OneSixSix Fulton Market apartments, located at 166 N. Aberdeen, is one of the latest additions to downtown Chicago’s thriving rental scene.
OneSixSix Fulton Market Apartments embodies contemporary luxury with a sleek, modern design and an impressive array of features that cater to the most discerning residents. As you step inside these exquisite apartments, you’ll be greeted by expansive, thoughtfully designed layouts, premium finishes, and stunning city views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Every apartment boasts a gourmet kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and custom cabinetry that blends style and functionality seamlessly.
For those who cherish relaxation within the confines of their home, OneSixSix offers a splendid rooftop lounge with a cozy fireplace and outdoor grilling stations, perfect for hosting memorable gatherings. Additionally, a fully equipped fitness center will help you maintain an active lifestyle without leaving the building. Pet lovers will appreciate the pet-friendly policies and the dedicated dog run area.
Amenities That Exceed Expectations
At OneSixSix Fulton Market Apartments, expect nothing less than a curated collection of state of the art amenities. Savor breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline from the rooftop deck, complete with a refreshing swimming pool and a relaxing hot tub. Thrive in the contemporary co-working spaces and energize in the club quality fitness center.
Fulton Market is a neighborhood steeped in history and brimming with contemporary energy. Once an industrial meatpacking district, it has evolved into a hub of creativity, culture, and innovation. Here, you can explore art galleries, partake in food festivals, and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
In conclusion, OneSixSix Fulton Market Apartments offer an unparalleled level of luxury and convenience. With their exceptional features and world-class amenities, complemented by the vibrant Fulton Market neighborhood, these apartments provide an extraordinary urban living experience in downtown Chicago. Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your lifestyle—schedule a tour at OneSixSix today! For a limited time, receive up to 2 months free!
Not named for the elevated rail tracks that currently surround much of the neighborhood, but rather for a cable car network that first staked Chicago’s economic center, the Loop now more generally refers to the downtown Chicago area bordered north and west by the Chicago River, Michigan Avenue to the west, and Ida B. Wells Drive to the south.
Living in the Loop remains a singularly Chicago experience, a high-rise lifestyle amid world-shaping architecture and tons of touristy fun.
Here’s why the Loop is the ultimate home base for those who want a residence that at once touches the sky and feels the pulse of the city below.
Grant Park, running the eastern length of the Loop, is the hub for all manner of fun. Taste of Chicago, an amazing annual food fest, makes its home there. Music events including Lollapalooza, Blues Fest and Jazz Fest are fixtures on the calendar. The annual Chicago Marathon, featuring one of the largest marathon fields in the country, starts and ends in Grant Park.
Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park, capping Grant Park’s north end, draw visitors eager to interact with outdoor art, an outdoor climbing wall and a skating ribbon, among other attractions. Buckingham Fountain, one of the world’s largest, enchants with water and light shows throughout the warm-weather months.
Though the Home Insurance Company, completed in 1885 and generally acknowledged as the world’s first skyscraper, is long demolished, many great examples of the Loop’s embrace of groundbreaking architecture and public art remain. Among many, some notable Loop buildings include the former Marshall Field and Company building (now Macy’s), featuring its Tiffany ceiling; the Rookery, a Daniel Burnham design later refreshed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s only downtown work; the 1893 World’s Fair gem that is the Art Institute; and one of Mies van der Rohe’s final designs, the Chicago Architecture Center. Meanwhile, any walk through the neighborhood might bring you past works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Joan Miro and Alexander Calder.
There is a certain loftiness to the nightlife options in the Loop. The Theatre District is home to a handful of houses that feature touring companies and tryouts with Broadway connections. The Lyric Opera and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra are in the Loop. The Chicago Theatre brings national music and comedy acts to the neighborhood.
If a cocktail is more your speed, Miller’s Pub is a classic hangout underneath the El tracks on Wabash. In an area where terrific rooftop bars abound, Cindy’s Rooftop, at the pinnacle of Michigan Avenue’s stunning Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, is trending hot for its spectacular views and carefully curated drink list. Brando’s Speakeasy is the city’s karaoke headquarters.
Then there’s the dining:
Part of the beauty of Loop living is its easy access to everything else. If you can get past the amazing Chicago Riverwalk to venture just slightly north, there’s the Mag Mile, Navy Pier and the whole of the Gold Coast. On the west side of the river is Union Station, where you can board a train for just about anywhere. Public transportation options are beyond plentiful, as is expressway access.
The South Loop, West Loop and Lakeshore East are all burgeoning neighborhoods in their own rights, yet satellites of the Loop — none more so than Lakeshore East (otherwise known as the New East Side). A 28-acre community of new high-rises offering luxury rentals, condos and townhomes, Lakeshore East is essentially a northeast extension of the Loop. It offers stunning views of the lake, the riverwalk, and Millennium and Maggie Daley Parks, and its acreage includes roughly 40% greenspace.
Living in the Loop in Chicago can be an amazing experience. Whether you’re walking to work in the LaSalle Street canyon, a Broadway-bound play or an amazing meal in just about any direction, your life will be made better by having the perfect launching pad for your adventures.
Downtown Apartment Company is your mission control when it comes to locating the living quarters to suit you. Browse our latest Loop listings here.
Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood is essentially a sampler platter for city living.
It’s hard to imagine a place more perfectly situated than this collection of new high-rises, loft conversions and classic haunts stretching from McCormick Place’s conventioneers northward to Buckingham Fountain’s tourists. To the east are some of the best lake views in the city, to the west the forward-looking development of the Chicago River’s South Branch, anchored by beautiful Ping Tom Park and its gateway to Chinatown.
Why choose living in the South Loop? There are many reasons as there are fish in the Shedd Aquarium (one of the jewels of the neighborhood’s Museum Campus).
Bears fans flock to Soldier Field. DePaul’s men’s and women’s basketball teams bring Big East talent to Wintrust Arena. McCormick Place is the largest convention center in North America. The Museum Campus brings field trippers and culture buffs year-round to the aquarium, Adler Planetarium and Field Museum of Natural History. In fair weather it serves as a lovely jumping-off point for a leisurely stroll south to Northerly Island or north to Buckingham Fountain or, a bit further, to Millennium Park’s famous Cloud Gate sculpture (better known as the Bean).
Better yet, developers recognized as much. Since the 1990s, State Street and Michigan and Wabash Avenues in the area around Roosevelt Road have seen an explosion of high-rises, rowhouses and loft conversions.
Locals know it is just as easy — as in “very” — to get to Chinatown, Little Italy, Greektown or a White Sox, Bulls or Blackhawks game as it is to get to work or a traveling Broadway production in the Loop.
More to the point, Lake Shore Drive and Interstates 55, 90, 94 and 290 are quickly accessed, and there are dozens of commuter rail and bus lines running through the area.
Jones College Prep High School is one of the best in the state. Students from Columbia College and nearby Roosevelt University — not to mention Chicago’s main library branch, the Harold Washington Library Center — further deepen the area’s academic bent. If you work in the Loop, your commute can be measured in steps. Grocery stores and all manner of retail shopping are plentiful.
No Chicago neighborhood would be complete without a great pizza place or five. Here are some to try in the South Loop: Lou Malnati’s, Flo & Santos, Aurelio’s, Pizano’s, Giordano’s and Gino’s East.
Dining in the South Loop can be as fussy as you’d like, from great gastronomy to good grub.
At the special occasion end of the spectrum is Moody Tongue Brewing Company, which in 2021 earned two Michelin stars for its hyper-seasonal tasting menu served with beer pairings curated by the house brewmaster.
Locals love Umai for sushi, small plates at Tapas Valencia and the paellas at Mercat a la Planxa.
Top-notch comfort fare can be found at Eleven City Diner, a diner-meets-Jewish-deli known for huge sandwiches and ice cream floats.
Buddy Guy’s Legends is legendary for more than just its namesake’s famous January residency. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist’s club has been dishing up the blues on South Wabash since 1989.
The Jazz Showcase opened in 1947 and is still bopping on Plymouth Court.
Reggie’s Rock Club has only been around for five years, but the South State Street dive — in the best sense of the word — features an eclectic range of up-and-comers in every genre you won’t find at the Showcase or Legends.
Looking for something a little naughtier? The drag scene at Lips — going strong for 25 years — often finds curious conventioneers wandering over from McCormick Place to share a drink with the fabulous locals.
Living in the South Loop Chicago is to look outward, across the lake or skyline, at a museum exhibit or the latest trade show demonstration. Going to a game, getting one going in the park, jogging along the lakefront or jamming at Reggie’s, the South Loop is meant to be experienced.
Let the experienced pros at Downtown Apartment Company find your gateway to all the South Loop’s possibilities. Browse our latest South Loop listings here.
One of the best parts of living in luxury apartment rentals in Lakeview is all the community events and celebrations that surround you. From the more than 100 weekly shows in the Belmont Theater District to the regular festivals held each year, there’s always something to do — here and in the surrounding neighborhoods. Interested in attending some of the local Lakeview events near you? Check out our list of events in Lakeview Chicago:
Saturday and Sunday, November 27-28, 2021
Chicago Artisan Market
Shop small at this curated indoor market, which features locally made items in food, fashion, decorating and art.
Friday, December 3, 2021
Holiday Stroll & Cocktail Crawl
Free to attend, the Holiday Stroll includes festive entertainment, photos with Santa and the opportunity to shop local businesses that stay open a little later for the occasion. There’s also a ticketed Cocktail Crawl with more than 15 holiday-themed cocktails.
Saturday, December 4, 2021
Winterfest
Nothing says the magic of the holidays like spending time at Winterfest, a sparkling world of entertainment, lights and festive fun in Roscoe Village. More than 20 shops stay open late for the occasion.
April
Lakeview Roscoe Village Restaurant Week
Enjoy special prix fixe menus and discounts from local restaurants during the area’s annual restaurant week.
May
Mayfest
Kick off the summer season each year with this fun festival held under a BIG-TOP tent located at Ashland Avenue and Barry.
June
PorchFest Lakeview
PorchFest is the perfect opportunity to take in great tunes performed by local artists on front porches near the Lincoln Hub. The event centers around the St. Alphonsus terrace, within two blocks of Southport/Lincoln/Wellington.
June through October, Sunday mornings
Roscoe Village Farmers Market
Grab fresh produce and other artisan goods at this weekly farmers market, held at Jahn Elementary, 3149 N. Wolcott.
June through October, Thursday evenings
Low-Line Market
Prefer an afternoon/evening market? Head over to the Southport CTA station, where this weekly market organized by Friends of Lakeview features beautifully curated produce, baked goods, flowers and more.
June through October, Saturdays
Ward 47 Fresh Market
Spend your summer Saturdays perusing local farm produce at this new farmers market in the West Lakeview neighborhood, just a short walk from the Paulina Brown Line station.
July and August, Wednesday evenings
Lakeview Live: Concerts on the Curb
Free and open to the public, Lakeview Live gives you the chance to kick back and relax with live music amid local food, craft beer and activities.
September
Cider & Sliders Festival
Every Labor Day weekend, this summer celebration offers sliders from local restaurants, as well as ticketed tastings for more than 50 ciders.
Oktoberfest
Bratwursts, beer and bands of German music: These are the hallmarks of Oktoberfest at Lincoln and Southport, hosted by St. Alphonsus Church.
October
Mutt Strut
Chicago Canine Rescue’s biggest annual fundraiser, Mutt Strutt is a block party for everyone — even the pups. Enjoy contests, activities, a raffle, a silent auction and more.
Imagine living somewhere so interesting and exciting that people come from all over the world to experience it, and all you need to do to enjoy the lifestyle is step outside your door. That’s what life is like in the West Loop neighborhood, Chicago’s vibrant home to unique restaurants, unparalleled shopping and family-friendly events.
Iconic Location Near Downtown
Downtown Chicago has been home to the city’s business district ever since the first cable cars transported people to the area in 1882. When the Union elevated railroad was built in 1895, it circled the business district in a railway loop, and the area’s nickname stuck.
As its name implies, the West Loop is the neighborhood immediately to the west of Chicago’s downtown. Whereas the Loop’s office buildings are glass and steel, many structures in West Loop are former warehouses that once supported Chicago’s meat-packing businesses of the 19th century. The sturdy brick buildings were designed for practicality and still boast their industrial integrity. Today, however, rather than factories, the pragmatic warehouse spaces are home to boutique hotels, interesting galleries and hip hangouts. New, luxurious apartments are completing the picture.
Enjoy Unique Dining
Foodies rejoice! West Loop is home to delicious dining experiences. Visit Restaurant Row, the group of restaurants located on Randolph between Halsted Street and Ogden Avenue, for a selection of unique cuisine.
The Fulton Market warehouse district food hall — which stretches several blocks along Fulton Market Street — is home to 18 bars and eateries. Check out the bakery goods from Beatrix (834 W. Fulton Market), the locally sourced ingredients at Fulton Market Kitchen (311 N. Sangamon St.) or the rock-‘n-roll burgers from Kuma’s Corner (852 W. Fulton Market).
Chicago French Market, located at 131 North Clinton between Washington and Randolph, is a food hall featuring dining from more than two dozen local restaurateurs.
Experience Interesting Activities
Feel like climbing the walls? At Brooklyn Boulders, you can! The West Loop rock climbing facility provides challenging adventures for advanced climbers and classes for beginners.
Bad Axe Throwing is the place to go if you’ve always wanted to throw hatchets at wooden targets. Be prepared to give your arms a workout.
Celebrate Chicago’s Roots
Old St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, located at 700 West Adams Street, dates to 1846. It survived Chicago’s Great Fire of 1871 and has been described as a cornerstone of Chicago’s Irish heritage and culture.
Don’t miss Greektown, located at Halsted Street between Van Buran and Madison Streets. A celebration of Chicago’s Greek community, Greektown is home to traditional Greek restaurants, delis and bakeries, as well as the National Hellenic Museum, a center dedicated to Greek culture and the Greek American immigrant experience.
Experience Street and Music Festivals
Chicago Beer Festival at the nearby Field Museum is a celebration of what ales you! The October event features dozens of brews, beers and ales. Tickets required.
Summertime Movies in the Park are free and family friendly. Locations rotate through Fulton River Park, Heritage Green Park, Mary Bartleme Park, Skinner Park and Union Park.
Pitchfork Music Festival occurs in September in Union Park. The three-day music fest features national touring acts with local musicians and bands.
Randolph Street Market takes place at Plumbers Hall (1350 W Washington Blvd).
Taste of Randolph, at 900 W Randolph St. in June, donates proceeds to the West Loop Community Organization.
Taste of Greektown occurs in August at 300 S. Halsted St. and features Greek food, music and dancing.
