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‘North Union’ Mega-Development at Moody Bible

JDL Development has proposed a multiphase mega-development with both commercial and residential properties, as well as public green space, near Old Town. The proposed Near North Side development, North Union, would span 8.1 acres and cover half of the current Moody Bible Institute’s Near North Side campus.

New construction near north side apartments for rent and lease

Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

North Union would bring over 30,000 square feet of commercial space, 2680 rental apartments, and 1.3 acres of green space to Moody Bible Institute’s campus. JDL currently has a deal to buy the land and Moody Bible plans to continue to operate on the remaining 9.4 acres of their current Near North Side campus.

Union North Moody Bible Near North Side Old Town

Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

The proposed development would be situated between Wells Street and the CTA brown line tracks, bounded by Hill and Chestnut Streets as the northern and southern boundaries. Current plans include three high rises along Oak Street at 44, 47, and 55 stories respectively. Plans also include over 200 low rise units like town homes. Once approved, the development could take 7 to 10 years to complete.

Union North Megadevelopment at Moody Bible Institute on Wells Street

Courtesy of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s Near North Side? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering in person and virtual apartment showings. Be sure to ask us about move in specials!

Old Town Park Phase 3

Developed by Vancouver based developer, Onni Group, the third phase of the Old Town Park development is open and available on Chicago’s near north side. At 41 stories, Old Town Park phase 3 is the tallest of the three towers so far. It includes 456 rental units, a sixth floor amenity deck, parking for 193 cars, and office space on the lower levels.

Studio 1 bed 2 bedroom townhouse penthouse Old Town Apartments for rent town homes

Old Town Park phase two made headlines in 2019 for its $45,000 per month penthouse, which set Chicago’s record for the highest price for a rental apartment.

Now, the outstanding finishes, interiors, and amenities at Old Town Park tower 3 are impressing viewers all over again. Phase 3 features an outdoor deck with a heated pool, a hot tub, loungers, daybeds, grassy areas, outdoor play spaces, fire pits, a bocce ball court and various kitchen spaces.

 

This is right in line with the thoughtful amenities at the first two phases of Old Town Park, which include large pools and hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, and massage rooms, indoor and outdoor rooftop basketball courts, spacious pet amenities, club grade fitness centers, a game room, a self playing piano, many lounge and entertainment spaces, and elegant co-working spaces. Custom closets, full sized washers and dryers, integrated kitchen appliances, sleek design, private balconies, condo-grade finishes, and large bathrooms and kitchens are also all hallmarks of other Onni buildings, including the first two towers of the Old Town Park development.

Opened early in summer of 2021, phase three not only has a lot to offer by way of luxury living, but it also provides an incredible location in Old Town. Living in Old Town Park’s phase three building puts residents right in the middle of this historic, friendly community known for block parties, art galleries and easy access to Lake Michigan. Enjoy being steps from Navy Pier and North Avenue Beach! When you’re looking for luxury apartments for rent in Old Town near Wells Street, explore our listings online to find the perfect place for you. Or, talk to one of our neighborhood experts, as they will be happy to answer your questions. Contact us today! We are now offering virtual, in-person, and self-guided apartment tours.

River North Furniture Stores

River North is one of Chicago’s cultural hubs, filled with boutiques, galleries, music venues, restaurants, and design studios. It’s no wonder River North is chalk full of top tier furniture stores. Here are a few neighborhood favorites!

Luminaire – 301 W Superior St.

Luminaire Chicago features modern designer furniture, lighting, and accessories in a timber loft show room. Luminaire’s show room is located in the gallery district of the River North neighborhood, which features the largest concentration of art galleries outside Manhattan.

Furniture stores near you

The Golden Triangle – 330 N Clark St.

The Golden Triangle is a hidden gem for one of a kind rare finds. From furniture and decor, art work, lighting, and sculptures, to jewelry, artifacts, European and Asian antiques, and custom work, it’s easy to get spend an afternoon perusing the uniquely curated collection.  The Golden Triangle is offering virtual tours of the show room and inventory via Matterport.

Furniture stores near you

Casa Spazio – 222 W Hubbard St

Casa Spazio has a collection of luxury home decor designed and made in Italy. Their collection includes custom pieces, upholstery, office and bedroom furniture, and other modern home furnishings. Casa Spazio also provides space planning and interior design services and is currently offering a virtual tour of their show room.

Furniture stores near you

Manifesto – 808 N Wells St.

Manifesto in River north carries custom designed furniture, imports from Italy and Austria, and contemporary accent pieces. The chic, spacious showroom features a large selection of decor in neutral colors, wood furnishings, rugs, and accent lighting.

Furniture stores near you

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s River North neighborhood? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

369 W. Grand Apartments

369 W. Grand apartments is a new rental building from Canadian developer, Onni Group, at the site of the former Clark and Barlow Hardware Store. Upon completion, 369 W. Grand will provide 365 apartments in a glass-clad 41-story tower in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.

The five story base will feature retail space on the ground level with parking on the next four levels. The main building will feature a resident amenity deck on the sixth floor with a large outdoor deck that will expand on to the roof of the five story base. Units will feature modern finishes and private balconies.

369 W. Grand apartments will also feature three floors of luxury penthouses.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North in downtown Chicago?

A rendering of 369 W. Grand apartments

Onni Group is also the developer behind The Hudson, just a few blocks north of 369 W. Grand, and the multi phase Old Town Park development.

The River North neighborhood is just across the Chicago River from the Loop. Known for its high concentration of restaurants, music venues including the House of Blues, and art galleries as well as its vibrant nightlife scene, River North is a go-to neighborhood for a night out. River North is also home to Merchandise Mart, world-class architecture, and design studios. River North offers convenient access to both interstate 90/94 (Kennedy Expressway) and Lake Shore Drive as well as the brown, purple, and red line trains which run through the Loop and north through Lincoln Park past Northwestern University in Evanston.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

Aspire South Loop Apartments

There’s no question that the South Loop is one of this year’s hottest Chicago neighborhoods for residential development. If you’re looking to be where all the action is, Aspire apartments is certainly worth checking out! Aspire is one of the South Loop’s newest luxury rental communities, offering pet friendly 1 bed, 2 bed, and 3 bedroom apartments.

Each apartment features modern finishes, thoughtful features, and premium appliances including full sized in unit laundry, exposed concrete ceilings and accents, roller shades, ample closet space, and wide plank flooring throughout. Kitchens boast stone countertops, stainless appliances, and European two tone cabinetry with stone backsplash. Bathrooms offer frameless glass showers and generous vanity storage space.

The amenities at Aspire are top notch. Enjoy the fully equipped fitness center and yoga room with a virtual training system. Between the private work spaces, conference room, the resident cyber lounge, and WiFi access throughout all the indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, there’s plenty of space to work from home.

Pet friendly south loop apartments for rent

Entertain or unwind in the fireside lounge, the pub room, the sports simulator or game and arcade room, or the outdoor pool complete with private cabanas, fire pits, and grilling stations. Aspire also offers lots of conveniences for residents including an on site guest suite, an outdoor private dog park, bike storage, a private garage with electric car charging stations, valet dry cleaning, and a Luxor package receiving system.

Last but certainly not least is Aspire’s “Aspiring Artist” in residence. Canary Garcia has been commissioned to create custom artwork, beginning with a sculpture, for the building while living in it!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering in person, virtual, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Amli 808 Apartments

Amli 808 at 808 N. Wells Street is Amli’s newest apartment community coming to River North! The 17 story tower will features studio, one bed, and two bedroom apartments as well as state of the art amenities and roughly 4700 square feet of commercial space. Of the 318 total apartments, 80% will be efficiently designed studios.

Some of the amenities will include multi-use lounge spaces, a library, a resident craft room, an indoor-outdoor dog run as well as other pet amenities, a rooftop pool deck, an outdoor kitchen with grilling areas, a two level fitness center, a juice and coffee bar, a Zen lounge, a podcasting room, a bike repair shop, communal gardens, and ample coworking space. Amli 808 is also being built to achieve LEED Gold certification.

New construction AMLI 808 River North Apartments for Rent

Rendering of 808 N. Wells

Amli 808 will have fewer car parking spaces but more bicycle parking space than some of its other developments– for a good reason! This transit oriented development is located just a block from the CTA brown and purple line trains which run south through the Loop and north through Lincoln Park, Lakeview, all the way past Northwestern University. It will also be along Wells Street, which is one of the primary bicycle thoroughfares that runs through the city. Although Amli 808 will be the new building on the block, the design team was intentional about making sure the building would jive with the character of River North’s gallery district.  According to architecture firm, NORR, Ami 808 was designed “with a nod the many low rise warehouse and art galleries in the neighborhood by utilizing a common brick aesthetic…with a contemporary glass sheathed jewel box rising above.”

Amli 808 is slated for completion in late spring 2021.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours!

Hidden Gem Furniture Stores Near Fulton Market

Whether you’re looking for a contemporary accent piece, functional furniture for your small space, a timeless antique, or a whole new eclectic midcentury collection for your apartment, these furniture stores near Fulton Market are a must!

Knoll – 811 W Fulton Market

Knoll has distinct collections for both commercial and residential spaces, including their hybrid work from home collection. Knoll’s style could best be described as contemporary, minimalist, and functional (think “IKEA’s upscale cousin”). If you’re partial to mid-century modern design or are a big believer that “less is more”, Knoll’s Mies van der Rohe collection might have just what you’re looking for. Knoll recently moved from Merchandise Mart to their new Fulton Market showroom, which was designed in collaboration with Gensler.

Fulton Market Furniture Stores

Knoll’s Barcelona Chair from the Mies van Der Rohe collection

Make a reservation and visit their trendy new showroom. If you can’t make it to the showroom (or don’t have a car and can’t stomach carrying your new desk and sofa all the way home), most items from Knoll ship free within 1 to 3 business days.

Primitive – 130 N Jefferson St.

There are some furniture stores where it helps to know what you’re looking for before you go. This is not one of those places. Primitive, on the eastern end of the West Loop, features both modern and antique furniture, accent pieces, jewelry, artifacts, lighting, paintings, textiles, and more from over 100 different cultures around the globe. According to their site, Primitive’s collection is “from some of the world’s hardest to reach places and everything has been carefully selected for its inherent merit and meaning”. Although it is temporarily closed, their “Buddha Room” is a popular event venue. Primitive can feel more like a museum than a store. This is the place to go to find one in a million curated pieces, not to find bargains. Browse their site to get an idea of how extensive this world class collection truly is!

Luxury apartments for rent near Fulton market

Wedding Bed with Canopy & 4 Mirror Insert Panels from 19th Century China

Morlen Sinoway Atelier -1052 W Fulton Market

Morlen Sinoway is a multi-disciplinary design studio representing over 60 brands. Their show room features contemporary furniture, lighting, and various accents for the home. If you find yourself overwhelmed by their extensive 60 brand catalog, Morlen Sinoway’s interior design staff will be happy to lend a hand (or an eye, rather). Whether you’re looking for an individual piece to tie your loft together or a complete redesign of your space, Morlen Sinoway Atelier is worth checking out.

Fulton Market Furniture Stores

South Loop Loft- 685 N. Milwaukee Ave

“South Loop Loft” is kind of a misnomer, as this hidden gem furniture store is located in the River West neighborhood, just blocks north of Fulton Market. South Loop Loft is the place to go for 20th century furnishings and decor from around the globe, custom designed pieces, and an ever-changing inventory of hand picked pieces. Make an appointment to check out their showroom!

Looking for furniture stores near you?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Fulton Market? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Mondial River West Apartments

If you’re looking for maximum square footage and closet space but don’t want to compromise on style or your price range, look no further! Mondial River West has it all at a competitive price point.

Now leasing luxury per friendly River West apartments

Mondial is best known for having spacious layouts and ample closet space. Each apartment at Mondial also includes a full sized washer and dryer, floor to ceiling windows for taking in natural light and panoramic views, modern finishes, digital thermostats, natural hardwood flooring, and high ceilings. With expansive living rooms, extra long kitchen islands with bar style seating, and large private balconies, there’s plenty of space to work from home or entertain. The modern kitchens feature granite countertops, full stainless steel Kitchen Aid appliance packages, Grohe pull out faucets, and double bowl undercount sinks. Bathrooms are complete with deep soaking tubs and walk in showers and designer marble tile.

Now leasing luxury per friendly River West apartments

The amenities at Mondial offer incredible convenience. With grilling stations, 24 hour concierge, 24 hour fitness center, package receiving, valet dry-cleaning, on site storage, indoor parking, and a digital intercom service, you’ll have nearly everything you could need at your fingertips. If you want to get out of your apartment without leaving the building, entertain, relax, or work from home in the rooftop entertaining room where you can curl up near the fireplace or soak up the sun on the spacious rooftop deck with stunning skyline views, a water mister, a fire pit, and a pergola. Mondial is pet friendly and even has an onsite private dog run and fully landscaped park area.

Mondia Apartments in River West

Mondial is conveniently located one block from CVS, one block from the Chicago Blue Line subway stop (which provides quick and direct access to O’Hare International Airport and the Loop), two blocks from the expressway, six blocks from Jewel Osco grocery store, and a short walk to restaurants and nightlife on Grand and Milwaukee or Fulton Market. Mondial is also located right off Milwaukee Avenue, affectionately known as “hipster highway” for its wide bike lanes and Divvy rental bike stations. The River West neighborhood is one of the most in demand areas downtown because of its neighborhood feel and proximity to the West Loop and Loop.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

Imprint Printer’s Row Apartments

If you’re looking for state of the art amenities, soft loft accents, and modern interiors, all in a prime location, Imprint in Printer’s Row could be the place for you!

Imprint Printer's Row Apartments for rent now leasing

Each apartment features soaring nine foot exposed concrete ceilings, solid core entry doors with brushed chrome hardware, and hard surface flooring throughout. The European style kitchens come equipped with flat panel cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, garbage disposal, a large undercount stainless steel sink, and a single lever faucet with an integrated pull out sprayer. Bedrooms are equipped with spacious walk in closets and are thoughtfully laid out. Spa inspired bathrooms are complete with elegant lighting, vanities each with a drawer, frameless mirror, and integrated sink, single lever premium faucets, soaking tubs, glass showers, towel bars, robe hooks, and double vanity sinks in select units.

With indoor amenities for year round use, outdoor amenities in the warmer months, and convenient services, the amenities at Imprint are second to none. Head to the fitness studio and yoga platform for your own workout or a complimentary yoga class. and towel off with complimentary towel service. If you’re having company, entertain or unwind in the resident lounge, the private dining area and demonstration kitchen, the fifth floor terrace, complete with grilling stations, fire pits, and ample seating space, or warm up by the fire pits at the top floor observation deck. Although the dedicated co-working spaces and first floor library are excellent for working from home, all amenity spaces are equipped with WiFi should you decide to work from one of the outdoor common spaces.

Imprint Printer's Row Apartments for rent now leasing

Imprint also offers a multitude of conveniences. The dog spa, grooming station, and private 24/7 dog run make having a dog in a high rise a breeze. The 24/7 concierge, on-site maintenance and management teams, LuxerOne package receiving, Tide Spin valet dry cleaning, printing service, and curated resident events and perks program are all things Imprint offers to make life just a little easier.

Imprint Printer's Row Apartments for rent now leasing

Check out the gallery below for more images of Imprint!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Printer’s Row in the South Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours. Be sure to ask about any move in specials!

River West Town Homes at Spoke

If you’re looking for a rental near River West that gives you the benefits of living in a single family house (like your own parking garage, no elevator rides, and two levels of living space) with the benefits of high rise living (like door staff, access to state of the art amenities, and 24/7 maintenance should you need that hard to reach lightbulb changed), there’s no need to compromise! These town homes at Spoke in River West offer the best of both styles of living.

Between the two levels of living space, street-level private entrance, and attached single car garage, there are plenty of reasons to love living at these luxury town homes. The finishes are top notch with hardwood floors throughout, walk in closets with Elfa shelving systems, oversized windows, and automated shades.

Now leasing! Town homes near downtown Chicago

In the kitchen you’ll find under-cabinet lighting, polished white quartz countertops, GE Profile appliances including a French door refrigerator with hands free autofill, gas range with warming drawer, dishwasher with hidden controls, a front-loading Energy Star washer and dryer with steam assist and sensor dry features, and a Marvel stainless wine chiller. Spa inspired bathrooms include Moen fixtures in satin nickel and lighted vanity mirrors. Although the town homes each have their own private entrances, they are attached to the high rise portion of the building for convenient access to the common areas and amenities.

Now leasing! Town homes near downtown Chicago 3 bedroom apartments

One of the town home floor plans including both levels of living space

Town home residents get full access to Spoke’s building amenities. With the exception of the sky lounge, which is on the penthouse floor and comes equipped with a chef grade kitchen and private outdoor terrace with a fire pit and grills, the main amenity levels are the fourth and second floors. The fourth floor has over an acre of outdoor space complete with a rooftop pool, private cabanas, a massive hot tub, open green space, a bocce court, hammocks, tables, fire pits, garden, and even an outdoor pizza oven!

On the fourth floor you’ll also find a “Family Room” with a 12 seat farmhouse table, a double sided indoor-outdoor fireplace, lounge furniture, TVs, and another kitchen. If you’re going to be hosting guests for an extended period of time, you can reserve the fully furnished guest suite! Head across the terrace to the 24 hour fitness center, complete with cardio equipment, free weights, weight machines, a boxing training system, and two private training studios which offer both on-demand fitness classes as well as complimentary fitness and yoga classes every Tuesday. Residents also enjoy access to a dedicated Peloton studio.

 

Head to the second floor for some particularly stand-out features and amenities! Enjoy the fully equipped sound-proof recording studio, the interactive virtual gaming room and movie theatre, the conference room, and The Venue– complete with a performance stage, instruments, and professional lighting as well as a billiards table, club-style seating, four flat screen TVs, and a custom sound system. You can also make use of the complimentary bike shop and storage.

In the winter time, on rainy days, or on the days you just feel like having a little extra convenience, the heated dog run and deluxe dog spa are the first class amenities that make Spoke feel like home to your four-legged friends. Additional conveniences include the lobby coffee bar, package receiving, valet dry cleaning, housekeeping service, door staff, and a 24 hour maintenance guarantee as well as a plethora of discounts at local restaurants and businesses!

Check out the gallery below to see more stunning pictures of the townhomes at Spoke!

Looking for luxury town homes for rent in downtown Chicago near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours.

Westerly River West Luxury Apartments

With all the demand from recent commercial growth and new jobs in downtown Chicago, the residential market can hardly keep up! With multiple significant corporate relocations to the Loop and West Loop, demand for luxury residential rentals isn’t showing signs of slowing up anytime soon. For those looking to live in an area with a true neighborhood feel that is also in close proximity to work and all the hustle and bustle of downtown, River West has quickly become Chicago’s brightest hot spot. Fifield Cos, a pillar and market leader in Chicago’s luxury rental market, is delivering 188 new “urban chic” luxury rentals to River West at Westerly (740 N. Aberdeen).

Westerly’s prime location is situated less than a block from the expressway, one block from the CTA blue line train to downtown and O’Hare International Airport, and is right along Milwaukee Avenue, affectionately known as “Hipster Highway” because of its generously sized bike lanes that lead directly into downtown. All Fifield buildings are known for having high walk scores, an indicator of convenience and accessibility, including Westerly which has a score of 94.

The studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartments all feature best in class finishes. Kitchens come equipped with stainless steel appliances, gas ranges, and quartz countertops with full height backsplashes.

Dog Friendly River West Apartments Westerly now renting!

Spa inspired bathrooms features 18 inch deep 32 inch wide soaking tubs and frameless glass separate showers, with double vanities in select units. Plank flooring throughout, walk-in closets with organizers, floor to ceiling windows, and Nest thermostats give these apartments their sleek but homey feel.

At Westerly, residents will enjoy state of the art amenities and thoughtful conveniences. Entertain or relax year round in the resident lounge, complete with an 85 inch flat screen TV with surround sound, the rooftop party room with a full demonstration kitchen, grills, and space for alfresco dining, or one of Westerly’s intimate lounge spaces.

Dog Friendly River West Apartments Westerly now renting!

In the warmer months, soak up the sun at the outdoor sundeck and resort style pool. Whether you’re looking to get in a great workout, work from home, or groom your dog, you won’t have to leave home. Head to the club quality fitness center, the business center, co-working pods, or dog wash and run areas for all your from-home needs.

Three bedroom, two bedroom, one bedroom, and studio apartments for rent in River West the Westerly

Westerly’s conveniences don’t stop there. Grab your morning coffee at the third floor coffee bar, head to one of the curated resident events, or work poolside with the complimentary WiFi that’s available in all common areas. Residents can also enjoy the convenience of access controlled resident parking, concierge service, and even Livly, a digital assistant.

