity as well.
By Sophie Morrison
Lincoln Common is a massive, mixed-use development coming to the popular Lincoln Park neighborhood.
Development
Lincoln Common is being developed by McCaffery and Hines Interests and designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the same firm which designed the John Hancock Center.
When completed, the mixed-use development will have 100,000 square feet of retail, 538 rental apartments, 40 luxury condos, a 5-story boutique office building, an 850 stall parking garage, a senior living facility with 156 rooms, and over an acre of open space, according to the developers’ website.
Studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments will be available for rent.
This transit-oriented project will be in close proximity to the Fullerton stop on the CTA red, brown, and purple line trains as well as bike lanes, and will provide a bike and car ride share program.
Lincoln Common is seeking LEED certification and will have 50% green rooftops.
Location
Lincoln Park is known for its bustling nightlife, tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and some of the oldest restaurants frequented by native Chicagoans. With its pubs, summer street fairs, theater, bike trails, and historic buildings, Lincoln Park has entertainment options for everyone.
Lincoln Park is also home to some of Chicago’s most recognized artistic spots and vibrant music scene. Some nearby attractions include the Lincoln Park Zoo, Fullerton Beach, DePaul University, and art house movie and improv theaters.
Lincoln Park is north of downtown, making it less frequented by tourists and sprinkled with some of Chicago’s oldest gems, including restaurants, taverns, music lounges, and quaint coffee shops.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Downtown Chicago is known for its world class architecture and was rated the Best Big City by Conde Nast, for the 2nd time. Here are a few iconic must-see buildings near downtown.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near John Hancock Center? Click here!
Merchandise Mart
At 4 million square feet, Merchandise Mart is so large that it even has its own zip code! Although Merchandise Mart was built in the 1930s, today it is home to many cutting-edge technology companies, including the start-up incubator, 1871. Merchandise Mart tenants love the convenience of having direct access to the CTA brown and purple line trains…as well as an awesome food court!
The Chicago Loop Alliance also launched, Art on theMart, where iconic art work is projected onto the 2.5 acres of Merchandise Mart’s exterior. See the video below!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Merchandise Mart? Click here!
Willis Tower
The Willis Tower, still often referred to as the Sears Tower by locals, was completed in 1973 and at 1729 feet to the tip of its antenna, held the title of the world’s tallest building for many years. The Willis Tower is currently undergoing a $500 million renovation that will include an expansion of the Skydeck, a popular tourist attraction that allows visitors to see unparalleled views of Chicago and the surrounding area.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Willis Tower? Click here!
Aon Center
The Aon Center was completed in 1973 and originally known as the Standard Oil Building. The facade was originally wrapped in Italian marbled, rumored to cost more to import than the marble, itself cost. However, when the marble began to deteriorate and break off it was deemed structurally unsafe. Today the Aon Center is clad in white granite.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Aon Center? Click here!
Tribune Tower
This Neo-Gothic skyscraper was designed by John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood and won a competition held by the Chicago Tribune newspaper in 1922. The Tribune Tower’s exterior includes fragments of other iconic buildings around the world including Angkor Wat, the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Pyramids. The building was purchased by CIM Group and Chicago based Golub & Co in August of 2016.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Tribune Tower? Click here!
The Rookery Building
The Rookery Building, one of the oldest downtown buildings in Chicago, was designed in the 1880s by the prolific Burnham & Root architecture firm. The lobby was renovated by the legendary architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, in 1905. The Rookery Building is known for its grand spiral staircase and glassy atrium.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near The Rookery Building? Click here!
Thompson Center
Like The Rookery Building, the Thompson Center is known for its glassy atrium and eye-catching lobby. This postmodern building was designed in 1985 by Helmut Jahn and is home to many local and state government offices, direct access to the CTA blue, brown, orange, green, and purple line trains.
Looking for downtown Chicago luxury apartments for rent near the Thompson Center? Click here!
By Sophie Morrison
2018 has been a big year for River West between the successful lease up of Spoke, a mixed-use, two-tower high-rise, the approval of 742 N. Aberdeen, a 188-unit rental building, and the groundbreaking of Avenir luxury apartments.
New Construction
Avenir luxury apartments are under development at the corner of Milwaukee Avenue and Carpenter Street and is expected to be 23 stories upon completion in quarter four of 2019. The glass and brick River West high-rise will include 226 apartment units, 97 parking stalls, and 2,300 square feet of retail space. Like Spoke and 742 N. Aberdeen, Avenir will be a transit-oriented development, less than a block from the CTA Blue Line.
Renderings show that Avenir will have a glass and brick exterior
Although there is much about this River West development that has yet to be announced, early renderings suggest that Avenir will be an amenity building with plenty of rooftop green space.
A rendering of Avenir outdoor amenity deck
Location
River West residents love the neighborhood’s central location. The neighborhood is known as being home to part of Chicago’s newest and most vibrant dining scene. A local favorite is The Dawson, which brews its own in-house liquors and serves innovative takes on old fashioned favorites, like chicken-fried lobster and offers a laid-back, trendy vibe and weekly specials.
In addition to being walking distance from the downtown Loop and River North areas, commuters can opt to take the CTA blue line L downtown or directly to O’Hare International Airport. Nearby Union and Ogilvie Stations go to the southern, western, and northern suburbs via Metra Trains and to several states around the country via Amtrak trains. The Kennedy expressway is also blocks away for those who prefer to drive.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
4 bedroom apartments can be hard to come by in downtown Chicago. Here are a few of our favorites!
Property 1335- University Village/Medical District
This brand new luxury apartment building is located blocks from Illinois Medical District, Rush, and UIC, with easy access to the CTA blue line. Open concept 4 bedroom/2 bath apartments feature 10 foot ceilings, plank flooring, and high-end appliances. Each kitchen has quartz countertops, pendant lighting, and plentiful storage.
Each apartment also features a large balcony, spacious bedrooms, modern bathroom finishes, as well as in in-unit washer and dryer.
4 bedroom apartments start at $4100 and 1,850 square feet.
Contact us for more information!
Property 88- Gold Coast
*1 Month Free*
Gold Coast Property 88 has a reputation for being one of the most luxurious rental buildings in Chicago.
Features include 7″ plank hardwood floors in all living areas, hallways, and bedrooms, 9′ ceilings, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Viking gas range, microwave and dishwasher, 3cm stone countertops, marble and porcelain tile flooring, LED lighting, elegant soaker tubs, frameless glass shower doors, and in-unit washer/dryer.
At 3,435 square feet, this 4 bedroom apartment is larger than most homes.
4 Bed/3.5 Bath Floorpan
Amenities include a club-grade fitness center, hot tub, pool with sundeck and a poolside cafe, sauna, massage treatment room, yoga classes, dry-cleaning and concierge services, a resident spa and salon, heated parking garage, and several lounges with wifi as well as multiple pet amenities.
4 bedroom apartments start at $12,493 and 3,435 square feet.
Click here for more information!
Property 67- River North
This 4 bedroom apartment in River North is a townhome-style, 2 story apartment with modern kitchens, hardwood flooring, in-unit laundry, large closets, and spectacular amenities.
4 bedroom apartments start at $6145 and 2,080 square feet.
Click here for more information!
By Sophie Morrison
The weather is cooling off but apartment deals are heating up! Here are some of our favorite deals on luxury apartments downtown this week.
Property 139- Chicago/Milwaukee
Studio/1 Bath, From $1525
Property 139 is a brand new River West high-rise with resort-like amenities and modern interiors. Kitchen finishes include quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, kitchen islands, gas ranges, and unique layouts. Each unit has sleek, stylish hardwood floors, in-unit laundry, floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom Elfa walk-in closets.
Amenities include a “jam” room with instruments and pool table, a 15th-floor skylounge, indoor and outdoor fire places, several work-from-home spaces, a recording studio, and movie theatre. A 1-acre landscaped rooftop terrace features a hot tub, bocce and spike ball, fire pits, a pool with cabanas, hammocks, and grill stations with an outdoor pizza oven. Multiple fitness amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center with TRX, a squat rack, cardio and weight equipment, a boxing simulator, and a peloton spin bike studio. There are also 2 private training rooms where free yoga and HIIT classes are held twice per week. Coffee, tea, and fruit-infused water is available to residents in the lobby.
15th Floor Skylounge
This pet-friendly building also features dog amenities, including a heated dog run and pet spa.
Property 14- Clark/Polk
1 Bed/1.5 Bath, $1751
These South Loop luxury apartments feature nine foot ceilings, walk-in closets, balconies, and hardwood floors throughout. The modern kitchens have granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and floor-to-ceiling windows for maximum natural sun light. All units in the building have an in-unit washer and dryer.
At 886 square feet, this large 1 bedroom apartment is perfect for anyone looking for maximum space.
Property 75- Michigan/Chestnut
2 Bed/2 Bath, $2309
*1 Month Free*
Kitchen finishes at Property 75
What is most important to you in an apartment? If a high walk score and abundant closet space made the top of your list, you’ll love these Gold Coast apartments. Each unit features espresso plank flooring, stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. In-unit laundry is available in select units.
The market rent on this 2 bedroom layout starts at $2309. After the 1 month free on a 12 month lease, the rent nets to just $2117!
Newly updated fitness center
The rooftop terrace offers free high-speed wifi
Prices can change daily, so if you’re looking for more information on great apartment deals in downtown Chicago, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
By Sophie Morrison
2018 has been a big year of growth for Chicago’s South Loop rental market. One new South Loop development, NEMA, will become Chicago’s tallest skyscraper South of the Willis Tower at 76 stories, 893 feet tall. The project is being developed by Crescent Heights, and designed by world-renowned architect, Rafael Viñoly.
Exterior Rendering of NEMA in the South Skyline
NEMA is a building of many names, as it is also known as One Grant Park, and was formerly known as 1200 S Indiana and 113 E Roosevelt. So what is “NEMA”? The NEMA brand is a group of luxury high-rises, developed by Crescent Heights, in major metropolitan areas around the U.S. with existing developments in San Francisco and Boston.
Rendering of an Amenity Space at NEMA
Residents of all NEMA properties receive benefits when traveling to other properties in the network, such as use of amenities and guest suites.
Chicago’s NEMA will feature 70,000 square feet of amenities and sweeping views of both Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Although not much is known about apartment interiors, we can expect high-end flooring, state-of-the-art appliances, and a neutral toned color palette if they are anything like the interiors of the San Francisco development.
Studio Interior at NEMA San Francisco
NEMA is slated for delivery in 2019 and will offer 800 luxury rental apartments.
Looking for more information on apartments for rent near Chicago’s South Loop? Click here!
Sample Views From NEMA
Russland Capital partnered with LendLease and BVK Group in their newest mixed-use development, 1407 on Michigan. Russland Capital is a Chicago-based developer with many residential and commercial projects.
As their previous residential projects have been condominiums for sale, this is their first property of rental apartments. Russland Capital is truly part of the South Loop community. Although they are already based in the South Loop, they are moving their headquarters to the amenity level inside the 1407 on Michigan development– giving “close to home” a literal meaning.