Take Advantage of Easy Transportation
Like many parts of Chicago, the West Loop is a walkable area, where you can get dinner or do a little shopping on foot or by bike. You’re connected to the rest of Chicago by the CTA’s (Chicago Transit Authority) Pink and Green rail lines at the Morgan Street station, or via the Blue Line at the UIC-Halsted Street station.
Plus, the West Loop is home to Union Station (225 South Canal Street), which opened in 1925. The iconic train station is the transportation hub for the Metra commuter rail (if you need a ride to the suburbs) and Amtrak trains (if you’re traveling by rail across the country). Union Station is so photogenic, it has even been featured in Hollywood movies, including The Untouchables, starring Kevin Costner.
Enjoy Nearby Theatre
Residents of West Loop are just blocks away from live performances by the Joffrey Ballet, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway plays, the latest films and major touring musical acts. Some of Chicago’s finest theatre experiences are located just one neighborhood away, in the Loop, and include:
Don’t Miss Your Opportunity to Have a West Loop Lifestyle
Bring your walking shoes, appetite and love of exploration. Living in the West Loop is for anyone who enjoys a lifestyle of luxury, delicious dining and unique experiences. Visit Downtown Apartment Company’s current apartment listings in Chicago’s West Loop to find your new home.
Originally a cabbage patch developed by German immigrants before the Civil War, Old Town carries a certain disheveled charm that dates to its formative years. St. Michael’s Church was one of the city’s few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire, contributing to the decision to maintain the area’s byzantine street layout while the rest of the city went to a simple north-south grid pattern after the 1871 blaze.
Ever since, the Old Town neighborhood has thrived as a quirky, Bohemian base. Gothic and Victorian touches abound on narrow, meandering one-way streets and main thoroughfares alike.
Here’s why living in Old Town gives you everything you’d want from big city living.
It’s Close to Everything
Wrigley Field and the heart of the Loop business district are less than 3 miles away. Closer than that is the burgeoning restaurant scene on Randolph Street. Closer still is River North and the Chicago Riverwalk, and North Avenue Beach is an easy stroll. If you really want to get away, you’re 20 minutes from O’Hare Airport. Three public train lines stopping in the neighborhood can carry you to points all around the city.
It’s a Dining Delight
There are a couple of great rib spots in Old Town. The area tends toward boisterous, divey destinations where character is always a star on the menu — but don’t let the lack of pretension fool you.
Making History
In 1924, the first gay rights organization in the United States was established in a home on North Crilly Court that is now a National Historic Landmark. In the 1960s, Old Town was the Midwest epicenter of the hippie counterculture. Now, The Second City comedy troupe stars.
It’s All About the Hangouts
It’s Living Your Best Life
Nestled between the tonier Lincoln Park and Gold Coast enclaves, Old Town is the perfect, unassuming and thoughtful neighbor. It has two signature events — the annually concurrent and peacefully coexisting Old Town Art Fair in the Old Town Triangle and the Wells Street Art Festival just blocks away.
Tap into that friendliness with your own place in Old Town. Downtown Apartment Company can help you find it. Browse our latest Old Town listings here.
Sentral Michigan Avenue, formerly known as Essex on the Park, offers luxury apartments for rent in Chicago’s South Loop. This 479 unit rental building features spectacular amenities, thoughtful layouts, and modern interior finishes.
Entertain and relax at the outdoor patio, equipped with grilling stations, or the four-story indoor lounge with a pool overlooking the South Loop’s Grant Park.
Work from home in one of multiple co-working spaces at Sentral, including a private conference room and plenty of common space to spread out.
Sentral Michigan Avenue also offers a state of the art fitness center, complete with a private training and yoga studio. Additionally, Sentral was designed with a focus on wellness and includes technology to provide cleaner air and water and reduce light and noise pollution.
The South Loop is a booming neighborhood and given that its a cultural hub of Chicago, it’s no mystery why it’s been in such high demand. Museum Campus is located in the South Loop and is home to some of the country’s greatest museums, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Adler Planetarium. Catch a Bears game or concert at Soldier Field or check out Buddy Guy’s Legends for some more live music. The Lakefront trail, parts of the Chicago River, Grant Park, Grant “Bark” dog park, Fred Anderson dog park, and Roosevelt Park are all located in the South Loop as well!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in downtown Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions! We are now offering virtual, in person, and self guided apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials, including free rent concessions!
It’s no secret that apartments lease quickly in the summer and specials can change at a moment’s notice. Here’s your guide to spotting good deals on apartments during the busy summer season!
Have a Move Timeframe Rather Than a Move Date
It’s most common you’ll find concessions (like “1 month free” or “$1000 signing bonus”) for the current month or the following. Picking a June 30th move date over a July 1st move date can help you get June concessions that don’t apply to July move dates, just by starting your lease one day earlier. While choosing a June 30th date instead of July 1st is an easy decision, choosing June 30th over July 15th may take a little more consideration. Know how much flexibility you have in your move timeframe to maximize the concessions you’ll be able to find…and remember, you don’t have to physically move in on your lease start date!
Know What You’re Looking For
Pricing and availability change quickly in any season, but that’s especially the case in the summer. If you see a good deal, the odds are it won’t be available for long. Knowing what you’re looking for before you start seeing apartments will help you act quickly when you spot a deal.
Play Around With Lease Length
Many managed buildings like to stagger lease expirations so they aren’t faced with too many leases expiring all at the same time. Therefore, a 12 month lease isn’t always the best price. Sometimes opting for a 10, 13, or 16 month lease can significantly reduce your monthly cost, even if the building isn’t offering any additional concessions.
Looking for great deals on luxury apartments in downtown Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in your search. We are now offering in person, self guided, and virtual apartment tours! Be sure to ask about move in specials!
Residential development in the West Loop has continued to boom, especially for Naperville based developer, Marquette Companies. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Darren Sloniger, President and CIO of Marquette, to hear more about the big vision they’re bringing to the neighborhood and what to expect.
Darren Sloniger, President and CIO of Marquette Companies
From the successful lease up of The Mason, current projects at 1400 and 1440 W Randolph, plans to revitalize Union Park, and plans for 140 N Ashland Ave, it seems like Marquette has a big vision for the west part of Fulton Market. Can you talk a little about Marquette’s big picture plans for the area?
Our first project in the West Loop was Catalyst Chicago (2013). That was before the West Loop was the cool area it is today and before Google and McDonalds announced their offices. We were really first to the table, and as a result we just crushed it.
The development in the west portion of Fulton Market started with The Mason. I was sitting across the street at Smyth and having dinner with my wife for our anniversary. We were sitting near the window and I looked over at this lot and thought it was really incredible. Most other developers were east because zoning wise you could get the most height and density on Halsted up to the highway. So the thesis was “let’s jump all the way to the west where it will have more of that neighborhood feel”. We were banking on the fact that there were people who wanted to live in Fulton Market but preferred more of a neighborhood feel over a high density one.
At the time, it was very pioneering to come this far west, so I needed to do a few things to help give people a sense of place. One of those things was the landscape lighting on the parkway trees along Ada Street. The idea is rather than doing blaring security lights, you create an ambiance.
Then, I noticed most Mason residents would walk all the way to the Morgan CTA station instead of just a couple blocks west to the Ashland station. The other under-utilized feature of this area is Union Park, one of the largest neighborhood parks in Chicago. That’s what made me decide to take on this whole area and really create a sense of neighborhood.
My first acquisition was the BellyQ site, which is 1400 W Randolph, then the next site along Lake so we could give that stretch of Ogden a pedestrian feel. We’re doing the tower on the south side of the site, and on the north side of the site we’re putting in one of the largest residential dog parks.
I also just signed an 11,000 square foot restaurant for the base at 1400 and Ogden with one of the top restaurateurs in Chicago, then across the street we just got a letter of intent for a 50 unit hotel with a bar by the same operator as the restaurant at the base.
Most recently, the opportunity came up on the other side of the street to purchase 140 N Ashland. I realized this was a great opportunity to have a development right on the park and revitalize that particular block. So the idea is now we’ll be able to create that same sense of place all the way down to the Ashland Street station by putting in those well-lit parkway trees and foot lamps, and we hired Disney Imagineers to do a whole animated light installation at the corner of 1400 and Ogden, so it creates a neighborhood ambiance in the area.
To me, 140 N Ashland was the final piece to the puzzle in the creation of a neighborhood.
Marquette is leading the way on the development of the West Loop’s west end
Are there any types of commercial tenants that are particularly helpful for creating that neighborhood feel or that tend to get renters excited about the area?
I’m not ever looking for a national tenant. I’m always looking for a local expert and to activate the base with a neighborhood style bar or restaurant. To be able to bring in a local Chicago operator for this restaurant is great and the operator I’m bringing in for this hotel is a local Chicagoan, too.I like to create the place you want to hang out, that local place that’s in your neighborhood where they know your name.
For the operator we’re talking about bringing in at The Mason, he operates a little outdoor bar in the suburbs where my wife and I go. We were talking one day and he mentioned wanting to open a place in Fulton Market, so that worked out really organically. I always have in my head what I’m looking for and what I want so when the opportunity arises we’re ready for it. I don’t ever force it.
Can you tell me a little about Atrio and why you’re optimistic about development in the Illinois Medical District?
The site was a concrete building with about 32 building code violations when we started. The idea was not only could we rehab it affordably to keep the rents lower, and that people would want to live there since it’s the only residential building in the area, but we would also be able to get the FAR (floor area ratio) we needed to develop two other buildings. The Medical District was really on board because the existing building was right at the neighborhood gateway and it wasn’t a pretty building.
Before and after of 1926 W Harrison, now Atrio Apartments. Rendering courtesy of Brininstool + Lynch.
Upon completion of the project we’ll have the 272 unit rehab,a 280 unit 24-story tower, and a 9-story 120 unit residential building with 30,000 square feet of medical offices and another 15,000 square feet of retail on the corner of Damen and Harrison.
What trends have you noticed in terms of the finishes and amenities renters look for in the West Loop in 2021?
Believe it or not, I don’t really focus on trends or what other buildings are doing. If you’re truly building a unique product with a unique vibe then you don’t have to worry about that. People either want to live there or they don’t and you’re going to attract people based on what you’ve created. I’m focused on creating great space.
There’s no detail of a building I’m not involved in, down to the baseboards. Being intricately involved in the design is important to me because building great spaces is in every detail. So I can vividly remember the day I picked out these floors from Merchandise Mart or these stools (referencing the stools in the resident bar area at The Mason) I picked out when I was with my wife shopping and had been trying to find one that was grey, narrow, and really, really comfortable…so I’m always on the lookout when I’m in design mode. Another example is the co-working space. We have individual offices plus multiple conference rooms that can be reserved. We figured why not bring a WeWork type concept here. There weren’t many people who had done it when we first did it.
Co-Working Offices at The Mason, Courtesy of Marquette Management
In 1400 W Randolph for example, I’m really focused on making it a health and wellness building. We invested a lot in the ionization air purification system, which has proven results against COVID, touchless everything, broke the fitness areas into three different places, and added a meditation room.
That’s how it happens– I’m really thinking through every detail of the environment and making it attractive for people who want to live here. It usually flows organically into what we’re trying to do.
By Sophie Morrison
*Interview has been edited for clarity.
Short answer: Yes.
In 2016, bicycling.com named Chicago its “Best Bike City in America,” and the city has been turning up in similar rankings for decades.
That will happen in a town with more than 15,000 bike racks, and where the number of bicycle commuters more than tripled from 2000 to 2017.
Chicago’s biking bona fides go way back. In the late 1800s, roughly two-thirds of the nation’s bikes were built within 150 miles of the city, which was home to a young entrepreneur named Schwinn.
In 1971, Mayor Richard J. Dailey unveiled a 34-mile bike route. The next year, he added rush-hour bike lanes in the heart of downtown.
In the 1990s, Mayor Richard M. Daley expanded on his father’s vision, creating the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Council. The next decade saw more than 100 miles over bikeways constructed or improved and thousands of bicycle racks installed.
While the city as a whole is good for biking, some areas are better than others. Prime neighborhoods include:
Wicker Park/Bucktown/Logan Square: The 606 trail touches each of these communities, which also benefit from proximity to the Milwaukee Avenue Spoke Route, one of seven such routes providing continuous bike routes to downtown.
Lincoln Park: There’s the park for which it is named, easy access to the 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail and the Clark Street Spoke Route, just for starters.
South Loop: Grant Park, the Lakefront Trail, Northerly Island and the Museum Campus make for some of the most scenic rides in the city — and your commute will likely be short and sweat-free.
Well, one thing that works in Chicago’s favor is that it’s flat. Even while there are some terrific mountain biking areas within a short drive of downtown, Chicago’s even terrain takes the interval training aspect out of casual rides and daily commutes alike. For mountain biking areas, check out the Palos Trail System in the Southwest suburbs or Kettle Moraine State Forest in Southern Wisconsin if that’s what you prefer.
However, there are many more things to consider, such as:
Security. With 200 miles of on-street protected, buffered and shared bike lanes, and a magnificent variety of off-street paths, Chicago is a national leader in staking out spaces for bicyclists.
Accessibility. Divvy, Chicago’s ride-sharing program, has 600 stations and 6,000 bicycles available throughout the city. Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s 2021 Five-Year Capital Plan includes $37 million for additional improvements that would move Chicago closer to former Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s goal of having every Chicagoan live within a half-mile of a bike path.
Culture. Do city officials embrace biking? From the first Mayor Daley on, that has been a resounding yes in Chicago. Do cyclists have the routes and access to shops and pit stops that feed the desire to get back in the saddle? Absolutely — from the stunning vistas of the Lakefront Trail to the culturally immersive 606 (replete with art installations, observatories and educational programming), to one of the largest bike shops in the nation (Old Town’s Village Cycle Center), Chicago has you covered.
If you’re asking, “Is Chicago bike friendly?” make friends with us. The best way to ensure you’re going to get the most use out of your bike in Chicago is living in an area — and an apartment — that embraces bike culture. Downtown Apartment Company knows the neighborhoods and the housing inventory in each. To get a head start on your life in the bike lane, check out our listings here.
Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment or fifth, moving to a new place offers the fun opportunity to decorate it to one’s tastes. You may have some existing furniture, or you may be starting from scratch. You may have a certain aesthetic in mind, or you may want to wing it. Whatever the case, there’s a lot that goes into finding apartment furnishings that make a new address feel like home.
Outfitting a residence with furniture that meets your needs and fits your tastes tends to be challenging and expensive. It often takes time and skill to pick the pieces that fit your particular personality and preferences. With that in mind, here’s a look at some top tips for how to furnish an apartment in a way that works for you.