See the gallery below for more stunning pictures of Westerly!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering in-person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours.

Outdoor Dining Near Lincoln Park

Streets throughout Chicago are being designated as “shared streets”, which means they are closed to auto traffic on weekends to maximize the space available for outdoor dining. In Lincoln Park, North Lincoln Avenue from West Fullerton Avenue to West Wrightwood Avenue has been designated as shared street space for outdoor dining on weekends. During the rest of the week, however, you can still head to these Lincoln Park favorites for outdoor dining.

Cafe Ba Ba Reeba – 2024 N. Halsted St.

Outdoor dining at restaurants open in Lincoln Park

Head to Cafe Ba Ba Reeba for tapas, pinxos, paella, and sangria. Their all seasons enclosed patio is open for up to 50% capacity. Reservations are required for patio dining due to the limited seating and availability. You can make your reservations on OpenTable or here. Not looking to dine out? Cafe Ba Ba Reeba also offering carryout including Spanish cocktail kits, like the popular Mezcal Mule.

Summer House Santa Monica – 1954 N. Halsted St.

Looking for Lincoln Park restaurants with outdoor seating?

Avocado toast with poached eggs and scallion mascarpone

Just up Halsted Street from Cafe Ba Ba Reeba is Summer House Santa Monica, a trendy spot serving California inspired fare with local and market driven ingredients. The front patio and Vitamin D room are now both open with 50% capacity and an all day menu.

The J Parker Rooftop at Hotel Lincoln – 1816 N. Clark St.

Enjoy stunning views of the lakefront, Lincoln Park, and the Chicago skyline from the J Parker rooftop. The J Parker, from Boka Restaurant Group, offers small plates, like spring rolls and elote hush puppies, as well as a few salads and burgers, but is best known for it’s unrivaled selection of signature cocktails.

Looking for restaurants with outdoor seating near Lincoln Park open now?

Take in sweeping views from the J Parker rooftop atop Hotel Lincoln

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

River West Outdoor Restaurants

Looking for restaurants with outdoor seating near River West? Try one of these neighborhood favorites!

The Dawson– 730 W. Grand Ave

Originally built in 1888 and reimagined in 2013, The Dawson’s ambiance and decor perfectly blend rustic, historic charm and chic, modern aesthetic. With gorgeous topiary work and greenery, trendy but comfortable lounge furniture, an outdoor fireplace, hanging lights, reclaimed wood partitions, and the high fence that surrounds it, The Dawson’s large patio makes you feel transported to a world of its own. There’s a reason The Dawson is known as the “gathering place of River West”. Matcha grilled ahi tuna served with papaya salad, chopped salad topped with chicken fried lobster, house made spirits and expert mixologists, there’s not much The Dawson doesn’t have. See their creative menu here.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury River West apartments for rent available now?

 

Frontier– 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave

James Beard Award winning chef, Brian Jupiter, crafted a menu “dictated by nature” at Frontier. Frontier is probably best known for its signature, “Whole Animal Experience”, which allows you to order a whole boar, goat, alligator, lamb, or salmon, among others. For those who aren’t quite as carnivorous, Frontier has a host of other dishes, like cauliflower or salmon hash, cauliflower steak, ahi tuna sandwich, kale salad, and more.

Twisted Spoke- 501 N. Ogden Ave

Twisted Spoke has both patio and rooftop seating and is a River West go to for burgers, brunch, and drinks. Their brunch menu, which they call, “Hangover Hospital”, features classic brunch favorites, like omelettes and French toast, and innovative twists, like breakfast gumbo, banana fritters, and pears poached in champagne. Twisted Spoke also has an extensive Bloody Mary menu as well as impressive beer, bourbon, and spirit lists.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River West? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials!

1325 N. Wells Old Town Apartments

1325 N. Wells offers modern, luxury apartments in the heart of Old Town. If you’re looking for contemporary finishes, useful amenities, and a prime location, this could be the place for you!

Each luxury apartment comes with built in custom closets, an in unit washer and dryer, hard surface flooring, and a Nest thermostat for conveniently controlling your unit temperature, even when you’re not home. The spa like bathrooms feature rich Italian tile, great lighting, frameless mirrors, ample storage space, chrome faucets, and spacious, contemporary vanities.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

With sleek finishes like the quartz countertops, tiled backsplashes, and stainless steel appliances, and thoughtful features, like undercount stainless steel sinks with garbage disposals and pull out spray faucets, and large kitchen islands, the gourmet kitchens at 1325 N. Wells are a dinner party host’s dream come true. The large living room windows and private balconies are perfect for taking in unobstructed views and natural light.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

1325 N. Wells has both seasonal and year round amenities. Soak up the sun in the summer months at the rooftop lounge pool with views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan or entertain at the roof sun deck, complete with ample seating, an outdoor kitchen with gas grills, and a fire pit area. If you’re having company, you can also head to the multi-purpose roof lounge which opens to a private rooftop terrace and comes equipped with TVs, seating, and a wet bar.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

Year round, enjoy the state of the art fitness center, indoor resident lounges (with WiFi access for working from home) and all of 1325 N. Wells’ resident conveniences, including valet dry cleaning, on site retail, a heated garage, and bicycle storage.

Now leasing! 1325 N. Wells Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town Chicago? Wells Street Pet Friendly Apartments available now

The apartments at 1325 North Wells are also pet friendly and close to plenty of parks, including Washington Square Park which typically hosts events like Doggie Yoga and “Yappy” Hours.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours. Ask about move in specials!

South Loop Restaurants With Outdoor Seating

What’s a summer in Chicago without a trendy new rooftop lounge or al fresco dining? After months of quarantine and winter, this Chicago summer has made outdoor dining even more of a staple than it already was. Here are some of the restaurants in the South Loop offering outdoor dining.

The Bar at Moody Tongue – 2515 S. Wabash Ave

Looking for places to eat near you in the South Loop?

Moody Tongue’s bar menu is less like what you’d expect to see on a bar menu and a little more like what you’d expect at a contemporary, Michelin Starred dinner place with a month long waiting list. If you’re looking for something light, try the smoked beet and charred strawberry tartare with spruce infused ricotta and sourdough, the salmon crudo, heirloom tomato and compressed watermelon salad, or the butter poached king crab with corn, gnocchi, fennel, and host of other flavorful accoutrements. If you’re looking for something even more decedent, try the confit pork belly, Maine lobster roll, fried quail, or crispy whole summer flounder with fermented bok choi, shiitake, and a chili crunch.

Kurah Mediterranean – 1355 S. Michigan Ave

Looking for places to eat near you in the South Loop?

Kurah Mediterranean has something for everyone. From vegan to gluten free to carnivore, all types of eaters can find a dish to enjoy here. Pomegranate tabouli, roasted eggplant flatbread, bacon wrapped dates, and the shwarma platter are just a few of the menu favorites. Kurah also has a daily happy hour from 4pm to 6pm offering $5 wines, beers, sangria, and appetizers as well as $2 off cocktails.

AO Hawaiian Hideout – 1315 S. Wabash Ave

Looking for places to eat near you in the South Loop?

AO Hawaiian Hideout serves up homestyle southeast Asian and Hawaiian fare. Poke bowls, sushi, short ribs, fish tacos, and curry dishes all grace the menu. AO also has an entirely gluten free vegan menu and a broad cocktail menu. Although AO has postponed their weekly live entertainment due to COVID-19, they still have fantastic specials! Click here to see more details.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop in downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours!

Columbus Plaza at Lakeshore East

If your top priorities in an apartment are square footage, storage and closet space, and central location, then keep reading. Columbus Plaza Lakeshore East apartments could be the place for you!

Each layout offers an incredible value on square footage. Pushing 600 square feet, the studio and convertible layouts are larger than most 1 beds in the downtown area. 1 bed layouts are even larger, ranging from 792 to over 1000 square feet and 2 beds come in at 1352 square feet, rare finds for downtown Chicago! Most layouts also include at least one walk in closet.

Columbus Plaza Apartments for rent near Lakeshore East New East Side

Entertain company on the expansive outdoor terrace, complete with a fire pit, grills, plenty of seating, and a relaxing fountain. If your guests are in from out of town, reserve the on site hospitality suite. Unwind in the resort style sun room with a retractable skylight and energize in the state of the art fitness center. Work from home from the 24/7 business center.

Columbus Plaza is located on E Upper Wacker just east of Michigan Avenue. With the Chicago Riverwalk just across the street, the Lakefront trail, Navy Pier, and Magnificent mile just blocks away, direct access to the Pedway, and close proximity to the Loop, Gold Coast, and Streeterville, it’s no mystery why Columbus Plaza has a WalkScore of 95 for it’s convenient location. Although situated near all the hustle and bustle of downtown, if you walk just a few minutes southeast, you can enjoy Lakeshore East’s quiet residential park, walkways, and a flagship Mariano’s supermarket.

For a limited time, Columbus Plaza is currently offering a $2000 concession on studio, convertible, and 1 bedroom apartments and a $3500 concession on 2 bedroom apartments!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in person apartment tours!

West Loop Restaurants With Outdoor Dining

In light of COVID-19 protective measures, rooftop and al Fresca dining has become even more of a Chicago summertime staple than it already was. Here are some of the top places in the West Loop to enjoy outdoor summer dining!

Nobu Hotel Rooftop – 155 N. Peoria St.

Outdoor rooftop dining chicago in West Loop open near you

One of the West Loop’s newest summer hot spots is Nobu Hotel’s rooftop. Take in stunning views of the Chicago skyline as you enjoy light Japanese inspired fare, a wide range of sakes, wines, and hand crafted cocktails. Menu favorites include the black cod lettuce cups, Arctic char rococo, New Zealand lamb, ribeye Kushiyaki, nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls. Nobu’s rooftop is open daily from 4pm to 10pm and hosts live music and DJ performances throughout the summer months. Reservations are recommended.

Aba – 302 N. Green St.

Outdoor rooftop dining chicago in West Loop

Aba, a Fulton Market favorite, is a Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop patio. Try one of Abc’s signature dishes, including skirt steak shawarma, short rib hummus, Muhammara with pomegranate molasses, or the whipped feta appetizer. Mixologist Liz Pearce showcases rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits. Aba is open for nightly dinner and weekend brunch.

Beatrix – 834 W. Fulton Market St.

Outdoor rooftop dining chicago in West Loop

Whether you’re stopping by for their classic freshly squeezed juices, an innovative floral cocktail, farm to table breakfast pastries, or any number of lunch or dinner favorites (like the quinoa burger, truffle risotto, or miso glazed salmon), Beatrix is undeniably a neighborhood staple. Beatrix Fulton Market is open daily for coffee and bakery service starting at 9am, breakfast through dinner on weekends, and for patio dining and carryout for lunch and dinner on weekdays.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours.

 

Coast at Lakeshore East Apartments

Coast at Lakeshore East apartments offers an incredible value on luxury rentals. These pet friendly apartments are beloved by residents for their sleek interiors, top of the line appliances, outstanding amenities, panoramic views, and little extra building conveniences.

Now leasing studio, convertible, 1 bed, 2 bed, 3 bedroom apartments

If you’re looking for great natural light and sweeping city views, look no further! With glass paneled balconies, open floor plans, and floor to ceiling windows, these stunning apartments take in optimal natural light with great views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, Lakeshore East Park, and the Chicago skyline. Kitchens come equipped with GE Clean Steel Energy Star appliance packages including a refrigerator with an ice maker, gas range and oven, full sized microwave, dishwasher, and full sized washer and dryer. Whether you’re looking for light and bright white quartz or dark and homey espresso cabinetry with nickel hardware, Coast has something for you with a choice between two finish packages. Bathrooms all have sleek finishes with oversized marble vanities, ceramic tile, and mosaic accents throughout. The apartments at Coast also have excellent storage space between the generous amount of cabinetry and spacious closets. All units also have individually controlled heat and air conditioning, high speed internet, window treatments, and plank flooring.

Coast is a full amenity building. Residents have access to plenty of co-working space including private meeting rooms, a tech center with PC and MAC stations, and shared areas. All the amenity spaces are outfitted with complimentary WiFi, so you can feel free to take your Zoom meetings from the outdoor landscaped garden and deck or the adjacent indoor lounge. Year round enjoy the indoor spa lounge with a hot tub, sauna, and steam room, the state of the art fitness center with Cybex equipment, and the private dining lounge.

Warm up at the heated outdoor lap pool or around the fire pit with lounge seating. Coast also offers a multitude of on site resident conveniences like a private dog run and washing station, stainless steel barbecue grills, on site parking, bicycle and resident storage, an eco-friendly neighborhood courtesy shuttle, Zip Cars, electric car charging stations, 24 hour door staff and maintenance, package receiving, valet dry-cleaning, and of course, Pedway access.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided tours.

The Tides at Lakeshore East

The Tides at Lakeshore East offers spacious studio, convertible, one, and two bedroom apartments for rent in a prime location with state-of-the-art amenities.

These apartments feature in unit laundry with full sized washers and dryers, high speed internet, floor to ceiling windows, expansive glass paneled balconies, great storage space, walk in closets, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, and spacious layouts, with upgraded finishes and renovations in select units. Kitchens come equipped with gas ranges, dishwashers, refrigerators with ice makers, islands, ample cabinet space, and ceramic tiled or espresso wood floors. In the bathrooms you’ll find additional generous storage space including oversized vanity cabinets and tri-view medicine cabinets.

Now leasing dog and pet friendly Chicago apartment rentals! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Check out the Tides

Renovated kitchen with white cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Amenities include both indoor and outdoor places to lounge, entertain, and work from home. Rain or shine, entertain at the indoor amenities. The Shore Club, a private reservable club floor retreat, and the billiards room are both perfect for entertaining company. Unwind in the spa and sauna, work out in the 24/7 fitness center, or work from home in the lounge off the complimentary coffee bar. Soak up the sun from the outdoor amenities, including the rooftop pool and sundeck which offer stunning views of downtown Chicago. Furthermore, Magellan Development, the developers of the majority of Lakeshore East, arranged the high rise buildings in the neighborhood like a sundial so that each rooftop pool gets unobstructed sunlight, as is the case with the rooftop pool at The Tides.

Now leasing! Renovated apartments near downtown Chicago blue line O'Hare

Rooftop Pool at The Tides Lakeshore East

The Tides is pet friendly and also offers resident conveniences such as 24 hour door staff and maintenance, on site parking, car sharing, electric car charging stations within the vicinity, storage, bicycle storage, direct dog park access, on site housekeeping, valet dry cleaning, 24/7 package receiving,

The location is, itself, an additional convenience. The Tides has an on site pre-school, is adjacent to a 6 acre quiet park, on the other side of which there is a large Mariano’s grocery store, CVS pharmacy, Chase Bank, salons, and multiple restaurants ranging from Eggy’s for breakfast, Brown Bag Seafood for lunch, III Forks or MingHin for dinner, Filini for happy hour, and many more.

Last but not least, The Tides offers access to the Pedway, which is an efficient way to access anything downtown, transit, shops, and the airport in the winter time, all without going outside.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer all your questions. We are now offering virtual, self guided, and in-person tours!

North Harbor Tower at Lakeshore East

If you’re looking for a spacious floor plan in a convenient location at a great price, North Harbor Tower at Lakeshore East could be the place for you!

Studio apartments available now near downtown Chicago Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

All layouts are particularly spacious, even the studios!

North Harbor Tower is known for its spacious floor plans, great storage and closet space, and wraparound windows for panoramic views. Many units have been recently renovated with premium kitchen finishes, offering a choice between dark and light interiors. Select units offer in-unit laundry and high ceilings. With apartments starting around just $1445 per month, these luxury apartments are an incredible value.

Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

Classic dark kitchen finishes

Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

Renovated light kitchen finishes

North Harbor Tower recently underwent a full amenity renovation, which you can enjoy year round. Rain or shine, you can access the indoor pool (which converts into a semi-outdoor space during the summer months), party suite, 24 hour fitness center, yoga studio with complimentary classes, 24-hour library, and business center with co-working space.

Lakeshore East Dog Friendly Apartments for rent in Chicago

The library space

In the warmer months, soak up the sun in the outdoor BBQ and picnic area, one of multiple outdoor lounge spaces, and sun deck. North Harbor Tower also offers a host of conveniences including door staff in the elegant lobby, bike storage, parking, high speed internet, on-site management and maintenance, package receiving, and even pet amenities.

North Harbor Tower luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago

One of multiple outdoor amenity spaces

These luxury rentals are located in a prime location for dog owners. Lakeshore East’s 4.6 acre park is just two blocks away with quiet walking paths and a shaded dog friendly area for off leash play. North Harbor Tower also offers an on-site dog run and dog walking services for days you can’t make it to the park with your four-legged friend. Select floors at North Harbor Tower are pet friendly.

Whether or not you’re a pet owner, everyone can appreciate the convenient location of these luxury apartments, with Mariano’s grocery store just two blocks away, broad selection of restaurants, easy access to Lakeshore Drive and public transit, and short walking distance to the Gold Coast, Streeterville, and the Loop.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts would be happy to answer all your questions and fill you in on current rent specials. We are now offering virtual tours with in-person showings at select buildings!

Lakeshore East Restaurants

Although Lakeshore East is a small neighborhood and one of Chicago’s best hidden gems, it is still home to lots of restaurants. Here are some of our favorite Lakeshore East restaurants offering take out and delivery.

Mezcalina

Mezcalina offers upscale Mexican cuisine with lunch, dinner, and brunch menus. Their menus are full of seafood, vegetarian, and meat based options. Mezcalina is currently offering take out and delivery.

MingHin

MingHin serves Cantonese favorites like hot pots, seafood, and dim sum as well as signature cocktails. Their menu is centered around sharable, small dishes, making MingHin a great place to try with friends. MingHin is currently offering take out and delivery. Check out their menu and order online here.

Looking for restaurants offering carryout near Lakeshore East?

Courtesy of MingHin

Eggy’s Diner

Eggy’s is the neighborhood go-to spot for all day breakfast and baked goods but they also make great lunch and dinner dishes. Their rotating menu uses seasonal and local ingredients. A little known fact is that Eggy’s is actually named after the David Carlins’ (president of Magellan Development) childhood friend, Robert Mallin, who was nicknamed “Eggy”. Magellan Development is largely responsible for the development of the Lakeshore East neighborhood, so it seems fitting! Eggy’s is currently offering take out only. Check out their menu here.

Looking for restaurants offering carryout near Lakeshore East?

Courtesy of Eggy’s Diner

III Forks

III Forks serves seafood, steaks, and classic American fare with all the favorite steakhouse sides. Grab a wedge salad, shrimp cocktail, creamed corn, lobster mac and cheese, or roasted seasonal vegetables with any one of their .005% quality hand picked steaks. III Forks is currently offering take out only. See their complete dinner menu here.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are now offering virtual tours!

Aqua Building at Lakeshore East

Magellan Development’s Aqua building was designed by prolific Chicago architect, Jeanne Gang and delivered in 2009. The 82 story mixed use tower consists of residential rental units, condo units, commercial space, and hotel space with amenities that were ahead of its time.

The eighth story amenity deck spans over 82,000 square feet and includes a running track, fire pits, a club quality fitness center, co-working space, a media room, basketball court, a steam room and sauna, a billiards and game room, hot tubs, both indoor and outdoor pools, indoor entertainment suites with private dining areas, a terrace with small gardens and seating areas. Radisson, who operates the hotel portion of the Aqua building, also operates Filini, the on site restaurant.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East?

The Aqua building also connects to the Pedway, which allows for convenient downtown access rain or shine as well as direct access to a plethora of shops and services without going outside. The stunning views from the balconies of the luxury residential units are also another major draw.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East?

The Aqua building has received notoriety from its cinematic appearances, social references, and many accolades including the Emporis Skyscraper of the Year award, selection by the American Institute of Architects as one of Illinois’ greatest places, recognition by USA Today Travel magazine as one of Illinois’ 25 must see places, and its title as the tallest woman-designed building in the world, (a title which will belong to Vista Tower, also designed by Gang, upon its completion).

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East?

All photos courtesy of Magellan Development

Lakeshore East has become an increasingly sought after neighborhood. Its proximity to downtown, quiet neighborhood vibe, and easy access to conveniences make it an attractive location. A 6 acre park sits in the center of Lakeshore East with designated trails, a dog park, a kids play area, outdoor wifi, and shady trees, fountains, and curated landscape design that give it a peaceful ambiance. South Water Street, which surrounds the park, is lined with shops, salons, excellent restaurants, Mariano’s grocery store, and GEMS World Academy, a highly ranked preschool-grade 12 private school. Lakeshore East also has convenient access to the riverwalk and lakefront trails.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeshore East? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours on Chicago apartments.