Based on the high quality interior finishes and thoughtful layouts, it doesn’t take an expert to see that Russland truly brought their condo expertise to the apartment market.
1407 on Michigan offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments, each with in-unit laundry, gas stoves, hardwood floors, abundant storage space, floor-to-celing windows, and quartz countertops.
Select units also feature balconies and walk-in closets.
Bathrooms offer glass-encased showers, state-of-the-art appliances, great cabinet storage space, large mirrors, and even double-vanity sinks in select units.
Double-Vanity Sinks
Looking for luxury apartments at a lower price range? Check out the studio and convertible layouts!
These apartments start in the $1500s including 1 month free rent!
Studio layouts feature plenty of closet space and are spacious enough to fit a living room area as well as an eat-in kitchen:
Studio Kitchen
All units, regardless of size, feature a designated entry area– one of many details that gives these apartments a condo-like feeling:
Foyer in a studio layout
Convertible layouts offer spacious living rooms, large enough to fit a full-sized dining table as well as full living room. These convertible apartments are really more like 1 bedroom apartments, sans door, of course.
Convertible apartment floor plans at 1407 on Michigan also offer a fully separated bedroom area.
1407 on Michigan also features extensive amenities. From a Himalayan salt sauna, relaxing pool terrace, yoga classes, a fire pit, movie theatre, billiards and entertaining floor, to the basketball court and club-quality fitness center, 1407 on Michigan really has it all.
Pool Terrace with Cabanas
Himalayan Salt Sauna
Fitness Center
1407 S Michigan also allows all dog breeds. If you’re looking for pet and dog friendly apartments near downtown Chicago, this could be the building for you!
By Sophie Morrison
Flats’ newest River North luxury apartment building, The Ardus, is a pet-friendly community offering studio, 1 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments. Each unit offers in-unit laundry, a gas range, and stunning flooring throughout.
Apartments at The Ardus are contemporary, minimalist, and homey, all at the same time. The white mosaic-tiled backsplashes, pendant lighting, white quartz countertops, and wood and gold accents are some of the details that make these loft-like interiors so eye-catching.
Bathrooms feature plenty of under-vanity storage space, deep sinks, chic lighting, and glass-enclosed showers with rain-style shower heads.
The Ardus also features a multitude of resident amenities. Residents enjoy lounging on the rooftop terrace, both day and night, spending time in the indoor bar-like common space, and making full use of the comprehensive selection of equipment in the fitness center.
Amenity areas also include wifi, perfect if you work from home.
Studio apartments at The Ardus start at $1650, a steal for the area. For more information the luxury apartment market in and near River North, as well as apartment availability, click here.
By Sophie Morrison
Looking for things to do near Streeterville this weekend?
The 54th Chicago International Film Festival
The 54th Chicago International Film Festival begins October 11th and continues through October 21st at AMC River East in Streeterville. The festival will bring over 150 films from around the world. Multiple directors, producers, and actors are expected to be in attendance. Tickets for screenings start at $8 and range up to $150 for festival related events.
Fall Yoga
Start your weekend off right in Streeterville! Stop by Navy Pier on Saturday morning, October 13th, at 10am for yoga sponsored by VibeUP. Bring your own yoga mat and head to the Polk Bros Park Performance Lawns. All levels of yoga ability are welcome!
If you’re looking for things to do near Lincoln Park, check out Bloody Mary Fest!
Bloody Mary Fest
Lincoln Park’s Bloody Mary Fest will take place Sunday, October 14th at Theater on the Lake, the 2400 block of Lakeshore Drive. Innovative Bloody Marys from Chicago’s Bloody Mary Competition 6 will be featured. (You may even find Bloody Marys garnished with other Bloody Marys). Tickets are $30 and doors open at 12pm.
All ages things to do near downtown Chicago this weekend:
Boo At The Zoo
Ferrara Candy Company will be hosting its annual Halloween event at Brookfield Zoo from Saturday, October 13th through October 28th. This all ages event will feature hay rides, carnival games, a carousel, and other fall themed activities. Wear your costume and come visit your favorite animals!
Willis Tower Farmers Market
The Willis Tower Farmers Market will be held the last three Fridays in October, beginning October 12th at 7am. Stop by for fresh produce and flowers in this convenient Loop location, 233 S. Wacker Drive.
By Sophie Morrison
The Paragon, a 47-story contemporary mixed-use high-rise, will offer 7,500 square feet of retail space as well as 500 luxury units that will range in size from studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. The luxury rental building will be located in the South Loop at 1326 South Michigan and is expected to open its doors in Spring of 2019.
The contractor, Walsh Construction, is no stranger to building this high quality caliber of inventory. Walsh’s portfolio includes multiple other South Loop luxury apartment buildings, including 1001 S. State and this year’s Alta Roosevelt. Co-developer, CIM group, was also responsible for developing the popular Marquee at Block 37 high-rise in 2016.
Kitchen finishes at CIM group’s 2016 Loop development, Marquee at Block 37
What we can expect in terms of the interiors at The Paragon is yet to be announced. However, early renderings suggest that amenities will be state-of-the-art.
Pool Deck Rendering
Amenities at The Paragon will include a co-working space with a library, multiple resident lounges, a spa with a steam room, sauna, and hot tub, and a 47th floor sky lounge entertainment room. Outdoor amenities will include a pool deck with cabanas, multiple grill stations, and a dog park.
The Paragon will have a glassy exterior, reflecting the lake and skyline.
What do residents love most about South Loop living?
The South Loop is home to an abundance of green space, convenient transportation, cultural attractions, and many grocery stores.
On weekends stop by the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, or Art Institute to soak up some Chicago culture. The scenic lakefront extends to 319 acres of recreational green space, which, in the summer, is used to host live events including the Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza. Grant Park is also a favorite South Loop destination, especially for dog owners because of the adjacent dog park. The South Loop is near Soldier Field, home to the beloved Chicago Bears. Additionally, the South Loop is just a few minutes from McCormick Place, one of the largest conference centers in the United States.
Multiple grocery stores including Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, GoGrocer, and Mariano’s are all located within the South Loop. Lakeshore Drive, I-90/94 (Dan Ryan Expressway), and the LaSalle Street Metra train station are located nearby, as well as the Roosevelt CTA train station, which provides access to the orange line to Midway Airport as well as the red and green line trains.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Moceri + Roszak, an architect and developer duo who have had back-to-back successful lease ups in the residential market, are breaking into the office building market with 145 S. Wells.
The 20-story tower will feature loft-style offices with extensive amenities including an outdoor terrace with fire pits, a wading pool, a bar, and an indoor lounge sporting table tennis, billiards, golf simulators.
Office tenants will have access to many amenities, including an outdoor pool
See the gallery at the bottom of this page for more renderings of the incredible amenities, courtesy of Thomas Roszak Architecture.
The trend of amenity-heavy commercial buildings has increased with the development of 625 W. Adams and 151 N. Franklin, as well as the Union Station and the Old Main Post Office redevelopments. There are also plans to build similar amenities in other Chicago buildings, like the Loop’s Franklin at 222 W. Adams.
Moceri + Roszak are known for incorporating thoughtful design, modern, glass and concrete accents, and building common spaces with a high space-to-resident ratio.
The lobby at Moceri + Roszak’s 2017 development, Linea Apartments
Their 2017 development, Linea Apartments in the Loop, is a boutique-style building with just 265 rental apartments, but features the amount of amenity space typically seen in a building with over 600 units.
Although little is known about the interior finishes at 145 S. Wells, one can speculate there might be a resemblance to the finishes at their residential developments. Given the similarity between their two most recent projects, JeffJack in the West Loop and Linea Apartments in the Loop, it is clear that Moceri + Roszak have their own branded style.
Interior finishes at Linea Apartments
Interior finishes at JeffJack (even the throw pillows look the same)
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 145 S. Wells available now? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Ranking as West Loop’s tallest high rise, 727 West Madison, also known as One South Halsted, is nearing completion by end of 2018. 727 West Madison is being developed as a joint venture between co-developers Fifield Company and F&F Realty and designed by FitzGerald Associates Architects.
This luxury high rise will feature a glassy exterior, sleek interiors, and a cylindrical shape to maximize city skyline views. The plans call for 42-floors, 492 rental units, and more than 10,000 square feet of ground level retail space.
Ranging from studios to three bedrooms, the units are crafted with top-of-the-line finishes.
Individual residences will include stylish plank flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows boasting views of the cityscape and Lake Michigan. In the kitchens, you’ll find chef ready finishes including quartz countertops, flat-paneled cabinets, and high-end stainless steel appliances.
The kitchens are custom with porcelain tile walls and floors with seamless frameless glass shower doors.
An expansive amenity floor will be situated above the parking garage.
Residents and guests alike can enjoy the outdoor amenities including a spacious sun terrace with pool, lounge chairs, cabanas and grilling stations with intimate seating for dining. Inside, residents can find state-of-the-art fitness center with separate yoga, pilates and barre studios. A private massage room can be used at your convenience as well.The screening room with surround sound is the perfect place to extend your immaculate living areas. 727 West Madison will also feature pet amenities, including a dog spa.
The West Loop neighborhood is a bustling area home to some of Chicago’s greatest restaurants. Located near restaurant row on Randolph, you’ll never run out of amazing cuisine options! Great parks and street fairs often line the streets of West Loop, always making for great things to do on weekends.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
2016-2018 have been major years for West Loop residential development. The West Loop office market has grown in parallel, as it has been an increasingly popular destination for corporate relocations.
According to the City of Chicago website, Site Selection magazine recently named Chicago as the “ ‘top metro area in the nation for corporate relocation and investment,’ for the fifth straight year”. In order to be considered a corporate relocation, companies must meet at least one of the following three criteria: (1) $1 million in capital investment, (2) creation of at least 20 new jobs, or (3) have a minimum of 20,000 square feet of operating space.
Site Selection magazine editor, Adam Bruns, attributed Chicago’s high ranking to “housing stock that people can actually afford”. Many speculate that O’Hare’s planned terminal expansion signals an expectation for Chicago’s number of corporate relocations to continue to increase.
Although Chicago, as a whole, received recognition as the top relocation area, the West Loop neighborhood, in particular, has garnered the most attention. In the last few years, notable companies who relocated to the West Loop include McDonald’s headquarters, Google, Ferrara Candy, Walgreens, Motorola, Pinterest, Caterpillar, Kraft Heinz, Sears Holding Corp., Allstate, Knoll Manufacturers, and Aspen Dental Management, which received attention from the mayor’s office in March of 2018 for creating 250 new downtown jobs.
McDonald’s Headquarters at 110 N Carpenter St
Developed by Sterling Bay
Even more striking is the high concentration of tech companies in the West Loop:
Figures curtesy of CBRE
Over 4 million square feet are currently occupied by tech companies in the West Loop. In the Fulton Market sub market, where nearly a quarter of commercial developments are brand new, there is only a 9% vacancy.