While it’s easy to get excited about accessorizing, the building blocks of furnishing an apartment are those pieces that serve necessary functions. If you’re working with a blank slate, here are several must-haves on which to focus:
One more tip: whatever you’re buying, a little research can go a long way. In order to invest in the best you can afford, try to find out where products were made, how they’re constructed and what to expect in terms of longevity before you buy.
As anyone who’s moved more than once could tell you: a lot of furniture ends up going to a donation box. To avoid overspending on pieces you’ll end up ditching, try to think about your long-term needs. Ask yourself: what furniture would be worth packing and moving in a truck, and what would you leave behind? Only allow yourself to splurge on the items that you’re sure to keep. That bench that perfectly fits your uniquely shaped entryway, for example. It’s unlikely to work as well anywhere else.
You have all kinds of options for where to buy furniture. There are big-box stores and traditional retailers, but you can also shop furniture outlets, second hand stores or even mobile apps such as OfferUp or LetGo. Whether you hunt for a new dining table on Facebook Marketplace or find a great lamp at a garage sale, you may find excellent bargains by digging around a bit.
One more smart way to simplify and accelerate the furnishing process is to work with Downtown Apartment Company. When you rent one of our luxury apartments, we’re available to help connect you with other companies that rent furniture and can possibly save you money in setting up the new space. Let us help you fill the apartment without having to rent a fully furnished unit. To learn more, reach out to us anytime!
When people sign a lease to a new apartment, it could incite excitement for a variety of reasons. Perhaps it’s your first time living on your own, or you are finally living in the city of your dreams. What some people don’t realize is that they miss out on some of the luxuries of having a house.
Without a porch, patio or balcony, it might be difficult to partake in certain activities — such as grilling — while living in an apartment. Due to the rules and regulations against gas, charcoal and open flames, apartment dwellers sometimes aren’t allowed to grill at all. Here are some tips to still have a great grilling experience when you live in an apartment.
If you’re craving some flame-roasted meals but don’t have access to a grill, try these kitchen alternatives that can be used year-round — even if you have to endure the Chicago winters from your downtown apartment rental:
Grilling is often a messy process. If you don’t have the space or building clearance to cook indoors, try getting creative with your surroundings.
When you’re really craving some fresh, smokey barbecue, it can kill the mood to have to settle for takeout. Being crafty and patient with your utensils and cooking space may take some time and effort, but you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying meal. Mastering the art of the grilling lifestyle from a tiny apartment is doable — without setting off a smoke alarm. If hosting a killer barbecue party is a priority for your next apartment, contact us to find your next grill-safe rental.
Despite all the benefits of working from home, it is not without its challenges. Whether you’re managing meetings over Zoom or trying to complete projects amid household distractions, the convenience of quitting a commute can start to feel like a burden if you don’t have a dedicated home office workspace.
If you spend any time telecommuting, it’s important to create a makeshift office at home. With that in mind, here’s a look at the advantages of a designated workspace, along with tips for how to get started.
Your home offers many comforts, but it can’t compare to a traditional office. If you’re trying to set up shop at the kitchen table or on the living room sofa, you’ll quickly learn how easy it is to get distracted. Someone rings the doorbell, or the washing machine dings. The TV beckons, and the pantry is full of snacks. Having a dedicated work area can help with all these challenges.
Some of the many benefits that a home office can provide include:
If you’re new to working from home or finally realizing it’s time to settle into a more productive routine, here are some tips to keep in mind:
If you’re willing to get creative, you can set up an office almost anywhere. That said, sometimes the easiest way to make more space is to move to a bigger home. If you’re interested in a rental that could accommodate a work-from-home environment, come explore the units we have available at Downtown Apartment Company.
Food delivery has come a long way in recent years. Before, the options were basically pizza and, if you were lucky, a local Chinese restaurant. Food delivery services in Chicago, especially, have evolved spectacularly in a short time, driven first by convenience and now by safety and social distancing concerns.
When it comes to apartment building food delivery, the first thought is a hot meal delivered by the restaurant that made it. However, if you’d rather make the food yourself, write a list and let a grocery delivery service do the shopping; or better yet let a cook-at-home company send you complete meals ready to be prepared.
These days, the best way to support your local favorite is to order delivery directly from the restaurant — their staff will bring the meals to you. However, where that isn’t an option, here’s a rundown of companies that provide meal delivery in Chicago:
Perhaps you’re not particularly close to one of the many grocery stores in Chicago. Maybe you’re after something a little different. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of grocery delivery options available:
Vegetarian? Pescatarian? Keto? Paleo? Maybe you’re just tired of the five recipes you know? Meal kits could be your salvation, and, luckily, there are dozens available. Here are some standbys:
Face it — you can get just about anything delivered to your door. All those great meals should be enjoyed in an equally great place. Downtown Apartment Company will help you find the perfect home to savor that dish. Check out our listings today.
Residents of Chicago, like those across much of the county, are under a stay-at-home order during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In a town that trudges steadfastly through the winter waiting for the jailbreak of spring, it’s good to know that there are fun things to do in Chicago in the summer without violating the quarantine.
State guidelines say time outdoors for exercise or fresh air is allowed. While practicing social distancing — wearing masks and staying at least 6 feet from other people at all times — we still have several choices for summertime fun. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Chicago in the summer while keeping safe.
Explore the Architecture
Architectural boat tours are always among the most popular things to do in Chicago during the summer. While the boats are docked, take on the city in smaller chunks.
A Loop walking tour could take you past a who’s who of high-rises — Marina City, the Rookery and Willis Tower, among many others — all within less than two miles.
Or contrast the quaint, bohemian residences of Old Town with the nearby historic mansions and brownstones of the Gold Coast. Another stroll could take you among the stately Victorians lining Beer Baron Row in Wicker Park.
Have Dinner Delivered
Chicago has some of the best food in the world, from fine dining to the city’s ubiquitous beef sandwiches and deep-dish pizza. You could sit in Lincoln Park and do a Saturday Showdown with pies from Pequod’s Pizza and Lou Malnati’s Pizza. Or, if you’re holed up in the West Loop, 10 of the 25 Michelin-starred restaurants in Chicago are in your neighborhood. Ordering from each of them is one of those summer things to do in Chicago that could carry you into the fall.
Get Out
Any list of the best summer activities in Chicago must include visiting the city’s many parks. While the Chicago Park District has closed the Lakefront Trail, all nearby parks and beaches, park district buildings and playgrounds, many other parks remain open, including:
For up-to-date information on park closures, check the Chicago Park District website. And don’t forget, Chicago is one of the most bike-friendly big cities in the world. Of its more than 200 miles of protected, buffered and shared bike lanes, only a small fraction are currently off limits.
Be a Birder
If you’re a Chicagoan, you should be able to tell the difference between a blue jay’s squawk and a cardinal’s musical call. With more than 300 kinds of birds native to the area, wander any neighborhood with an Audubon field guide and a pair of binoculars, and you’ll engage in a pursuit that is at once relaxing and competitive, solitary and communal — and among the very best Chicago summer things to do.
First Things First
With all the things to do in Chicago during the summer — even during a quarantine — your first priority should be to find a perfect place in the perfect neighborhood. In this especially challenging real estate market, let Downtown Apartment Company guide you. Check out our listings of available apartments today.
If you’re new to the area, you need to know where to live in Chicago if you work downtown. So, where do most advancing professionals live in Chicago? They live wherever their needs are met.
That means proximity to work — whether finance or fine arts — because they spend a lot of time honing their craft. Precious free time shouldn’t be spent in traffic or looking for a place to park. Advancing professionals are looking for easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, entertainment and recreation. Hopefully, living amidst the other go-getters will energize your own vocational climb all the more.
Advancing professionals who work downtown also want options. In Chicago, each of the best places for ambitious professionals to live come with their own distinctive personalities.
There are a lot of great places to live in the Windy City, but the best Chicago neighborhoods for advancing professionals who work downtown have one thing in common: There’s plenty to do after work.
Check out these neighborhoods to find your best fit.
Wicker Park: This former artists’ enclave (along with neighboring Bucktown) is eminently walkable and is relatively affordable. Two Blue Line stops get you into the Loop with ease — and between the lively boutique culture and vibrant dining scene, there’s so much to do around the neighborhood that work might be the only time you leave. For example, community events include the Bucktown Arts Fest, Wicker Park Farmers Market and Wicker Park Fest.
Lakeview: This area is really three neighborhoods in Chicago for advancing professionals. Wrigleyville is party-central, where the bar scene draws you in to keep the party going after a great game amid tourists and other baseball fans. In fact, when it comes to lifestyle, Lakeview offers the ultimate balance of work and play. Boystown hosts two of the biggest events on Chicago’s summer social calendar: The Pride Parade and North Halsted Market Days. West Lakeview puts a homier spin on things — the al fresco dining is terrific, and the atmosphere is very pet-friendly.
Lincoln Park: Think green and blue. The green park for which the area is named covers more than 1,200 acres, all of it essentially hugging blue Lake Michigan. Joggers and cyclists swarm the park and lakefront trails in droves. Just far enough from the Loop (15 minutes by train) to decompress on the commute home, the neighborhood offers a variety of housing styles, proximity to North Avenue Beach, and an urban lifestyle that is perhaps dialed down the tiniest bit from Lakeview’s fabulous excess. There are also many things to do, including spending the day at Lincoln Park Zoo or the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
Old Town: Just south of Lincoln Park, Old Town is home to Chicago’s famous Second City comedy club. Rich in history and close enough to the Loop to walk, this community is not so gentrified as to be completely shorn of its characters. It boasts a dense urban lifestyle and is home to many restaurants, bars, coffee shops and parks. Two of its biggest summer events — the Old Town Art Fair and the Wells Street Arts Festival — happen on the same weekend in June.
River North: Across the river from the Loop, River North puts power lunchers elbow-to-elbow with tourists along the burgeoning Riverwalk. Residents can walk to the theater district, Navy Pier, the Mag Mile and Millennium Park. Fun community events include the Mid Summer Art Walk and the Taste of River North. The center of Chicago’s gallery scene and loaded with high-end condos, this is upscale urban at its most posh.
The best way to start your search for your next home in Chicago is by visiting Downtown Apartment Company. We have thousands of constantly updated listings, filtered by price, size, neighborhood and amenities, that you can check out right now.
Whether you’re adopting a kitten from a shelter or buying a pooch from a reputable breeder, caring for a pet is a great responsibility. Your new furry friend will require a lot of love, attention, training and plenty of supplies. Properly preparing your home is essential to ensure your animal companion is safe and protected, especially on those occasions when you’re away. If you’re wondering how to puppy proof your apartment, here are five ways you can plan for your pal’s arrival.
A new kitten or puppy may feel scared or anxious in an unfamiliar place. Creating a space in your apartment that your pet can call its own will help it feel safe and relaxed. Try to choose an area that has tile or vinyl flooring so it’s easier to clean up messes. If the floor is all carpet, use a piece of hard plastic — such as the kind you put under a rolling desk chair — to cover it.
Wondering how to puppy proof the apartment so that your pet doesn’t wreak havoc on the whole house? Consider using baby gates to keep it in a particular room that doesn’t have a door. Supply the designated space with a bed, litter box, food and toys to keep your dog or cat occupied.
Crate training can help your pup slowly learn house rules and boundaries. This can make your pet’s puppyhood a more pleasant and fun experience for you both. If you plan to keep your dog in a crate while you’re away, the designated space mentioned above would be a great spot to put it.
Animals are curious by nature. As a result, it’s important to keep all harmful chemicals, such as bleach, floor cleaner and dishwasher liquid safely locked away to prevent your pet from getting into them. Be sure to place medications out of reach and avoid storing human food on tables or counters. Foods such as chocolate, raisins, grapes and onions are harmful to dogs and could result in an emergency trip to the vet if your canine ingests them.
You can dog proof the apartment by thoroughly inspecting it for potentially hazardous objects. Be sure all electrical cords, remotes and small objects are safely tucked away so your pet can’t use them as chew toys. Cover wires that you can’t remove, such as computer, television and lamp cords.
Have breakable objects that you still want to display? Store them in a china cabinet or glass encased shelving unit to showcase your objects in a safe, accessible way. Make sure to keep plants that are toxic to dogs and cats out of reach too, such as tulips, lilies and Aloe vera.
Dogs love to chew and shed their fur on sofas, and cats are notorious for clawing on the backs of couches. You can cat proof the apartment by buying a scratching post or spraying your furniture with a non-toxic, bitter-tasting pet-deterrent spray. This can help your pet learn that your soft furnishings aren’t for scratching or snacking.
Puppy proofing your apartment might feel like a lot of work, but keeping your animal companion safe in your home should be a priority. These helpful tips on how to cat proof an apartment can help you establish a welcoming and secure environment that your furry friend will appreciate.
If you’re looking for your next pet-friendly residence, Downtown Apartment Company can help you find a luxury apartment rental in the Windy City. Click here to start the search for your new home in Chicago.
There are a lot of terrific places to sample Chicago deep dish pizza. To get to any of them, be careful not to ask for recommendations on the best Chicago-style pizza — the answer could point you toward the legendary cracker crust, square-cut tavern-style pie at Vito & Nick’s on the far South Side, or the delicious pizza pot pie at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. in Lincoln Park.
Both are great, but neither is an example of Chicago deep dish. That particularly big-shouldered pie will come at you in a pan blackened over years of use, with an inch or so of buttery crust, chunky sauce and elastic strands of mozzarella that never quite seem to snap when transitioning to the plate.
Exactly who has the best deep dish pizza in Chicago is a question to be answered over years of research — contented, glassy-eyed research. The search will take you to funky, ancient restaurants and chains alike. Here, in no particular order, are some great places to start:
It doesn’t matter if you’re all about the best deep dish in Chicago or the best dim sum. Life in downtown Chicago has delights for every palate and all of your senses. The key is finding a place that helps you indulge in everything a luxurious urban lifestyle offers. Downtown Apartment Company has the inside track to the best spaces in the best neighborhoods. Check out our listings today.
From the few thousand new rental units that have been or are about to be delivered, and the new restaurants and retail that seem to open by the handful, to the multiple mega developments currently underway, the South Loop has been growing rapidly the past two years and is only continuing to boom. Community amenities have been cornerstone in these mega developments, which are large scale projects that include residential, commercial, and green space.
One of the most highly anticipated South Loop mega developments is Riverline, a $2B project designed by Perkins + Will and developed by CMK, with landscape architecture by Hoerr Schaudt. The development will include ten residential buildings for a total of 3,600 residential units, with a mix of apartments for rent and condos for sale, in addition to an abundance of community amenities and retail space.