The Neighborhood Hotel Apartments

The Neighborhood Hotel in Lincoln Park offers both short term and long term furnished luxury rentals with a unique, artful blend of historic charm, modern interiors, and homey conveniences.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The Neighborhood Hotel was originally built in 1893 and still has some of its preserved vintage details, like the original banister, staircase, and limestone cladding. It has since been updated with 21st century finishes and conveniences.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The Neighborhood Hotel’s exterior around the time of construction. Its exterior still looks similar today.

Each furnished rental unit at The Neighborhood Hotel has been thoughtfully designed and furnished. Apartments come equipped with air conditioning, WiFi, a hair dryer, coffee, books, Sonos speakers and record player, a TV with video games and YoutubeTV, linens, washer and dryer, beach essentials, and other essentials like shampoo, kitchen utensils, and spices.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

Entertain outside on the balcony or patio, complete with grills. Large bedrooms are complete with fire places, seating areas, and bay windows.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The grey wash hardwood floors, mosaic tiling, pastel accent walls, and Art Deco light fixtures are part of what gives these rentals their character.

Furnished luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park

The prime Lincoln Park location sits between Diversey and Fullerton, just a few short blocks west of Diversey Harbor, the lakefront trail, Lincoln Park Zoo. The Neighborhood Hotel is also near the red, brown, and purple line trains, allowing for a quick and easy commute south through the Loop, north through Evanston, and to the Depaul, Loyola, or Northwestern campuses.

The Neighborhood Hotel offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments. See more photos in the gallery below.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours!

West Loop Apartment Specials

Many luxury high rise apartment buildings in Chicago have opted to offer virtual tours during the stay at home order. The West Loop has multiple new construction buildings in their lease up also offering virtual tours. With all the new inventory in West Loop, pricing is competitive and many buildings are offering concessions. Here are a few of the best specials at apartments offering virtual tours!

Property 193- Madison & Green
(Offering 1.5 months free on 18 month lease terms plus an additional $500 concession)

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury apartments for rent?

This West Loop apartment building offers a range of rentals from studios, 1 beds, 2 beds, 3 beds, and a selection of bi-level townhomes. The third floor amenity deck connects this development’s multiple towers and creates a unique, neighborhood park feel. Enjoy the club quality fitness center, pool, co-working space, indoor and outdoor lounge spaces, and more. Each unit comes equipped with in-unit washer and dryer, gas stove, stainless appliances, a mosaic backsplash, and sleek, modern finishes.

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury pet friendly apartments for rent?

Property 161- Van Buren & Halsted
(Offering 2 months free on move ins by June 30th)

This boutique mid-rise has the feel of a chic luxury hotel in the amenities and a spacious private home inside the units. Apartments offer ample storage space and great separation between rooms. Large kitchen peninsulas and spacious living rooms make these apartments comfortable to work from home, entertain, and relax. Head to the fitness center complete with Peloton equipment, stunning common space and quiet co-working space, and sprawling pool with grill stations overlooking the skyline all on the top floor. Enjoy additional outdoor common space and a covered dog run on the third floor.

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury pet friendly apartments for rent?

Property 134- Van Buren & Green
(Offering 2 months free on select units for move ins by June 15th)

Now leasing! Looking for west loop luxury pet friendly apartments for rent?

Wood accents and pops of bright color throughout the property gives this modern apartment building a warm personality. Each unit has floor to ceiling windows for ample natural light, wood plank flooring, integrated Bosch appliances with quartz countertops and tile backsplashes, walk-in closets, full-size washers and dryers, and concrete accents. Select apartments also have terraces. Boho meets nautical on the amenity deck, where you can enjoy lounging on the tranquil pool terrace or in one of the multiple common spaces.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s West Loop? Contact us today and one of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours.

River North Carry Out Specials

Not only can you enjoy some of your favorite River North restaurants during the stay at home order, many are even offering specials for curb side pick up and carry out. Here are some of our favorites!

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments available ASAP near River North?

Courtesy of Shayda Torabi

Pacific Standard Time- 151 W. Erie St.

The best of California meets the best of the midwest at Pacific Standard Time. In addition to offering carry out for their traditional menu, Pacific Standard Time is offering a $40 option that feeds four people. It includes salad, cheese pizza, rigatoni with sausage, and chocolate chip cookies with gluten free options for pizza and pasta available upon request.

Siena Tavern- 51 W. Kinzie St.

Siena Tavern is another River North hot spot offering curb side pickup specials. If your order by calling their direct line at 312-595-1322 they will include a bottle of wine with your order. Orders over $150 also get a $25 gift card. Additionally, for just $40, you can order a pasta or pizza meal kit or a family style meal. Siena Tavern is a go-to if you’re looking for innovative takes on Italian fare, serving up dishes like squid ink linguine with lobster, truffle pizza, or the giant wagyu meatball with tomato sauce made for dipping (pictured).

Restaurants open in River North near your new luxury apartment

Courtesy of Siena Tavern

Gene and Georgetti- 500 N. Franklin St.

As Chicago’s oldest steak house, Gene and Georgetti has been a neighborhood favorite since 1941. Order curb side carry out for menu staples like the Bibb lettuce salad with seared tuna, Italian sausage with peppers, baked clams, huge portions of pasta, and of course, steaks. For a limited time, receive a $25 gift card with every $100 you order for carry out.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today. One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions. We are currently offering virtual tours!

West Loop Restaurants Offering Curbside

Even with the shelter in place order, you can still enjoy many of the West Loop’s greatest restaurants. Here are some of the West Loop restaurants offering curbside pick up.

Now offering virtual tours and showings on Chicago luxury apartments for rent near West Loop!

Courtesy of Louis Hansel

Aba- 302 N. Green St.

Aba is a favorite when it comes to Mediterranean fare. With an assortment of spreads and hummus, meat, fish, and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Aba is offering both carryout and delivery (including bottles of wine)

Au Cheval- 800 W. Randolph St.

Au Cheval isn’t going to let anything stand in the way of its customers getting their hands on it’s world famous burger. With a high quality patty, dijonnaise, thick cut bacon, fried egg, and even fois gras, it’s easy to see why this burger has developed quite the following. Thankfully, it’s available for curbside pick up.

Monteverde- 1020 W. Madison St.

If homemade pastas, gnocchi, and dishes with truffle galore are your cup of tea, try Monteverde. The menu includes traditional classics like spinach and ricotta ravioli or gnocchi with pesto and innovative creations like wok fried arrabiata with shrimp and tagliatelle.

Momotaro- 820 W. Lake St.

Now offering virtual tours and showings on Chicago luxury apartments for rent near West Loop!

Courtesy of Momotaro

Be as involved or uninvolved as you’d like. Momotaro offers an a la carte menu with sushi, ramen, and other favorites if you’re looking for standard pick up, but you can also spice things up with one of their meal or cocktail kits.

Little Goat- 820 W. Randolph St.

If you’re looking to enjoy your Sunday brunch ritual from home, picking up carryout from Little Goat Diner is a good place to start! Try their beloved hash browns, unique waffles (like the Fat Elvis, which comes topped with peanut butter flavored butter), and in typical West Loop fashion, an assortment of breakfast meats.

The Loyalist- 175 N. Ada St.

The Loyalist serves American favorites with an upscale twist. Order dishes like the homemade biscuit with n’duja butter and honey, beet and avocado salad, or their signature dish, the cheeseburger, complete with cartelized onions and seasoning.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop offering virtual tours? Contact us today for more information.

Sono East Lincoln Park Apartments

The Sono sub-neighborhood (South of North Ave) in Lincoln Park is an increasingly in-demand place to live. Tree-lined side streets converge on boutique-lined Sheffield Street, surrounded by popular shops like Sephora, Lululemon, the Apple Store, and Banana Republic, restaurants from fast-casual to fine sit-down, live music venues, nightlife, theatre like Steppenwolf and the Royal George, as well as conveniences like FFC health club, Marianos, Whole Foods, a movie theatre, Chase bank, blow-dry bars, coffee shops, and the CTA Red Line station at North & Clybourn. It’s all packed into a few square blocks.

Sono East is located on Blackhawk (one of the aforementioned tree-lined streets) just one to three blocks from everything listed above. In fact, you don’t even need to leave home to find plenty of things to do and conveniences at Sono East. The 8,000 square foot resident amenity area includes a rooftop sundeck, hot tub, pool, fire pits, outdoor entertaining space, and grill stations, a state of the art expansive fitness center, a yoga studio with complimentary classes, a party room with full prep kitchen, billiards, co-working space, and a business center. The ground floor features a spacious, secured dog run. The building also offers conveniences such as The Minte housekeeping service, bike storage, 24 hour door staff, package receiving, and even made to order room service via PearChef.

Now leasing! Virtual Tours At Sono East Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments

Pool deck at Sono East

Each luxury apartment at Sono East features modern and soft-loft accents, like soaring 9 foot ceilings, open floor plans, concrete accents, floor to ceiling windows, hardwood style flooring, Italian marble tile, deep, stainless steel bowl sinks, sleek Poggenpohl cabinetry, and modern kitchen countertops. Each apartment also has its own thermostat, Whirlpool Energy Star appliances, and in-unit washer and dryer. Generously sized balconies and terraces are also available.

Virtual Tours At Sono East Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments Virtual Tours At Sono East Lincoln Park Luxury Apartments

Sono East is one of many high rises offering virtual tours. If you’re interested in learning more about Lincoln Park’s Sono area, luxury apartments for rent, or buildings offering virtual tours, contact us today to get your questions answered by one of our neighborhood experts.

Lincoln Park Apartments: Newcity

Surrounded by a mix of tree-lined residential side streets, lively strips of shops and restaurants, and live music and theatre venues, sits Newcity Apartments in the heart of Lincoln Park‘s trendy SoNo neighborhood (South of North Ave).

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

The apartments at Newcity begin on the 5th floor of the high-rise, with retail (including Mariano’s super market) on the lower levels for added convenience. Newcity is also a full amenity building. Indoor amenities include co-working space complete with a conference room and a cyber cafe with coffee, a 24 hour fitness center with adjacent yoga studio, equipped with Wellbeats Fitness on Demand, an entertainment room with a bar area and wifi, and a theatre screening room with a 90 inch screen.

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

Outdoor amenities include a rooftop pool and spa, an outdoor lounge with a fire pit and grilling stations, and wifi that extends to the outdoor amenities in case you want to work from home and get some fresh air at the same time.

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

There’s plenty of space to spread out on the outdoor terrace

For optimal convenience, Newcity also offers 24 hour door staff, a bike repair and storage area, on site valet dry-cleaning, free guest parking (a rare gem in downtown high-rises), storage, recycling on every floor, on site maintenance, package receiving, and a dog run.

The luxury apartments at Newcity feature in-unit washers and dryers, high ceilings for maximum natural light and an open feel, plank flooring, ceramic tile baths, stand up glass showers, private balconies, and built in quartz tech desks. Kitchens feature GE Energy Star efficient steel appliances, quartz countertops, and contemporary espresso cabinets. The cylindrical shape of the building makes most units feel like corner units, with floor to ceiling windows and panoramic views.

Newcity apartments Offering virtual apartment tours near Lincoln Park pet and dog friendly

Downtown Apartment Company has compiled a resource of all the luxury apartment buildings offering virtual tours, one of which is Newcity! Looking for apartments offering virtual tours in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood? Contact us for a consultation with one of our neighborhood experts!

Downtown Apartment Company Office

It’s been one year since Downtown Apartment Company opened its new River North Office. (Of course, working from home wasn’t how we expected to spend it.) The office was thoughtfully curated with unique features and plenty of individual spaces, and rings true to the DAC slogan, “Choose Wisely. Live Stylishly.”

Upon entering DAC’s two level River North office, you’ll step into a two seat lounge-style lobby area.

Up the steps to the right sits the crowned jewel of the office– the conference room. The long table with regal chairs and furniture, quartz and crystal coasters and accents, and last but not least, the faux living green wall, are just some of the attributes that make this room feel special. Even when the office lights are turned off at the end of the day, the illuminated Downtown Apartment Company logo shines from the glassy conference room.

As you move through the rest of the ground level, you’ll see an open layout of work space with sleek white desks. The high ceilings and towering cathedral style windows allow for abundant natural light in this area.

Our office is located in River North’s acclaimed gallery district. In keeping with that theme, our office is full of inspired artwork and artisan pieces. On your way down the stairs to the ground level you’ll notice a collection of artwork on the wall that spans both levels. Each piece of artwork correlates with a meaning and a playlist that ties together the fun shui of the office.

The lower level is complete with a spacious training room, an “instagram worthy” seating space, a large lounge area, and a kitchenette with four glass seating tables.

The crystal accents throughout the office were chosen for the properties they represent: Amethyst for the protection and prosperity it brings, agate for harmony and equilibrium, selenite for fluidity and honesty, rose quartz for agreement and resolution, and smoky quartz for vitality and balance.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent? Contact us today! We’re offering virtual tours and would be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Old Town Park Phase II’s Unparalleled Amenities

Old Town Park phase II, also known as 202 West Hill Street, is one of the newest deliveries from developer, Onni Group. The new tower features 428 dwelling units, composed of convertible, 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom plus den, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartments, town homes, and unparalleled penthouses, each with its own private hot tub and sprawling terrace. All residences also have access to the building’s resort style amenities.

Now leasing near Old Town! Dog friendly apartments for rent!

Basketball court

Old Town Park phase II offers over 27,000 square feet of resort inspired indoor and outdoor amenities, including an oversized indoor hot tub, a steam room and sauna, an outdoor pool deck with loungers and daybeds, an expansive fitness center, yoga and spin bike studio complete with Peloton bikes, lockers, and towel service, semi-private outdoor kitchens and dining areas, an indoor basketball court, multiple lounge and work from home spaces, a chef’s kitchen and private dining space for entertaining, multiple outdoor spaces including an outdoor theatre, a family play room, a game room, wine tasting room, and even a self playing piano.

On all those freezing cold or rainy days, wouldn’t it be nice to have an easier way to take your dog out? Old Town Park II’s on-site dog run is enclosed and on the fifth floor, so you can let your furry friend have some room to run around. Wash your four legged family members off in the indoor pet spa when you’re ready to come in!

Looking for apartments available for rent in Old Town available now? Leasing immediate move ins! Virtual tours and remote site unseen showings available.

A map of the amenities at Old Town Park 2. See the gallery below for more amenities!

With Old Town Park phase II’s prime location off of Wells and Division, you’ll be steps to the lively heart of Old Town, chalk full of shops, dining, nightlife, and entertainment. The convenient location is also just two blocks from the flagship Jewel Osco grocery store and the CTA Red Line train.

Looking for luxury apartments with great amenities for rent near Old Town? Contact us today for an in person or virtual tour! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Old Town Breakfast Spots

Looking for places to grab breakfast in Old Town? Check out these Wells Street restaurants!

Kanela Breakfast Club– 1552 N. Wells St.

The name Kanela (which means “cinnamon” in Greek) is apropos for this restaurant, which serves up brunch favorites with a Greek twist. Everything on Kanela’s menu is made from scratch with local and organic ingredients wherever possible. Menu favorites include chia seed pudding, loukoumades (Greek donuts), red velvet French toast, the California Benedict (made with avocado mash and vegetarian bacon), and the impossible burger.

Looking for places to eat near Old Town? Kanela Breakfast Club

The Vig– 1527 N. Wells St.

Brunch by day; bar scene by night. The Vig keeps a full house in it’s prime Wells Street location around the clock. With a brunch menu that includes lobster and waffles, breakfast nachos, and ginger donut holes, a dinner menu with king crab bar, superfood salad, and cauliflower au gratin, a large dessert menu, full bar, and a late night menu that even includes a bone in ribeye and roasted eggplant Bahn mi, you can find pretty much anything you’re looking for at The Vig.

Nookies-1746 N. Wells St.

Nookies has been a neighborhood favorite for over 47 years and still has original items on the menu! (Where else can you order a phosphate?) Nookies doesn’t just serve breakfast and brunch. Their eclectic menu also includes dinner entrees like steak, pasta, salads, stir fry dishes, and innovative sandwiches like their salmon pita.

Hashbrowns Cafe-1155 N. Wells St.

In addition to being a beloved and cost friendly neighborhood place to meet for brunch or a coffee meeting, Hashbrowns Cafe is known for pioneering sweet potato hashbrowns. Menu items are named after Chicago neighborhoods and are made from all fresh ingredients. Stop by for breakfast or lunch favorites all day. Gluten free options are available.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Eugenie Terrace Old Town Apartments

Located on the northern most part of Old Town on the cusp of Lincoln Park, Eugenie Terrace offers elegant apartments in a prime area. The Clark street location puts you in the epicenter of an abundance of dining, culture, green space, and local attractions. With the lakefront, the park, Second City, and Wells Street all within a few blocks, the only hard part of deciding what to do will be picking which to do first.

The resort style amenities are second to none. From the 3,000 square foot fitness center with on site classes, to the penthouse sky lounge and open air grilling deck, there are plenty of spaces to enjoy your home outside your apartment. You can even get to know your neighbors at one of many thoughtfully curated year round resident events.

Among other resort style amenities, Eugenie Terrace has the highest rooftop pool of any residential building in Chicago.

Available for immediate move in now! Looking for apartments for rent near Old Town?

Courtesy of Eugenie Terrace

Take in the panoramic lake, park, and skyline views from the indoor or outdoor parts of the rooftop amenities or from the floor to ceiling bay windows in each residence. Apartments also feature large private balconies, modern kitchens with quartz slab countertops and islands, stainless appliances, large walk in custom closets, hardwood floors, great separation, and rain shower heads in the bathrooms.

Available for immediate move in now! Looking for apartments for rent near Old Town?Available for immediate move in now! Looking for apartments for rent near Old Town?

Eugenie Terrace is a pet friendly building and even has an on site dog run. For added convenience, residents also have access to complimentary storage, complimentary coffee and espresso, a full service concierge staff, on site dry cleaning with wash and fold service, an indoor private parking garage with Zipcars, 44th floor co-working space and business center, and 24 hour maintenance and door staff.

These Old Town apartments are known for being especially spacious, with 1 beds over 900 square feet, a rare find downtown! Layouts range from studio to 3 bedroom apartments and also include 2 bed and 3 bed town homes with expansive, private wrap around terraces.

Available for immediate move in now! Looking for apartments for rent near Old Town? Available for immediate move in now! Looking for apartments for rent near Old Town?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Xavier Old Town Apartments

Xavier offers apartments in Old Town that aren’t just modern in terms of design. The thoughtful, high tech, and sustainable features are state of the art and tremendously convenient! Xavier’s prime location on Division is a more mellow part of Old Town just south of the SoNo area of Lincoln Park. The 240 rentals are composed of studio, one bed, and two beds, with a broad selection of layouts.

Each apartment features sleek, modern finishes and appliances with soft loft accents. Quartz kitchen countertops and hardwood floors are accented by the blackened steel backsplashes and exposed concrete ceilings. Kitchens also feat integrated, cabinet faced appliances, which are Energy Star rated, a garbage disposal, gas range, Nest thermostats, a full sized washer and dryer in unit, and other materials sourced from local and recycled content. Water fixtures in each apartment are efficient, as are the LED lighting systems, and the finishes are sustainably sourced and non-toxic. Bedrooms come equipped with ample storage space and built in ELFA shelving systems. Select units also come with private terraces, an office nook or den, walk in closets, and 14 foot ceilings.

Available for Move In Now! Looking for Old Town apartments near Division St?

Courtesy of Xavier Apartments

In addition to the sustainable finishes and consumption conscious appliances, the LEED Gold certified building took additional measures toward environmental wellness. All residents receive complimentary non-toxic cleaning supplies, a seasonal crop box program through their rooftop produce garden, and complimentary fitness classes at Fit Body Bootcamp, an on site retail partner.

Xavier offers state of the art amenities. In the warmer months, enjoy the outdoor terrace with a pool, cabanas, grilling stations, fire pits, corn hole, and lounge space. Entertain in the rooftop lounge, complete with a chef’s kitchen, edible herb gardens, an outdoor deck with a fireplace, and sprawling city views, or head to the game room, where you’ll find air hockey, football, arcade games, a large flat screen TV, and group seating. The modern fitness center houses cardio and weight equipment in addition to a Peloton bike and a yoga terrace. Work from home in one of the private conference rooms, the lobby with a co-working table and fireplace, or on the wifi in any of the amenity spaces. Xavier offers excellent pet amenities as well, with both indoor and outdoor dog runs as well as two dog wash stations.

Now leasing! Looking for Old Town apartments near Division St?

Courtesy of Xavier Apartments

For added convenience, Xavier offers bike parking and maintenance facilities, reserved car parking with 5 electric car charging stations, a Luxer package receiving system, 24/7 concierge, on site maintenance and management, and Pear Chef, a service that offers residents meals and cocktails prepared by an on site personal chef delivered via room service with no delivery fee.