Figures curtesy of CBRE
However, tech companies are not the only ones making a major splash in the West Loop. The new West Loop office building, 625 West Adams, is leasing up quickly and attracting high profile tenants from various sectors. It seems the office building market has taken note of the growing popularity of amenities in luxury rental high rises. 625 West Adams will feature a fitness center with a yoga studio, multiple outdoor common spaces, and a 7th floor tenant lounge with access to a terrace. 75% of work space will have direct sunlight during daytime hours.
As of October 10th, it is suspected that CDW will be the anchor tenant at 625 West Adams, making it another major company to find the West Loop an attractive neighborhood to set up an additional office. BMO Harris Bank is also in talks to move their downtown offices to the West Loop near Union Station.
With all the new job opportunities in the West Loop, its safe to say that the luxury rental apartments delivered in the past two years will be absorbed quickly. For more information on the newest rental inventory in the West Loop, click here.
By Sophie Morrison
465 N. Park is the newest luxury apartment building to hit the Streeterville neighborhood, developed by Jupiter Realty and architecture firm Pappageorge Haymes. The new high-rise is managed by Bozzuto.
Stepping into any one of these incredible residential units, you’ll be met with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Designed as two ovals, the curvature of the tower allows for unparalleled views to be achieved from every angle.
Inside the rental units, residents are greeted with impeccable design aesthetics with wall-to-wall hardwood flooring that meets floor-to-ceiling windows that offers surreal views of Chicago. The chef-ready kitchen has beautiful, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, gorgeous quartz countertops, and a full-height backsplash. The detail oriented design extends to the bathroom with beautiful subway tiling, Grohe fixtures, and stunning Kohler undermount sinks.
The expansive amenity spaces throughout 465 N. Park offer unparalleled extensions of your living space for you or your guests to enjoy. When the weather is nice enjoy the luxuries of a massive pool deck with private cabanas and lounge seating. Lounge around multiple fireplaces while taking in the views of the city. Outdoor grilling areas with intimate seating is the perfect place to host your guests. Head to the sky deck to bask in the unbeatable views and additional lounge spaces.
Inside, you’ll find a state-of-the-art fitness center with private spin and yoga rooms as well. A spa room adds saunas and a hot tub for all year use. Check out the pool table and demonstration kitchen, perfect for entertaining! For your furry friend, an on-site dog run and dog spa are perfect!
The exceptional, one-of-a-kind detail that has gone into every inch of this building is evident from the moment you enter the lobby and are greeted by the spiral grand stairway and attentive door staff. Don’t miss your chance to call 465 N Park your home today!
Looking for luxury apartments near Streeterville? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The massive $1 billion redevelopment of the historic Union Station has been reworked following the release of the initial proposal. The plans had included a seven-story apartment complex atop the landmarked Beaux Arts building which is no longer part of the proposal.
The new plan now calls for a single-story addition to the station’s historic 1925 headhouse building – to which the upper levels will house two hotels with 400 guests suites and an office space for Amtrak as well. The penthouse level will aim to blend seamlessly into the building’s existing architecture and will not be seen from street level.
The original rendering
To absorb the expected increase in traffic around the hotel at Union Station, the traffic management plan will work to reduce the drop offs on Adams. A hotel entrance will be added on the Jackson Street, retail space on Clinton and the valet will be relocated to the interior of the building.
The second phase of redevelopment will take aim at Amtrak’s parking lot structure just south of the transit center. The area there will be made into a brand new 50-story, 715 foot tall office tower. Designed by Chicago’s Goettsch Partners, the tower will feature a sleek, glassy facade with a 3 setback and angled columns at the base. This phase will also feature a 1.5-acre park and plaza open to the public.
Though it has yet to go through the entire approval process, the new reimagined plan is striking better public endorsement. Located in the West Loop neighborhood, this project will help with traffic and add new construction to the booming area. The bustling travel hub will become more accessible and add a modern asset to the charming history already preserved there.
The Lakeshore East neighborhood (also know as the New East Side or East Loop) is both centrally located and a quiet, tree-lined retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated comfortably between Millennium Park and the Chicago River, this area has some outstanding apartment deals in luxury buildings, surrounded by lush green space. Lakeshore East buildings are steps from a flagship Mariano’s, a 6-acre park with free wi-fi and separate dog run, as well as a variety of other shops, salons, and restaurants. Lakeshore East has direct access to the lakefront as well as the Pedway system. GEMS preschool is also conveniently located in Lakeshore East.
Property 16 offers full sized washer and dryers, updated kitchens with granite and maple cabinetry, and gas cooking ranges. Enjoy stunning views with the building’s amazing floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive glass encased balconies offering unparalleled panoramic views. Building amenities include an outdoor pool terrace with lounge seating, a club room with games and pool tables, a steam room, spa, and sauna, as well as an expansive fitness center. Be sure to check out this property!
Property 16 offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom apartments. One of our favorite values is the convertible layout priced starting from $1750! View photos and more information here!
Another great option is Property 34. These Lakeshore East luxury rentals feature fabulous separate dining and living areas, a rare find in the city! Spacious floor plans offer generous square footage at an excellent price in the downtown market. Select apartment options available with hardwood flooring and stainless steel appliances. Building amenities include a stunning, year-round sunroom with retractable roof, a fully equipped fitness center, and a club room and internet lounge offering printers and complimentary wi-fi. You’re sure to fall in love!
Property 34 offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom apartments. One of our favorite values is the 1 bedroom layout priced starting from $1750– one of the most spacious 1 bedroom layouts available downtown! View photos and more information here!
Property 28 offers stunning east-facing lake and west-facing skyline views. Apartments offer wrap-around bay windows to maximize natural light. Spacious floor plans with high ceilings create a spacious, open feeling. Select rentals feature newly renovated appliances, flooring, and kitchen finishes. Property 28 features an indoor pool, outdoor grilling areas and sundeck, a fitness studio with complimentary classes, and a fully equipped business center.
Property 28 offers studio, convertible, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments. One of our favorite values is the 3 bedroom layout priced starting from $4200 with in-unit laundry! View photos and more information here!
Looking for luxury apartments near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, One Bennett Park is leaving its mark in the highly desired Streeterville neighborhood offering state-of-the-art condominiums as well as rental units. Although One Bennett Park is a new development, it has already earned a reputation for timeless elegance. This building boasts spectacular custom design down to the last detail.
Upon arrival to this jaw dropping tower, a stunning limestone-clad porte cochere welcomes you with a lush 2-acre park designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates. The grand entrance of One Bennett Park makes luxury its standard from the inside out.
Inside the units, superb finishes are at every corner in every residence. With an average of 1,100 square feet per unit and offering the same level trim as the condo units, rental residential units here are high-end and set the bar for the market in Chicago. Gourmet kitchen’s are carefully crafted using top of the line finishes with high performance brands that include Sub-Zero, Bosch and Kohler. Undermount sinks, integrated appliances and waterfall granite countertops make anyone a chef in their own home. Each residential unit will offer sweeping breathtaking city or lake views. Bathrooms feature natural stone artistically placed for the ultimate feeling of comfort.
The feeling of extravagance in design is not left inside the homes, but carried out throughout the entity of the tower. Meticulously designed amenities offer nothing short of the best for all One Bennett Park residents. In addition to the flawless Bennett Park, the building also features a 10,000 square foot recreational deck complete with an outdoor pool, lounge area, private cabanas, grilling stations and fire pits. Also outdoors there is a demonstration kitchen open to reservations, the perfect place to extend your party outside of your home.
An expansive 7,000 square foot state-of-the-art fitness center curated by Wright Fit delivers the best of the best right in your own home. A recreation room decorated with pool tables, TV’s and lounge areas are the perfect place to entertain guests. On rainy days, enjoy the luxuries of having an on-site 60 foot indoor pool directly off the terrace.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Streeterville? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
‘Summer time Chicago’ is one of the best times of the year to be downtown on the lakeshore. With endless possibilities of exciting adventures, be sure to check out some of the cities favorites!
Enjoy a beautiful summer day or evening paddling down the shores of Lake Michigan in a kayak! Kayak Chicago offers multiple locations at North Ave Beach, Montrose Beach and the Chicago River to set off on your great adventure. Enjoy multiple tours including sunset rides, firework shows, day time skyline tours and city light night paddles down the Chicago River. They also offer stand-up paddleboards as well! Grab your friends and hit the water this summer with these exciting tours.
Don’t forget about your furry friends, they want to enjoy the summer weather as well! Bring them by the Montrose Dog Beach for a great day splashing in the water and digging in the sand. As one of the only dog-friendly, off-leash beaches in the city, your dog will love interacting with all the others as well as making new friends! Open till around 9 pm during summer hours, stop by and check this place out, your dog will surely thank you.
For a full day of fun in the sun, check out Oak Street Beach located just minutes from Michigan Ave. In the heart of the city, Oak Street Beach has a ton to offer to those looking to catch some rays and take a break from the bustling downtown area. Sunbathing and swimming aren’t the only options– take your workout outside and exercise along the paved path lining the beach. Grab a bite to eat at the Oak Street Beachstro, located at the Southern end of the beach. Enjoy options from their breakfast buffet, full lunch and dinner menu or their full bar. Beachgoers can take in the views while diving into delicious cuisine.
For an exciting day on the water, many Chicagoans flock to the playpen for an amazing boating day and plenty of nautical things to do. Don’t worry – if you don’t have your own boat rentals are available through through many companies, including Chicago Boat Rentals. Experience the thrill of boating by renting sailboats or power boats. Head over to Jet Ski Chicago at North Ave beach to rent jet skis for some more fun in the sun if you don’t want the hassle of a boat!
Located within walking distance from Navy Pier is the well known Ohio Street Beach. With its sheltered curve of the shoreline, the calm waters are great for all swimmers. Enjoy the conveniences of being centrally located near the city while taking in the beauty of lake
Michigan and the sand between your toes. Bike rentals on-site offer additional things to do to make the most of your beach days! Also along the lakefront trail, many go for jogs or walks parallel to the water!
Don’t miss all the fun happening on the shores of the lake this summer and be sure to check out some of these amazing beaches and some of the great activities they have to offer to everyone!
Coming to the Lincoln Park neighborhood is a massive development– Lincoln Yards. Brought to us by Chicago-based developer Sterling Bay, the sprawling 53 acres of vacant land will offer a new sub-neighborhood within Lincoln Park.
This mega-project will feature 5,000 homes, 800 foot skyscrapers and bring 23,000 new jobs to the area just north of the Chicago River. With most buildings reaching a height of 300 feet, there are plans for new “icon buildings” as well to reach even higher. Over 6,000 parking spaces will be included in the redevelopment as well.
Chicago architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and Boston based CBT will combine to create the masterplan for the expansive riverfront lot. In the center of the multiple buildings being constructed is going to be serene green spaces with pathways and entrances down to the riverfront for added enjoyment.