Rendering Courtesy of CMK
Some of the community amenities will include open walkways connecting the Wells Street corridor, an additional 1,000 square feet of Riverwalk with parks, trails, and green gathering spaces, and a natural riverbank providing easy access for activities on the river, like kayaking and fishing. Riverline will have a heavy emphasis on nature with features like aquatic grasses and sedges to create a habitat for amphibious and aquatic wildlife and large, open green spaces.
Rendering Courtesy of CMK
With its convenient location, Riverline is just a short distance to multiple public CTA and Metra transit stations and highway entrances, three major grocery stores, Michigan Avenue, Museum Campus, Grant Park, and several major universities like Depaul, Roosevelt, UIC, Rush Medical School, University of Chicago, School of the Art Institute, Kent School of Law, and Columbia College.
Rendering Courtesy of CMK
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the South Loop near Riverline? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Unlike many big cities, Chicago has a reputation for a relatively reasonable cost of living. Compared to New York, Boston, or Los Angeles both rentals and for sale properties can be surprisingly affordable. When you’re moving here from another city or state, one of the biggest challenges you’ll face is whether to rent or buy in Chicago.
Does it make more sense to choose a less-expensive rental or to make a bigger financial commitment by purchasing a home or condo? Should you shop rentals or real estate listings? Here’s a look at the factors to consider when making a decision about renting vs. buying in Chicago.
If you already know that you’ll only be in Chicago for a short time or plan to put down roots, that’s important to factor into your housing decision. When you buy, you have the security of a monthly mortgage payment, rather than potentially rising rental rates. On the other hand, buying involves an upfront financial commitment that renting doesn’t require. Generally speaking, one of the biggest benefits of home ownership — a return on investment due to appreciating real estate values — comes over time. On the other hand, when you own a property and decide to move, buying requires a more involved process of listing, showing, negotiating and eventually selling your home. Renting, on the other hand, is as simple as fulfilling your lease and moving on. These are all important considerations as you weigh whether to rent or buy a Chicago residence.
There are lots of different neighborhoods in Chicago, each with its own selling points. If you already know which area(s) you’re interested in, take a look at comparable rates for rentals and purchases. Which option offers lower monthly costs? How many of each type are available? Finding out the vacancy rate or the number of real estate listings where you want to live can help you think through the choice to rent vs. buy in Chicago.
The bottom line is that owning involves more obligation than renting. When you own your home, you not only need to take full responsibility for your bank or mortgage company debt, but you also have to manage all repairs and maintenance yourself. If there’s outdoor space, you need to take care of that, too. You also may have HOA dues or building community fees. With renting, on the other hand, you avoid many of those expenses. If the dishwasher breaks, your landlord has to handle it, not you.
Buying a home requires a significant down payment, while renting doesn’t even typically require a security deposit in Chicago high rises. If you aren’t ready to put down a significant chunk of change to get your new home, renting can afford you time to save up for a later purchase.
Is it better to rent or buy in Chicago? The decision is up to you, but if you’ve determined that renting will work best, let Downtown Apartment Company make the process of searching for an apartment easier. We’re here to help you find your next Chicago property, and we have the extensive research and thousands of listings to help you do it. Contact us at your convenience!
Moving to the city and wondering where to live? While apartment-hunting can get a bad rap, it doesn’t have to be a discouraging experience. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, to attend school, to be near family and friends or just for an adventure, understanding Chicago’s neighborhoods, transportation and rental prices can make your search easier.
So, before you begin your hunt for a new home, consider these time-tested tips for finding an apartment in Chicago!
The best way to find an apartment in Chicago is to start by choosing a neighborhood (or two) that you like. While Chicago is one of America’s largest cities, it’s divided into distinct neighborhoods that each have their own features and feel. Can you see yourself living near Wrigley Field, clubs and the lakefront, for example? Lakeview, Wrigleyville or Boystown may be the right fit. Would you rather be in the heart of downtown, surrounded by skyscrapers and near the retail establishments on State Street? If so, check out Loop apartments. Wicker Park has a quirky, bohemian vibe. River North is a cultural hub of art galleries, antique stores and famous architecture. Explore the various communities on our site and see which appeal to you.
The next tip for how to find an apartment in Chicago that you’ll love is to consider your transportation needs. If you’re working, going to school or taking part in other scheduled activities, you’ll need a way to get to them from wherever you live. Chicago has easily accessible CTA, bus and Metra routes, as well as a grid system of roads that makes navigating the area fairly simple. What are your transportation needs, and how will that affect your apartment hunt? Use this information to help you decide where to live.
In a city as big as Chicago, even narrowing your search by neighborhood can still yield a huge number of apartments. When you see such a variety of price points, amenities and features, how do you make meaningful comparisons? One solution is to work with Downtown Apartment Company. When it comes to finding an apartment in Chicago, we save you time and trouble. In fact, one of the most efficient, effective ways to find a new place is by coming to us. You can give us your wish list and let us do the work of scouting out listings that will work for you. We know what’s out there and how prices compare. We also know how to find apartments that meet your specific needs. Let us help you simplify your search! If the unit you want, in the location you need is available, we will find it. You can browse the thousands of rentals we offer anytime, or talk to us about streamlining your search. Our service is 100% free for you to use.
Contact us today to find your perfect place!
Chicago is a big city. New York is a big city. How different could living in one be from living in the other?
In the broad strokes, maybe not much. Both offer tons of culture, entertainment, posh living and professional possibility. If you’re moving to Chicago from New York, however, you’re going to have to get used to a few things.
For instance:
More space — Chicago’s 2.7 million residents are spread over 227 square miles — a population density of 11,777 per square mile. New York (total population 8.7 million) crams 27,476 people in each of its 300 square miles.
Easier transportation — Owning a car is easier in Chicago. Average commutes are shorter (by about 12 minutes). Chicago is notably bike friendly, with more than 200 miles of on-street bike lanes, plus off-street paths and more than 13,000 bike racks and sheltered bike parking at public transit stations.
More fun — OK, this is highly subjective, but with wages that are comparable to New York City and a cost of living that is substantially less, Chicagoans should have a bit more cash to throw around — which means more fun to be had.
We can’t deny, however, Chicago is colder than New York.
No one says they move to either New York or Chicago for the climate, but both cities give you true tastes of all four seasons (though you get a bigger bite of winter in Chicago). Basically, the weather difference between New York and Chicago is more sweater weather in the latter.
On average:
In many ways, Chicago and New York are remarkably similar. For instance, Chicago and New York both have world-famous dining scenes (of course, in Chicago there’s roughly 10,000 fewer diners, per capita, fighting you for reservations at restaurants with at least a Bib Gourmand rating in the current Michelin Guide).
New Yorkers and Chicagoans alike appreciate the vibrant and distinct culture of each neighborhood in their cities. If you like the elegant brownstones of The Village, Chicago’s Gold Coast and Lincoln Park will make you feel at home. Or if SoHo is your vibe, check out the chic brick and timber lofts, galleries and world-renowned restaurants of Fulton Market. Brooklyn’s mix of hipster artist hangouts, leafy residential streets, boutique shopping and farmers markets is echoed in Logan Square, Wicker Park and West Town.
As the birthplace of the skyscraper (the Home Insurance Building, erected in 1885), Chicago embraces architecture like no other American city. Few locales take better advantage of warm weather, as Chicago makes festivals of art fairs, garden walks, musical and food events and more from April through October.
Especially grand is Chicago’s devotion to its lakefront. Moving to Chicago from NYC will help anyone appreciate how great the Great Lakes can truly be. Chicago embraces Lake Michigan with 26 miles of open and free lakefront to enjoy.
Included there in are:
Moving from New York to Chicago? Contact us today! One of our neighborhood experts will be happy to guide you in your search and answer your questions. We are also offering both virtual and in-person apartment tours. Be sure to ask about move in specials including free rent concessions!
As one of America’s largest and most dynamic cities, Chicago has plenty of areas to call home. From city neighborhoods to suburbs to rural areas, each one has its advantages — but that’s especially true when it comes to living downtown. If you want to put yourself in the middle of the action surrounded by opportunities and conveniences, choose one of our modern apartments in downtown Chicago as your new home.
Perfectly situated in some of Chicago’s most exciting neighborhoods, our luxury high-rise apartments for rent offer all the best benefits of living downtown, including doormen, gyms/fitness centers, community centers, grilling stations, on-site dry cleaning and pools. The prime locations and luxurious appointments of these downtown high-rise apartments put them in high demand, so whether you’re looking for a place in Lakeview, Gold Coast, River North, Wicker Park, West Loop, South Loop or Lincoln Park, check our available units today.
Our comprehensive listings make it efficient and convenient to apartment hunt with Downtown Apartment Company. Our units range from studios to four bedrooms, with amenities that may include stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and hardwood floors. The luxury living space you’ve always wanted is waiting for you. Don’t let it get away!
Choosing to rent a luxury apartment in downtown Chicago means gaining the opportunity to enjoy all the Windy City offers, while also having a comfortable and stylish place to call home. First, when you rent, there’s no hefty down payment, no maintenance costs and lower insurance rates.
On top of that, there are so many obvious location benefits of living downtown. You are surrounded by entertainment that’s only available in a world-class city, for example. Walk or ride a train to cultural attractions, concert halls, galleries, shops, restaurants, nightlife, parks and more.
Chicago has more than 70 neighborhoods, each one unique. You don’t even need a car, since the city’s public transportation makes getting around easy and convenient. Whether you choose the bars and bistros of Lakeview or the fine dining and art galleries of the West Loop, you’ll be minutes from the attractions and amenities of other city neighborhoods. Once you’ve moved into one of our beautifully appointed units, you may never want to leave!
When it comes to finding apartments for rent downtown, Downtown Apartment Company is proud to be your best source for luxury rentals. Simply put, we do all the research so you don’t have to waste time looking at apartments that don’t meet your criteria.
Browse our listings to find a great selection of apartments, curated to give you the best amenities and the best deals. We have thousands of units listed, with real-time pricing and a description of features to aid in your decision-making. More than that, our service is completely free for you to use. At Downtown Apartment Company, we are committed to 100% client satisfaction from beginning to end. Get in touch with us anytime to learn more about the benefits of living downtown, and let us help you find your new home.
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If you’re moving from San Francisco to Chicago, know this: You’re moving from a great city to a great, big city.
San Francisco has not quite 900,000 people jammed into not quite 47 square yet hilly miles. Chicago is home to nearly 2.7 million, over 228 square and largely flat miles. Both are steeped in the things great cities have — culture, history, diversity, noteworthy architecture and amazing dining and entertainment. But Chicago’s brand of urban sophistication is characterized by a decidedly Midwestern neighborliness, and you will fall in love with it.
Yes, you’ll love Chicago. But you have to get there first. When moving more than halfway across the country, here are some things to remember:
Unemployment is a bit higher in Chicago. Housing costs are a lot higher (some 500 percent) in San Francisco. The cost of living in Chicago is slightly more than the national average, while San Francisco’s is nearly triple. The average commute is a little over a half-hour in either city.
But numbers don’t tell the real story. Chicago life is characterized by many things, among them:
In San Francisco, there’s a stability to the weather many find comforting. The average high temperatures, by month, range between 55 and 73 degrees, while the average lows go from 45 to 59. You can expect around 67 rainy days per year.
Chicago will require an adjustment and a more adaptable wardrobe. The average highs range from 30 to 84 degrees and the average lows from 12 to 63. Days with precipitation should number around 140. But think of the possibilities that weather diversity brings: Sunning in the summer, sledding in the winter and brilliant bursts of fall color are built into the Chicago calendar.
Certainly, no one Chicago neighborhood is exclusive to any one housing style. But Loop residences are largely high-rise luxury. Streeterville, the South Loop and Lakeshore East have a stunning array of newer residential skyscrapers. Loft conversions are plentiful in River North and the West Loop. Historic manors can be found along the Gold Coast, and chic brownstones and funky flats can be had in Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview and Wicker Park.
Many Chicago neighborhoods sprang from specific cultures and retain that character to this day. To live in Chicago’s Loop is to be within six miles of Chinatown, Greek Town, Little Italy, Ukrainian Village and Boystown — not to mention Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, the United Center, Guaranteed Rate Field, the theater district, the museum campus, the opera, the symphony, the Magnificent Mile’s incredible shopping and the tourist mecca that is Navy Pier.
Finding your Chicago home is incredibly easy with Downtown Apartment Company. Learn about the city’s neighborhoods — including housing, shopping, dining, transportation and more — with our guide to the most desirable areas. Find your perfect place by scanning our list of available properties today.
To embrace Chicago’s amazing dining scene is to embrace opinion. With restaurant options that rank with any great city in the world, foraging foodies can debate which of the 25 Chicago restaurants with Michelin Stars truly earned that distinction, which joint has the best Italian beef, whether to point out-of-town visitors toward deep-dish or crispy tavern-style pizza and, always, where to find the best hamburger in Chicago.
Ranking the best burger places in Chicago is a daunting task. You can find ground greatness in almost any neighborhood, whether it is presented on fine china or sliding across a counter on wax paper in a plastic basket. Here are 10 options to consider if you’re seeking the best burger in Chicago, 2019:
It doesn’t matter if your palate favors burgers, pizza, Michelin Star stalwarts or molecular gastronomy — the best way to access Chicago’s world-class food scene is to live in one of its amazing neighborhoods. And there is no better way to find your new home base than by starting your search today in Downtown Apartment Company’s luxury listings.
Luxury living in Chicago isn’t simply a matter of inhabiting a great space. It’s inhabiting the great neighborhood, and the iconic city, in which the space exists. It’s finding other outstanding spaces in which to enjoy a food and bar scene with few parallels in the world.
The best cocktail bars in Chicago are, simply, among the best places anywhere to indulge in a luxury libation. When you find your place to live in the city, be assured you’ll find your special place or places to live it up — no matter if the cocktail bars in Chicago that you favor are Lakeview lounges, Old Town taverns or Gold Coast cabarets.
Cocktails at Every Corner
Chicago’s best neighborhoods can each lay claim to some truly amazing destinations for craft cocktails. Here are some of our top places to savor unique and next-level concoctions in some of our favorite neighborhoods:
Wicker Park: The Violet Hour makes demands on its patrons — no cellphones, no baseball hats, a request that you “do not bring anyone to the Violet Hour that you wouldn’t bring to your mother’s house for Sunday dinner.” Yet the James Beard Award winner gets away with it because of a slate of pre-prohibition-style artisanal libations, served in candlelit salons.