Now leasing! Looking for Old Town apartments near Division St?

Sun deck, courtesy of Xavier Apartments

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Cobbler Square Old Town Lofts

If you’re looking for a tranquil, homey loft to live in near Old Town but don’t want to compromise being close to all the action, Cobbler Square Lofts could be right for you. The front entrance of this boutique rental building is located right on Wells Street, surrounded by shops, restaurants, nightlife, boutique fitness studios, and more. In the warmer months, there’s even a weekly farmers market right outside the door! However, the apartments at Cobbler Square still have a private, quiet feel. Once you walk through the front entrance into the main building, you’ll go through a gorgeous  courtyard to access the residences. It feels like you’ve just been transported to a small, charming village hidden in plain sight.

Looking for Loft apartment for rent near Old Town on Wells Street?

Courtyard, courtesy of Cobbler Square

Each loft apartment is unique but all of them have spacious, open layouts. Most units have 12 to 18 foot ceilings, open kitchens with large, granite islands and countertops, gas stoves, central AC and gas forced heat with individual climate control, dishwashers, and generous closet space. Some units also have loft style accents such as exposed brick walls, wood beam ceilings, stainless steel appliance packages, a balcony or terrace, walk in closets, espresso cabinetry, dens, French door separation, double vanity sinks in bathrooms, sun rooms, tiled kitchen backsplashes, split level layouts, and wood plank flooring.

Looking for Loft apartment for rent near Old Town on Wells Street?

Living area, courtesy of Cobbler Square

The amenities at Cobbler Square include a 24 hour fitness center, on site laundry, a sundeck with grilling stations, package receiving, business center and conference room with wifi, resident lounge with popcorn and a pool table, parking, dry cleaning service, concierge, on site 24-hour maintenance, on site salon, a landscaped spacious courtyard, recycling, and on site maintenance. Cobbler Square lofts also offers dog friendly apartments!

Now leasing near Old Town on Wells St!

Resident Lounge, courtesy of Cobbler Square

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

The Scott Residences in Old Town

The Old Town neighborhood is beloved for its tree lined streets, lively Wells Street strip, and abundance of culture, including Victorian era architecture and Second City. The Scott Residences are located just off Wells on Scott Street, so you can enjoy being in close proximity to the hustle and bustle while also enjoying living on a quiet, tree lined residential court.

Dog and pet friendly Old Town Apartments near Wells Street

Courtesy of The Scott Residences

Each luxury apartment at The Scott Residences comes equipped with a full sized washer and dryer, plank flooring throughout each unit, 9 foot or higher ceilings, individually controlled heat and AC, and elegant interior lighting. Each kitchen features custom European inspired cabinetry, GE Artistry appliances, and granite countertops with a glass tile backsplash. You’ll also find ceramic tile flooring in the bathroom. Select apartments come with a balcony.

Pet and dog friendly Old Town Apartments near Wells Street

Elegant kitchen finishes, courtesy of The Scott Residences

The Scott Residences is a full amenity building. Residents enjoy access to a billiards parlor, a private resident club lounge with chef inspired kitchen, a state of the art fitness center, and a professionally landscaped rooftop sun deck with grilling stations and a fire pit.

Old Town Apartments near Wells Street

One of the resident lounges, courtesy of The Scott Residences

The Scott Residences also offer service based amenities including concierge staff, package receiving, a private ground floor dog run, storage lockers, private garage parking with bike storage, and valet dry cleaning service for added convenience. Perhaps the most convenient of all is the on site and nearby retail. On site retail includes Starbucks and Massage Envy. Plum Market grocer and Soulcycle are just across the street, as are a multitude of other dining and nightlife options, boutique fitness studios, salons, and green space.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Porte: New West Loop Apartments

Porte is a new set of  luxury apartment towers in the West Loop at the corner of Madison and Green. The units will be a composition of studio, 1, 2, and 3 bed apartments, as well as town home apartments, each with it’s own private ground level entrance. The townhomes at Porte will surround the parking garage, concealing it from the street. The 586 unit rental project will begin pre-leasing this spring and is being developed by The John Buck Company, Lendlease, GREC Architects, and Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation.

Porte West Loop apartments for rent

A rendering of Porte West Loop apartments from John Buck

The interiors of these pet friendly West Loop apartments will feature stainless steel appliances and white quartz finishes. The outdoor amenities include an expansive green space with a pool, lounge seating, cabanas, fire pits, a dog run, and outdoor dining areas. Indoor amenities include co-working spaces, a game room, a chef’s kitchen, and a fitness center. There will also be 11,000 square feet of on site retail space.

The prime West Loop location of the X makes it convenient for commuting. Porte is just a block west of Greek Town on Halsted Street, a couple blocks north of the blue line train, blocks from the Metra at Union and Ogilvie stations, blocks from the Kennedy and Eisenhower expressways, two blocks south of Restaurant Row on Randolph Street, and less than a block from Mariano’s and Whole Foods grocery stores. Residents can check out the Green City farmer’s market, movies and yoga, as well as a whole host of other neighborhood events at Mary Bartelme Park, which is located one block southwest of Porte.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

1225 Old Town Luxury Apartments

1225 Old Town offers boutique style living on lively Wells Street in the heart of Old Town. With modern finishes, spacious layouts, luxurious amenities, and a convenient location, these apartments are in high demand.

The open floor plans at 1225 Old Town make these apartments great for entertaining. The 9 foot ceilings and floor to ceiling windows in most apartments also add to the spacious, bright feel.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now in Old Town on Wells Street?

Open apartment layouts are conducive to entertaining, courtesy of 1225 Old Town

Each kitchen is outfitted with espresso finish cabinetry with nickel hardware, stainless steel Whirlpool and Energy Star appliances, pendant and track lighting, and quartz countertops and islands. Each apartment also comes equipped with an in unit washer and dryer, individual climate controls with no seasonal restrictions, wood style flooring, abundant closet and storage space, and ceramic tiled modern bathrooms. Most units also have spacious balconies.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now in Old Town on Wells Street?

Kitchen finishes, courtesy of 1225 Old Town

1225 Old Town is a full amenity building with both indoor and outdoor spaces for residents. Residents enjoy access to an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, game room, indoor fire place, outdoor fire pit with grill stations, a demonstration kitchen, and 24 hour fitness center.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now in Old Town on Wells Street?

Outdoor heated pool, courtesy of 1225 Old Town

Work from home accommodations include a tech room, dedicated co-working spaces, a conference room, and wifi throughout the building. There are also plenty of conveniences from 24 hour concierge service, on site laundry and valet dry cleaning, package receiving, and a coffee lounge, to the outdoor dog run located on the second floor. Residents also love the convenient selection of on site retail. Soul Cycle, Plum Market grocery store, and Intelligentsia coffee shop are all connected to the building.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now in Old Town on Wells Street?

Co-working space, courtesy of 1225 Old Town

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

North + Vine Old Town Apartments

North and Vine apartments at 633 W North Ave are now leasing in Old Town. Developed by White Oak Realty and designed by Fitzgerald Associates, North and Vine features 261 rental apartments ranging from studios to 3 beds. This luxury apartment building offers resort style amenities, modern design, stunning views, and smart home technology.

North + Vine Old Town pet friendly Apartments for rent

North and Vine is a full amenity building including indoor, outdoor, service, and pet amenities.

North + Vine Old Town pet friendly Apartments for rent

Indoor amenities all include wifi and feature a health club with cardio and strength equipment, a yoga studio with Wellbeats fitness on demand, co-working space with a conference room, an acoustically engineered media library, and a resident lounge with a chef inspired kitchen space. Outdoor amenities include a resort style pool and sundeck, a spacious private terrace with fire pits, and grilling stations. Service based amenities include 24 hour package pick up, on site storage and bike room, valet dry cleaning, a residents perk program, controlled access parking with reserved spots, and a resident app. North and Vine offers pet friendly apartments as well as pet amenities, including a dog run and pet spa.

North + Vine Old Town pet friendly Apartments for rent

Apartment feature full size stackable washers and dryers, USB outlets in the kitchen and bedrooms, high ceilings, keyless entry systems, hardwood style flooring throughout the kitchen and living space, large windows to maximize natural light, spacious walk in closets and abundant storage space, and custom roller shades. Each kitchen comes equipped with GE Cafe Series stainless steel appliances, including a slide in gas range with convection, a built in microwave, an under counter wine cooler, a French door style refrigerator, and an under mount sink with disposal, as well as custom cabinetry with soft close drawers and under cabinet lighting. Kitchen finishes include quartz counter tops and tile backsplashes.

North + Vine Old Town pet friendly Apartments for rent

Each spa inspired bathroom features Moen designer finishes with ceramic and porcelain tiles, vanities, and 42″ full width back-lit mirrors.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Old Town Spice House

Old Town Spice House has graced Wells Street for over 60 years. From Michelin starred chefs to people who only know how to make pasta, the Spice House is a neighborhood favorite. The Spice House was founded in 1957 by Bill and Ruth Penzey and over the years has scaled into a global brand. Because they have such a broad global network of suppliers, Spice House has built a reputation for having some of the highest quality products and widest selection. The Spice House is also a go-to resource on recipes and all things spice. Although the business has grown, Spice House has still retained its quaint character.

Things to do in Old Town Chicago near Wells Street

Courtesy of Calum Lewis

After a fire last July caused significant damage to the original structure, which was constructed in the 1800s, Spice House used it as an opportunity to blend modern renovations and repairs with elements of the original building, and even preserve some of the original features. For instance, the reclaimed wood rafters that were previously covered have now been painted and cleaned so they could be left exposed. The building’s original exposed brick has also been refurbished. They also uncovered two of the windows at the back of the store to add natural light. Gensler architects led the way on the renovations.

The historic charm, loyal neighborhood customer base, wafting spice aromas, and overall engaging experience of visiting the Spice House has kept the brick and mortar store competitive in an age of increasingly popular e-commerce. The brick and mortar store is also central to their wholesale business, which supplies to local restaurants, bakeries, and breweries in Chicago.

Whether you’re looking for a specific rare form of truffle oil or just looking for a unique place to stop in and “spice up” your weekend stroll, be sure to check out Old Town Spice House (and grab a sample of the delectable crystalized ginger while you’re in there)!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Moody Bible Selling Land Near Old Town

This week, Moody Bible Institute created a preliminary agreement to sell 10 acres in the Near North Side’s Old Town neighborhood to luxury high rise developer, JDL.

Old Town 10 Acre Land Sale Moody Bible JDL Luxury Apartments

Courtesy of Erin Hooley/Chicago Tribune

According to the Chicago Tribune, the land at 820 N. Lasalle will be developed into 2500 or more luxury apartments and condos between a half dozen high rises totaling up to 5.3 million square feet. The land for sale is mostly vacant with the exception of a few smaller structures. The soccer field west of Walter Payton College Prep is also included in the sale. The same stretch of Old Town has seen significant residential development in the past couple years and already has several projects in the works, namely, Onni Group’s Old Town Park phases I-III at Atrium Village.

Looking for luxury rental apartments in Old Town Park?

Rendering of phase I (right), II (center), and III (left). Courtesy of Onni Group and Hartshorne Plunkard Architects

When the land went up for sale in the summer of 2019, Moody Bible president, Mark Jobe, stated that the decision to sell the land was motivated by the desire to expand the impact of Moody Bible’s ministry. Moody Bible intends on staying in the southern portion of it’s Old Town campus, its home since 1886.

JDL has another large development in the works on the border of the Gold Coast and River North called One Chicago. One Chicago is slated to be a megadevelopment with rental apartments, condos, retail, a premiere lifestyle fitness center, and commercial space, including a large new Whole Foods. Additionally, JDL is the developer behind the Chicago luxury rental buildings 1000 S. Clark, 640 N. Wells, Two West Delaware, Halsted Flats, Eight Eleven Uptown, 1225 Old Town, and The Scott Residences, as well as Chicago luxury condo building, No 9 Walton.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

South Loop Breakfast Spots

Whether you live in the South Loop or are looking for places to eat before you visit Museum Campus or Grant Park, here are a few of the top breakfast and brunch places in the South Loop.

Looking for places to eat breakfast in the south loop

Courtesy of Rachel Park

Yolk- 1120 S Michigan Ave

Yolk offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch options with creative twists on classic favorites, like the smoked salmon scrambler, the brisket breakfast burger, and red velvet French toast. Diners love the sizable portions and reasonable pricing. Yolk even has their own private label coffee and house made Greek yogurt.

Eleven City Diner- 1112 S Wabash Ave

Eleven City Diner was created in the vision of the “classic friendly diner”. The black and white family photos on the walls, nostalgic “band box”, neon signage, counter seating, milkshakes with barbershop straws, subway tile, and ice cream parlor style tables and chairs create the reminiscent ambiance. Eleven City Diner offers breakfast all day (including vegan and vegetarian breakfast options) as well as a walk up deli to go.

Looking for places to eat breakfast in the south loop

Courtesy of Matheus Frade

Spoke and Bird- 205 E 18th St

Spoke and Bird is a rustic chic breakfast spot that uses local, organic, and fair trade ingredients sourced from over 30 local and urban farms. The employee owned restaurant strives to offer delicious and healthy food at a reasonable price in a welcoming environment. Try a homemade quiche or Spoke and Bird’s many pastries.

Meli Cafe- 500 S Dearborn St (in Hotel Blake)

Meli serves up favorite American breakfast and lunch dishes with a Greek twist and is known for its farm to table dishes, fresh squeezed juice, large portions, and homemade marmalade. Meli has great daily specials and full service juice, espresso, and liquor bars. If you can’t decide whether to get a corned beef hash Benedict or a wheatgrass shot, get both.

Looking for places to eat breakfast in the south loop

Courtesy of Ben Kolde

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Living In Printer’s Row

Printer’s Row is a highly sought-after sub-neighborhood in Chicago’s South Loop. Living in Printer’s Row, Chicago, residents love the historic character reflected in the architecture and facades of old buildings, (like the Pontiac Building, 1891, and the Duplicator Building, 1886), the creative energy from the abundance of music venues, art schools, and independent coffee shops, and all the green space and tucked away parks and hidden gems. Printer’s Row is generally designated by the Chicago River as the western border, Plymouth Court as the eastern border, Ida B. Wells Drive to the north, and Polk Street to the south.

After Dearborn Station was completed in 1885, the Printer’s Row neighborhood began to take shape as the printing center of the Midwest because it allowed materials (and workers) to move conveniently in and out of the neighborhood. Dearborn Station is still in tact today and has been converted into retail space.

Now leasing new Dog Friendly apartments for rent in Printers Row near South Loop

Courtesy of Hannes Wolf

Major publishing houses like Rand McNally, M.A. Donohue and Company, Franklin Printing, and R.R. Donnelley and Sons all set up shop in Printer’s Row.

Many of the buildings in Printer’s Row that were used as printing and publishing facilities have retained landmark status and have mostly been converted into residential lofts. These buildings are characteristic of what’s been deemed, the “First Chicago School” of architecture, a style which dates to the 1880s and includes work by the revered Daniel Burnham, one of the masterminds behind the World’s Fair. Many of these buildings feature large windows that were originally installed with the hope that they would let in maximum natural light for book binding, type setting, and other highly detailed printing work.

The Printer’s Row literary scene is very much alive today. Each June the Printer’s Row Literary Festival draws about 150,000 attendees to Dearborn Street, making it the largest book fair in the Midwest, according to Publisher’s Weekly.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent in Printer’s Row near the South LoopContact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Why South Loop is Ideal For Commuters

The South Loop is conveniently situated near public transit and access points, making it an easily accessible neighborhood whether you’re commuting to or from the suburbs, other Chicago neighborhoods, or even from out of town.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop?

Courtesy of Maarten Van Den Heuvel

CTA Orange Line

The orange line runs through the South Loop and takes riders around the Loop and out to Midway International Airport. If you’re looking for the fastest way to or from Midway or just looking to save on Uber fare, the orange line could be a great option.

CTA Red Line

The red line runs south to 95th Street and north through River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Uptown, Edgewater, and Rogers Park, with on campus stops at Loyola and DePaul Universities. Northwestern University in Evanston is also conveniently accessible via red line, as multiple red line stops are also serviced by the purple line to Evanston and Wilmette.

CTA Green Line

Take the green line for direct access to Oak Park or the best way to McCormick Place. The green line also provides access through the West Loop and west side near Rush University Medical Center.

CTA Blue Line

If you fly in and out of O’Hare International Airport often, the South Loop has multiple blue line stops that provide direct access to O’Hare. The blue line takes passengers either through the West Loop, UIC’s campus, and out to Forest Park, or through the Loop, Fulton Market, River West, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, Jefferson Park, Rosemont, and directly inside O’Hare Airport.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop?

Courtesy of Jeremiah Higgins

Metra and Amtrak

Catch the Metra trains out to the western, north shore, and south shore suburbs and Indiana from the Lasalle and Van Buren stations in the South Loop or Ogilvie and Union Stations, which are just a short walk from the South Loop and are also serviced by Amtrak.

Highways

Multiple major highways pass directly through the South Loop. Hop directly on I-90 for access throughout Chicago’s northern or southern neighborhoods and suburbs, I-290 for access to Chicago’s western neighborhoods and suburbs, or I-55 to head southwest past McCormick Place toward Saint Louis.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop?

Courtesy of Jake Blucker

Lakeshore Drive

Lakeshore Drive runs through the South Loop and is one of the most expedient ways north and south along the eastern edge of Chicago. Take Lakeshore south through Hyde Park to the University of Chicago campus or north through Rogers Park.

 

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South Loop Southbank Development

In keeping with the mega development trend of the last two years, Southbank is bringing luxury rental apartments, restaurants, retail, green space, and culture to the south branch stretch of river front in the South Loop. Southbank is being developed by Lendlease.

Looking for 2 bed town homes for rent near South Loop available now?

Rendering courtesy of Perkins + Will

The Cooper at Southbank is the first residential rental high rise to be completed in the development. With 452 apartments and town homes, this property is making a splash in the South Loop’s rental market.

Looking for luxury South Loop Apartments for rent? Cooper at Southbank

Rendering of one of the lounge spaces at The Cooper at Southbank

The Cooper at Southbank offers state of the art amenities including an expansive fitness center, music room, outdoor movie theatre, a large outdoor roof deck with a pool, hot tub, bocce ball court, hammocks, grills, and an herb garden, an upper level skyline terrace for taking in panoramic views of the city skyline, a game room with ping pong and billiards, a chef’s kitchen, a library, curated resident events, co-working spaces with private offices and conference rooms, a shop and craft space, entertaining spaces, 24 full service concierge, and even a salon!

Southbank’s new two acre park will use the foundations of the demolished Grand Central Park and is being designed by Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects. Prairie grasses and landscape features (like the bird houses created in partnership with UIC students) were selected for their low maintenance qualities and with local wildlife in mind. The .2 miles of continuous river walk will feature ample seating, lighting, and a mural created by Pilsen artist, Ruben Aguirre. The Southbank development will also include 15,000 square feet of retail space.

Dog friendly townhouses for rent in South Loop Southbank

The mural by Pilsen artist, Ruben Aguirre
Courtesy of Curbed Chicago

Southbank strives to be an oasis in the center of the city, just minutes from the Loop and easily accessible from most of Chicago.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

The South Loop: Top Dog Friendly Neighborhood

The South Loop is one of the most dog friendly neighborhoods in Chicago. Here are some top dog friendly parks.

Looking for dog parks in South Loop?

Courtesy of Joe Caione

Coliseum Dog Friendly Area- 1466 S Wabash Ave

At .65 acres with plenty of shaded benches, this fenced in dog park is the perfect place to let your pup run off the leash. Coliseum offers water stations open seasonally. Make sure to visit a participating vet to get a permit to bring your dog to Chicago Park District dog parks.

Grant “Bark” Dog Park- 1000 S Columbus Dr

Grant Bark Dog Park has water stations and bag dispensers, but no designated small dog area. Pets are permitted to run off the leash in this 18,000 square foot grass and gravel, tree lined park. Access the park from one of two paths on the 11th Street bridge or Columbus.

Fred Anderson Dog Park- 1629 S Wabash Ave

Fred Anderson Dog Park has two entrances– one for small dogs and another for large dogs. The park is also equipped with water stations and bag dispensers. Because it is reported to be well maintained and cleaned nightly, Fred Anderson is a favorite among many South Loop dog owners.

D’Angelo Park- 438 S Franklin St

D’Angelo Park is a “full amenity” dog park, well lit and equipped with water stations for both people and dogs, bag dispensers, a designated small dog area, and seating. The 5,000 square foot park is located between Congress Freeway and the Thermal Building.

Prairie District Dog Park- 2051 S Prairie Ave

The Prairie District Dog Park has been called a “hidden gem” and “small dog sanctuary” by neighborhood dog owners. The quiet, newer dog park is right next to a kids park and offers water stations and a designated small dog play area.