The Lincoln Yards development will be divided into two separate spaces, known as “North Yard” and “South Yard”. The North Yard will be comprised of the majority of the plans residential and commercial spaces. The South Yard will be home to office space, retail, a Live Nation complex, and a 20,000-seat United Soccer League stadium.
The developers are adding new roads while realigning existing roadways to create seamless travel in response to the expected increase in street and foot traffic. A new ‘multimodal’ metra station will also be erected; giving connections between the trains, cyclists, CTA buses, and private shuttles.
With the inclusion of all forms of travel, focusing on new and improved roadways and adding residential and tons of commercial space Lincoln Yards will be an exciting new neighborhood that is next to some of the most highly desired areas in the city. Be sure to keep your eye out as this excited development takes shape!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Onni Group is expected to deliver yet another spectacular building in the city of Chicago. This time, it’s a 38-story apartment redevelopment of the former Clark and Barlow Hardware store in River North. Three years ago, they proposed a 32-story apartment at the same location but have come back with a whole new design. Located at the corner of Grand and Orleans, it’s a highly sought-after River North area.
Proposed site
The new design tops out at 452 feet and is set to include 354 residential units and 11,000 square feet of ground level retail space with the addition of a new park on the sites Eastern perimeter. The design features a tall, sleek building with have glass facade with metal panels and material called Okoskin. The building is meant to mimic modular, contemporary loft style apartments that are around the surrounding area.
In the interior, residents can expect condo-grade finishes– a signature attribute of all Onni Group Chicago developments.
Bathroom finishes at The Hudson, Onni Group’s last River North development
Onni’s Brian Brodeur has said that 353 W. Grand is expected for delivery within the next two to three years. Onni Group has a successful River North lease up under their belt with The Hudson. They are currently continuing their redevelopment of Atrium Village and delivered Old Town Park earlier this year.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
With Chicago’s West Loop continuing to expand and see a boom of new construction, 166 N Aberdeen is one of the newly proposed buildings that could join the neighborhood.
The current proposal would turn the site of the Fabbri Sausage Plant into a sleek 20-story apartment building. Brought to us by the developer MCZ and designed by SCB, this tower brings more luxury apartments to this highly desired neighborhood.
With ground floor retail space and planned 236 rental units, it will become a perfect one-stop-shop for all future residents. Amenities include a stunning pool deck and 13th floor sky lounge. The renderings show stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and private resident balconies and a masonry base in keeping with the existing style of the West Loop neighborhood.
166 N Aberdeen is located in the heart of the Fulton Market District, a rapidly growing neighborhood near the West Loop, offering residents an outstanding place to live, dine, work, and enjoy plentiful entertainment!
Interested in luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The booming development of Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood is soon to be welcoming yet another apartment building to its area. Known as Alta Grand Central, it was officially announced earlier last month in a single instagram post with the building’s rendering.
Alta Grand Central will be developed by both Chicago-based D2 and Atlanta-based Wood Partners and will feature a new two tower, 14-story apartment building with a sleek, glassy exterior. The towers are designed by Pappageorge Haymes Partners, who also designed the neighboring South Loop development, Alta Roosevelt, which was delivered last year. If the Grand Central development is anything like Alta Roosevelt, we can be sure it will be a success!
Finishes at Alta Roosevelt, Last Year’s Sister Development
The towers are conjoined in the middle, offering great space in between the buildings. With the glassy facade, it’s expected to offer impeccable floor-to-ceiling windows showing off incredible city views. Private balconies are also featured in the buildings exterior rendering as well. The medium-sized building is slated to offer 346 new rental residences.
Located at the intersection of Wells and Harrison, it’s a bustling location with a plethora of activities to offer to future residents. Great restaurants offering a wide array of cuisine options line the South Loop streets, perfect for any foodie. There are three major grocery stores and three CTA L lines within blocks of the development.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago has terrific dining options scattered far and wide. But the compact and posh Gold Coast puts some of the city’s greatest gustatory charms at its residents’ doorsteps.
Here are five favorites for fine dining on the Gold Coast:
La Storia Ristorante: Handcrafted pasta in the southern Sardinian style is featured at this intimate and clubby relative newcomer to the neighborhood. After opening in late 2015, La Storia quickly made its mark and was Michelin-rated within two years. Also a feature is the locale: La Storia occupies a pair of converted single-family homes — one built in 1896, the other in 1918 — on Dearborn Street. Additionally, the space contains a mural by noted political caricaturist Edward Sorel, who has 41 New Yorker covers to his credit.
Spiaggia: The southern gatekeeper to the Gold Coast — at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Oak Street — Spiaggia has one Michelin star and two winners of Bravo’s “Top Chef” in executive chef Joe Flamm (Season 15) and chef-partner Tony Mantuano (Season 2). Mantuano has spent 30 years creating modern takes on Italian fine dining classics, which are paired with one of the deepest wine lists in the city, some 700 bottles strong.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: Opening in 1989, Gibsons occupies the Rush Street space that was once home to Chicago celebrity mecca Mister Kelly’s. While the nightclub featured talents ranging from Bob Newhart to Barbara Streisand, you’re more apt to see local and visiting pro athletes at Gibsons. Steak is the star, and every cut served is USDA Gibsons Prime Angus — the restaurant bills itself as the first in the country to be awarded its own USDA Prime certification. Little wonder it is known as Chicago’s highest-grossing independent restaurant, with nearly $25 million in sales in 2016.
Booth One: The current incarnation of the Pump Room occupies the space of what was perhaps Chicago’s most famous celebrity jaunt, in the Ambassador Chicago hotel (formerly the Ambassador East). The Pump Room reserved its Booth One for only the most celebrated celebrities, while Booth One promises everyone gets the A-list treatment. Classic American dishes and cocktails bring a bit of a Don Draper vibe to a place where every meal feels like an event.
Le Colonial: A two-story rowhouse leaves the Rush Street craziness at the door for an immersive experience in Vietnamese dining straight out of Southeast Asia’s elegantly formal 1920s French Colonial tradition. Le Colonial’s first-floor, white-linen tablecloth dining room features traditional Vietnamese dishes. On the second floor, there’s a bar, lounge and all-season terrace overlooking Rush Street.
Living in the Gold Coast brings many things to mind — stately mansions, trendy boutiques along Oak Street, Michelin-starred restaurants and rowdy, randy Rush Street. But dogs?
Don’t be fooled. Wiggly Field to the north and Jackson Bark to the south may be higher-profile doggie destinations, but the Gold Coast manages to bring posh to the pet set quite nicely.
Though it may not seem a neighborhood suited to man’s best friend, Gold Coast canines can live the high life as easily as the locale’s human habitues. The following are among the best ways to pamper your pooch in and around the dog-friendly Gold Coast:
Nico Osteria: Since opening in 2013 in the luxuriously romantic and pet-friendly hotel Thompson Chicago, Nico Osteria has been a hit with the dining set for its winning approach to seafood and Italian favorites. The menu changes daily, but what doesn’t change in the warm-weather months is a patio that hugs the corner of Rush Street and Bellevue Place — offering 80 great people-watching seats for paying customers, plus ample space for their four-legged friends. How pet-friendly is Nico Osteria? In June, the restaurant partnered with The Asher House, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing homeless pets, and One Tail at a Time, a no-kill shelter, for an adopt-a-pet event on the patio.
Belmont Harbor Dog Beach: Yes, pets are allowed on the Gold Coast’s Oak Street Beach — but only on a leash. The Belmont Harbor Dog Beach is 2 miles up Lake Shore Drive and lets Rover roam. It’s not as big as the Montrose Harbor Dog Beach a bit farther north, but the gently sloping beach is great for smaller dogs just looking to get their feet wet, while bigger dogs can still get enough depth to swim.
Mercury’s Canine Cruise: While there are many sightseeing boats that sail the Chicago River and lakefront for architecture cruises and the like, Mercury sets itself apart with a Canine Cruise. This pet-friendly excursion boards at 10:15 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays from July 7 through Oct. 7 from Mercury’s landing at the Michigan Avenue Boat House on the Chicago River just south of the Gold Coast. Leashed dogs and their owners get a narrated tour touching on Chicago history, architecture and notable dog-friendly highlights — plus water bowls are plentiful and there is a newspaper-lined restroom for the dogs.
Standing tall at 101 stories is the breathtaking Vista Tower located in the Lakeshore East neighborhood. The unique, glassy high-rise, inspired by the distinct crystalline form of fluorite, offers an unparalleled design to the Chicago skyline. The intricate geometric shape of the tower brings yet another iconic building to this city, brought to us by architect Jeanne Gang at Studio Gang.
The tower, which is a visual masterpiece in itself, will offer condominiums and an exclusive 5-star hotel called the Wanda Vista Hotel. Magellan Development Group delivers yet another jaw dropping residence, forever shaping the city skyline.
Just recently reaching it’s halfway point in construction, Vista Tower is climbing fast. Although it’s just meetings it’s halfway point the tower condominiums are already 40% sold according to the developer.
The interior of each unit is spectacular and ultra luxe, making luxury the standard in each one. Residents can expect to enjoy spectacular panoramic views through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Wide plank hardwood flooring meet modern oversized wood baseboards for a sleek look. A full chef’s kitchen that will make anyone swoon – contemporary Snaidero cabinets are matched with beautiful quartz and stone countertops and backsplash. Built-in appliances are key to the modern, luxurious look. A wall oven, speed oven and five-burner gas stove complete the impressive kitchen. The bathrooms will feature walk-in showers and deep soaking tubs.
Vista Tower is offering unrivaled penthouses dubbed Sky360 Residences. With exceptional finishes and incredible views, it is of the utmost quality. Key highlights are 11’ high ceilings, 360 degree panoramic views of the lake and city, and upgraded kitchen appliances and finishes. Kitchens include a steam over, in-counter steamer and warming drawer, coffee machine, and a under-counter wine cooler. Unbeatable and ultra unique, future residents will be in awe every day when they live here.
Be sure to keep an eye out as Vista Tower nears completion and forever shapes the skyline!
The Cooper at Southbank is one of several luxury developments to recently break ground in the South Loop. Originally, Lendlease and CMK had a joint venture on the site known as Riverline that broke ground in the fall of 2016. Back in April, the two decided to split the $8 billion massive development into two separate ones. Lendlease owns the northern 8-acres known as Southbank, while CMK holds the southern 8-acres keeping the name Riverline.
Lendlease announced that pre-leasing for The Cooper at Southbank is set to begin shortly! The Cooper is the first of five high-rise residential unitsin the South Loop neighborhood being built along the riverfront.
The Cooper is set to open their doors in September as the first tower of the new project. The Cooper will be set at 29 stories tall and become home to 452 rental units, 26 two-story 2-bedroom and three-story 3 bedroom townhomes. The Southbank site will, upon completion, house five high-rises and a new two-acre park along the river as well. The five towers will bring a total of 2,700 brand new residential units and create a new water taxi stop.
The Cooper had previously been dubbed Ancora but changed when the co-developers parted ways. The building will offer a ton of incredible amenities sprawled out over 11,000 square feet for its residents to enjoy including a state-of-the-art gym, demonstration kitchen, sport simulator room, bocce court, outdoor screening area, a music room, and a stunning rooftop pool.