Lakeview: Wrigleyville, where being something other than a Bud Man and a Cubs fan once drew scornful glances, can claim the coolest among the cool cocktail bars in Chicago with Mordecai and its upstairs offshoot, Hush Money, in the Hotel Zachary across Clark Street from Wrigley Field. The same team that developed Logan Square’s Billy Sunday has cultivated a menu of several rare distillates along with local craft beer.
The Loop: The Chicago Athletic Association is a jewel on Michigan Avenue, an 1893 skyscraper with stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. While scenesters vie for the view at the wonderful Cindy’s rooftop atrium bar, Milk Room will amaze the true cocktail connoisseur. A second-floor, eight-seat micro bar, Milk Room utilizes rare, vintage spirits and hard-to-find ingredients to build its takes on classic cocktails.
River North: With a tagline like, “Come as you are, leave as you want to be,” The Drifter intoxicates with possibility. It has a rotating list of more than 100 cocktails — cultivated to capitalize on its basement space, a former speakeasy, below the Green Door Tavern. Nightly performances, from magicians to burlesque, add to the funky, forbidden flavor.
West Loop: Grant Achatz is among the most famous chefs in the world and a bit of a gastronomic mad scientist. The Aviary, in which he is a partner, offers all manner of inventive intoxicants. Chicago craft cocktails get no craftier than drinks like the Junglebird, which plays with liquid densities to deliver drops of rum suspended in pineapple-lime syrup.
Gold Coast: On the 18th floor of the Raffaello Hotel, Drumbar sets a luxurious tone with a dark, intimate indoor lounge, then marble floors and arched windows leading to one of Chicago’s premier rooftop spaces. With stunning views of Chicago, have an Old Fashioned or four — that’s how many varieties are on the cocktail menu. Or partake of one of many limited-release products meant to make the Drumbar drinking experience something that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
Live on the Leading Edge
There is no better way to keep up with the constantly evolving list of the top cocktail bars in Chicago than to live amid the shifting scene. Taking best advantage of Chicago’s trendy bars is as simple as finding the perfect home base by browsing Downtown Apartment Company’s listings.
The West Loop Old Main Post Office has been closed since 1996, but following the recent major redevelopment, is now welcoming its first tenants in the newly revamped building at 433 W Van Buren.
The structure was first built in 1922 and greatly expanded in 1932. At the time, Montgomery Ward and Sears were the largest retailers in the United States and the post office needed to expand its capacity due to all the mail order traffic the two retailers brought in. There were a few variations on proposals for the building’s redevelopment from 2011 to 2014, but none that secured the proper funding. In the interim, when it was not being used as a post office but prior to the redevelopment, the Old Main Post Office was used in filming for Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and Transformers: Dark of the Moon films.
In 2016, Mayor Rahm Emmanuel threatened that the city would take possession through eminent domain if it remained undeveloped. The owner, Bill Davies, sold the Old Main Post Office later in 2016, just one day before his passing.
The 2.8 million square foot building has already secured large tenants including Walgreens, which will be relocating from Deerfield, as well as Ferrara Candy, The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, and Uber. The lobby at the Old Main Post Office will also feature a food hall which is open to the public. There will also be a plethora of tenant amenities, including a bar and bocce court on the second floor, a gym with free weights and a boxing ring, and scattered luxury meeting and co-working spaces throughout the building.
Courtesy of Michael Zajakowski
The mail chutes have been repurposed as architectural accents.
Courtesy of Michael Zajakowski
Roughly 16,000 new employees will work in the building, stimulating the Southwest Loop area along the river, where office buildings and high-rises meet.
The Old Main Post Office redevelopment is consistent with the trend of corporate relocations and new amenity filled office construction in the West Loop.
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The West Loop has been an attractive spot for corporate relocations the last two years. McDonald’s garnered significant attention in 2018 when it moved its headquarters from its home of 47 years in Oakbrook to downtown Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood.
The new headquarters office building was built at the former site of Oprah’s Harpo Studios. The relocation brought over 2000 jobs downtown and had a positive impact on this year’s earnings. CEO Steve Easterbrook says the move downtown was motivated by a desire to become a more modern company by tapping into a wider range of top talent and being hip with trends in food and beverage– both things he hopes will be improved by being being centrally located right on Randolph Street. Easterbrook also noted that the downtown move has had a positive impact on recruiting. McDonald’s received over 200,000 job applications sine their relocation, which is a large increase from years prior.
Courtesy of McDonald’s
The new McDonald’s headquarters features a restaurant with menu items from around the world which is open to the public. The second floor houses Hamburger University, where McDonald’s trains its managers. The third floor has a test kitchen for new potential menu items and the sixth floor has an employee cafe with co-working space, a barista style coffee bar, and an IT help bar. Over 300 conference rooms equipped for audio and video, cafe style meeting spaces, unassigned benches and cubicles, and large meeting spaces are scattered throughout the building to promote collaboration. The innovative headquarters has multiple open floor plan sub office “neighborhoods”, each with private phoning rooms, tables, meeting rooms, and lockers. Last but not least, the ninth floor features a fitness center and terraces overlooking the city.
Courtesy of McDonald’s
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The West Loop is home to many of Chicago’s higher education institutions. Whether you’re looking for a four year degree or a specialized technical certification, the West Loop is full of excellent schools and training programs.
The University of Illinois Chicago
UIC is a public research university which offers degrees in the arts, business, humanities, sciences, technology, health care, public administration, and urban planning. Although many students opt to live on campus, UIC is largely a commuter school with many students living in apartments in the West Loop and other nearby neighborhoods.
UIC is also easy to access with a blue line stop just a block from campus and the Halsted bus #8, which runs right through campus.
Courtesy of UIC
Rush University and Medical Center
Rush University is the private, academic branch of Rush University Medical Center. Rush University has colleges of nursing, health sciences, and medicine, as well a graduate college. Whether you’re looking to become an internist, speech pathologist, speech pathologist, or researcher, Rush University has highly regarded accredited programs and is well known for its advanced research.
Rush University and Medical Center are located just off the Polk green and pink line stop, which provides access to Oak Park through the West Loop and downtown to the Loop.
Paul Mitchell School of Chicago
Do you have a passion for styling hair? The Paul Mitchell School offers placement assistance and career path planning with hands on experience on the floor throughout the program. Students also get access to prestigious additional programs and experiences, including the opportunity to attend events like Caper, Beacon, and the North American Hair Styling Awards.
The Paul Mitchell School is located off Halsted near Maxwell Street with service from the Halsted bus #8.
Courtesy of The Paul Mitchell School Chicago
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2019 was a busy year for both residential and commercial development in West Loop. The residential inventory went above and beyond in terms of visionary design and creative amenities. These four West Loop apartment buildings stole the show with their lease ups this past year.
The Van Buren
Although the Van Buren opened September 15th of 2018, most of their lease up took place in 2019. Residents of The Van Buren love that this boutique style midrise offers a quieter, more private feeling atmosphere while still offering the advantages of luxury high rise living, like resort style amenities, great management, and curated social events. Between the light finishes, large windows, and high ceilings, the apartments at The Van Buren are filled with natural light.
727 West Madison
727 West Madison opened its doors to its first residents December 1st of 2018. This high-rise is striking, rising nearly 500 feet with its glassy elliptical shaped exterior, and is known for being the tallest skyscraper west of the highway. The curved exterior makes each unit feel like a corner unit with panoramic views of the city and skyline. The high ceilings, eye catching metallic accents, and elegant terrazzo flooring add to the lobby’s grandeur. 727 West Madison exudes elegance from the moment you walk in.
The Mason
The Mason opened its doors in spring of 2019 and filled up quickly. Residents love the unique design and trendy accents throughout the building. Black matte appliances and distressed kitchen backsplashes against white tile, quartz countertops, and wide plank grey flooring give apartments an elevated twist on the standard black, white, and grey palette. No detail was spared, especially in terms of lighting. From the street outside, you’ll notice the eye catching multi-tiered chandelier that hovers above what feels like most of the room next to the lobby. The Edison bulb pendant lighting hangs above kitchen islands and the frameless bathroom mirrors are complete with excellent built in lighting around the perimeter.
Milieu
Milieu residents first moved in September 3rd of 2019. In addition to the wonderful amenities like a fitness center, dog run, outdoor terrace, media room, pool and spa, and several other resident spaces, Milieu adds its own creative touch. Residents enjoy having an onsite barista crafting complementary La Colombe coffee drinks, a hammock lounge area, and an outdoor fitness area. Additionally, residents on the 18th floor have access to club level living services, which include in home package delivery, daily newspaper delivery, morning coffee and refreshments, monthly housekeeping, priority parking, and monthly happy hours.
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Looking for 3 bedroom apartments for rent in West Loop? Check out these soft loft new construction rentals!
Property 120- Randolph & Halsted
This building’s curved exterior and floor to ceiling windows offer stunning views of downtown Chicago. The two toned interiors, dark hallways, and soft loft accents give this three bed its distinct West Loop character. The kitchen features quartz countertops, Whirlpool stainless steel appliances, a tile backsplash, a full size washer and dryer, a Nest thermostat, and a spacious island with room for barstool seating. The master bathroom features a frameless glass shower and double vanity sink. The other full bathroom features a soaking tub. There is also an additional half bath off the kitchen area.
This layout starts at $4756.
Property 17- Jefferson & Lake
This three bed, three bath apartment offers great separation and newly renovated interior finishes. The kitchen features granite countertops and stainless appliances, including an in unit washer and dryer.
This layout is unique– two of the three bedrooms have their own ensuite bathrooms and walk in closets so that there are effectively, two master beds. This apartment also has two balconies, one off the living space and one off the second bedroom.
This three bed starts at $4419 for an immediate move.
Property 171- Ada & Randolph
This contemporary West Loop three bed features black, matte finishes, Edison bulb pendant lighting, a distressed, two toned metal kitchen backsplash, and premium blackout roller shades in the bedrooms as well as convenient features like full sized in unit laundry, a built in “tech shelf” with USB outlets, and a keyless electronic entry system.
Both bathrooms have double vanity sinks and great “selfie” lighting around the mirrors. Despite the large, open layout, the spacious kitchen peninsula creates separation between the kitchen and living areas. An expansive patio spans most of the length of the living space.
This layout starts at $4700 with 2 months free on select lease terms.
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Looking for a luxe penthouse for rent in West Loop? Look no further! This 2 bed 2 bath penthouse at 727 West Madison features elegant finishes, stunning views, and state of the art amenities in a prime location.
Take in 360 degree views of downtown Chicago, amplified by the floor to ceiling windows and 10 foot ceilings. The kitchen finishes and appliances are top of the line with Grohe Concept faucets, a marbled backsplash, Viking stainless steel appliances, spacious quartz countertops, a wine fridge, a six burner gas range, ample storage space, a Nest programmable thermostat (which you can also control remotely), soft close cabinetry, and hard surface plank flooring throughout.
The bathrooms feature Kohler fixtures, a frameless glass shower, a stand alone soaking tub, double vanity sinks, premium tile, and plenty of storage. The custom walk in closet and built in shelving systems make closet organizing a breeze.
The layout of this spacious penthouse makes it feel like a full home perched in the skyline. Enjoy the space and separation of a home with the amenities of a high rise. Indoor amenities include a private rooftop sky lounge, a TV and media theatre, a lounge with a coffee bar, coworking space, conference rooms with presentation screens, a club room with pool tables, private party rooms, an expansive club grade fitness center, a yoga studio, Peloton bikes, and a pet spa.
Skylounge, Courtesy of 727 W Madison
Outdoor amenities include the resort style pool and spa, pool side cabanas, sun terrace, outdoor grills and seating, and the dog park and water station. Residents also get access to convenience services like 24 hour concierge, wifi throughout the common areas, curated resident events, package lockers, EV charging stations, bike storage and repair, and away from home services.
This West Loop penthouse at 727 West Madison is located conveniently on Halsted and Madison, a couple blocks from the highway and UIC blue line stop, with service to O’Hare and the Loop, and is less than a block from Whole Foods and Mariano’s super markets. This penthouse is priced at $10k per month.
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Looking for a place to eat with friends can be tricky in West Loop because there are so many great options– it’s hard to agree on just one! That’s where Time Out Market comes in…If you haven’t already jumped on the food hall trend, it’s not too late to start! Food halls are essentially a trendier take on the classic food court, with kiosks where patrons can get their favorite items from a variety of local restaurants.
Rendering courtesy of Time Out Chicago
Time Out Market Chicago is the second largest Time Out Market, after the Lisbon location and will be opening soon in Fulton Market. The 500,000 square foot, three story food hall will house 18 kiosks which will vary in cuisine and style, from fast casual to high end Michelin starred fare. The venue will also have three bars, a demonstration kitchen, and event space, complete with bleacher seating.
So far, the chef roster includes Jimmy Bannos Jr. of Purple Pig, Thai Dang of HaiSous, Brian Fisher of the Michelin starred Entente, Bill Kim of Urban Belly ramen, Dana Salls Cree of Pretty Cool Ice Cream, Zoe Schor of Split Rail fried chicken, Edward Kim of Mott St., and Art Shabez of The Art of Pizza.
Courtesy of Mini Mott by chef Edward Kim
Chefs have one year contracts, which they can renew, but Time Out is looking to keep bringing in new dishes and concepts to keep things fresh and interesting for customers. Time Out also shared a vision for the space to function as a multipurpose venue for private events and weddings. According to Chicago Eater magazine, customers can expect to spend about $20 to $30 on lunch or dinner.
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It’s that time of year– it’s too cold to do fall things and not quite holiday season. Fortunately there are plenty of things to do near West Loop this weekend!
Brooklyn Boulders
Try rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders with or without ropes. Brooklyn Boulders offers intro classes for beginners as well as memberships for more regular climbers. Gear rental and climbing shoes are included with your reservation.
Emporium Fulton Market
Spend your evening having some nostalgic fun at Emporium bar and arcade. Enjoy pool tables, pin ball machines, air hockey, ski ball, arcade games, and a full live music events calendar.
Bad Axe Throwing
Looking for a new activity to spice up your usual weekend plans? Check out axe throwing! (Think: a heavier version of darts). Walk ins start at $27 per hour, or book a group ahead of time for $35 per person flat rate. Get in free on your birthday!
Open Books
Open Books is a nonprofit book store with a selection of over 50,000 donated books. Stop by the location at 651 W Lake for the Snowy Soiree holiday party on November 20th at 5pm to support literacy. Your tickets get you half off any books you purchase plus free gift wrapping!