Click here for a list of dog friendly parks by neighborhood.

Looking for luxury dog friendly apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Schools Near South Loop

The South Loop is a hub of universities, colleges, and graduate schools, with an emphasis on arts and medicine. With the South Loop as your college campus, you’ll get to experience the lively city while still having a community feeling. Here is an overview of some of the major schools near South Loop.

Schools near South Loop

Courtesy of Ben Duchac

Columbia College- 600 S Michigan Ave

Columbia College specializes in arts and media and was originally founded in 1890 as an oratorial school in anticipation of the need for speakers at the World’s Fair. It has gained notoriety in the journalism field, especially through its student produced publications, including The Columbia Chronicle, which has won “Best College Newspaper” in both the state and the nation.

DePaul University- 1 E Jackson Blvd

DePaul University has a large focus on experiential learning, internships, study abroad opportunities, and civic involvement programs. DePaul is also on the quarter system, which means each school session is shorter, giving students an opportunity to maximize the amount of opportunities and courses they get to experience.

Roosevelt University- 430 S Michigan Ave

Roosevelt University is a smaller school comparatively, with enrollment around 4,400 students, with a focus on the performing arts. Social justice is also cornerstone in the school’s curriculum and has been intentionally embedded into the curriculum with many student led research projects and initiatives. Notable people including Eleanor Roosevelt and Albert Einstein have served on the advisory board. Classes are held in the Auditorium and Gage buildings.

School of the Art Institute- 36 S Wabash Ave

SAIC is one of the nation’s largest accredited independent schools of art and design and was named “Most Influential Art School in the United States” by Columbia University’s National Arts Journalism Program. It’s Visiting Artists program brings in highly esteemed artists from around the world for hands on experiences. SAIC also has many gallery and showcase opportunities for students.

University of Illinois– Chicago- 1200 W Harrison St

UIC is a public research university between the South Loop and West Loop with over 33,000 students, a hospital and health sciences system, and 16 program specific colleges. UIC is known for it’s excellent nursing, technical, and medical programs. UIC’s John Marshall Law School campus is also near the South Loop.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

South Loop: A Hub For Live Music

The South Loop is a cultural hub in Chicago’s art scene between the high density of museums on Museum Campus, the city’s top art and film schools, and the history of creativity established by Printer’s Row. The South Loop is also home to some of the most long standing live music venues, like Buddy Guy’s Legends, Jazz Showcase, and Reggie’s Music Joint.

Buddy Guy’s Legends- 700 S. Wabash St

Buddy Guy is a 7 time Grammy winner, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, 37 time Blues Music Award winner, the Presidential National Medal of Arts recipient, ranked 23rd on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time”, and a major influence on prolific musicians including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. At 82, he still performs on a regular basis at his blues club, Buddy Guy’s Legends, which hosts live music 7 nights a week as well as free acoustic shows during lunch and dinner. Looking for a great open mic? Stop by for the Blues Jam every Monday night at 9pm.

Jazz Showcase- 806 S. Plymouth Ct

Jazz Showcase has been one of Chicago’s premier jazz clubs since the 170 seat venue first opened in 1947, and is currently the oldest in the city. See live music 7 nights a week with a Sunday matinee event at 4pm geared towards an all ages audience. Discounts are available for students and musicians. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming performances and events.

Looking for Live Music In South Loop?

Courtesy of Konstantin Aal

Reggie’s Music Joint- 2105 S. State St

All under one roof, Reggie’s Music Joint hosts a rock venue, a bar and grill, a a record store, and dog friendly patio and rooftop with outdoor games. The venue was formerly an auto repair shop until Reggie’s opened its doors in 2007. Between the live music, walls lined with memorabilia, calendar of events, and the in house recording studio, Reggie’s is every rock fan and musician’s dream come true.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

South Loop Development: 78Chicago

The South Loop is one of the most rapidly growing Chicago neighborhoods. In fact, it’s growth includes the development of a new 62 acre neighborhood on a currently vacant site.

The 78, by Related Midwest, is one of the largest South Loop projects currently in development with a social, community, environmental, and economic components all Chicagoans can appreciate. Its name comes from the idea that of Chicago’s 77 existing neighborhoods, this will be the 78th. The 62 acre site is surrounded by Clark Street, Roosevelt Road, 16th Street, and the Chicago River and cornerstone of the development is the use of the riverfront, which will extend the existing Riverwalk by over a half mile to Chinatown.

New Luxury Apartments 78Chicago South Loop Related Midwest

Rendering of new river front, Courtesy of Related Midwest

Although it is still early in development, plans show that this mixed use mega development will include residential high rises, cafes, restaurants, retail, and an abundance of community amenities and 12 acres of green space. Community amenities will include the Riverwalk extension, bike paths, an expansion of Clark Street to make it more walkable, the dedication of a community resource center to foster the growth of local minority and women owned businesses, a 5 acre riverfront lined with dining and entertainment, and 7 acre Crescent Park.

New 78Chicago South Loop Related Midwest

Rendering of 7 Acre Crescent Park, Courtesy of Related Midwest

The 78 development will also improve transportation in the area. The project includes the addition of a new CTA red line stop on site, water taxi service, additional bikeways with Divvy rental bike stations, and a Metra stop relocation to reduce noise and improve air quality.

The 78 will potentially be home to one of the country’s newest research institutions, Discovery Partners Institute, an interdisciplinary innovation center that will span over 1 million square feet and service over 10,000 students every five years.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

South Loop 2 Bedroom Apartments

The South Loop is dense with new inventory and continuing to develop at a fast pace. Between all the new mega developments, namely Lendlease’s Southbank development, CMK’s Riverline development, and Related Midwest’s 78 development, the South Loop is in for new residences, community amenities, retail and entertainment, and green space on a massive scale. In response to all this new inventory, prices in the area are quite competitive. If you’re looking for a great deal but don’t want to compromise on quality, South Loop is a great place to look. These South Loop 2 bed apartments all have in unit washer and dryer and are available now!

Property 14- Clark & Polk

Since this Printer’s Row apartment building was originally designed as a condo building all units have unique, high grade finishes, massive walk in closets, and balconies. Each layout is also more spacious than a typical apartment in the area, with 1 beds up to 963 square feet and 2 beds up to 1535 square feet. Some units even have home offices, dens, and extra half baths. Even though this building is only a few years old, it already revamped all amenities, keeping it highly competitive with all the area’s brand new inventory.

Available Now! Pet and Dog Friendly!

Two bedroom, two bath apartments are currently starting at $2525.

Property 18- Delano Court & Roosevelt

Looking for a 2 bed loft apartment? Look no further! These 2 bed, 2 bath loft style rentals are a steal! The finishes are modern but still warm and homey, with light hardwood in the living space, carpet in the bedrooms, concrete ceilings, a mosaic backsplash, and dark, espresso cabinetry.

Available ASAP! Pet and Dog Friendly!

This prime location is tucked away on a court with lots of retail and dining, but is only a few blocks west of State Street and the Roosevelt CTA, which provides direct access to Midway Airport, the Loop, and north and west through the city. There are also three major grocery stores within walking distance and a target less than a block away.

Modern Apartments Near South Loop Printers Row 2 Beds

Modern bathroom finishes at Property 18

Property 147- Wells & Financial Place

**Ask About 2 Months Free!**

This stunning new construction rental building offers multiple styles of 2 bedroom apartments, including both traditional high rise style rentals as well as townhomes for rent. The amenities in this new luxury building are unparalleled and include multiple spacious outdoor areas, a rooftop pool, expansive fitness center, a music room, craft shop space, an outdoor movie screening area, hammocks, co-working space, and even a hair salon! All units feature state-of-the-art finishes, high quality appliances, and thoughtful layouts with ample storage space.

Now Leasing Rentals in South Loop New Luxury 2 Beds

Finishes in the traditional 2 bed layout

The 2 bed townhouse rentals are two stories and feature a balcony as well as a powder room on the living area floor.

Immediate Move In Availability Pet and Dog Friendly!

Townhome floor plan

2 bedroom apartments are currently starting at $2770.

 

Looking for luxury 2 bed apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

South Loop Museums: 2020 Free Days!

Museum Campus is a 57 acre park in South Loop along Lake Michigan and encompasses some of Chicago’s most notable museums as well as Soldier Field and Northerly Island. If you’re in the South Loop and looking for things to do near you, here are the days these museums offer free admission to Illinois residents in 2020!

Adler Planetarium

Now Leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent now near South Loop?

Courtesy of Nathan Anderson

Did you know that in Chicago’s dark sky you could see 4500 stars with the naked eye? The Adler Planetarium is the first planetarium in the United States and has exhibits and sky shows that are “out of this world”! Even better, Adler Planetarium has plenty of events to keep your attention so you don’t “space” out. Check out monthly events like Sun Salutations Yoga or Adler After Dark with upcoming dates on Saturday, February 1st and Thursday, February 20th.

2020 Free Dates:
February 4-6, 11-13, 17-20
March 9-12
April 20-23
May 10-16
June 2, 9, 16
August 22-23, 31
September 1-4
October 12-15
November 11, 17-19
December 4-6

 

The Field Museum

The Field Museum houses over 30 million historical, cultural, and scientific artifacts and collections designed to “inspire curiosity about life on Earth”. Right now, check out the exhibit, “Fantastic Bug Encounters”, which includes hands on activities and workshops for all ages.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now near South Loop?

Courtesy of Fan Yang

2020 Free Dates:
February 1-29

Museum of Science and Industry

Looking for luxury apartments for rent now near South Loop?

Courtesy of Andrea Lightfoot

The Museum of Science and Industry is located in South Loop’s Jackson Park, the historic site of the 1893 Columbian Exposition World’s Fair.

Learn about the differences between the genetic versus epigenetic factors that play into an animal’s physiology as you watch chickens hatch right before your eyes. “Invent the Future” in the Fast Forward exhibit, as you surround yourself in a world of tomorrow’s inventions. In addition to numerous exhibits, the museum also features interactive experiences like a submarine simulation and a virtual reality space walk.

2020 Free Dates:
February 3-6, 10-13, 18-20, 24-27

 

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd is a 5,000,000 gallon aquarium housing over 32,000 animals. Visit Annik, the new born Beluga whale, get some quality time in a meet and greet with a Magellanic or Rockhopper penguin, touch a stingray, or see the aquarium at night during one of the “Asleep With The Fishes” events.

2020 Free Dates:
February 3-7, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28, 2020
June 15, 16, 22, 23, 2020
August 24, 25, 2020
September 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 2020
October 5, 6, 7, 2020

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

South Loop Restaurant Week Spots

A record breaking 430 restaurants, 16 of which are in South Loop, will offer special prix fixe menus during Chicago’s annual Restaurant Week, from January 24th to February 6th. Here’s where to dine during Restaurant Week in the South Loop.

CheSa’s at the Bureau Bar & Restaurant

724 W. Maxwell St

CheSa’s at the Bureau, in the heart of University Village, stands out on the list because of it’s dietary restriction friendly menu and kitchen. Whether you’re looking for vegan, vegetarian, nut allergy or gluten free options, all are served up in the allergy friendly kitchen at CheSa’s. (Of course, be sure to check with your server if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies). The $24 brunch menu includes an omelette bar, chicken and waffle station, fruit and pastries, shrimp and grits bar, and other southern favorites like collard greens, buttermilk biscuits, and country sausage gravy. The $48 three course dinner menu includes modern twists on classic southern meat, fish, and pasta dishes.

South Loop restaurant week places to eat chesas at the bureau bar

$48 prix fixe restaurant week dinner menu

Grant Park Bistro

800 S. Michigan

Take in the stunning views and lively energy of Grant Park at this contemporary American bistro. The $36 dinner menu includes three courses. Choose from wild mushroom soup, burnt endive salad, or ceviche for your first course, duck breast, seared scallops, roasted butternut squash, or celeriac steak for your entree, and either a teurgoule tarte or dark chocolate entremet for dessert. Grant Park Bistro also features a selection of desserts from local bakery, Vanille Patisserie.

South Loop Restaurant Week Grant Park Bistro

Courtesy of Grant Park Bistro

Mercat a la Planxa

638 S. Michigan Ave

Enjoy modern, Catalan style tapas, meats, seafood, vegetarian fare, and charcuterie at Mercat a la Planxa for either the $24 3 course brunch menu or $48 4 course dinner menu. Mercat a la Planxa is located just across from Grant and Millennium parks and is perfect if you’re looking for a trendy, semi-casual spot in a lively location.

Looking for restaurants near South loop?

Courtesy of Mercat a la Planxa

Check out the complete list of participating South Loop restaurants here.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Restaurant Week in the Loop

With the holiday season behind us, lights and decorations disappearing, and social calendars calming down, January can seem cold, dark, and uneventful. Fortunately for Chicagoans, there’s restaurant week, a bright light in the Chicago winter. Each year Chicago foodies (and really anybody who likes going to restaurants) look forward to restaurant week when over 400 Chicago restaurants will offer multi-course prix fixe menus and specials to diners over the course of 17 days. Here are some of the top places to eat in the Loop during restaurant week!

Atwood- 1 W Washington St

Atwood serves all day upscale American cuisine. Diners enjoy the imaginative menu, lively location off State Street, and modern decor juxtaposed with the 19th century historic Reliance building it’s located in. Atwood’s restaurant week menu includes appetizer, entree, and dessert courses for both lunch ($24) and dinner ($36).

Looking for places to eat for Restaurant Week in the Loop?

Courtesy of Atwood

Cherry Circle Room- 12 S Michigan Ave

This James Beard Award winning concept is located on the second floor of the Chicago Athletic Hotel and is a hidden gem with an old time Chicago ambiance. The three course meal offers a choice of soup or salad, a fish, burger, or chicken entree, and apple tart by pastry chef, Angela Diaz and is available both for lunch ($24) and dinner ($48).

Looking for places to eat for Restaurant Week in the Loop

Courtesy of The Cherry Circle Room

Prime and Provisions- 222 N Lasalle St

For a classic steakhouse dinner, satisfying lunch, or a more extensive brunch menu than you could imagine, Prime and Provisions has it all. Choose between the very wide selection of brunch options ($24), a 2 course lunch menu ($24), or a 3 course dinner menu, complete with a starter, entree, side, and dessert ($48) while you enjoy views of the Chicago river and skyline off Wacker Drive.

Looking for places to eat for Restaurant Week in the Loop?

Courtesy of Prime and Provisions

Restaurant week begins January 24th and runs until February 9th. Click here for a list of all participating restaurants in the Loop.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Chicago’s Cultural Mile in the Loop

The stretch of Michigan Avenue that runs through Chicago’s Loop is affectionately known as the “Cultural Mile”, with its high density of museums, theatre, and cultural events. Check out these things to do on the Cultural Mile!

Art InstituteLooking for art museums near the Loop Chicago?

Art Institute

The Art Institute is one of the oldest art museums and second largest (after the Met)  in the United States. It houses more than 300,000 permanent pieces in addition to 30 annual temporary exhibits. Some of it’s famous collection pieces include Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Seurat, The Old Guitarist by Picasso, and Grant Wood’s American Gothic. The current spotlight exposition is Andy Warhol’s From A to B and Back Again, through January 26th.

Art InstituteLooking for art museums near the Loop Chicago?

The Art Institute also hosts art driven events and will be hosting a celebration of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, February 8th, from 1 to 4:30pm, with gallery tours in both English and Mandarin, performances, music, art making, artist demonstrations, and interactive experiences. The celebration is included with museum admission. The celebration continues with a lantern procession at Millennium Park at 5pm.

Better yet– general admission is free to Illinois residents each Wednesday from 5 to 8pm, all the time for children under 14, and for children under 18 on weekdays from January 27th to March 4th and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Auditorium Theatre

The Auditorium Theatre is a national historic landmark building and was designed in 1889 by Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan. The Auditorium has been home to the Joffrey Ballet for over 20 years and hosts a multitude of live performances and dance companies. Upcoming performances include Alvin Ailey dance company, the American Ballet Theatre, and National Geographic-Live. Click here for all upcoming performances and ticketing.

The Auditorium hosts daily tours. See the stunning 24 karat gold ceiling arches, ornate sculptural designs, floor and wall mosaics, and murals by Charles Holloway and Albert Fleury.

Second Fridays at the Fine Arts Building

The second Friday of each month, the Fine Arts Building opens its doors to the public, free of charge, to showcase the work of its resident artists. The historic building is located on Michigan Avenue and is home to a collective of visual artists, musicians, teachers, book stores, writers, craft instrument designers, yoga studios, dance and theatre performances, and artisan workshops.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

New Loop Apartment Buildings of 2019

Gut rehabbed historic buildings turned into luxury apartments was 2019’s trend in Loop construction. These three luxury Loop apartment buildings opened in 2019 and were rehabbed historic buildings.

The Alfred by FLATS

The Alfred apartments (named after architect, Alfred Alschuler) opened in the former Hartman Building, which was built in 1925. To keep the character of the building, the exterior brick and terra-cotta were repaired and many of the historic interior fixtures, like elevator doors and lights, were salvaged and used in the current design.

New luxury loop apartments

The open layout apartments at The Alfred feature high, vaulted ceilings, in unit laundry, poured concrete or herringbone wood floors, with walk-in closets and dishwashers in select units. Residents have access to luxury functional amenities like the 13th floor lounge, a spacious outdoor terrace with seating and fire pits, and a coffee shop in the lobby.

Millennium on Lasalle

Each rental features stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, a tiled kitchen backsplash, and premium Italian cabinets in the kitchen, marble bathroom tile, in unit washer and dryer, and hard surface floors. Layouts include ample storage space– even the efficiency studio floor plans include walk in closets. The apartments at Millennium on Lasalle are also pet friendly! Amenities include bike storage, co-working space with wifi, a movie theatre, dry-cleaning service, an expansive fitness center, an indoor multi sport court, a roof top pool with lounge space and grilling stations, a poker room, chef’s kitchen, dog wash, 24/7 maintenance, and more! Millennium on Lasalle opened in the heart of the financial district in the Loop in fall of 2019.

Now Leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the Loop?

330 S. Wells

330 S. Wells is a newly rehabbed historic insurance building. The boutique style building has a quiet, community feel despite being so centrally located. Interior finishes are stunning, with quartz countertops, GE stainless steel appliances, modern cabinets, and tile flooring throughout each kitchen, Brizo and Kohler plumbing fixtures in each bathroom, and an in unit washer and dryer in each apartment. The 16 story building houses retail and office space in addition to rental apartments. Both commercial and residential tenants get access to the bike storage room, fitness center, and rooftop lounge. The rooftop is complete with grill stations, fire pits, a chef’s style “sky kitchen”, and an indoor sky lounge. The 5th floor also houses a chef’s style kitchen and lounge, as well as a yoga studio, conference room, and fitness center. Residents also enjoy controlled building entry, close proximity to the blue, red, and brown line CTA trains, and that these apartments are pet friendly.

New luxury loop apartments

Looking for new luxury apartments for rent in the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Dog Friendly Spots Near The Loop

Seeing downtown Chicago is fun, but there’s nothing that can’t be made more fun by bringing your dog along! Here are some dog friendly places and activities to do with your pet near the Loop!

312 Chicago

Dog friendly places near the Loop

Courtesy of 312 Chicago

312 Chicago is located in the heart of the theatre district in the Loop and serves northern Italian fare, brunch, bakery items, and craft cocktails. The charming patio is dog friendly and even offers homemade dog treats on Saturdays and Sundays 11am to 2pm. Insider tip– bring your Christkindl Market mug to 312 Chicago for a complimentary refill of mulled wine with purchase through January 15th, 2020!

O’Brien’s Riverwalk Cafe

Enjoy waterside dining with your dog at O’Brien’s Riverwalk Cafe. O’Brien’s regularly hosts live music and is a festive place to celebrate favorite Chicago holidays (like dyeing the river green on St. Patrick’s Day) as well as lesser known Chicago holidays (like Cheeseburger day). If you’re looking to switch up the traditional patio scene, you might enjoy bringing your dog for a day on the Riverwalk!

Mercury’s Canine Cruise

What’s even better than the classic architectural boat tour? One that your dog can enjoy, too! Sightsee in Chicago’s Loop along Lake Michigan and the river with your furry friend as you get a detailed tour of Chicago’s architectural marvels. The 90 minute tour departs from 112 E Wacker Drive. There are dog water bowls and relief stations on board to keep the ride comfortable for your pet!

Small Dog Tea Party at the Drake Hotel

February 9th, 2020 stop by the Camellia Room at the Drake Hotel from 1 to 3pm for the Small Dog Tea Party, hosted by the Dog Moms of Chicago. The tea party will have a Valentine’s Day theme and all proceeds will go to local dog rescue organizations.