Inside The Cooper, the luxurious apartments will feature jaw dropping views through the floor-to-ceiling windows matched with modern finishes. The kitchens are sleek with an elevated design that’s carried into the bathroom as well. Hardwood floors and in-unit washer/dryers make this an unbelievably great find.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Mayor Rahm Emanuel has confirmed that Chicago has selected Elon Musk’s Boring Company to build a track from the Loop to O’Hare International Airport to get passengers back and forth in 12 minutes. Located in underground tunnels, the tracks will sport autonomous electric pods traveling between 125-150 mph holding 8-16 passengers each.
The current proposed track is set to go from the International terminals of the airport to Block 37 located in the Loop neighborhood. The track will be situated in the underground tunnels that were built for an underground express train project from the Loop to O’Hare that former Mayor Richard M. Daley had spent roughly $200 million on that had never opened. The idea of having the tracks underground makes it possible for the least amount of building and homes relocated for the project.
As a privately paid for venture, taxpayers will not be held responsible for this high-speed train. Though the Company has not released exactly how much it will cost to ride this train, they have stated it will cost less than half of a typical taxi ride but more than the current $5 Blue Line special fare.
Currently, according to Chicago Infrastructure Trust, there are roughly 20,000 some passengers that travel between the airport and the Loop’s central business district. By 2045, it is estimated that number will be increased to a minimum of 35,000 people a day. An incredible, high-speed train would cut the travel time immensely from the current 45 minute Blue Line “L” commute it takes now.
Old Town is just that — old. Its now-desired addresses just west of the Gold Coast and Lincoln Park were largely swampland until German immigrants began farming there in the 1850s. St. Michael’s Church is one of seven buildings to survive the Chicago Fire. It was home to an artists’ colony in the 1930s, was Chicago’s first gay-friendly neighborhood of note, and was the Midwest’s center of 1960s counterculture.
Now, comedy is king. But the home to The Second City, iO Theater and Zanies Comedy Club can tickle more than merely your funny bone. Rich with history, thick with pubs and restaurants, when it comes to Chicago neighborhoods, Old Town is more neighborly than most and the entertainment equal of any.
Here are some essential sites when Old Town is your destination.
A Red Orchid Theater: A Red Orchid Theatre turned 25 years old in 2017. Co-founded by actor Michael Shannon (The Shape of Water, Revolutionary Road), the 70-seat house offers serious, frequently edgy and sometimes experimental theater in an intimate space.
The Fireplace Inn: The Fireplace Inn has been selling barbecued ribs out of its Wells Street home since 1969. Such is the character of the neighborhood that you might find yourself dining beside the softball or volleyball teams sponsored by the establishment, or comedy fans headed up the block to Zanies or The Second City.
The Second City: Two primary theaters, a comedy club and four smaller stages, plus a film school and training center, make up the complex that first moved to the corner of North Avenue and Wells Street in 1967. Ground zero for the nation’s improv and sketch comedy scene, The Second City was a pivotal proving ground for the careers of Joan Rivers and John Belushi, Tina Fey and Chris Farley, Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell — not to mention Bill Murray.
Henry Gerber House: Designated a National Historic Landmark in 2015, this North Crilly Court residence was home to Henry Gerber from 1924-25, when he founded the first gay rights society in the United States — the Society for Human Rights.
Topo Gigio Ristorante: Dining aficionados know Kamehachi is Old Town’s sushi spot, and Blue Door offers a charming farm-to-table experience, but Topo Gigio is as good as Italian dining in Chicago gets — and that’s very good indeed. The vast menu — especially the pasta section — is truly impressive. But when weather permits, Topo Gigio’s outdoor dining areas in front and to the side of its building are what take it over the top.
Old Town Pour House: Ninety craft beers on tap. Need we say more?
Fudge Pot, a tremendous candy shop, has occupied its parcel on Wells Street since 1963. Old Town Aquarium is a fish owner’s paradise, featuring custom aquarium design and the city’s largest collection of exotic fish.
And if you just happen to be in town, the 69th Old Town Art Fair drops into the Old Town Triangle Historic District on June 9 and 10. One of the great art fairs in America and one of Chicago’s favorite festivals, the fair gathers some 250 artists and 30,000 fair-goers — who also partake in a garden walk of more than 50 private gardens, a children’s corner, food court and live music.
Based on the quality and diversity of its restaurants, one might guess Chicago’s city flag is adorned with Michelin stars. Except, the flag is a four-star affair, and Michelin rates only as high as three — which translate as “exceptional cuisine — worth a special detour.”
Among the 25 Chicago restaurants to earn at least one Michelin star in 2018, two landed the coveted three-star distinction. But dining in Chicago is more than merely eating your haute meal.
There are classic steakhouses, traditional spots cooking for every ethnicity, dazzling spaces serving daring cuisine from culinary stars. To truly taste Chicago would take years, but here’s a list of some of Chicago’s greatest restaurants in its greatest neighborhoods.
Alinea: This Lincoln Park space, since opening in 2005, has been named the best restaurant in the world by at least three different organizations in three different years. It closed for a redesign for four months in 2016 and still has an eight-year streak of three-star Michelin ratings. The food? Adventurous. “Cutting edge,” “multi-sensory” and “innovative” are hints given by the website, but this stuff is as much art as food.
Girl & the Goat: A star in the West Loop’s Randolph Street dining corridor, because chef/owner Stephanie Izard opened the place in 2010 fresh off becoming the first female winner of TV’s Top Chef. Touting a “family style menu of tasty, bold flavored foods with a global influence,” a recent Girl menu offered dishes such as wood oven roasted pig face, escargot ravioli and green garlic pierogis.
Spiaggia: Where Streeterville meets the Gold Coast, fine-dining Spiaggia shares Mag Mile space with the no-less-excellent Café Spiaggia. Executive Chef Joe Flamm won Season 15 of Bravo’s Top Chef in 2018, following in the footsteps of founding chef-partner Tony Mantuano, who not only won a Top Chef, but in 2005 was named Best Chef Midwest by the James Beard Foundation. Spiaggia has offered upscale Italian cuisine for more than 30 years — and dishes such as gnocchi with truffle, ricotta and parmigiano reggiano, or cinghiale (a wild boar chop in an Italian dessert wine with morel and pistachio) keep customers returning — as does a wine list some 700 bottles long.
Rosebud Prime: One among eight restaurants in the Rosebud group that started with a Little Italy pasta house in 1977, Prime is the Loop’s go-to spot for classic steak in a town that knows a classic steak. But, if you don’t feel like the 22-ounce, bone-in ribeye, or the 16-ounce bone-in filet with wild mushrooms, try the Rosebud Brick Chicken, or the Steakhouse Burger tabbed by ChicagoBurgerBible.com as the No. 1 burger in the city.
Topolobampo: There are dozens of places in River North worth a look — from the Michelin-rated Naha (American fare with Mediterranean influences) and Sixteen (in the Trump Tower) to the Chicago outlet of L.A.-based sushi purveyor Katana. But venerable Topolobampo, serving upscale Mexican since 1991 under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Rick Bayless, is still at the top of its game, winning the nation’s Outstanding Restaurant title at the 2017 James Beard awards. Frontera Grill, next door to Topolobampo and another Bayless venture, won the award in 2007.
Pushing over a year a half of negotiations, developer John O’Donnell is ready to move forward with a massive redevelopment of Chicago travel hub, Union Station, which is also home to Amtrak, and the adjacent bus facility. Additionally, O’Donnell Riverside Development and Investment will present plans for a proposed tower atop the station. The plans feature 330 hotel rooms and 404 residential units above the historic building. The property adjacent to the station, currently a parking garage and bus facility, will soon be home to a new office tower as well.
As $1 billion plus worth of new construction is going to be put into the new project, residents and workers nearby can expect to see a huge shift in the dynamic of the bustling neighborhood. Located at the edge of West Loop and the Loop, the location is central for businesses and residential developments.
Along with new luxury residential units and office space, the plan will include the addition of new, more efficient train lines beneath the building. Union Station is about to get everything, and then some, to make it the ideal travel, work and living space for Chicagoans.
With the developer aiming for a comfortable and inviting space, it is proposed that outward-facing retail will add that to the 3.1 million square foot redevelopment. Planned to be completed within six years, this project is incredibly exciting for the Chicago downtown market.
In the summer, Chicago hosts a various amount of exciting activities that are all around the city. With something nearly every weekend, the downtown area is definitely a great place to be!
Grant Park Music Festival
Between June 13th through August 18th, enjoy a night under the stars listening to beautiful classical music with the stunning skyline in the background. On Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights check out the Loop hotspot at Grant Park while relishing in the music of a world-class orchestra and chorus. Pack a picnic for the lawn for added fun!
Catch a Baseball Game
With two hometown teams, whether you’re a White Sox or Cubs fan, a day at the ballpark is always a great time! Catch a game at Guaranteed Rate Field to watch a White Sox game or head over to Wrigley Field to check out the Cubs. Enjoy hot dogs and beers in the exciting atmosphere of game day! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the historic and legendary Wrigley Field with daily walking tours of the field and around the Ivy. Rain or shine, there’s always something to do!
Chicago Food Truck Fest
Calling all foodies in the city! A wide variety of delicious food trucks are coming together for yet another Food Truck Fest this summer. With over 45 trucks coming to the fest, guests can be sure to devour mouth watering food. Located in the city’s South Loop neighborhood, be sure to head over there the weekend of June 23rd and 24th to grab some incredible bites while enjoying the outdoors. With great drinks, games and music this fest is not to be missed!
Chicago Craft Beer Fest
Windy city beer lovers will hate to miss out on this one! The Chicago Craft Beer Fest happening in Lincoln Park July 21st and 22nd is the perfect afternoon activity in hops heaven! With more than 70 specialty beers, great eats and live music it’s an amazing place to bring your friends for a nice day in summertime Chicago!
In the heart of the bustling Lincoln Park neighborhood is No. 508; a luxurious, sleek and modern mid-rise currently being developed by Broder. With its stunning façade and floor-to-ceiling windows, this spectacular building will soon be arriving this spring.
Featuring 12 stories and 53 stylish residential units, future dwellers can expect luxury finishes and views of the beautiful neighborhood. In addition, the building also features commercial retail space on its ground level. Beautifully positioned between an older yellow brick complex and an elaborate vintage greystone – this building will add the perfect mix of modern.
Situated perfectly only two blocks from Lake Michigan, residents can revel in the benefits of urban living with the conveniences of being only blocks from the beach. The Lincoln Park neighborhood offers a wide variety of renowned restaurants, eclectic shops and beautiful, vintage architecture.
Within close proximity, No. 508 has everything and more any future resident will want and need. Check out incredible restaurants including Bar Pastoral, a cozy bistro and wine bar or North Pond, an upscale dining experience featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Stop by for some delicious desserts at Vanille Patisserie, an ultra luxe French pastry shop.