Bottom Lounge
Bottom Lounge has a full calendar of live music. Check out Jaymes Young and Phil Good this Saturday or click here for a full schedule of upcoming concerts
Courtesy of Bottom Lounge
National Hellenic Museum
The National Hellenic Museum on Halsted Street is the first and only major museum in the nation dedicated to Greek-American culture. Try one of the weekly event offerings, like Greek dance classes, or attend one of their annual events, like the gala or golf outing. Take a tour of the museum which concludes with a visit to the building’s rooftop overlooking the skyline, weather permitting.
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The former West Loop Church of the Epiphany, at 201 S. Ashland, is being converted into one of the newest event venues and art centers. The high ceilings, mosaics, and historic windows add to the striking elegance and charm of this space, which will be used to house local art events and private events like weddings and rehearsals.
Courtesy of Epiphany Center for the Arts and Chicago Tribune
When owner and developer, David Chase, initially applied for liquor and entertainment licenses, West Loop residents had trepidation about what they interpreted as the conversion of this historic landmark into a nightclub. However, Chase explained that his vision for the site was to “not to profit, but to ‘activate’ something beautiful for the community that would preserve the architectural glory of the church”.
He explained plans to turn it into a single destination wedding and event venue and 42,000 square foot hub for a multitude of practicing artists, including several distinct spaces. These include Epiphany Hall, located in the venue’s sanctuary with capacity for 1000 people, The Sanctuary, an upstairs lounge with live magic and cabaret performances with a 100 person capacity, and The Catacombs, an underground space for live jazz performances that holds 400 people.
Chase has emphasized that he intends to keep Epiphany Center for the Arts open to the public as much as possible, with public live music and events booked on Sundays through Thursdays and weddings predominantly on Fridays and Saturdays.
The church was originally built in 1885 in Romanesque style, complete with a bellower and sandstone exterior. The historic West Loop gem was the site of many historically significant events, like the funeral of Mayor Carter Harrison Sr. following his assassination, an event profiled in Devil in the White City.
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2019 has been a big year for West Loop hotel development. Early next year, its likely Nobu Chicago will join the likes of the Fulton Market’s Hoxton and Ace Hotel, two West Loop hotels that both made splashes as hot spots for locals. The 12 story boutique West Loop hotel has been highly anticipated since it broke ground three years ago. The Nobu brand has garnered a loyal consumer base and a reputation as the pinnacle of trendiness and modern luxury. Nobu Chicago was designed by Modif architecture and features interiors by local Studio K interior design firm.
With its minimalist lobby, dimly lit zen hallways, and generous placement of candles in common areas, as well as the dark accent walls and sleek lighting in its 115 guest rooms and suites, Nobu Chicago will combine the casual sophisticated ambiance of the West Loop with influences from Classical Japanese art.
No detail was spared in the design of Nobu’s guest rooms. All pictures courtesy of Nobu Chicago
The indoor pool, rooftop lounge, and restaurant and bar concepts are likely to be lively hangouts for West Loop locals and visitors alike.
The 10,000 square foot Nobu restaurant will occupy the ground level retail space and feature both indoor and outdoor bar and lounge space along Randolph Street. The first Nobu restaurant opened in New York in 1993 and is among the most popular of the 10 locations, along with Malibu, CA. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa says his team will be using all local ingredients. His fresh take on upscale Japanese fare grabbed the attention of actor, Robert De Niro, who became an investor in Nobu Chicago.
The West Loop is eagerly awaiting the completion of the Nobu hotel. Its as if the three years of delays and a change of developer and ownership have only increased the buzz and anticipation of this new hot-spot-to-be.
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Looking for new construction apartments in the heart of West Loop? Union West offers a prime location on Washington Boulevard. Residents love that the calm of Washington Blvd is sandwiched between the lively Restaurant Row strip on Randolph to the north and coffee-shop lined Madison Street to the south. Union West is also adjacent to neighborhood gem, Mary Bartelme park, where West Loop residents flock for the Green City farmers market, yoga in the park, movies in the park, and more! Union West is also just two blocks from the Morgan CTA L station to the Loop as well as a few blocks from the Metra and Amtrak stations.
Enjoy amenities galore at Union West apartments. Conveniences like on-site pet amenities, bike amenities, 24 hour package receiving, electric car charging stations, co-working space with conference rooms, high speed internet, and printing, and the fact that you can access the rooftop fitness center 24/7, make living in this West Loop community a little simpler for anyone with an on-the-go lifestyle. However, when you’re looking to ick back and relax, there are plenty of spaces to entertain yourself or guests. The multiple outdoor terraces are complete with fire pits, an outdoor pool with cabanas, lounge furniture, and grill stations.
In the winter, head to the yoga and spin studios, one of several resident lounges, or the aqua lounge for indoor entertainment. From the warming drawers in the private dining room to the steam room and sauna in the spa area, no detail was spared.
Each apartment comes equipped with a full sized washer and dryer in unit, Nest thermostat, high ceilings, USB charging ports, premium finishes, hard surface flooring throughout, rain shower heads, walk-in closets, and Whirlpool appliances, with floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies and terraces, concrete flooring, and quartz or granite countertops in select units.
Pictures Courtesy of Union West Apartments
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Enjoy your last few weekends of Chicago summer with these unique Gold Coast brunch spots!
Somerset
This gem is hidden in plain sight on the first floor of the Viceroy hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Somerset is a Boka Group concept with a focus on American cuisine. Ever seen oysters and pop tarts on the same menu? The eclectic brunch spread at Somerset includes the best of breakfast, like benedicts, avocado toast, and skillets, lunch favorites like burgers and salads, as well as a great selection of pastries. Click here to see a brunch menu.
Courtesy of Somerset Chicago
Margeaux Brasserie
James Beard award winning chef, Michael Mina, brings this 1920s inspired Parisian concept to the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Meargeaux Brasserie offers locally sourced ingredients and a rotating selection of French cocktails. The brunch menu features classic French favorites like escargot, croque madame crepes, and a rotating quiche of the day, as well as an extensive seafood selection. The tin ceilings, dark leather booths, live jazz trio, and pewter topped bar contribute to the charming ambiance.
Tomato Tarte Tatin, Courtesy of Matt Haas
3 Arts Club Cafe
This posh brunch spot is a garden courtyard located inside Restoration Hardware offering brunch, dinner, wine, and coffee selections. Exposed brick, lavish chandeliers, manicured greenery, and of course, signature RH accents give 3 Arts Club Cafe its upscale atmosphere.
Blue Door Kitchen and Cafe
Blue Door Kitchen offers farm to table fare with a seasonal menu. The brunch menu has a New Orleans flare with classic dishes like beignets, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, andouille eggs and hash, and chicken and waffles. Locals love the quiet but spacious patio for al Fresca dining in the summer and fall.
Courtesy of OpenTable
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Chicago, perhaps more than any other major urban metropolis, is a city of neighborhoods, each a unique flavor.
Viewed for generations as a largely ethnic mosaic, these neighborhoods still dance to different beats — but now it is culture by choice. Every Chicago neighborhood has distinct architecture, its go-to outdoor activities, its brand of dining and drinking. Whether you favor taverns or tea rooms, fine dining or funky diners, indie rock or opera, Chicago has a neighborhood for you.
There is never a shortage of things to do in Wicker Park, Chicago. This venerably chic community has been a go-to destination since the 1980s, where cheaper rents could be found. It checks more boxes than most. Here’s a short list of some of the top Wicker Park attractions:
When “park” is part of the name, going to them ought to be among the best things to do in Wicker Park‚ and it is.
If you can find The Violet Hour, a devilishly discreet cocktail lounge, it’ll sizzle your swizzle with pre-prohibition libations. In addition to lining up the music acts at the wildly popular Wicker Park Fest each July, the brilliant minds behind Subterranean are busy programming their divine dive with rock, hip-hop, reggae and rap acts. The UP Room is a rooftop lounge atop the tallest building in the area, the Robey Chicago hotel, and offers spectacular views from the intimate indoor bar and terrace.
Dining spots sample tastes from around the globe, including Filipino (CEBU), Costa Rican (Irazu), Southern (Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods, The Delta) and something called New Haven-style pizza (Piece). The veggie-centric are nibbling at Clever Rabbit. The adventurous never fail to find the Michelin-anointed molecular madness at Schwa.
Yes, there are major retailers along Milwaukee Avenue, but for those who appreciate urban exploration, among the best Wicker Park things to do is discover the hidden gems of its bounty of boutiques.
The Midwest’s only women-specific bike shop, BFF Bikes, makes its home in Wicker Park; as does Myopic Books®, a home to poetry nights, concerts and 80,000 used books. Asrai Garden has been wowing locals with floral arrangements, hand-crafted jewelry and exclusive apothecary items since 1999. Fashion fans flock to p.45, known for carefully curated collections of famous and emerging designers.
You can put all these Wicker Park, Chicago things to do at your doorstep quickly and with confidence. Browse apartments or penthouses for rent and call us today.
You can put all these activities at your doorstep quickly and with confidence.
Artists and professionals — lured west by cheaper rents than could be found in Lincoln Park and Old Town — made Wicker Park a bohemian-chic hot spot in the 1980s. Its trendiness was firmly entrenched when MTV filmed a season of “The Real World” there in 2001. Many of this neighborhood’s shops and hangouts feature prominently in the current Netflix series, “Easy,” a low-key comedic love letter to Chicago’s coolest locales.
If you’re looking into Chicago living, the search has to include Wicker Park’s hip array of vintage single-family homes, funky apartments and modern lofts — especially if you’re into checking out what’s new and unique in a neighborhood of enterprises that value small pleasures and independent treasures.
Here are some of the reasons that Wicker Park is a great neighborhood:
Wicker Park is either the place to be or place to be-adjacent. It’s ranked as one of the fifth-most-walkable neighborhoods in the city — due to its fantastic layout for public transportation and biking.
Wicker Park is surrounded by equally on-trend enclaves such as Bucktown, Logan Square, Ukrainian Village, Humboldt Park and Old Town. The 606, a percolating recreational trail, contributes to the walkability and bike-friendliness of the neighborhood. Two Blue Line stations provide easy access to Chicago’s “L” trains. North Avenue grants instant access to I-90, which could have you enjoying lakefront dining in 90 minutes — in Kenosha, Wisconsin or New Buffalo, Michigan.
The Wicker Park Historic District — surrounding the triangular public park that neighborhood developers Charles and Joel Wicker donated to the city in 1870 — was designated a Chicago Landmark in 1991.
Hoyne Avenue — known as Beer Baron Row for its large number of opulent homes built by brewery owners, and Pierce Avenue, in particular — offer some of the city’s best examples of late 19th- and early 20th-century Victorian architecture.
The 606 is, at 2.7 miles, the longest converted greenway from a former elevated rail line in the United States. It has 12 access points, including four along Wicker Park’s northern border, and bubbles with permanent and temporary artworks and performance spaces.
The park for which the neighborhood is named is nearly 5 acres and features a fieldhouse, a children’s playground with an interactive water feature, ornamental community gardens, a dog-friendly area, a baseball field, basketball courts, and a field used for soccer and football.
In a city full of festivals, Wicker Park Fest is an annual standout. The longest street fest in the city — occupying more than a half-mile of Milwaukee Avenue between North and Ashland Avenues — this three-day July bash features 50-plus bands, interactive art installations and 100-plus vendors.
Wicker Park embraces the boutique culture. Though Milwaukee Avenue has a big box or two, this is a place where, among many other options, you can find:
Big Star will cure your craving for elevated takes on Mexican street food. Whether it’s a deconstructed lobster roll or chocolate tower French toast, Bongo Room has you covered for brunch.
Small Cheval’s menu is limited to insanely good burgers, fries, shakes and cocktails. The Violet Hour, a proudly pretentious cocktail lounge, doesn’t allow cellphones or baseball hats, but will dazzle you with its pre-prohibition-style libations. Rock out at Subterranean.
Ten Chicago Public Schools are in the Wicker Park/Bucktown area, along with seven private schools. You can start here sharing an apartment and grow into a homeowner.
If you’ve decided the “where” is Wicker Park, let us help you with the “when.” Contact us today. We’ll find the perfect place in no time.
Urban bustle? Check. Character and charm? Check. Entertainment options? Dining to please any palate? Check, check and check.
Anyone considering a move to Chicago would do well to investigate Lakeview, a neighborhood that pulses with energy and offers apartment hunters anything from vintage charmers to modern loft and condo spaces.
Here are some of the reasons that Lakeview is a great neighborhood to live in:
Not many spots in the city are better situated for access to all the things that make Chicago great. Lakeview is five miles north of the Loop. It hugs the most beautiful portions of the lakefront and a big chunk of Lincoln Park. O’Hare International Airport is only 30 minutes away. In a little more than an hour, you can be in Wisconsin or beaching it at Indiana Dunes National Park. And if you don’t want to use a car, you can access the CTA’s Red, Brown and Purple lines — plus a handful of bus routes.
The Great Chicago Fire in 1871 destroyed much of the city, leaving roughly a third of its residents homeless. Lakeview, established in the 1850s, lies north of the fire’s footprint and thus has some of the city’s oldest architecture.
Beyond its charming collection of frame Victorian, brownstone and greystone housing, notable Lakeview structures include:
Proximity to Lake Michigan is what gives Lakeview its name. A healthy segment of the Lakefront Trail — an 18-mile bike and pedestrian path — goes through the neighborhood, while Belmont Harbor gives you a local spot to dock your boat and Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course a place to tee it up.
Lincoln Park, with its zoo, conservatory, abundance of public art and more, juts into the neighborhood at its southeast corner.
At the northern border lies Graceland Cemetery and Arboretum, an oasis of striking landscapes and stunning memorial architecture that was founded in 1860. Lincoln Park landscaper Swain Nelson had a hand in laying out the grounds. This amazing retreat from the surrounding urban bustle is the final resting place of such Chicago luminaries as Marshall Field, Cyrus McCormick and George Pullman.
Rock out at Metro. Enjoy the Michelin-anointed fare at Entente or Wood. Nosh your way up and down the Southport corridor from Coalfire (pizza) to Ella Elli (fine dining) to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Dance the night away in the LGBT community’s Midwest epicenter, Boystown, at Sidetrack, or get at Berlin. All tastes are catered to in Lakeview.
In this neighborhood, strollers are common. People flock to Lakeview’s western environs. Nearby Walter Payton College Preparatory High School is one of the jewels of the Chicago Public School system, as is Hawthorne Scholastic Academy.
Once you’ve decided Lakeview is going to be your neighborhood, you’ll want to find the residence that’s just right for you. Contact us today. We’ll be happy to help you find that perfect room with a (Lake)view.
Uncommon is one of South Loop’s newest luxury rental buildings. The pet friendly boutique building consists of 43 loft-style apartments including studios, junior 1 beds, 1 beds, and 2 beds.