Looking for dog friendly apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Great Deals on Apartments in the Loop

A new year (and new decade) means a new apartment! If you’re looking to live in the Loop in the heart of downtown Chicago, here are some great new year specials on Loop luxury apartments.

Studio- Property 46

$1755 (net $1609 with specials) available now!

Now leasing! Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments in the Loop available now?

This Loop apartment building is offering great specials including 1 month free on vacant units and a $750 sign on bonus for students at Kaplan and nearby schools, as well as employees of select preferred employers. Find out if there are any apartment buildings offering specials and discounts for employees at your company!

1 Bed- Property 152

$1975 (net $1810 with specials), available now!

Now leasing! Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments in the Loop available now?

Property 152 in the Loop is a beloved historic landmark with newly renovated interiors and amenities. This location is great if you’re looking to be close to public transportation with convenient access to O’Hare and Midway airports, as this Loop luxury apartment is located less than a block from the blue, pink, green, orange, and brown line trains at Clark and Lake and two blocks from the red line at State and Lake.

Get 1 month free when you lease a newly renovated apartment!

2 Bed- Property 85

$3022 available January 2nd

Now leasing! Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments in the Loop available now?

This rental building on the Magnificent Mile offers spa like amenities, including a steam room, lounge pool, two fitness areas, a hot tub with a waterfall wall, a movie theatre, and multiple sun decks. This two bed two bath layout has a spacious living area, great storage space, and a modern kitchen.

3 Bed- Property 122

$4444 available now!

Now leasing! Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments in the Loop available now?

This modern, soft loft apartment offers great separation between each bedroom, each bath, and the living space, making it perfect for roommates. Living in this 3 bedroom apartment with roommates comes out to less than $1500 per person, making it the most cost efficient option!

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

New Years Eve in Chicago’s Loop

Whether you’re a Chicago resident looking for a downtown “stay-cation” or in from out of town looking to explore Chicago, there are so many ways to spend New Year’s Eve in the Loop!

Luxury loop apartments in downtown Chicago for rent now leasing

Courtesy of Jude Beck

360 Chicago

360 Chicago is the 94th floor observation deck at the John Hancock Center. 360’s New Year’s package includes unlimited rides on TILT, a firework display, a live DJ, party favors, drinks, and stunning views of downtown Chicago from over 1000 feet above the Magnificent Mile.

Looking for things to do near Chicago's downtown Loop?

Courtesy of Sapan Patel

ROOF on the Wit

From 9pm to 1am on New Year’s Eve, ROOF will be transformed into a French Riviera and Monte Carlo themed extravaganza, featuring gaming tables, acrobats, French cuisine from award winning chefs, an open bar, and music. This 27th story Loop rooftop bar is a great place to watch all of Chicago’s lively festivities, city lights, and fireworks.

Chicago Loop New Years Eve things to do

Courtesy of Billy Huynh

Hilton Chicago

The Hilton is the happening place to be on New Years in Chicago! This multiple ballroom soiree features seven party areas, twelve acts, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and champagne, celebrity DJs, live casino, live video mixing, a confetti “storm” at midnight, table service, discounted hotel rooms, and more! It will be hosted by Kiss FM and televised by NBC 5.

New Year’s Eve Blast

New Year’s Eve downtown in any city can get pretty pricey. Looking for free things to do for New Years in downtown Chicago? Look no further! Enjoy fireworks and celebrations along the Riverwalk from Wolf Point to Lakeshore Drive with New Year’s Eve Blast. You can also watch the midnight fireworks live on WGN.

Chicago Riverwalk in the Loop New Years Eve

Courtesy of Max Bender

Travelle at the Langham

If you’re a foodie, head to Travelle at the Langham hotel for your New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy a five course fine dining experience at Travelle, followed by an Andy Warhol’s “silver factory” themed celebration at the bar. The dinner menu includes: Butternut Squash Soup with crème fraiche, Ossetra Royale Caviar, and chanterelle conserva; Rohan Duck Confit with beets, citrus, frisée, radicchio, braised salsify, and black truffle; Monkfish with Manila clams, bouillabaisse, braised fennel, and saffron touile; Wagyu Short Rib with pommes mille feuille, cippolini agrodolce, horseradish, and celery root; and Citrus Pavlova with grapefruit granita, black currant ice cream, and yuzu curd.

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Save On Apartments In The Loop

Living in the heart of downtown Chicago in the Loop doesn’t have to be hard on your wallet. If you’re interested in having the space of a 1 bed apartment but don’t necessarily need a door, renting a convertible apartment is a great way to save on your rent! Many convertibles are like hybrids of studios and 1 beds, but these Loop convertible apartments have incredible separation. Some even have sliding doors, giving you a fully enclosed 1 bedroom without paying 1 bedroom rent prices.

Property 82- Michigan/Lake

Apartments in the Loop

This Loop apartment building has incredible convertibles. The sliding, light blue sea glass door fully encloses the bedroom, creating the same separation from your living space you would have in a 1 bedroom. Each unit features plenty of storage space and large kitchen islands as well as expansive, floor to ceiling windows overlooking views of downtown Chicago and the lake. Apartments in this building have in unit laundry.

Property 41– Wells/Lake

Looking for rental convertible apartments now leasing near the Loop?

Travel for work often? Whether you fly out of Midway or O’Hare, this Loop apartment building is in a convenient location for direct access to the airport, less than a block from the blue line and two blocks from the orange line. With floor plans ranging in size from 652 to 968 square feet, the convertible apartments are more spacious than most 1 beds. Each convertible also has a sliding door, giving you a fully enclosed bedroom. Apartments in this building have in unit laundry. Looking for a great pet friendly apartment? The onsite dog run and pet amenities ensure your furry friends will love living here, too!

Property 35– Wells/Randolph

Looking for rental convertible apartments now leasing near the Loop?

This historic high rise has fully renovated interiors and unique amenities (life-size chess, movie theatre, or hammock lounge, anyone?). The bedroom area is an enclosed alcove with a spacious walk in closet. Apartments in this building have in unit laundry. This building is offering 1-2 months free for a limited time!

Living in the Loop gives you a central location to some of the best entertainment, convenient transit, and stunning outdoor amenities, like the Riverwalk and lakefront trail, in the downtown area!

Looking for great deals on luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Holiday Lights in the Loop

If you’re looking to see holiday lights in downtown Chicago, the Loop is the place to be! Here are some of our favorite places in the Loop to get in the holiday spirit.

City of Chicago Christmas Tree

Looking for things to do for the holidays near the loop?

Courtesy of Max Bender

The 106th annual Christmas Tree in Millennium Park was celebrated with a lighting ceremony in late November. However, the 60 foot evergreen will be brightening up the city every nigh through January.

Menorah Lighting at Daley Plaza

The annual menorah lighting in Daley Plaza is a great way to celebrate Hannukah! Enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment by AD the DJ and Charlie the Rapper.

Museum of Science and Industry Holiday Lights & Christmas Around The World

The 45 foot tree is adorned with 30,000 lights and surrounded by over 50 smaller trees, each decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s different communities to reflect their cultures. The occasional indoor “snow” flurries add to the charming holiday ambiance.

CTA Holiday Train

Ever wonder why the downtown area is called “The Loop”? The neighborhood gets its name because the CTA L train tracks make a “loop” around the center of the city. During the holidays, hop aboard the CTA’s holiday train for meet and greets with santa and his reindeer and holiday cheer. The special holiday trains are covered in multicolored lights, red bows, garlands, and candy cane striped ribbon. The tradition started in 1992 and has grown in popularity and decadence over the years. Click here for a schedule of when to check out the CTA holiday train.

Looking for things to do for the holidays near the loop?

Courtesy of Sawyer Bengston

Macy’s on State Street

Macy’s on State Street is known for having eye catching, festive windows. Step inside and head to historic The Walnut Room, where you’ll see the Great Tree and enjoy a holiday themed cocktail. With the whimsical decorations in the Macy’s windows, Christmas music coming from speakers in the flower beds, and tree covered lights, hopping along State Street takes on a whole new atmosphere

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

See Chicago’s Loop in One Of These Downtown Chicago Holiday Tours

The only thing that rivals summertime in the Loop is the holiday season in the Loop. Whether you’re looking to see holiday lights, the striking architecture, or a little of both, here are some holiday tours to soak up festive holiday cheer.

Now renting Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago's Loop?

Chicago Architecture Center Holiday and City Lights

See holiday lights in the Loop with the Chicago Architecture Center. During the 90 minute tour, you’ll learn about the architects who shaped Chicago while seeing the dazzling city lights aboard a double decker bus. Tickets include admission to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your holiday tour. Tickets are available through the end of the year. The CAC will also be extending it’s holiday season hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 8pm.

Holiday Lights Segway Tour

A segway is a unique way to see Chicago’s downtown Loop. You get a more intimate and thorough look at the city than you would in a car but can cover more ground more quickly than on foot. See Cloudgate, also known as “The Bean”, head down The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue, stop by Christkindl Market, and ride past the Art Institute. Holiday light segway tours run Wednesday through Sunday at 6pm until December 21st.

Cloudgate at Millennium Park in the Loop, also known as “The Bean”

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Holiday Tour

The holiday tour bus makes two stops– one at the Christkindl holiday market in Daley Plaza, and another at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoo Lights. Each rider will get a pair of 3D glasses, to view Zoo Lights at a whole new dimension, and a bag of Hot Cocoa Caramel Popcorn from famous Garrett’s Popcorn. Private tours are also available. Click here for tickets!

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Head To The Loop For Holiday Shows!

The Loop is home to Chicago’s vibrant theatre district. Between Broadway in Chicago, live musical performances, dance, and smaller theatre productions, there are plenty of exciting and thought provoking shows to see. Here are some of the most popular holiday performances in the Loop.

Joffrey Ballet’s Performance of “The Nutcracker”

The Joffrey Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker is a longtime holiday tradition. The classic ballet, composed by Tchaikovsky, follows the story of a young girl and her mother preparing for a Christmas dinner in 1892 just before the World’s Fair. When everyone has gone to bed, the girl is transported to a dreamlike world where her Christmas gifts come to life.

Nutcracker Joffrey Ballet Tickets Available Now! Looking for things to do for holidays in the Loop?

Courtesy of the Joffrey Ballet

The Nutcracker runs through December 29th at the Auditorium Theatre in the Loop. Click here for tickets.

“Merry, Merry, Chicago!” at Chicago Symphony Orchestra

In Merry, Merry, Chicago! the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus perform holiday favorites, carols, and an appearance by Santa Claus. The performance will be conducted by guest conductor, Emil de Cou, and runs December 14th-23rd.

See below for the program!

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Looking for things to do for holidays in the Loop?

“A Christmas Carol” at the Goodman Theatre

A Christmas Carol has been a holiday favorite for over forty years. The story, originally written by Charles Dickens, follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns about compassion, kindness, and redemption. Tickets are available through December 29th.

Looking for things to do during the holidays in downtown Chicago? A Christmas Carol at Goodman Theatre in the Loop

Courtesy of the Goodman Theatre

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre

Broadway in Chicago’s White Christmas is sure to leave you full of holiday cheer! Choose Chicago says White Christmas is full of, “dancing, laughter, and some of the greatest music ever written”. Don’t miss out! This Broadway musical only runs through mid December.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop’s theatre district? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

West Loop Dog Friendly Restaurants

Your furry friends shouldn’t have to “sit” and “stay” home while you soak up all the West Loop has to offer. Bring them with you to these dog friendly spots in West Loop.

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Ericka Rios, Director of Leasing, with Ruben Oliver, the “DAC Doodle”

Saint Lou’s Assembly- 664 W Lake St

The patio at Saint Lou’s Assembly is a prime pooch social spot. Bring your dog for a “dog beer”, which comes in a regular beer-esque bottle. Stop by for one of many dog oriented events, like the dog halloween costume contest!

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Courtesy of Saint Lou’s Assembly

Wishbone West Loop- 161 N Jefferson St

Chef Joel Nickson serves up southern classics and a mix-and-match menu of side dishes. Wishbone has been a West Loop favorite for 30 years. Their dog friendly patio is a great place to go for Monday through Friday happy hour light bites, including fried chicken sliders, jambalaya, and catfish nuggets.

City Mouse Chicago- 311 N Morgan St

Looking for great brunch in West Loop? Look no further! City Mouse Chicago serves up seasonally inspired fare in the Ace Hotel. Dogs are welcome in the indoor lounge, where both you and your pet can order food. The pet menu includes meat based items and water is served in doggie bowls. The “human” lounge menu has great selections and happy hour specials as well.

A reservation is recommended for the dog friendly lounge area.

Your furry friends shouldn't have to "sit" and "stay" home while you soak up all the West Loop has to offer. Bring them with you to these dog friendly spots in West Loop.  Saint Lou's Assembly- 664 W Lake St    Wishbone West Loop- 161 N Jefferson St    City Mouse Chicago- 311 N Morgan St  Looking for great brunch in West Loop? Look no further! City Mouse Chicago serves up seasonally inspired fare in the Ace Hotel. Dogs are welcome in the indoor lounge, where both you and your pet can order food. The pet menu includes meat based items and water is served in doggie bowls.  A reservation is recommended for the dog friendly lounge area.    Kuma's Corner- 852 W Fulton Market  Kuma's Corner is known both for serving up some of the best burgers in the city with unique twists, as well as their support of local heavy music artists. Bring your pet to their dog friendly patio to check out their eclectic menu and hear a great mix of Chicago heavy musicians. You can also listen to the Kuma's playlist on Spotify.   Jefferson Tap & Grille- 325 N Jefferson St    Looking for dog friendly apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We'd be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Photo Courtesy of Anjali Pinto, citymousechicago.com

Kuma’s Corner- 852 W Fulton Market

Kuma’s Corner is known both for serving up some of the best burgers in the city with unique twists, as well as their support of local heavy music artists. Bring your pet to their dog friendly patio to check out their eclectic menu and hear a great mix of Chicago heavy musicians. You can also listen to the Kuma’s playlist on Spotify.

 

Looking for dog friendly apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

West Loop History on Halsted: Athenian Candle

Halsted Street in West Loop is known for its high density of Greek shops, restaurants, museums, and other cultural sites, many of which are long time neighborhood treasures. Athenian Candle is a specialty spiritual goods shop that’s stood the test of time as Halsted Street has evolved over the past century.

Athenian Candle was founded nearly 100 years ago by Themistocles and Efthimia Godelas in 1920. This fourth generation store is the only original Greek Town business standing.

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Themistocles Godelas in the original Athenian Candle store in the 1940s

Athenian Candle offers over 7,000 products, including handmade candles as well as cultural and spiritual goods imported directly from Greece for use in special events and ceremonies. Products range from incense, essential oils, statues, rosaries, tapered candles, oil lamps, books for a variety of religious and spiritual faiths, and English/Greek greeting cards, and Greek flags and cook books, to Greek wedding and baptismal items like stafana (wedding crowns) and martirika (baptismal ribbons). Each year, Athenian Candle produces thousands of hand dipped paraffin and beeswax candles, ranging from 8 inches, for candles lit during most Sunday liturgies, to 5 feet, for candles used in wedding and baptismal ceremonies. These specialty candles are then sold in both the Halsted Street store and online and via catalog worldwide. The use of top quality paraffin and beeswax is crucial, as most religious and spiritual groups do not condone burning animal fat. Athenian Candle also offers candle burning and other on-site services.

With the blend of historic character and modern additions, Greek Town is a cultural cornerstone of West Loop. Greek Town is conveniently accessible from most of the city via the CTA blue line, the metra trains at Union and Ogilvie stations, and the Kennedy and Eisenhower expressways, making it an equally as convenient place to live as it is to explore on weekends.

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West Loop Epiphany Center for the Arts

The former West Loop Church of the Epiphany, at 201 S. Ashland, is being converted into one of the newest event venues and art centers. The high ceilings, mosaics, and historic windows add to the striking elegance and charm of this space, which will be used to house local art events and private events like weddings and rehearsals.

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Courtesy of Epiphany Center for the Arts and Chicago Tribune

When owner and developer, David Chase, initially applied for liquor and entertainment licenses, West Loop residents had trepidation about what they interpreted as the conversion of this historic landmark into a nightclub. However, Chase explained that his vision for the site was to “not to profit, but to ‘activate’ something beautiful for the community that would preserve the architectural glory of the church”.

He explained plans to turn it into a single destination wedding and event venue and 42,000 square foot hub for a multitude of practicing artists, including several distinct spaces. These include Epiphany Hall, located in the venue’s sanctuary with capacity for 1000 people, The Sanctuary, an upstairs lounge with live magic and cabaret performances with a 100 person capacity, and The Catacombs, an underground space for live jazz performances that holds 400 people.

Chase has emphasized that he intends to keep Epiphany Center for the Arts open to the public as much as possible, with public live music and events booked on Sundays through Thursdays and weddings predominantly on Fridays and Saturdays.

The church was originally built in 1885 in Romanesque style, complete with a bellower and sandstone exterior. The historic West Loop gem was the site of many historically significant events, like the funeral of Mayor Carter Harrison Sr. following his assassination, an event profiled in Devil in the White City.

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The West Loop: Downtown Chicago’s Transit Hub

Whether you’re looking to commute downtown to the Loop, out to the suburbs, or to the furthest stretches of the Earth, the West Loop is outfitted with so many transit options that it makes most commutes a breeze.

Union and Ogilvie Stations

Whether you take the Metra to the suburbs or the Amtrak even further, both Ogilvie and Union Stations are right on the boarder of the West Loop.

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Courtesy of Union Station

Blue Line CTA to O’Hare International Airport

The blue line train runs through West Loop at UIC on Halsted and on Clinton, providing a quick and efficient way to get to O’Hare, taking you anywhere in the world! Skip the unpredictable rush hour traffic on I-294, save your Uber fares, and take the blue line instead!

Green and Pink Line CTA to Rush University Hospital and the Loop

Catch the green and pink line trains the the Loop at Ashland and Ogden, on Clinton and Lake, or at the Morgan Street L station, which has been in operation since the 1800s and is located right on the bustling Restaurant Row strip on Randolph Street. The green line is also a convenient way to Rush Hospital and University.

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Courtesy of CTA

Highway Entrances

It seems like half of rush hour traffic is sitting in the downtown area before you even get on the highway. Live in the West Loop and skip it with the nearby highway entrances on nearly every block from Ogden to Van Buren. Hop directly on I-94 or I-294.

Work Remotely?

If you work from home and don’t commute, the West Loop could still be the most convenient neighborhood for you, too. There’s no shortage of co-working spaces and coffee shops.

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Courtesy of WeWork

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

West Loop Buildings With Electric Car Charging Stations

As electric vehicles have become more popular, newer construction buildings have begun to include electric car chargers in their garages. With so much new rental inventory in the West Loop, many buildings in the neighborhood offer electric car charging.

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Courtesy of Chicago Tribune

727 W Madison

727 West Madison is known for being the tallest downtown building west of the highway. It just opened in Q4 of 2018 and has built a reputation for being the pinnacle of luxury in West Loop. Among its many top of the line amenities, 727 W Madison offers electric vehicle chargers in the garage.

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727 W Madison also offers pet amenities like the large dog run
Courtesy of 727 W Madison

Spoke

Spoke offers many state of the art amenities, like a recording studio and video gaming lounge, so it’s no surprise Spoke’s garage features electric vehicle charging stations as one of its many amenities.

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Take in skyline views from one of many rooftop lounges
Courtesy of Spoke Apartments

Now leasing apartments! Looking for West Loop rentals near Union Station and Rush University Hospital?

Spoke’s whimsical resident lounge
Courtesy of Spoke Apartments

Arkadia West Loop

Arkadia is only a few years old, but its amenities recently underwent a significant renovation, keeping it highly competitive with this year’s brand new inventory. One of Arkadia’s modern features is electric car charging in the garage.

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Arkadia is known for its expansive amenity deck– one of the largest in the city!
Courtesy of Arkadia West Loop

Landmark

Landmark has a wide selection of parking amenities in addition to electric car chargers. Choose from monthly or hourly parking options or discounted rates on the on site Zipcars. Enjoy discounted parking for guests and on site eco friendly car washes from in house vendor, Sparkl.

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Residents love the tranquil rooftop pool
Courtesy of Related

What if you’re out and about in West Loop and need a quick charge? Here are some public EV charging locations downtown!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop with electric car charging stations? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Must-Try West Loop Coffee Shops

Whether you’re looking for a place to work from home, dive into a good book, or make a quick caffeine stop on your morning commute, these West Loop coffee shops are worth checking out!

West Loop Coffee Shops Near Luxury Apartments

Courtesy of Sawada Coffee

Fairgrounds Coffee

Fairgrounds is located on Fulton Market and Ada and features unique takes on coffeeshop favorites. This West Loop coffee shop can be your one stop shop around the clock. Stop in for all day breakfast, super food elixirs, an expansive variety of coffee, and great happy hour specials each day of the week in the evenings. If you’re looking for coffee shops open late, Fairgrounds stays open until 8pm on weekdays. Are you a fan of last year’s big trend, nitro cold brew? Check out Fairgrounds’ nitro matcha.