Take a breathe from the busy concrete jungle and enjoy some of the spectacular green spaces Lincoln Park has to offer. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is simply stunning and relaxing. Spend the day at the famous Lincoln Park Zoo – one of the few free zoos left in the country!
The Lincoln Park neighborhood has an abundance to offer to anyone, make yourself at home in the impeccable No. 508 coming soon!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in Lincoln Park? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
If Chicago has one thing when it comes to luxury apartment rentals, it’s options.
While other cities may have one or two areas populated by the posh, Chicago offers many, each with its own vibe, but all unquestionably vibrant. Be it nightlife or dining, architecture or activities, here’s a look at Chicago’s nicest neighborhoods and what makes them special.
Gold Coast: Bounded by North Boulevard to the north, Oak Street to the south, Lake Shore Drive to the east and Clark Street to the west, Chicago’s Gold Coast is home to historic mansions and remains the domain of Chicago’s old money. The area is one of affluence, from the tiny shops along Oak Street (which branches off the bustling Magnificent Mile) to some of the greatest steakhouses in a city full of them. Rush Street’s nightlife district, cheekily referred to by some as the Viagra Triangle, is the place to see and be seen.
Lakeshore East: Tucked into a few blocks between Michigan Avenue, Lakeshore Drive, the Chicago River and Randolph Street, Lakeshore East is the new kid in town. Just north of the Bean, just south and east of Navy Pier and adjacent to the theater district, this unbeatably convenient area — also known as the New East Side — features several skyscraper condominium projects completed since 2006, and several more on the way. Forty percent of the area is greenspace.
Lincoln Park: If high-rises aren’t your thing, Lincoln Park could well be. Separated from the lake by Chicago’s largest park (home to the Lincoln Park Zoo, Conservatory and Lagoon), Lincoln Park, with its tree-lined streets of brownstones and greystones, offers more charm and intimacy than many others on this list. DePaul University injects some youth, famous blues joint the Kingston Mines some grit, and a plethora of dining options along Halsted Street and Lincoln Avenue add some cultural diversity.
The Loop: West of Michigan Avenue, overlooking Grant Park, Maggie Daley Park, Millennium Park and the Art Institute, Chicago’s Downtown Loop is home to, well, almost everything. Great architecture: Chicago Theatre, Willis Tower and the stunning Rookery Building among countless others. Business: The city’s financial district is there. Culture: Chicago Symphony, Lyric Opera, Joffrey Ballet and Harold Washington Library.
Old Town: In the ’60s and ’70s, it was the city’s bohemian epicenter. Second City, the famous comedy troupe, was born here. The Aragon Ballroom and Uptown Theater host national contemporary music acts. Green Mill Cocktail Lounge is the city’s oldest jazz club. Most of the pubs are on Wells Street. It was among the first city neighborhoods to gentrify, so new and old mix more easily here than in many areas.
River North: A grown-up artists’ enclave, Chicago’s River North is home to galleries, interior design businesses, high-end furniture stores, photography studios and production companies — not to mention the House of Blues. Along Ohio and Ontario Streets, you can mix with tourists; at The Baton Show Lounge with female impersonators; at Frontera Grill and Topolobampo with the foodies. Not much in the way of single-family homes here. This is high-rise living.
Streeterville: With Navy Pier, Hancock Center, Water Tower Place and the rest of the Mag Mile, Streeterville is home to many of Chicago’s most-visited attractions. It’ll be hard not to have a lake view while renting here.
South Loop: The south end of Grant Park, the clubs and restaurants of Printers Row and the museum campus, and McCormick Place’s convention spaces are all easily accessed by the denizens of the South Loop. The loft boom of the ’90s percolated among the old industrial buildings on Michigan Avenue, Wabash Avenue and State Street. Post-bursting of the housing bubble, high-rises have sprung up stretching south toward Soldier Field. “Up and coming” and “funky” are words not unheard here.
West Loop: Randolph Street has some of the best dining in the city. Music spots include the Bottom Lounge and City Winery. Greektown is here. So is Union Station, the city’s commuter train hub. Little Italy is close. Newer than most of the neighborhoods on this list, this former warehouse district has a hipster edge.
In the market for a luxury apartment in Chicago? Weighing your options between one place and the next? While you’re evaluating amenities such as square footage, parking and walkability, make sure you also consider this: How close is the apartment to great schools? If you’ve got school-aged children, of course, they’re going to be directly affected by your home’s school district. Yet even if you don’t have kids in school, you may still want to be near great elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and colleges. Why? Excellent schools aren’t just good for students; they’re good for the local economy — and a strong economy benefits everyone who lives in the area.
How can you find the perfect luxury apartment near some of Chicago’s best schools? Why are the Chicago neighborhoods with great schools in demand? What are the benefits of living in them? To help answer these questions and guide you toward the best apartment choice, here’s a look at the facts about apartments near great schools in Chicago.
Great schools make for great neighborhoods. Housing options are in demand when there are stellar schools nearby, so property values tend to be higher. Many of the neighborhood residents thus are engaged in their community, making it a great place to live whether you are a parent or not. Schools also bring sports, arts and other opportunities to the area; they also create jobs that attract skilled professionals. In a neighborhood with good schools, you can enjoy:
Chicago’s best neighborhoods offer outstanding opportunities for education. When you’re interested in finding an apartment in an area with top schools in Chicago, here are a few to consider:
Interested in learning more about apartments in Chicago with access to good schools? Visit our Chicago neighborhoods page and get started finding your new home!
Major redevelopment is breaking ground in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. Dubbed as a “mega-development”, The 78 will overhaul a massive 62-acre area between the South Loop and Chinatown, into a new mixed-use neighborhood along the vacant riverfront.
Developed by Related Midwest teamed up with architectural master planner Skidmore, Owings & Merrill have recently outlined brand new details about the newest neighborhood. Since it will take over two decades and upwards of $5 billion to complete, The 78 is defiantly one of the largest developments in Chicago’s history.
Inside this currently vacant land, several barriers make it difficult to access from the surrounding area. One of the first orders of business will come with the long-discussed Wells-Wentworth Connector, which will create multiple new roadways. The new road will connect the dead end S Wells Street to Chinatowns Wentworth Avenue; providing a much more conveniently accessible area. 15th Street will also become extended to Clark Street to Wells as well. Opening roadways from North to South from East to West will open the area incredibly.
In addition to the incredible advancement in roadway systems, The 78 development will also bring a new CTA red line station to the area. One of the largest challenges facing the new neighborhood is the Metra tracks currently situated on the areas boarder. The development team’s plan is to relocate the tracks further West. They also plan to enclose the train rail line, which adds the benefits of improved air quality and reduced noise throughout the new neighborhood.
The 78 will feature extensive outdoor space alongside the river to bring residents and guests alike to the beautiful waterfront area. Open space will carve through and between the buildings to elevate the area. A new river walk will also be built along the waterfront to add water activities and running/walking lanes.
Of course, the new mega-development will include stunning high-rise residential buildings. Though the exact number, design and where they will be situated is still being determined.
The 78 will house commercial, residential, and retail space, and is a hopeful candidate in the bid for Amazon’s HQ2 headquarters. Related Midwest’s president, Curt Bailey, has commented saying, “The request for proposal calls for 8 million square feet. Our site has 13 million square feet so you do the math”. With such high stakes, this neighborhood could possibly be the newest home to Amazon!
Be sure to keep your eyes on this incredible new site! Interested in luxury apartments near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Rising 20-stories tall in the heart of the beloved Lincoln Park neighborhood is new Lincoln Commons’ A2 development.
The first of two new buildings coming from developer McCaffery Interests & Hines, this glassy tower will feature 540 stunning rental and 40 condo units. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in collaboration with Antunovich Associates, the design concept is sleek and modern while preserving the historic nature of the neighborhood in which it’s beautifully situated.
Residents can expect stunning floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies, and thoughtful layouts design. On the ground floor, over 90,000 square feet of retail space will be easily accessible to residents and guests alike. In addition to new retail shopping spaces, Lincoln Commons will provide a spectacular 57,000 square feet of open, landscaped green space available to the public as well. With so much right at your front door, are a million reasons to call this new construction home.
The Lincoln Park neighborhood is home to many of the top city attractions with the tree-lined feel of a quaint neighborhood. With the lakeshore only blocks away, it’s easily accessible for everyone to enjoy. Devour delicious food or find time to check out some cute coffee shops along the way as you fall in love with this area!
Some of the main attractions include the free Lincoln Park Zoo, North Ave Beach, Steppenwolf Theatre, and some great shopping! Be sure to keep your eyes out for Lincoln Commons’ A2 development and the second building to get the best of what this city has to offer!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in Lincoln Park? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Downtown Chicago has a reputation for being home to a wealth of events and activities. From music and food festivals to summer rooftops and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone!
If there’s one thing Chicagoans enjoy most about summer – it’s enjoying some cocktails at the city’s best rooftop bars. These sky-high bars offer unparalleled views combined with tasty bites and divine cocktails. Some of the favorites include Cindy’s, Raised, and London House!
Cindy’s is located in downtown Chicago’s Loop directly across from Millennium Park, offering unbeatable views and outdoor fire pits if it gets a little chilly. Raised is an indoor/outdoor garden lounge located on top of the Renaissance Hotel. Serving craft beers, exquisite cocktails, small plates and stunning views there’s no doubt why it’s a local favorite. Located in the Loop along the Chicago River is the ever-popular London House.
Another renowned Chicagoan summer activity is the Taste of Chicago hosted in Grant Park. It’s the nations premier outdoor food festival displaying the diversity of Chicago’s cuisine. Dishes range from classic local dishes to specialty cuisines from the array of eclectic neighborhood restaurants! The festival is complemented by outstanding music and exciting activities perfect for the whole family. Foodies, be sure to check out this extravagant, massive food festival!
If you’re a fan of BBQ and country music – stop by the Windy City Smokeout! With 20 of the world’s best pitmasters, there isn’t a dish here that won’t leave you lickin’ your fingers clean! Enjoy exquisite brisket, ribs, chicken, and more! Award-winning country music stars mixed with great up-and-coming artists create a spectacular show all day long! Some of the main headliners this year include Brett Young, Midland and Brett Eldredge. While eating the BBQ, refresh with some craft brews for the perfect downtown Chicago summer day.
Every year, the annual Chicago Air & Water Show has remained one of downtown Chicago’s most popular festivals. The show is a free event that takes place at North Avenue Beach that showcases daredevil pilots, parachute teams, and jets flying in formations. The water show displays incredible water-skiing and boat-jumping. Viewers can enjoy from the beach or head to Castaways to dine while enjoying this spectacular summer show! The U.S. Army Golden Knights participate each year while the U.S. Navy Blue Angles and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds alternate each year as the headliner. Be sure to check out this amazing show!
Chicago is home to some excellent dog friendly apartments and public spaces. As the weather warms up, we’re all itching to get outdoors and finally enjoy the warm weather with our best friends in tow! Check out these great options from across the downtown area!