Each luxury rental features stainless steel, efficient appliances including a full-sized in-unit washer and dryer, a microwave, window coverings, air conditioning, and a dishwasher. Each kitchen has espresso cabinetry and white quartz counter tops, accented with the mosaic tile backsplash. These South Loop apartments also feature high ceilings and extra storage space.
Uncommon also features convenient amenities for residents including an on-site fitness center with free weights, high speed internet, a media room, outdoor space, resident lounge, pet washing station, and package receiving.
Residents will enjoy the wide selection of nearby grocery stores, the weekend farmer’s market down the street, proximity to Museum Campus and McCormick Place, and the easy access to both lakeshore drive and public transportation.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Historic charm and chic modern style converge at The Alfred, one of the newest luxury apartment buildings in the Loop. It was originally built in 1924 and known as the Hartman Building prior to its conversion into 176 rentals.
The high-rise features studio, junior 1 bed, 1 bed, and 2 bed apartments. Each apartment comes equipped with an in-unit washer and dryer, vaulted ceilings, and spa-inspired showers.
Each kitchen features subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and open shelving.
Although each interior is newly renovated, the building has retained its charm. Units on the third floor feature historic Chicago-style windows and the original hardwood floors with herringbone pattern and inlays. All other apartments feature poured concrete flooring.
The Alfred also features a spacious rooftop lounge and terrace, the design of which was inspired by local artists and architects. Heritage Outpost coffee shop is on-site, with convenient access for residents at The Alfred.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Travel often? The blue line is usually the fastest and most cost effective way to go between O’Hare International Airport and downtown Chicago. The blue line will take you directly inside the airport from any blue line station with zero time spent sitting in traffic! These luxury rental buildings offer studio, convertible, one, two, three, and four bedroom apartments just steps off the blue line. If you’re looking for convenient access to O’Hare, these apartments may be for you!
Property 115- Grand/Milwaukee Time to O’Hare: 38 min
River West rental building 115 is in a prime location– under a block from the blue line and Starbucks, three blocks from Jewel Osco grocery, and surrounded by restaurants and nightlife. The soft-loft interiors create a modern but homey atmosphere.
Although this apartment building is in a lively location, the tranquil amenity deck is a great place to relax.
Property 55- Huron/Milwaukee Time to O’Hare: 34 min
River West property 55 is perfect if you’re looking for maximum space and storage. The convertible layouts are larger than a typical 1 bed and even have large balconies and a walk-in closet. Residents have an option of darker or lighter kitchen finish packages and all units offer plenty of counter space, 10-12 foot high ceilings, and in-unit laundry. Relax by the fire pit or take a stroll down this tree-lined residential block. Pets also love the on-site dog run!
Property 111- State/Lake Time to O’Hare: 43 min
In the thick of Chicago winter you’ll be glad you live at Loop property 111! Residents can access both blue and red line trains directly from their building. Since the blue line takes you directly inside the airport, that means you could (in theory) go from your apartment to any spot on the Earth without going outside! Take in skyline views from one of four expansive terraces or the 38th floor observation deck.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near O’Hare International Airport and the blue line? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Whether you’re going to be living with multiple occupants, need extra home-office space, or plan on making one of the 4 bedrooms into a custom shoe closet, you won’t have to compromise on space in these 4 bedroom luxury apartments! Enjoy modern elegance and state-of-the-art amenities in any one of these brand new luxury rentals.
Streeterville: 4 Bedroom, 4.5 Bathroom, Corner Unit With Terrace- $22,400/Month
If you’re looking for classic elegance in a brand new building, this property may be the right place for you. Just beyond this grand apartment’s large foyer is an open-style kitchen with custom cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, dark, quartz waterfall countertops, and a wine fridge. Enjoy separation with the formal living room, dedicated dining room space, and large entertainment den. Take in sprawling views of the lake and skyline from the spacious, outdoor terrace or from the living space which offers north, east, and southern exposure. The walk-in laundry room with front-loading washer and dryer, roller shades, and six customized closets are other favorite features of this Streeterville apartment.
South Loop: 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, With Balcony $12,070/Month
Stuck choosing between a penthouse or a townhouse? Why not have both in the same unit! This South Loop 4 bedroom apartment is located on the 54th floor so you can be perched in the skyline while enjoying expansive views from your spacious balcony. It also has a two-story townhouse-style floor plan, creating a true “home” feel and plenty of separation. Relax outside your apartment without leaving the building in one of many amenity spaces, including the unique winter garden.
Gold Coast: 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, With Balcony $13,241
No detail was spared in this Gold Coast 4 bedroom penthouse. Kitchens, inspired by designer Mick De Giulio, feature quartz countertops, soft-close cabinetry, marbled porcelain backsplash, and a stainless steel island range hood. Walk-in closets come ready-to-use with built-in organizer systems. The large, open concept living space features high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, NEST thermostat, and private balcony. This Gold Coast property is in a prime location with a major grocery store, nightlife, restaurants, and plenty of green space all within two blocks.
Looking for luxury 4 bedroom apartments for rent near Downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Are you and your pet moving to West Loop? Find the perfect place for you and your furry friend to call home when you check out a pet friendly studio apartment from our list below!
Property 76-Lake/Halsted
Looking for a pet friendly studio apartment in the most convenient location imaginable? Look no further! This West Loop apartment building is located in the heart of Fulton Market just steps from nightlife, shops, and conveniences. Residents even have a controlled access direct walkway to Jewel Osco grocery store. This rental is near multiple transit options just off the highway, blue line train to the Loop and O’Hare Airport, and Metro from Union station so however you commute, it’ll be a breeze. Enjoy in-unit laundry and concierge housekeeping service at this West Loop high-rise!
Right now, this property is offering 1 month free on a 12 month lease, bringing the net effective price for a studio down to $1573 per month!
Property 36- Madison/Canal
If space and storage are most important to you in a pet friendly apartment, this studio layout at property 36 may be the right fit for you! At nearly 600 square feet with four closets, an entryway, and enclosed kitchen, this studio layout offers a more spacious feel than most one bedroom apartments. This building offers shared on-site laundry.
This spacious studio layout starts at $1555 per month!
Property 1- Lake/Canal
Pet friendly studios with balconies are rare gems! At this Fulton District apartment building, you’ll get plenty of natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows that lead to your balcony. This unit has in-unit laundry and a newly upgraded kitchen! Current pricing for this layout starts at $2029.
Looking for pet friendly studio apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Of course you’re thinking about moving to Chicago. It’s one of the world’s great cities.
With its glorious lakefront, year-round pro sports, thriving music and theater scenes, iconic architecture and more, Chicago makes it nearly impossible for a newcomer to go wrong when lining up a place to live in a bustling luxury real estate market. But there are varying degrees of right, and finding the perfect place for you in Chicago is mostly a matter of prioritizing its many pluses.
Here is a guide to the various vibes that characterize Chicago’s best neighborhoods:
Craving culture?: The Loop and neighboring South Loop offer some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, Grant Park and Millennium Park — and lining up a high-rise space in either neighborhood will put you steps from a downtown office job. You’ll also be steps from Lyric Opera, the Theater District, Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum Campus — featuring Field Museum of Natural History, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium — plus Harold Washington Library (Chicago’s main library branch) and Chicago Cultural Center.
Mighty neighborly: If sitting on the stoop in front of your gorgeous brownstone on a narrow, tree-lined street fits your image of urban life, consider Old Town or neighboring Lincoln Park. Beloved, long-running street fairs such as the Old Town Art Fair, Wells Street Art Fair and Sheffield Garden Walk dot the social calendar. Zoo Lights even make winter nights wonderful at Lincoln Park Zoo. Great pubs, blues and comedy clubs let you rip it up even when you’re dressing down.
Luxe life: Covering the roughly two miles between the south edge of Lincoln Park and the north border of Millennium Park, Gold Coast, Streeterville and Lakeshore East define Chicago’s poshest populations. In these neighborhoods, day-to-day life includes shopping the glam boutiques of Oak Street and the Mag Mile, taking high tea at The Drake, and mixing with the tourists flocking to Navy Pier and the Bean. Gold Coast is home to Chicago’s oldest lakefront mansions and most iconic luxury high-rises, Streeterville has residents looming over Navy Pier, and Lakeshore East is a booming development of glitzy new towers tucked on the south side of the Chicago River at Lake Michigan.
Cutting edge: River North is what happens when an artists’ colony grows up — great galleries and inventive dining vie for attention from loft-dwelling denizens, many of whom make their living in the area’s design and production companies. West Loop, revived from a former warehouse district, is newer, a bit grittier and every bit as hip and artsy as its chic older sibling. From your home base in either neighborhood, you’re likely to grab drinks by the river and dinner on Randolph Street’s restaurant row. Living here, you’ll get the feeling these neighborhoods are no more than five minutes from everything — and for the most part, you’d be right.
Whether you’re a Bears or White Sox fan looking for a spot in the South Loop, a Cubs fan longing for a place in Lincoln Park, a Bulls or Blackhawks fan hoping to land in the West Loop, or just a fan of fine living, Downtown Apartment Company is the ultimate resource for finding the right apartment in the right neighborhood. Call us now.
What’s better than summertime in Chicago? Summertime weekends in Chicago! If you’re looking for things to do near you this weekend, check out this list of action-packed activities!
Cirque de Soleil: Volta
Cirque de Soleil’s newest show is centered around a game show host who is on a quest for self-discovery. The show incorporates popular elements of extreme sports including BMX and aerial acrobatics. Volta runs 2 hours 15 minutes and opens May 18th at Soldier Field. Click here for tickets!
Chicago Critic’s Film Festival
The seventh annual Chicago Critic’s Film Festival will take place May 17th through 23rd at the Music Box Theatre. A few highlights include a fortieth anniversary screening of Alien, which Tom Skerritt is scheduled to attend, Yesterday, a film about a struggling musician who finds out he is the only person with any memory of the Beatles, The Farewell, a hit from Sundance Film Festival, written and directed by Lulu Wang who is also scheduled to attend, and Light From Light, starring Paul Harrill and Jim Gaffigan, both of whom are also scheduled to attend the event.
May Fest
Kick off the Chicago summer festival season with Lakeview’s 24th annual Mayfest. Enjoy live music, entertainment, Bloody Marys, and festival food rain or shine. Sixteen Candles, Seventh Heaven, The Boy Band Night, and Mr. Blotto will be headlining. Chicago Mayfest will be held May 17th through 19th at Ashland and Barry. Tickets are $10 and available for purchase ahead of time or at the gate.
Run a 5K
Are you a runner who likes glow sticks or meat? Take your pick this weekend at the themed Night Nation and Italian Beef 5K runs.
Get your glow on and dance the night away! The Night Nation 5K will be held on Saturday, May 18th at Soldier Field. Gates open at 5:30pm with the first DJ coming on stage at 6:30pm and the race beginning at 8pm, followed by the main stage afterparty.
The Italian Beef 5K will be at 9am on May 18th at Montrose Harbor and will benefit JDRF, a non-profit which funds research for type 1 diabetes. Participants will receive an Italian beef sandwich at the finish line.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
With seven new luxury rental developments within the past year, Printer’s Row has quickly become one of Chicago’s hottest residential neighborhoods. All this new inventory means a competitive market (read: great deals!) Here are some of our top picks this week near Printer’s Row.
Property 166– 1 Bedroom Apartment
$2063 Net Effective ($2250 + 1 month free)
It’s easy to see why this building, which has only been open three weeks, is already leasing up quickly. Amenities include a resort-style pool with cabanas, spa with a steam room, sauna, and indoor hot tub, a whole floor of co-working space with private conference rooms and phone call booths, pet amenities, 47th floor fitness amenities, and multiple other indoor and outdoor resident common areas. Resident conveniences include a coffee bar, away-from-home services, package receiving, 24-hour concierge, resident events, car charging stations, and rental bikes.
Residence features include Whirlpool stainless appliances, full-sized washer and dryer, floor-to-ceiling windows, quartz countertops, massive walk-in closets with built-in organizer systems, tile backsplash, smart outlets, Nest thermostats, and each unit is equipped with the IOTAS smart home system.
Property 158- Studio Apartment
$1463 Net Effective ($1585 + 1 month free on a 13 month lease)
Between the stunning, condo-like finishes, thoughtful layouts, lake views, and state-of-the-art amenities, this studio apartment is an outstanding value. Unwind by the fire pits, in the salt sauna, movie theatre, or in a poolside cabana.
The fitness center is top-notch, complete with HOIST premium equipment, half basketball court, and an indoor-outdoor yoga studio with complementary classes.
This studio apartment layout offers great separation between the kitchen and living areas with plenty of room for a breakfast nook or high top table. All units have stainless appliances, mosaic backsplashes, in-unit laundry, gas stove ranges, and white European cabinetry.
Property 164- 3 Bedroom Apartment, $6590
This new Printer’s Row high-rise offers over 70,000 square feet of amenities– 10,000 of which are allocated to the outdoor sundeck and resort-style pool area. Looking to go for a swim year round? This building also has an indoor pool adjacent to the steam room and sauna. The fitness center is home to a full-sized boxing ring, basketball and squash courts, yoga and Peloton studios with group classes, in addition to standard cardio and weight training gym equipment. Entertain by the fire pits, the terrace overlooking Grant Park, golf simulator, or one of multiple other indoor or outdoor resident spaces.
This 3 bedroom, 3 and a half bathroom comes in just over 1,800 square feet with a spacious terrace to take in unobstructed views of the Chicago skyline.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near Printer’s Row? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Rich with important and adventurous architecture, big shouldering against a truly great lake, embracing greenspace and public art like few big cities do, Chicago is home to dazzling views at seemingly every intersection. It is also home to world-class dining. But which restaurants best blend Chicago’s food scene with the scenery?
Here’s our list:
Aba (302 N. Green St.) — This West Loop newcomer is a Lettuce Entertain You enterprise with a Mediterranean bent. Since Day 1, its enormous, greenery-filled rooftop patio has been a bustling and decidedly casual drawing card for its views of the Fulton Market District and the skyscrapers beyond.
Caffè Oliva (500 E. Grand Ave.) — Stick your toes in the sand at this seasonal, resort-style shack resting on Streeterville’s Ohio Street Beach. The views of the lake and skyline are stunning, and the vibe is full-on beach party. You can even rent cabanas while enjoying Mediterranean fare, burgers, beer bucket specials and more.
Cindy’s (12 S. Michigan Ave.) — The rooftop patio of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, 13 floors above Millennium Park in the Loop, might have the best views in the city. And the setting is spectacular — vaulted steel, glass ceilings and open-air seating atop an 1893 Venetian Gothic landmark that was for 122 years a private men’s club. The food is elevated American fare, often paired with organic wines and craft cocktails, but the atmosphere is decidedly unstuffy.