West Loop Coffee Shops Near Luxury Apartments

Courtesy of Fairgrounds Coffee

Limitless Coffee

Limitless Coffee’s bright interior is both energizing and tranquil– perfect for focusing. Whatever you’re looking for in a coffee shop, from something conducive to large meetings to a place where you can spread out in peace and quiet, Limitless has all the bases covered. Each high top table has its own small dry erase board. There are plenty of outlets along the booths and comfortable lounge chairs, as well as several large meeting tables, one of which has a large dry erase board.

 

West Loop Coffee Shops Near Luxury Apartments

Courtesy of Limitless Coffee

The menu features classic coffeehouse favorites as well as “instagrammable” unique lattes, like the popular rose beet and charcoal glitter lattes pictured below. Limitless also offers smoothies, kombucha, tea, bulletproof coffee with MCT oil and collagen protein add ins, and a great keto friendly menu featuring multiple stellar avocado toasts and an avocado and egg umami biscuit that will leave you both full and wanting more.

West Loop Coffee Shops Near Luxury Apartments

Traditional, rose beet, and charcoal glitter lattes. Courtesy of Limitless Coffee

Sawada Coffee

Sawada Coffee is owned by world renowned latte art expert, Hiroshi Sawada, and is located at 112 N Green Street, near many of the new office developments that house tech companies and notable headquarters in the area. Patrons love the industrial aesthetic and quirky charm (namely the pinball machine, ping pong table, and punching bag).

Pro tip: Tired of waiting in line every Saturday morning at River North’s Donut Vault for your donuts? Grab your Donut Vault favorites at Sawada Coffee!

West Loop Coffee Shops Near Luxury Apartments

Courtesy of Sawada Coffee

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

New West Loop Office Buildings Feature Apartment-Like Amenities

The West Loop office market saw a huge increase in momentum in 2018 and is not showing signs of slowing up anytime soon. The West Loop has become an attractive area for tech companies, many of which appear to place an emphasis on employee work-life balance and healthy lifestyle. In turn, newer office building developments have started to include features and amenities geared toward the desires of these tech-culture companies. The amenities in many of these office buildings resemble the amenities you might see in residential buildings in the area.

320 N Sangamon is a 13 story office tower that recently broke ground in what was formally the AmeriGas Propane facility. The Fulton Market building will feature 268,000 square feet of office space, 7,800 square feet of ground level retail space, and plenty of additional amenity space. Office tenants will enjoy use of a fitness center with group fitness classes, a lounge space with curated services, a bike room, and an open-air communal penthouse with an outdoor terrace and fire pits. 320 N Sangamon has a 2021 expected completion date.

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Courtesy of Tishman Speyer

176 N Halsted (also known as 167 N Green Street) is a planned 15 story commercial development with 234, 600 square feet of office space with additional retail space. Amenities will include a state-of-the-art fitness center, multiple outdoor terraces, a drawing room, and a group fitness studio. Renderings also include a walkway between the development’s two buildings.

West Loop office building near Green Street

The amenity deck at 176 N Halsted, Courtesy of Shapack Partners

333 N Green Street is another creative Fulton Market office and retail space, being developed by Sterling Bay and designed by Gensler, in the site of what was formerly Coyne College. As far as amenities go in West Loop office space, 333 N Green takes the cake. Office tenants will have access to a skydeck overlooking the skyline, a lounge with grab-and-go food service, a bar, gaming area, a full service fitness center (that looks more like a health club), yoga studio, shuttle service to and from Ogilvie and Union stations, bike room, conference center, 24-hour door staff, on site retail, parking, and valet dry-cleaning.

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Courtesy of Sterling Bay

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

New West Loop Penthouses at Arkadia

Arkadia West Loop has four new luxury two and three bedroom penthouses available, each with it’s own terrace and unique layout.

All penthouses feature white quartz countertops, two toned white and espresso cabinetry with soft close drawers, Frigidaire stainless steel appliances, white glass mosaic tile backsplashes, gas stoves, frameless glass showers, hard surface floors throughout, walk in closets, and side by side full sized laundry.

Now Leasing! Looking for 2 and 3 bedroom penthouses for rent near West Loop? Arkadia Penthouse

The floor plans below of the available units show unique features of each penthouse.

#3305

The terrace in unit #3305 spans the length of the apartment with floor to ceiling windows, allowing in maximum natural light. The kitchen island in the center creates more separation between the living and dining areas.

#3304

The terrace in apartment #3304 also spans the length of the unit, then opens up into a larger square terrace, perfect for entertaining or setting up outdoor furniture. The kitchen and living space is more open, with a peninsula adding counter space in the kitchen.

Now Leasing! Looking for 2 and 3 bedroom penthouses for rent near West Loop? Arkadia Penthouse

#3302

This 3 bed penthouse has an abundance of closet space, with two large closets in the master bedroom. The kitchen opens directly into the dining area, making this layout the most open.

#3301

#3301 is a 3 bed 3 bath penthouse with lots of separation between the living area and bedrooms. The double vanity in the master bathroom and extra hall closets are star features of this layout.

Now Leasing! Looking for 2 and 3 bedroom penthouses for rent near West Loop? Arkadia Penthouse

Arkadia is known for having one of the largest amenity decks in a residential building. The 24,000 square foot outdoor terrace features lounge seating, a fire pit, outdoor dining areas with grills, a resort-style pool and hot tub, and putting green, as well as stunning views of the West Loop and Chicago skyline. Arkadia’s fitness center features both cardio and strength training equipment, a stretching area, and towel service. Entertain guests (and yourself) in the game room, complete with a billiards table and big screen TV, or head to the reservable resident party room and chef’s kitchen. Work from home in the technology lounge, equipped with complementary coffee, or anywhere else in the building, as all common areas have complimentary Wifi access. Residents also enjoy conveniences like a private dog run and grooming station, a 24 hour on site micro market with food and beverage options, 24 hour concierge and maintenance, 24 hour package receiving, storage, a bike room, attached parking garage, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Check out the gallery below for more photos!

Looking for luxury penthouses for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

845 W Madison: New West Loop Apartments Coming in 2020

845 W Madison sits in a prime West Loop location– less than a block from neighborhood favorite, Mary Bartelme Park, two blocks from the trendy “Restaurant Row” strip on Randolph Street, and just three blocks from Fulton market, the highway entrance, and blue line to O’Hare and the Loop. 845 W Madison is also less than a block from Whole Foods and Mariano’s grocery stores. The development is just up the street from last year’s 727 W Madison high rise, known for being the tallest building downtown west of the highway.

This new West Loop apartment building will include 586 rental units, featuring one, two, and three bedroom apartments, as well as 10,000 of ground level retail space. Additionally, 845 W Madison will include 14 rental duplex townhomes, each with a private entrance.

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The 2-level townhomes will create a quaint neighborhood ambiance around the base of the development
Courtesy of GREC

The two towers will rise 15 and 17 stories and will be connected by a two level podium which will contain the retail space as well as parking. An amenity deck will sit atop the podium and will be shared between the two residential towers and townhomes. The amenity deck will include an outdoor pool, lounge seating, grills, fire pits, and open green space for residents. Other building amenities will include a fitness center, co-working space, recreational courts, a game room, and other common space.

845 W Madison is slated for completion Summer of 2020 and is being developed by Lendlease Development and The John Buck Company and designed by GREC Architects. The site was home to H2O Skincare before the company moved its headquarters to San Francisco.

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Renderings courtesy of GREC Architects

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Nobu Chicago Hotel: West Loop’s Luxe New Addition

2019 has been a big year for West Loop hotel development. Early next year, its likely Nobu Chicago will join the likes of the Fulton Market’s Hoxton and Ace Hotel, two West Loop hotels that both made splashes as hot spots for locals. The 12 story boutique West Loop hotel has been highly anticipated since it broke ground three years ago. The Nobu brand has garnered a loyal consumer base and a reputation as the pinnacle of trendiness and modern luxury. Nobu Chicago was designed by Modif architecture and features interiors by local Studio K interior design firm.

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With its minimalist lobby, dimly lit zen hallways, and generous placement of candles in common areas, as well as the dark accent walls and sleek lighting in its 115 guest rooms and suites, Nobu Chicago will combine the casual sophisticated ambiance of the West Loop with influences from Classical Japanese art.

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No detail was spared in the design of Nobu’s guest rooms. All pictures courtesy of Nobu Chicago

The indoor pool, rooftop lounge, and restaurant and bar concepts are likely to be lively hangouts for West Loop locals and visitors alike.

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The 10,000 square foot Nobu restaurant will occupy the ground level retail space and feature both indoor and outdoor bar and lounge space along Randolph Street. The first Nobu restaurant opened in New York in 1993 and is among the most popular of the 10 locations, along with Malibu, CA. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa says his team will be using all local ingredients. His fresh take on upscale Japanese fare grabbed the attention of actor, Robert De Niro, who became an investor in Nobu Chicago.

Looking for places to eat near West Loop apartments for rent near Nobu Chicago?

The West Loop is eagerly awaiting the completion of the Nobu hotel. Its as if the three years of delays and a change of developer and ownership have only increased the buzz and anticipation of this new hot-spot-to-be.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Union West: West Loop Luxury Apartments

Looking for new construction apartments in the heart of West Loop? Union West offers a prime location on Washington Boulevard. Residents love that the calm of Washington Blvd is sandwiched between the lively Restaurant Row strip on Randolph to the north and coffee-shop lined Madison Street to the south. Union West is also adjacent to neighborhood gem, Mary Bartelme park, where West Loop residents flock for the Green City farmers market, yoga in the park, movies in the park, and more! Union West is also just two blocks from the Morgan CTA L station to the Loop as well as a few blocks from the Metra and Amtrak stations.

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Enjoy amenities galore at Union West apartments. Conveniences like on-site pet amenities, bike amenities, 24 hour package receiving, electric car charging stations, co-working space with conference rooms, high speed internet, and printing, and the fact that you can access the rooftop fitness center 24/7, make living in this West Loop community a little simpler for anyone with an on-the-go lifestyle. However, when you’re looking to ick back and relax, there are plenty of spaces to entertain yourself or guests. The multiple outdoor terraces are complete with fire pits, an outdoor pool with cabanas, lounge furniture, and grill stations.

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In the winter, head to the yoga and spin studios, one of several resident lounges, or the aqua lounge for indoor entertainment. From the warming drawers in the private dining room to the steam room and sauna in the spa area, no detail was spared.

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Each apartment comes equipped with a full sized washer and dryer in unit, Nest thermostat, high ceilings, USB charging ports, premium finishes, hard surface flooring throughout, rain shower heads, walk-in closets, and Whirlpool appliances, with floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies and terraces, concrete flooring, and quartz or granite countertops in select units.

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Pictures Courtesy of Union West Apartments

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Old Town Park Development Progresses to Phases II and III

In 2017, Vancouver-based developer, Onni Group, delivered phase I of Old Town Park, a 4-phase residential development in Old Town on Division and Wells. Upon completion of the project, the first tower will be the shortest of the four at 32 stories, with state-of-the-art amenities and a $45k per month penthouse that is completely unprecedented in the market with features that easily justify the top dollar price tag.

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Rendering of phase I (right), II (center), and III (left). Courtesy of Onni Group and Hartshorne Plunkard Architects

Onni’s very first Chicago development, The Hudson, was delivered the year prior. With lots of very high quality inventory coming on the market, Onni sets its apartments apart by creating a boutique condo-style environment for renters with high quality, condo-grade finishes, full sized top notch appliances, separate entryways, eat-in kitchens, custom closets, and a high amenity space to resident ratio. This approach proved popular with renters and The Hudson leased up very quickly despite the competitive, high supply market. Old Town Park phase I was no different, as the 405 rental units were absorbed quickly. Renters who prioritize quality of finishes and appliances as well as an overall atmosphere of elegance throughout the building appreciated the thoughtful design of phase I and there’s no reason to think phases II and III won’t be embraced with the same enthusiasm.

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Courtesy of Old Town Park

Old Town Park phase II is slated for delivery in early 2020 and will include a total of 428 rental units as well as commercial space on the lower level.

In the meantime, ground work recently began for phase III, which will be the tallest of the four towers upon completion. It will house 456 rental units in addition to a 6th floor amenity deck and office space.

Want to learn more about availability at Old Town Park or apartments for rent near Old Town? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

 

 

By Sophie Morrison

River North Rental Buildings Under Construction

The last few years have been big for River North development, and it doesn’t show signs of slowing up anytime soon. Here are some of the most highly anticipated residential rental developments under construction in River North this year.

Wolf Point East

New Rental Apartments in River North

Rendering by Steelblue

Wolf Point East is the second of three Wolf Point towers in the development. The first completed tower, Wolf Point West, is known for its breathtaking river and skyline views, club-grade amenities, spacious layouts, and prime location at the intersection of River North, Fulton River District, and the Loop, just across Wacker Drive. However, the fact that the Wolf Point development is surrounded by the river on three sides as well as a four acre riverfront park gives it a tranquil feeling despite its central location.

Wolf Point East River North Apartments for Rent Now Leasing

WPE’s indoor-outdoor pool will offer stunning city and river views
Courtesy of Wolf Point East

One Chicago

One Chicago is a massive 78-story, two-tower development featuring both residential and commercial space. The 810 dwelling units will be a mix of for-sale condos and rental apartments. In addition to ample office space, One Chicago has reportedly locked in Whole Foods Market and Lifetime Athletic Club as anchor tenants in its commercial space.

New Rental Apartments in River North

Goettsch Partners/Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

353 W Grand

This new River North high-rise is one of several buildings Vancouver based developer Onni Group has in the works in Chicago. Following the big success of their first Chicago development, The Hudson in River North, and last year’s Old Town Park Phase I, Onni is currently developing Old Town Park Phases II and III, as well as 353 W Grand. This 41-story high rise will offer 356 rental apartments, retail space, and a small park along Orleans Street. Onni is known for delivering high quality finishes, condo grade appliances, thoughtful layouts, and spa-inspired amenities. Although little is known about 353 W Grand, there’s no reason to think this project will be any different.

New Rental Apartments in River North

Brininstool + Lynch

810 N Clark

Last year, Cedar Street Companies’ conversion of Bush Temple of Music into Bush Temple Apartments, 101 studio and one bedroom apartments, was a big hit in the neighborhood. This year, Cedar Street is adding a 16 story glassy addition, complete with 129 rental units and a rooftop pool. Residents of the addition will have full use of the outstanding fitness center (and full sized boxing ring) at the original Bush Temple development.

New Rental Apartments

HPA

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

 

By Sophie Morrison

Top 3 Unique River North Juice Bars

It’s no secret that River North is the place to be for great food, and that includes juice bars! Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go bulletproof coffee or green juice, or want a place to meet a friend over smoothie bowls, these are some of River North’s top unique spots to grab a healthy lunch.

Left Coast Juice Bar- Great “Hang Out” Spot to Work or Meet

Left Coast offers cold pressed juices, salads, wraps, smoothies and smoothie bowls, and California-inspired dishes like the Laguna avocado toast or Montocito Hash. The River North location is a great coffee shop alternative if you’re looking for a place to work. The upstairs seating area has plenty of quiet tables to spread out. The spacious, semi-enclosed park is really what makes Left Coast River North so special. In the warmer months, work or meet friends at the park on premise, which features ample seating and always seems to be buzzing with social activity. Left Coast is located in the retail space of Exhibit on Superior apartments.

Looking for places to eat open now near River North?

Laguna Avocado Toast

Hi-Vibe Juice Bar- Extensive Menu With Something For Everyone

The eclectic menu at Hi-Vibe is really what sets this spot apart. Stop by Hi-Vibe for a great selection of vegan, paleo, raw, and keto options as well as adaptogens and superfoods galore. It truly seems that no detail was spared in the curation of this menu. Try one of several nutrient dense smoothies, juices, power shots, pitaya or acai bowls, keto coffees, matcha and adaptogenic teas, as well as a multitude of snacks and salads. A go-to favorite is the G8 juice. With its low sugar content, stacked all-vegetable ingredient list, and light, refreshing taste, there’s nothing more you could want in a cold pressed juice. If cold pressed juice isn’t your beverage of choice, there are lots of other great options. If you’re looking for a caffeine free hot beverage this fall, be sure to try the grassed activated bone broth. This paleo soup comes in a coffee cup and is packed with nutrients and protein to curb midday cravings. It doesn’t hurt that it tastes incredible! The Kill Shot is another fall go-to, as its ingredients, like oil of oregano, are propertied to fend off the sniffles. Hi-Vibe has two River North locations: One is located on the second floor of Merchandise Mart and the other is on Kinzie Street, across from EnV Chicago apartments. Click here to see the menu!

Looking for places to eat open now near River North?

8 of the featured smoothies currently on the menu
Courtesy of Hi-Vibe

Real Good Stuff Co- Best Healthy Dessert

Everything on the menu here is very good, but the “Noyo Froyo” is real good. The vegan, chemical-free, unpasteurized soft serve is made with almond milk, filtered water, coconut nectar, and vanilla. Its finally possible to enjoy soft serve without deviating from your clean eating lifestyle. Choose between chocolate charcoal or blue vanilla flavors. Add some healthy toppings (like bee pollen, cacao nibs, or chia seeds) to top it off or get it in a gluten-free cake cone. Noyo is available at the Old Town, Southport, and River North locations. Real Good’s River North location is located across the street from 640 N Wells apartments. Although indoor seating is limited, the outdoor patio is a great quiet place to enjoy your snack. This incredible delight is truly one of a kind and just part of what makes Real Good unique.

Looking for places to eat open now near River North?

Toppings available on Noyo
Courtesy of Real Good Stuff Co

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Convertible Apartments For Rent Near Fulton Market

You’ve had some great times in your studio apartment. It’s served your needs and been the quaint home you wanted and needed, but now you’re thinking it’s time for something new. You’re ready to say “yes” to that L-shaped couch you’ve been eyeing for months and don’t want to have to keep making your bed whenever you have company over, but a 1 bed layout isn’t quite in the price range yet. Thankfully there’s a happy medium to give you the space and separation you’re looking for without breaking the bank. Check out these convertible apartments for rent near Fulton Market. Let us upgrade you.

Looking for convertible apartments for rent near Old Town?

Property 137- Lake/Desplaines

From $2126

Fulton Market apartment 137 offers in-unit laundry, integrated white appliances, marble style backsplash, and hardwood throughout. This brand new property has trendy, contemporary design down to the last detail and was built with non-toxic, sustainable materials. The wall that separates the bed alcove from the kitchen also houses additional storage space, removing the need for a dresser. Check out the state-of-the-art fitness center, abundance of co-working space, and trendy, tranquil rooftop with a pool and fire pits. The incredible amenities are the cherry on top at this stunning rental building.

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Property 76- Fulton Market/Halsted

From $1982

The only material difference between the convertible and 1 bed apartment layouts at this Fulton Market building is that the 1 bed has a door and the convertible doesn’t. The living space, bedroom size, and amount of separation are fundamentally the same, as are the finishes and in-unit washer and dryer. If you want a 1 bedroom apartment but don’t care about having a bedroom door, this convertible layout is a great way to save a few hundred dollars per month.

Looking for luxury convertible apartments for rent near Fulton market?

Convertible floor plan at Fulton Market apartment 76

Enjoy amenities galore at this Fulton Market apartment building. From the basketball court, steam room, movie theatre, or gym, to the lively pool scene, billiards table, yoga classes, and resident lounges, there’s never a shortage of things to do. This building also offers residents private, direct access to a plaza with Jewel Osco supermarket, Starbucks, Chase bank, a pet store, nail salon, and more.

Looking for luxury convertible apartments for rent near Fulton market?

Property 55- Huron/Milwaukee

From $2135

The living space in this apartment is larger than in most 1 bedroom apartments. Between the walk-in closet, spacious private terrace, expansive island (which can comfortably seat 4 people), and open, square living room area, this apartment is great for anyone who loves to cook or entertain. It also has a separate, doorless alcove for the bedroom area.

Looking for luxury convertible apartments for rent near Fulton market?

The spacious terrace is the piece de resistance of this rental

This layout is a great option if you have a lot of living room furniture and not much bedroom furniture. The expansive rooftop at this building offers unparalleled views of the downtown Chicago skyline.

Looking for luxury convertible apartments for rent near Fulton market?

 

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Fulton Market? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

West Loop Places to Eat “Soup-er” Ramen

It seems like the weather started cooling off as soon as the clock struck “September”. Warm up with some ramen at one of these spectacular spots near West Loop.

Looking for places to eat ramen near west loop?