In the heart of the Loop neighborhood, dogs and their owners can enjoy beautiful spring and summer days together at 312 Chicago! Located on North LaSalle, this outstanding restaurant offers ‘Waggin’ Weekends’. On every Saturday and Sunday you and your dog can enjoy delicious eats together! A special dog-friendly menu features dog meals and treats for them to enjoy as well. 312 Chicago also features an expansive outdoor patio.
Benchmark on North Wells in Old Town is a dog friendly restaurant with a special dog menu featuring chicken breast for $2, carrots and mini burgers for your pooches to devour! Bring your furry friend anytime and enjoy the wonderful weather with a brew or some grub in hand.
Big Star, a citywide favorite taco joint located in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood, offers pup seating in its ever-popular 80-seat patio. While owners can relish in the nice weather enjoying tacos, margaritas or whatever you like your furry friend can enjoy the available water bowls. Stop by the Wicker Park location whenever you want to enjoy the day or night with your pup!
At Jake Melnick’s Corner Tap, get a fix on your chicken wing craving with your dog by your side. Located in the River North neighborhood, dogs and their owners can enjoy the covered outdoor patio with charming picnic tables at this dog friendly spot! Quench your dog’s thirst with the available water bowls.
Looking for downtown luxury apartments near these dog friendly restaurants? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The River North neighborhood is a highly sought after, bustling neighborhood in the heart of the city. Many flock to reside here for its outstanding location, incredible restaurants and endless activities. Downtown apartment renters can find some great values at these River North buildings!
Building 125 offers luxury at a competitive price. The brand new building features stunning finishes and building amenities including driftwood, wide-plank flooring throughout, stainless steel appliances, and quartz countertops.
Fantastic city views and private balconies are also available in most units.
The building also features incredible amenities such as a full floor terrace overlooking the city and the building’s private park as well as a fitness-center fully equipped with spin bikes and a boxing simulator.
Enjoy relaxing next to the outdoor lap pool and hot tub in one of the cabanas or around the fire pits. Residents and guests alike will enjoy the spacious game room and year-round grilling stations!
Starting Prices:
Convertible: $1940, 1 Bed: $2440, 2 Bed: $2645, 3 Bed: $4750
Another great option is Building 145 located near Chicago Avenue and LaSalle Street. The apartment building is a beautiful, historic building that was newly renovated just last year. The apartment units are retro and eclectic, featuring Smeg refrigerators available in a variety of colors.
Trendy white subway tiles line the backsplash of the kitchens. New appliances and washer/dryer in-unit make this a great city find! Unique from the rest of the new builds, this offers charming character with a mix of sleek modern and retro aesthetic.
The building amenities feature a gorgeous rooftop – perfect for Chicago summer nights. A beautiful fitness center equipped with a boxing ring makes for the options of some killer workouts from your own home! On-site bar and coffee shop are perfect to take you from morning to night.
Starting Prices:
Studio: $1700, 1 Bed: $1850
Last, but certainly not least, is Building 21 located near the Chicago River. With one of the best locations in River North, at the intersection of Illinois and Franklin Streets, building 21 is a sure stand out. Ranging from studios to 2 bed townhomes, this rental building offers a variety of floor plans. Features include spacious walk-in closets, breakfast bars, linen closets and beautiful ceramic tile baths.
Studio Kitchen
The building also houses an amenity level with a private green space with gas grills, a fitness center, and a heated indoor lap pool.
Starting Prices:
Studio: $1440, Convertible: $1640, 1 Bed: $1790, 2 Bed: $2650
Click here for more information on River North rentals.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Soaring high above the busy streets of downtown Chicago are the lavish penthouses waiting to be called home. With exceptional finishes, these units are a massive step above the rest. Downtown penthouses bring everything you’d ever want in urban living.
Click here to see a map of luxury penthouses for rent.
In River North, Property 129 brings high-end condo-level finishes and luxury as it’s standard in the breathtaking penthouse units.
Modern wide-plank wood flooring meets floor-to-ceiling windows featuring unobstructed city views. The spectacular chef’s kitchen boasts premium Bosch appliances integrated into the stunning granite slab waterfall countertops. Full-height backsplashes elevate the aesthetic of the apartment. In the master bedroom, you can find large custom walk-in closets and a beautiful, spa-like ensuite bathroom with sleek Kohler finishes. Enjoy the fine luxury of outdoor space in the heart of the city on the extensive private terrace. The building also features impeccable amenities such as expansive sundeck with an outdoor pool, private green spaces, fire pits and incredible fitness center.
Another remarkable residence is located in Streeterville at Property 131. With dramatic 10-foot ceilings paired with floor-to-ceiling windows, you get a view that is simply jaw dropping.
Upgraded, state-of-the-art kitchens are perfect for any chef (or chef wanna-be)! With beautiful granite countertops and perfectly integrated appliances, this kitchen is anyone’s dream. Contemporary hardwood floors are featured throughout the living space into the bedrooms. The master bedroom is truly amazing with built-in closets with solid shelving and integrated shoe-racks. The building has outstanding amenities such as a resort-style indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, a golf simulator, basketball and racketball courts, a peloton studio, sundeck terraces with fireside lounges, cabanas, a cutting-edge fitness center, and a theater room!
At nearly 3,000 square feet, the massive penthouse of Property 116 stands tall above the rest in the South Loop. When entering the unit, beautiful, contemporary grey-tone plank flooring greets you to the marvelous home.
Where the flooring meets the windows, you’ll find jaw-dropping views of the entire city skyline and lakeshore from the wrap around floor-to-ceiling windows. In the kitchen, you’ll find state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances and a personal wine fridge as well. Custom, duel-colored cabinetry lines the space offering tons of storage options. Flawlessly integrated appliances and stunning quartz countertops are the cherry on top of this kitchen. In the bedrooms, residents will enjoy the fine luxuries of custom built-in closets. In the master bedroom, the ensuite bathroom is unlike any other. With a beautiful stand-alone tub over looking the city, relaxation is at it’s finest. Bring the spa to your home every night when you live here! Enjoy the great outdoors on the massive private terrace.
With both lake and city views, you get the best of both worlds right from the comfort of your own home. In the building, you’ll be able to do it all right at your fingertips. Enjoy a vigorous workout in the outstanding fitness center and then relax at the resort-style outdoor pool and lounge. Enjoy lounging in cabanas by the poolside and entertain your guests in the game room! An on-site dog run is available for your furry friends!
Click here to see a map of luxury penthouses for rent.
Looking for luxury penthouses near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Penthouses are the pinnacle of luxury apartments. The premium address is a perk in itself, but what are some of the specific amenities they offer? Read on to learn more about penthouse apartment living, and discover how to find a luxury Chicago penthouse to turn your dreams into reality.
Penthouse rental apartments promise a sky-high living standard. Let’s start with the incredible views they offer. Rather than looking at the city — and typically getting a view of a neighbor’s balcony — you’ll look down on sweeping vistas that can only be truly enjoyed from the highest apartment units. Living in a penthouse, you’ll enjoy a whole new perspective on the Chicago you know and love.
In a penthouse, you also get to enjoy a private luxury apartment — remember, no one will be living upstairs from you — and you may even have your own elevator. Penthouses are further removed from street noise than any other unit, which means you are unlikely to hear emergency sirens, traffic or other sounds in the neighborhood while you’re going about your day or night. No wonder many penthouse dwellers feel like they have their own home, one with all the amenities of luxury apartment rentals.
Another great aspect of penthouses is that they tend to have more efficient layouts than the other apartments below, as well as amenities those other apartments won’t have — such as massive private outdoor patios. Penthouses typically offer high-tech tools that improve comfort and lower costs, whether it’s smart thermostats or state-of-the-art entertainment systems. In fact, select penthouses in downtown Chicago come with flat screen TVs and wired sound. These perks make penthouses appealing to anyone who wants these amenities without having to leave Chicago’s downtown area.
With the uptick in luxury apartments, you might be wondering whether penthouses are really all that different from other luxury apartments. While your typical loft will have floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light and provide sweeping views, this does not compare to the expansive views of a light-filled penthouse unit.
A penthouse apartment is, essentially, the crown jewel of its building — the unit with the best views, wonderful privacy, and high-end finishes. In a penthouse, you’re at the highest livable point of the building, in a unit likely filled with little touches that set it apart.
When you want the highest and most stylish apartment option, there’s no denying that the penthouse is the way to go.
Specific penthouse amenities vary by luxury apartment building. So when you’re hunting for a new home, consider what’s most important to you in an apartment — whether it’s a fitness center, pets allowed or heated underground parking — and search for luxury apartments in Chicago that offer these amenities. The right penthouse should feel like home — not just in terms of the interior look and feel, but also in terms of the location and building amenities.
When you’re looking for an apartment in downtown Chicago, you have all kinds of options. There are many great neighborhoods, apartments with open layouts, and even those special units with views of beautiful Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. Are there certain features or qualities that make a Chicago apartment stand out in today’s market? What are the must-haves that belong on an ultimate Chicago apartment checklist, and why?
To answer these questions and inspire you when apartment-hunting, here’s a roundup of some of the most important amenities to look for in your new home in Chicago. Think of it as a bucket list for finding the perfect luxury living situation.
When you’re looking for a new place to live in Chicago, keep top amenities at the front of your mind. Are you ready to shop? Browse our luxury apartment map and luxury penthouse map to explore what’s available!
The amenities in downtown Chicago apartments have been growing more exquisite with each year’s delivery of new construction. Most buildings we work with feature co-working space, a pool and hot tub, and fitness center. These buildings really take luxury amenities to the next level! If you’re looking for incredible luxury amenities in downtown Chicago check out the ones below!
One of the newest luxury amenities to come to many downtown high-rises is a golf simulator! In Chicago, we all know how unpredictable weather can be – never lose a day of practice through the rain and snow. Challenge your swing next to the top PGA Champions at River North Property 107 or Property 113. Choose from several options of legendary courses and always stay on top of your game!
Property 113 also features an arcade!
Another incredible luxury amenity that’s now available is a recording studio in the River West Property 139! Enjoy the music room and play your music the way you want to! This rental building also features a resident performance room with a stage, bar, and furniture made from recycled instruments.
Gold Coast Property 128 offers a massive rooftop, including a hot tub and heated pool, several semi-private cabanas, a bar, fire pits and grill stations, an expansive dog run, and even a private massage spa room!
In the South Loop, the new, stunning Property 135 offers residents and guests alike to move entertainment into the on-site bowling alley, bocce ball court, and movie theatre! In the private lanes, you can enjoy endless fun on those inclement Chicago days. Have fun with some friendly competition as you get to know your neighbors!
In Streeterville, Property 131 offers an expansive, two-story fitness center, with dedicated trainer rooms and group fitness classes, indoor and outdoor steam rooms and sauna, cold plunge showers, peloton bikes, several weight racks, racket ball, basket ball, and bocce ball courts, as well as a putting green!
Calling all aspiring sommeliers – check out the wine cellar at River North Property 45 or the Fireside Wine Lounge at South Loop Property 108!
Store your wine is the private, climate-controlled wine lockers and enjoy it in the connected tasting room. Extend your entertainment from your home to the wine cellar to feel as if you’ve just stepped into Napa Valley!
In the West Loop neighborhood, enjoy the Roof “Crop” at Property 137! Using advanced green-roof systems, the Roof Crop grows clean, responsibly grown produce for the building to share! The 3,000 square foot fruit and vegetable garden will offer residents, local restaurants, and grocers the locally grown produce. Skip the grocery store for some garden fresh meals! Although there are many places to enjoy fresh air at Property 137, one of our personal favorites is the expansive outdoor terrace, complete with beautifully landscaped greenery and fire pits!
Looking for downtown apartments with resort style luxury amenities in the downtown area? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The near South Loop neighborhood has a brand new, luxury apartment building available for immediate move in! Alta Roosevelt, a tall, glassy tower, offers residents premier luxury with state-of-the-art amenities for residents and guest alike to revel in.
Thrive in the high-end, contemporary apartment homes featuring unparalleled comfort. The units boast expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows allowing incredible city views, custom lighting, and private balconies. State-of-the-art kitchens are elegant with pristine quartz countertops and stainless steel Whirlpool appliances. The massive soaking tubs are the perfect place to relax at the end of a long day.
Alta Roosevelt also features extensive luxury amenities. Work out in the full fitness center or yoga studio. Enjoy the rooftop resort-style pool, perfectly completed with cabanas and lounge chairs. There is an incredible entertainment space as well, a perfect extension of apartment living space. Residents also have access to a private bar area. Alta Roosevelt also includes a full theater experience and an on-site coffee shop; perfect for when you’re on the go!
The near South Loop neighborhood has tons to offer and is the perfect place to call home. Home to museum campus (Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Museum of Science and Industy), delicious dining experiences and wonderful parks there’s no doubt why this neighborhood stands out among many! Enjoy the amazing Millennium and Grant Parks as well as the Grand Park Bark Park for your furry friend! The near South Loop neighborhood also offers beautiful lakefront area’s to enjoy during the warm, summer months.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The near West Loop neighborhood is a hustling and bustling area that has tons to offer to the downtown experience! In addition to year round nightlife, this neighborhood hosts some amazing summertime fests and fairs Randolph Street, perfect for everyone to visit! Check out some fabulous options below.
The Randolph Street Market Festival kicks off summer with the indoor + outdoor garden party! During the weekends starting May 26th & 27th, enjoy the day shopping with the Chicago Antique Market, Indie Designer Market, Modern Vintage Chicago and the Holiday Market. The festival has been dubbed “a mecca of cool”, “the Barney’s of vintage” and celebrity designer Nate Berkus says, “I love this market… the quality is incredible!” Check out incredible finds throughout the Chicago summer!
One of Chicago’s most iconic street fairs is the Taste of Randolph Street! Located in the heart of restaurant row on Randolph Street in the West Loop, come on down between June 15th-17th for activities for everyone to enjoy! For the 22nd Anniversary, the biggest names in Chicago cuisine will create delectable menus and incredible flavors. There will be two stages and a DJ stage for live music to complement the culinary experience. Some of the big name participating restaurants include Bar Siena, Mad Social, Belly Q, City Winery and many many more.
The annual summer music festival, Pitchfork Music Festival, is coming back to the near West Loop neighborhood this July. The primary focus is on artists and bands from alternative rock, rap/hip-hop, electronic, and has also included hardcore punk, avant-garde rock and jazz in it’s lineups making it the perfect festival for all music lovers. The fest also includes incredible food, drinks and art making it the perfect summer activity. Located off of Randolph Street in Union Park, the Pitchfork Music fest should definitely be on your radar.
Pitchfork 2018 Lineup
The West Loop Art Fest is returning to Chicago for its third annual event! During the weekend of September 16th and 17th, the hugely successful fair will bring even more art and entertainment this year. Featuring four blocks of vibrant art, live music bands, interactive art demonstrations including hot glass blowers, muralists, and fire dancers. Enjoy delicious food from the best food trucks the city has to offer! Now located on the desirable Fulton Street, over 120 of the countries top artists this perfect fall fest has something for everyone to enjoy!
All summer long, enjoy the incredible all-ages Movies in the Park located in Heritage Green & Mary Bartelme Park to be entertained by great movies while relishing in the amazing summer weather! Interactive activities are available prior to the movie start time for a fun filled evening. Movies start at dusk with varying end times.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the West Loop’s Randolph Street? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The new McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters is landing at 110 N. Carpenter Street in Chicago this year. The super-sized development by Sterling Bay now plans to occupy nearly 500,000 square feet with its move from Oak Brook. The West Loop is home to some of Chicago’s finest galleries, nightlife and entertainment, luxury apartments, and outdoor amenity space. McDonald’s couldn’t have picked a better location!
A Rendering of the Sterling Bay Development
Property #120
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 9-minute walk or a 5-minute drive
Starting Price: Studios from $1750
Building #120 offers pristine, contemporary luxury in the Fulton Market district! At the intersection of great food, arts & culture this building is a sure standout. Apartment units feature beautiful custom kitchens featuring cabinets with soft close drawers, stainless steel whirlpool appliances and stunning quartz countertops. Impressively designed, enjoy hardwood flooring throughout your new home. Relax and enjoy the outstanding amenities as well such as the swimming pool, fitness center and rooftop entertainment lounge. Check out https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/120/ for more information about building #120!
Property #95
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 7-minute walk or a 3-minute drive
Starting Price: Junior 1 Beds from $2095
Enjoy the conveniences of being close to restaurants and nightlife on Randolph Street. Apartment units feature in-unit laundry, updated kitchens with gas ranges and hardwood throughout the entry, living space, and kitchen. Chic building amenities including an outdoor rooftop pool, hot tubs and lounge areas offer luxury at your fingertips! State-of-the-art fitness center makes fitness needs easily accessible. As a pet friendly building, a large fenced-in private dog park and grooming area is perfect for your furry friend. For more information regarding Building #95, visit https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/095-2/
Property #66
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 8-minute walk or a 4-minute drive
Starting Price: Studios from $1750
This building features 10-foot ceilings, oversized windows and wood plank flooring throughout the unit. Modern kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops boast luxury in addition to in-unit laundry. Building #66 offers a variety of on-site amenities as well including an expansive 24-hour fitness center, a screening room, expansive resident lounge with TV’s and press box dry cleaning drop-off & pick-up. If you’re interested in Building #66, check out https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/066/
Property #137
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 13-minute walk or a 6-minute drive
Starting Price: Studios from $1895
Building #137 is a brand new build offering immense luxury in your own home! The apartment units feature modern kitchens with perfectly integrated appliances. Beautiful wood flooring throughout living and sleeping areas with rustic exposed concrete ceilings make this a cozy home. Building #137 offers a plethora of outstanding amenities as well. Featuring a rooftop pool, outdoor seating areas with fire pits too. State-of-the-art fitness center and private studio are perfect for all your workout needs. For more information on Building #137, visit https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/137/
The West Loop neighborhood is bursting with top restaurants and bars within the city limits! Don’t skip the fine dining and nightlife down Restaurant Row on Randolph St. Stop in and check out the eclectic galleries and green spaces everyone would love in their neighborhood!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Nearing the one year anniversary of it’s grand opening, Optima Signature continues to be a sure standout in the near Streeterville neighborhood. The 57-story tower reflects luxury from the inside out with its exquisite glassy exterior to the high-end, ultra-modern perfectly tailored interiors.
Waiting inside your new home is the comfort and opulence any urban dweller desires. Sweeping city views are on display with floor-to-ceiling windows in every unit. Balterio wide-plank hardwood flooring throughout adds warmth and the ultimate design canvas to reflect your personal style. In the kitchen, the ultimate chef’s kitchen is available for anyone to enjoy. Pristine quartz countertops and Snaidero cabinetry matched with built-in stainless steel appliances reflect luxury at its finest. There are even select units that feature wine refrigerators as well!
Though luxury comes standard at Optima Signature, the Apex (penthouse) units feature an added dose. Contemporary kitchens feature condo-grade finishes from the countertops to cabinetry, with wine refrigerators and integrated appliances. 10 -foot ceilings add dimension and space to an already spectacular home. All closets come completely built-in with shelving and an integrated shoe rack in the master bedrooms.
Optima Signature offers amenities galore, with resort-style luxuries, such as multiple indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas, a sundeck terrace with several fire pit lounges, cabanas, indoor and outdoor sauna and stream rooms, a playground, media entertainment center, a library, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Outdoor private dining areas with grills and coolers are also a great option for entertainment.
Enjoy the luxury of working out from home in the cutting-edge fitness center with WELLBEATS virtual workout studio or the tranquil yoga studio to add some zen to busy days. Take a post-workout cold plunge in the locker room or relax in one of several fitness center level lounge spaces. For more athletic space, be sure to check out the indoor golf simulator for when the weather is not up to par or the putting green. The indoor basketball, racket ball, and bocce ball courts add tons of activity space for you to enjoy.
A spacious party room and large demonstration kitchen offers multiple spaces to entertain. Entertainment is accessible in the on-site theatre room as well. Check out Club 52 – the penthouse level rooftop terrace offering wine lockers and lounges.
Last, but certainly not least, Optima Signature offers direct, indoor access to the adjacent Whole Foods grocery store!
Looking for luxury apartments near Streeterville? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The Loop neighborhood is expecting a new luxury apartment building coming soon! Historically known as Barrister Hall and completed in 1902, 29 S. LaSalle is being revamped as a posh, boutique style apartment building called Millennium on LaSalle. In partnership with Fitzgerald Architects, DLC Residential recently purchased the beautiful 13-story office building and plans to renovate it into the Loop’s newest apartment addition!
DLC Residential, which typically does ground-up construction, appreciated the spectacular existing buildings structure, historical nature and phenomenal location. The goal is to create a new building using the existing shell and impeccable architecture. The apartment will feature 211 apartment dwellings and 5,000 square feet of retail space.
The exterior will feature a steel structure with a limestone and terra cotta exterior. The original building’s exterior will be preserved while the interior is renovated. Marble columns and ceilings will remain as modern finishes, furniture and lighting are incorporated. The combination will give a spectacular feeling of boutique, high-end residential living in the heart of the city.
In a beautiful blend of modern and classic styles, Millennium on LaSalle will feature incredible amenities for residents and guests alike. On warm, sunny days the rooftop pool and landscaped lounge with fireplaces can be enjoyed while taking in the views of the city skyline. The 14th floor amenity floor will also include a bocce ball court, a fitness room and dog run!
In the basement, additional amenities will include a large screening room, multiple media rooms, a computer lounge and a unique musical practice space with a recording booth! For your furry friends, an all-season indoor dog wash station can be used year round. Millennium on LaSalle’s first floor lobby will also include a coffee/media lounge – great for when you’re running out the door!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