Courtesy of Ramen Takeya

Ramen Takaya

Ramen Takeya tops the list for its ambiance and great menu selection. The pork belly buns, poke bowl appetizer, and classic Tokyo shoyu are go-to favorites, but with the vegan seitan ramen option, there’s something everyone can enjoy. The trendy-casual decor and narrow, deep layout makes Ramen Takeya feel like a spot in Tokyo only locals would know about. Ramen Takeya is on Fulton Market in the heart of West Loop. Click here to see a menu.

Looking for places to eat ramen near west loop?

Courtesy of Ramen Takeya

High Five Ramen

If a ramen restaurant was a speakeasy, it’d be High Five Ramen. This hidden gem is located under Green Street Smoked Meats in the heart of West Loop and is a Hogsalt concept, the same restaurant group that manages Au Cheval and Bavettes. Seating is extremely limited to make sure to arrive early!

Looking for places to eat ramen near west loop?

Courtesy of High Five Ramen

Oiistar

Oiistar Wicker Park is just a rocks throw from West Loop and combines traditional ramen with French and Italian influences to get the best of multiple cuisines. The pork-based broth is made daily and stewed for 18 hours and combined with fresh ingredients. Unique appetizers, like a kimchi French onion soup, give Oiistar its unique flare. Based on the minimalist aesthetic, you’d never guess the complex array of dishes on Oiistar’s menu. if you’re looking for traditional ramen with a twist of something a little different, check out Oiistar Wicker Park.

Looking for places to eat ramen near west loop?

Courtesy of Oiistar

Ramen San

Looking for places to eat ramen near west loop?

Courtesy of Ramen San

Watch the lively West Loop scene on Green Street from the outdoor patio seating at Ramen San. The hip decor, 90’s music, and great beer selection make Ramen San the perfect spot for a laid back Sunday afternoon.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Looking for Brunch Restaurants Near Chicago’s Gold Coast?

Enjoy your last few weekends of Chicago summer with these unique Gold Coast brunch spots!

Somerset

This gem is hidden in plain sight on the first floor of the Viceroy hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Somerset is a Boka Group concept with a focus on American cuisine. Ever seen oysters and pop tarts on the same menu? The eclectic brunch spread at Somerset includes the best of breakfast, like benedicts, avocado toast, and skillets, lunch favorites like burgers and salads, as well as a great selection of pastries. Click here to see a brunch menu.

Looking for great brunch restaurants near Chicago Gold Coast?

Courtesy of Somerset Chicago

Margeaux Brasserie

James Beard award winning chef, Michael Mina, brings this 1920s inspired Parisian concept to the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Meargeaux Brasserie offers locally sourced ingredients and a rotating selection of French cocktails. The brunch menu features classic French favorites like escargot, croque madame crepes, and a rotating quiche of the day, as well as an extensive seafood selection. The tin ceilings, dark leather booths, live jazz trio, and pewter topped bar contribute to the charming ambiance.

Looking for brunch spots near chicago gold coast?

Tomato Tarte Tatin, Courtesy of Matt Haas

3 Arts Club Cafe

This posh brunch spot is a garden courtyard located inside Restoration Hardware offering brunch, dinner, wine, and coffee selections. Exposed brick, lavish chandeliers, manicured greenery, and of course, signature RH accents give 3 Arts Club Cafe its upscale atmosphere.

New brunch restaurants near Chicagos Gold Coast neighborhood

Blue Door Kitchen and Cafe

Blue Door Kitchen offers farm to table fare with a seasonal menu. The brunch menu has a New Orleans flare with classic dishes like beignets, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, andouille eggs and hash, and chicken and waffles. Locals love the quiet but spacious patio for al Fresca dining in the summer and fall.

Outdoor seating brunch restaurant near Chicagos Gold Coast

Courtesy of OpenTable

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago’s Gold Coast? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

2 Bedroom Apartments for Rent Near South Loop: Now Leasing!

Looking for great deals on 2 bedroom apartments near South Loop? These luxury 2 beds all features premium appliances, contemporary finishes, in-unit washer and dryer, and great amenities!

Property 167-14th/Wabash

Now leasing! Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments for rent near South Loop?

Between the exposed concrete, high ceilings, and artfully curated common spaces, this South Loop building’s sophisticated aesthetic gives it unique character. If you’re looking for the perfect canvas for contemporary minimalist interior design, this is a place to see. The smart home technology and premium appliances deliver convenience and efficiency. Enjoy an in-unit washer and dryer, surface mounted dome lighting, high speed internet, and a smart thermostat in each unit. Each kitchen features ample storage space, flat panel European style cabinetry, quartz countertops, deep sinks, and a garbage disposal. Each tranquil bathroom comes equipped with Grohe appliances, a vanity length frameless mirror, integrated sinks, and either a large soaking tub or glass-encased stand up shower. Stop into the state of the art fitness center for a ride on one of the Peloton bikes or curl up by a fire pit on the 3rdor 16thfloor terraces. Pet owners love having a spacious dog run on site. Other conveniences include around the clock concierge service, resident events, on-demand dry cleaning, complimentary bike storage, and Luxer package receiving.

2 Bedroom Apartments starting at $2920 

 

Property 116- 8th/State

Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments for rent near South Loop?

The master suite in this 2 bedroom floor plan features a walk-through walk-in closet, a double vanity sink in the ensuite bathroom, and both bedrooms are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate a king sized bed and dresser set. Every layout has a full sized Whirlpool washer and dryer, floor to ceiling windows, USB ports, a smart home thermostat, keyless entry, and is wired for 1 gig internet.

Sleek design features include a glass tiled backsplash, grey tone plank flooring throughout the whole apartment, dual tone kitchen cabinets, and white quartz countertops.

2 Bedroom Apartments starting from $3160

Property 117– 13th/Wabash

Looking for luxury 2 bedroom apartments for rent near South Loop?

High concrete ceilings, floor mounted vanities with ample storage space, and brushed chrome fixtures are just a few of the accents that make this South Loop rental building unique. Residents love the lounge seating and fire pit on the expansive, landscaped private terrace (almost as much as four-legged friends love the pet spa and onsite dog run). With a 94 walk score, 97 transit score, and 93 bike score, property 117 is in a prime location with two major grocery stores, the CTA red, orange, and green lines, and Grant Park on Michigan avenue all within two blocks!

South Loop Penthouses for rent

2 Bedroom Apartments starting from $2659 (For a limited time– find out if you can get 1 month free on this unit!)

640 North Wells River North Luxury Apartments

With over 10,000 square feet of amenity space, living rooms with wall to wall windows, elegant interiors, spacious layouts, and a prime River North location, 640 North Wells offers residents an elevated lifestyle.

Choose from a selection of 22 layouts including studios, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments. Each open concept layout at 640 North Wells features 9 1/2 foot ceilings, floor to ceiling windows with panoramic views, hardwood floors, front loading washers and dryers in unit, and oversized master suites. The chef-inspired kitchens feature 3 centimeter thick stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, chef grade wall mounted ovens, hood ranges, kitchen islands, subway tile backsplashes, and ample storage space.

Now leasing! Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 640 north wells in river north?

Select units offer large private terraces and balconies as well.

The amenities at 640 North Wells are second to none. Step out to the rooftop terrace to take a dip in the pool or sprawl out in one of the sundeck cabanas adjacent to the hot tub.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 640 north wells in river north?

Although all amenity areas offer high speed wifi, residents enjoy working from home in the fireside library.  The game and media lounge features shuffleboard, foosball, and a large TV with comfortable group seating.  In addition to the grilling terrace and indoor private dining suite, the 23rd floor sky lounge social club is another great place to relax, entertain guests around a fire pit, and take in views of downtown Chicago’s skyline. Whether you’re an avid golfer or your busy schedule has your clubs collecting dust, check out the pro grade golf simulator and rooftop putting and practice green.

The fitness center at 640 North Wells features a wide variety of cardio and weight training equipment, free weights, and a yoga studio with free classes. Having an on site fitness center is just one of many conveniences residents at 640 enjoy. Pets are welcome at 640 North Wells and the on-site oversized dog run makes pet care much more convenient.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Looking for Luxury Lakeview Apartments for Rent? Check Out Centrum Lakeview!

Looking for a modern apartment with soft-loft aesthetic for rent near Lakeview? Check out Centrum Lakeview new luxury apartments! These rentals are pet friendly and come with top-of-the-line finishes, appliances, and amenities.

The soft-loft accents, like the concrete ceilings and beams, as well as the Balterio gray toned plank floors, give these apartments character while also making them a perfect canvas for a multitude of styles and color palettes.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood?

Each kitchen features Snaidero Italian cabinetry, Energy Star appliances, Kohler fixtures, and white quartz countertops. Each apartment at Centrum Lakeview features thoughtful design, including windows that have been acoustically treated to muffle the noise of the neighborhood’s liveliness and energy efficient lighting.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood?

Amenities include an outdoor terrace with lounge seating, BBQ grills, and a fire pit, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a residents’ club which includes an Internet cafe, kitchenette and entertaining space, and pool table. In addition to amenities, residents enjoy the conveniences Centrum Lakeview offers, such as on-site valet dry-cleaning, Luxer One secure package receiving lockers, complementary wifi in amenity areas, onsite fast-casual dining at Brown Bag Seafood, bike storage and maintenance, and close proximity to transit and shopping.

Now renting at Centrum Lakeview luxury apartments move in ASAP!

Centrum Lakeview is in a highly sought-after location. The brown line train to the Loop is less than a block away and makes commuting a breeze and both Target and Whole Foods are under three blocks away. Coffee shops, bakeries, boutiques, parks, and charming restaurants are scattered between the quaint homes on the tree-lined surrounding streets.

Now renting at Centrum Lakeview luxury apartments move in ASAP!

Enjoy the convenient location with less noise! The Paulina Brown Line CTA train stop is just a few hundred feet from Centrum Lakeview. Each apartment has been acoustically engineered to muffle city noise.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeview? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Viridian on Sheridan: Lakeview Luxury Apartments for Rent

Viridian on Sheridan offers open-concept one, two, and three bedroom apartments with designer finishes, breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan, and smart home technology features.

Looking for new luxury apartments for rent near downtown Lakeview?

Residents at Viridian on Sheridan enjoy access to plenty of common space. With the amenities at Viridian on Sheridan you’ll never be at a shortage of places to relax in the building. The state of the art fitness center features premium equipment including Precor connected cardio machines, curved treadmills, Expresso bikes, and stair climbers. The penthouse level is open to all residents with a co-working lounge, an entertainment and party hosting room, as well as a demonstration kitchen. The green rooftop is used to grow produce, available for residents to purchase.

Looking for new luxury apartments for rent near downtown Lakeview?

On-site conveniences include Latch keyless entry system, Amazon Hub package receiving system, Tide Cleaners valet dry-cleaning lockers, a bike room, a dog wash and on-site dog run, as well as access to retail on the ground level.

The Italian inspired two-tone, soft-close cabinets in the kitchens make the finishes the perfect fit for many interior decorating styles and color palettes. Kitchens are also outfitted with Delta Trinsic fixtures, stainless steel whirlpool appliances, undercount rectangular sinks, and deep quartz countertops. Each unit comes equipped with in-unit washer and dryer and wood plank flooring throughout. The 9-foot ceilings and large windows provide optimal natural light and a spacious feeling.

Looking for new luxury apartments for rent near downtown Lakeview?

Starting prices are approximately $2000 per month for one bedroom apartments, $3200 for two bedroom apartments, and $5800 for three bedroom apartments.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lakeview? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Milieu West Loop Luxury Apartments

Step inside Milieu, one of the West Loop’s newest luxury rental buildings. The 19-story, 275-unit high-rise will consist of studio, one bed, and two bedroom apartments as well as 13,000 square feet of resident-centered retail space. Milieu overlooks one of the West Loop’s most beloved green spaces, Mary Bartelme Park, where West Loop residents can catch community yoga, one of many community events in the area.

Each unit features dark chestnut finish flooring throughout, high ceilings, and large custom closets. Kitchens feature light finish European cabinetry with soft-close doors and drawers, Moen fixtures, white quartz countertops, white glass subway tile backsplash, and under-cabinet lighting. Each apartment comes equipped with a Nest thermostat, integrated entry door locks, and an in-unit full size washer and dryer.

Looking for luxury rental apartments near West Loop! Preleasing Milieu!

The Milieu community amenities feature both indoor and outdoor spaces as well as a multitude of convenience based services.

The spacious fitness center features both indoor and outdoor spaces with group fitness classes, equipment, and private training available. Entertain guests by the fire pits, in the outdoor hammock and lawn lounging area, grilling and dining area, resort-style pool and spa, media room, or one of multiple resident lounge areas. Work from home in the library or any of the indoor or outdoor amenity spaces.

Looking for luxury rental apartments near West Loop! Preleasing Milieu!

Pet owners also enjoy having the expansive onsite dog run. Milieu has enough to keep you entertained for a while without leaving the building, but if you do decide to head out and explore the West Loop neighborhood, check out a scooter or bike from the resident gear garage.

Convenience based services for all residents include a managed package receiving room with cold storage, onsite parking garage, valet drycleaing, complimentary coffee served by a barista in the lobby, resident social events, 24/7 door staff and maintenance, and 24/7 hotel-style concierge, providing services and daily essentials.

18th-floor residents will get access to additional conveniences through the “Club Level Living” package. Club Level Living includes housekeeping, dog walking and grooming, daily newspaper delivery, morning refreshments, in-home package delivery, priority parking, monthly happy hours, cooking and cocktail mixology classes, personalized chef meals delivered to your apartment, and additional wellness and fitness services.

Looking for luxury rental apartments near West Loop! Preleasing Milieu!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent like Milieu near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

24 Hours in Lincoln Park

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.

Looking for things to do near Lincoln Park near you?

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

Looking for things to do near Lincoln Park near you?

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!

24 Hours in Old Town

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!

Coming to South Loop in 2019

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

looking for new construction rental apartments near south loop

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.

Looking for new south loop high rise rental apartments for rent? Now leasing!

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

Looking for new south loop high rise rental apartments for rent? Now leasing!

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

looking for new construction rental apartments near south loop

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!

24 Hours in South 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.

  • Field Museum Free Days:

January 21
February 1-28
April 5-7
May 2
June 26-28

  • Shedd Aquarium Free Days:

January: 17-21

February 1, 4-8, 11-15, 18-22, 25-28

  • Museum of Science and Industry Free Days:

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!

Coming To West Loop in 2019

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)

Looking for luxury rentals near west loop?

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

Looking for luxury rentals near west loop?

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

Looking for luxury rentals near west loop?

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!

24 Hours in Gold Coast

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!

24 Hours in Streeterville

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.

Looking for great things to do near you in Streeterville?

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!

World Class Amenities! Check Out 727 West Madison Luxury Apartments

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.

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

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.

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

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!

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

The game room, party room, media theatre, and chef’s demonstration kitchen are excellent for entertaining year round.

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

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.

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

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!

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

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!

Looking for west loop apartments near 727 w madison?

Starting prices are as follows:

$1735 for Studios                       $1900 for Convertibles

$2290 for 1 Bedrooms              $3135 for 2 Bedrooms

Holiday Things To Do Near You

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

Christkindl Market

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

Zoo Lights

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

Winter WonderFest

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

Approved! Plans For West Loop Apartment Towers Get Approval From Chicago DPD

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.

West Loop Luxury High Rises

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 Belden-Stratford Lincoln Park Apartment Building Has a New Owner

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.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park?

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Lincoln Park?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

The question of Rent vs. Buy depends on the properties in question, Chicago’s real estate market, and your personal circumstances and goals.

Renting an apartment or condo vs. buying a home or townhouse here in downtown Chicago

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:

  • Tax credits help offset some of the cost of homeownership
  • Once your house is paid off, you eliminate the expense of housing.
  • If you have reason to believe that the home will appreciate more than you’ve invested in the cost of the home itself, maintenance, interest, and taxes, you will have a return on your investment of purchasing a home.

Renters in Chicago Say That:

  • Renters don’t have to pay for or worry about repairs and maintenance.
  • Renters have the flexibility to move more easily and quickly.
  • Access to high end, new inventory at a more accessible price point
  • Additional amenities

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.

Should I rent or buy?

Important questions included:

  • Do I have enough money in the bank?
    If Yes: Consider Buying
    If No: Consider Renting
    In some cases, this means 20% of the purchase price. However, in certain circumstances that can be as low as 3-10%.
    *You also want to make sure you account for closing costs, which tend to range 2-5% of the loan amount
  • Am I carrying a lot of debt?
    If Yes: Consider Renting
    If No: Consider Buying
    Since the general guideline is that you want to avoid spending more than 30% of your salary on housing. Since taxes usually account for 15-30% of the average income, lenders typically shy away from lending to people who spend more than 43% of their salary on repaying debt. (Even if you do get approved, it may be wiser to rent if you have a high debt-to-income ratio to avoid spending above your means)
  • Am I thinking of getting a new job?
    If Yes: Consider Renting
    If No: Consider Buying
    When applying for a mortgage, lenders typically like to see 2 years of good standing in a W2 job or 3 years of good standing in a 1099 job.

Should I Buy a Home in Downtown Chicago or Rent an Apartment here?

Other important questions to consider include:

  • How long do I plan on living in Chicago?
    If your job requires that you move often or suddenly, or you have plans to move in the next few years, it might make more sense to rent. With a lease, you know you’re going to be giving an opportunity to move seamlessly every renewal cycle. However, if you need to sell your home in order to move, that may be a bit more arduous. You can never fully predict what the market will look like when you need to sell or how long it will take.
  • What are my long term personal goals?
    Just as you plug your destination into your GPS before you start driving, it is important to be cognizant of your long term goals before making any big decision. We’d advise all of our clients to understand their desired outcomes and personal goals before jumping into any decision, whether they are renting or buying.

 

By Sophie Morrison

GEMS World Academy Phase II in Lakeshore East

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.

Lakeshore East rentals near downtown Chicago

GEMS World Academy

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.

Lakeshore East rentals near downtown Chicago

The 13-story building is expected to accommodate 1,440 students.

Lakeshore East rentals near downtown Chicago

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.

Lakeshore East rentals near downtown Chicago

GEMS students will have access to fresh air on the rooftop terrace

Lakeshore East rentals near downtown Chicago

GEMS is on track to open in 2019 at 355 E Upper Wacker Drive, between Coast Apartments and the Wanda Vista Tower development.

Lakeshore East rentals near downtown Chicago

Lakeshore East Neighborhood

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 rentals near downtown Chicago

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 Lincoln Park Apartments

Lincoln Common is a massive, mixed-use development coming to the popular Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Now leasing! Lincoln Park rental apartments

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.

Now leasing! Lincoln Park rental apartments

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.

Looking for luxury Lincoln Common apartments for rent near Lincoln Park?

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

The South Loop Welcomes The Paragon Luxury Apartments

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.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago's South Loop?

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.

Loop Luxury Apartments for rent..4

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.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago's South Loop?

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.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago's South Loop?

The Paragon will have a glassy exterior, reflecting the lake and skyline.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Chicago's South Loop?

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.

The Paragon South Loop Luxury Apartments- Things to do near Museum Campus in the South Loop Chicago

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 Chicago's South Loop?

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

Now Renting at 1407 on Michigan: New South Loop Luxury Apartments

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.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan? Convertible apartment living area

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.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan? Convertible apartment living area

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan?

 

Select units also feature balconies and walk-in closets.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan? Convertible apartment living area

 

Bathrooms offer glass-encased showers, state-of-the-art appliances, great cabinet storage space, large mirrors, and even double-vanity sinks in select units.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan? Convertible apartment living area

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:

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan?

Studio Kitchen

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan?

 

All units, regardless of size, feature a designated entry area– one of many details that gives these apartments a condo-like feeling:

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 1407 s Michigan?

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.

Now Renting! 1407 on Michigan looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop 2

Now Renting! 1407 on Michigan looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop 2

Convertible apartment floor plans at 1407 on Michigan also offer a fully separated bedroom area.

Now Renting! 1407 on Michigan looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop 2

 

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.

 

Now Renting! 1407 on Michigan looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop 2

Pool Terrace with Cabanas

Now Renting! 1407 on Michigan looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop 2

Himalayan Salt Sauna

Now Renting! 1407 on Michigan looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop 2

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

The Ardus: Flats’ Newest River North Luxury Apartment Community

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.

Flat's Life The Ardus Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North?

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.

Flat's Life The Ardus Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North?

Bathrooms feature plenty of under-vanity storage space, deep sinks, chic lighting, and glass-enclosed showers with rain-style shower heads.

Now Leasing! Flat's Life The Ardus Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North?

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.

Now Leasing! Flat's Life The Ardus Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North?

Amenity areas also include wifi, perfect if you work from home.

Flat's Life The Ardus Looking for luxury apartments for rent near River North?

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