Cité (505 N. Lakeshore Drive) — From the 70th floor of Lake Point Tower, the only residential tower on the lake side of Lakeshore Drive, Cité diners get unparalleled, panoramic views of the lake and skyline. The menu leans toward French-inspired takes on American cuisine, and the ambiance is first-tier elegance. Definitely a place for the most important meals (and people) in your life.
Everest (425 S. Financial Place) — A private elevator to the 40th floor of the Exchange Building whisks diners to this Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of the Loop’s financial district. Commodities traders don’t even need to leave their office building to sample the amazing views and French cuisine proffered by Everest for more than 30 years.
The J. Parker (1816 N. Clark) — On the 13th floor of the Hotel Lincoln, where Lincoln Park meets Old Town, the J. Parker boasts 140 outdoor and 55 indoor seats. It has a retractable roof to ward off the occasionally fickle Chicago weather. The crowd tends to be young and casual. The food selection emphasizes small plates with creative takes on familiar fare.
North Pond (2610 N. Cannon Drive) — You don’t always have to scale the heights for incredible views. North Pond is on the edge of a pond in Lincoln Park where flora and fauna create a quiet remove from the bustle while the beautiful Chicago skyline remains within your gaze. The restaurant, built in 1912 as a warming center for ice skaters, has been reimagined in the Arts and Crafts image. The food, earning recognition from Michelin and the James Beard Foundation, emphasizes contemporary, seasonal fine dining.
River Roast Social House (315 N. LaSalle St.) — This River North spot has an amazing elevated patio hugging the north side of the Chicago River and affording not only views of this very active waterway, but many soaring structures and the percolating Riverwalk on the opposite bank. James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Mantuano’s contemporary American tavern fare — roasted and carved tableside — draws crowds for lunch, brunch and dinner. You can even get there via water taxi.
The Signature Room (875 N. Michigan Ave.) — On the 95th floor of what was formerly known as the John Hancock Center, The Signature Room takes you to the highest level of Chicago dining — literally. The views are jaw-dropping. The vibe is luxe, so you’ll want to dress up for this meal. The food is classic fine dining — oysters on the half shell, shrimp de Jonghe, rack of lamb, surf and turf. A bucket-list Chicago venue.
Terzo Piano (159 E. Monroe St.) — Stunning visuals are to be expected at the Art Institute of Chicago — and Terzo Piano is a sleek accompaniment to the museum’s Modern Wing. This Loop space is on the third floor of the wing designed by architect Renzo Piano, and can be accessed by a pedestrian bridge from neighboring Millennium Park. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner on Thursday and Sunday brunch, expect sophisticated renditions of Italian favorites.
These restaurants take advantage of Chicago’s world-class scenery. Downtown Apartment Company can help you find a place to live near any of them. Contact us and speak to an agent today!
The Mason West Loop luxury apartments are now leasing! This brand new high rise at Lake and Ada St, developed by Sterling Bay and Marquette Companies, combines the industrial charm of West Loop with contemporary finishes and state-of-the-art amenities.
Choose between a variety of studio, convertible, 1-bed, 2-bed, and 3-bed layouts, all of which offer in-unit laundry, wide-plank flooring, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, and blackout roller shades. Some units also feature kitchen islands, built-in “tech shelves” with USB custom outlets, and private balconies.
Entertain at The Mason in the private rooftop dining room, the resort style pool with cabanas, sundeck, and bocce court, the indoor aqua lounge, rooftop sky lounge and game room, or the outdoor rooftop deck complete with a fireplace, fire pits TVs, grills, and lounge space. Residents enjoy 24/7 conveniences such as Luxer One package receiving, door staff, an expansive fitness center with cardio, strength, yoga, and CrossFit equipment, covered dog run and wash, and an expansive bike storage and repair station. With its multiple dedicated co-working spaces and conference rooms, The Mason is also perfect for working from home.
The most unique amenity of all? The Mason residents will have access to an onsite restaurant and bar, which is only open to the public during select hours.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Although The Smith is new to River North and Chicago, it has been a beloved New York favorite since 2007 when it opened its first location in the East Village.
This farm-to-table restaurant features an eclectic menu with seasonal dishes and innovative craft cocktails and serves over 1 million people annually. Enjoy tapas, a raw seafood bar, fresh takes on avocado toast, Italian, Korean, and Japanese dishes, and steakhouse fare—all with the same menu. For friends who can’t agree on where to dine, this spot will become a surefire go-to.
Hours most days are 7:30am to midnight and breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner menus are offered over the course of the day. In theory, you never have to dine anywhere else.
The Smith seems to place a strong emphasis on the importance of its culture. Its core values, mission statement, and story have a major presence on their website.
If The Smith’s current popularity is any indication of its reception in the River North neighborhood, we’re feeling optimistic. The Smith currently has six existing locations, four of which are regularly in the top ten “Most Reserved” restuarants on OpenTable.
The Smith Chicago is slated to open in River North the last week of April at 400 N. Clark St.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near all your favorite River North restaurants? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
While most apartment prices are gradually increasing as it gets closer to summer, these buildings’ prices just dropped! Check out this week’s spotlight deals and take a look this weekend!
Starting Rent: $1594
The Fulton River District is nestled between three major neighborhoods, equidistant from River North, the Loop, and West Loop, and is therefore considered by many to be the most convenient location for downtown living. This Fulton District studio is two blocks from the Loop, one block from West Loop, and two blocks from River North, as well as just a few blocks from CTA pink, green, blue, purple, and brown lines and the Metra trains.
This rare gem studio apartment features a balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows for taking in captivating city views as well as in-unit laundry and an expansive fitness center.
Starting Rent: $1780 + 1 month free ($1632 Net Effective)
Brand new South Loop high rise #167 is getting a running start into pre-leasing with burning hot pricing and specials. This brand new two-tower development offers all the space, quality, and intimacy of a condo building with the amenities, conveniences, and flexibility of a rental. Although each floor plan is unique, every unit features in-unit laundry, hardwood floors, and modern finishes.
See the gallery at the bottom of the post for more photos of this stunning new rental!
Starting Rent: $2410
The West Loop neighborhood is in high demand. Snag a spacious 2 bedroom unit with hardwood floors and great closet space just off Restaurant Row on Randolph, blocks to the Loop, and in close proximity to multiple transit lines and grocery stores!
Starting Rent: $5450
Looking for amenities and contemporary finishes in Lincoln Park? Look no further! Enjoy the tranquil charm of living on a tree-lined Lincoln Park street with the best of downtown high rise living. This brand new 3 bedroom features in-unit laundry, state-of-the-art appliances and finishes, and relaxing amenity space.
Want to hear more about Chicago rental deals? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago is known for being a tremendously lively city. There’s never a shortage on things to do on any given weekend in Chicago. Here are a few of our top picks of things to do this weekend.
This Friday watch the Blackhawks, currently ranked 7thin the Central division, play the Dallas Stars, currently ranked 4th, at the United Center. The game starts at 7:30 and tickets are available starting from $36.
Saturdays and Sundays at 4pm, check out the greatest sketches performed by Second City’s Touring Company. The troupe is well known for jump-starting the careers of a long list of well known comedians including Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Stephen Colbert.
Catch the 90-minute show this weekend at 1616 North Wells St in Old Town.
Get your tickets in advance here.
Enjoy all things bacon as well as a wide variety of cocktails and beer at Chicago Bacon Fest this weekend. Enjoy creations from an eclectic selection of over 100 top Chicago restaurants including Split-Rail, the Duck Inn, the Dawson, NoMI, Ruin Daily, Honey Butter Chicken, Fig and Olive, Batter and Berries, and many more! Click here for a complete list.
All proceeds benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
The event runs April 5thand 6that 725 West Roosevelt Rd, between Halsted St and Union Ave.
Get your tickets in advance here.
Feeling crafty? Discover over 90 emerging brands and craft makers at the Chicago Market for Makers. Enjoy unique photo walls, live music, crafting stations, and food trucks. Click here
to get your tickets . Parking is free for attendees!
The event runs April 6th and 7th at 4325 North Ravenswood Ave.
The South Loop frames Chicago at its most beautiful. It borders a large swath of Grant Park (known as Chicago’s front yard), extends from iconic Buckingham Fountain to McCormick Place, and touches the Museum Campus and dazzling Northerly Island.
Date night in this stunning setting can be a simple stroll on Michigan Avenue, moshing at Lollapalooza or catching the NCAA tourney perennial DePaul women’s team at Wintrust Arena. Fine dining, axe throwing, escape rooms, tradition-rich and cutting-edge music venues, historic hotels, and cultural exploration are all included on our list of 10 date night ideas:
Many of the South Loop’s former commercial and manufacturing spaces have been converted for other uses. One such area is the Motor Row District. between 14th and 24th streets along Michigan Avenue. This is where, among the lofts taking residence where Chicago’s earliest car dealerships once flourished, two microbreweries have established roots. Vice District Brewing, specializing in fresh craft ales, is especially micro with its intimate taproom at 14th and Michigan. Motor Row Brewing, at 23rd and Michigan, is a bit bigger, favoring live blues over Vice’s collection of board games. At both, dogs are welcome and you can bring your own food.Among the many joys of life in the South Loop is that it easily affords access to so many experiences — the Lakefront Trail; all manner of shows at McCormick Place; quick visits to neighboring gems such as Chinatown, Little Italy, Latin-laced Pilsen and Greektown. All you really need for a great date night is someone with whom to share the adventure.
If you know you want outdoor space but don’t need much indoor space, a studio apartment with a balcony could be the right option for you. However, layouts like that are rare finds. Luckily, we have a few options that could be the perfect fit!
River North
Property 26 – $2123/month
At 690 square feet, this River North studio is more spacious than most one bedroom apartments in the area. It features floor to ceiling windows, stainless appliances, an in-unit washer and dryer, granite countertops, ample closet and storage space, and stainless appliances.
Fitness fiends will love the amenities– which include a spacious fitness center with lots of free weights, a lap pool, basketball court, saunas, and last but not least, an outdoor running track.
Property 67- $1670/month
Oversized closets, 24-hour concierge, and the club-like amenities are favorites at these River North apartments. Having company? This building offers a guest suite residents can reserve for out of towners.
This River North studio apartment with a balcony is in a prime location. Step out your door into one of the liveliest areas for dining and nightlife. You’ll be less than a block from Whole Foods grocery store and the red line subway.
Property 10- $1755
The finishes and appliances at property 10 are sure show stoppers. Come for the all-glass balcony but stay for the bamboo wood flooring, built-in wine rack, 9-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, in-unit laundry, and stainless Whirlpool appliances.
If you’re looking to take in stunning city views in a space a little larger than your balcony, head up to the rooftop pool, which will make you feel like you’re at the chicest of boutique resorts. Residents love the many conveniences this River North high-rise offers, including private wine storage lockers and zip cars.
Looking for a studio apartment with a balcony for rent near River North? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Wondering about the best time to sell your home or condo in Chicago? Here are the three main factors to consider:
Courtesy of Crains Chicago
1. Demand
Although there has been a lot of new inventory on the market, absorption has been high as well. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand for luxury inventory” says Adam Valentino, a DRC real estate broker who specializes in luxury condos in the downtown area.
About 5,000 new luxury units were delivered in 2017, but downtown Chicago added 19,448 new workers, according to Integra.
Given the amount of demand for new inventory buyers and renters are more likely to make quick decisions about taking a unit off the market. “Although there is a lot of new inventory being built, it is paralleled by the number of buyers looking for it” says Valentino.
2. Rising Interest Rates
A trend of rising interest rates contribute to high demand. When buyers expect interest rates to be higher tomorrow than they are today, they are more likely to be decisive rather than waiting to buy.
3. Personal Goals
Determining the best time to sell your home is very personally specific. It will greatly depend on your personal goals and your specific home. Although it may be prudent to hold on to property longer in certain areas, it may be more advantageous to sell sooner rather than later in some Chicago sub-markets. If you know your personal goals will include moving within the next year, the next several months will give you the greatest likelihood at selling your home or condo quickly.
Do you have more questions about whether its the right time to sell your home? Contact us today. We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop.
For renters looking for modern finishes, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, pendant lighting, and mosaic backsplashes are the norm, but lately concrete accents have been a highly sought-after trend. Here are some modern apartments with concrete accents for rent in downtown Chicago!
Loop- Property 122
This Loop high rise has unique architectural features that make residents feel as if they are perched within the city skyline. Rather than being flush with the walls, windows protrude inches out to form creating a box-like extension which opens up 215 degrees of city and river views. The finishes include stainless appliances, matte grey and white cabinetry, dar wood-grained floorings, and white subway tile. With the exposed concrete ceilings and concrete pillars these finishes create a bold yet minimalist combination that lends itself to many different color palettes and styles of decor.
River West- Property 139
Residents love the custom features in these River West apartments. The walk-in closets with Elfa shelving, high ceilings, spacious kitchen islands, and of course, plenty of concrete accents on the walls and ceilings, really make these rentals stand out. Two-story townhomes and penthouses at this property have additional custom upgrades available.
Gold Coast- Property 100
With its prime Gold Coast location, on the cusp of River North and just blocks from Michigan Avenue, property 100 is a sure favorite. Floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooftop deck, and spacious balconies and terraces offer panoramic city views. Favorite features include the 9-foot ceilings, open-concept layouts, Whirlpool appliances, plentiful closet and storage space, and large in-unit washers and dryers. The concrete accent pillars in this clean-cut building add the perfect touch of character.
Streeterville- Property 118
Looking for boutique style apartments near Streeterville? At this contemporary building, each unit has 10 foot concrete ceilings, stainless appliances with a French door refrigerator an interior water dispenser, gas cooking, large islands with waterfall quartz countertops, soft-close cabinets, custom closets, wood plank flooring, and full-sized Whirlpool laundry machines as well as Nest thermostats. Although there aren’t many units in this building, the amenities are outfitted for a much larger building. Check out the fitness center, spacious rooftop, or dog run and spa.
Looking for apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago is one of the top cities for corporate relocations, with an average of 15,000 new jobs per year since 2013 and 20,000 new job last year alone. However, many employees say housing is a primary but overlooked issue in their relocation. Although many employees’ needs would be best suited with a rental, many human resource departments only offer assistance with purchase and sale housing transactions. If you’re relocating to Chicago for work, there are a lot of “moving” parts to consider.
Scope of Options
With 77 unique neighborhoods ranging in atmosphere, available transportation, style, and price range, it can be hard to narrow down your search. A broker can help you narrow the geographic scope of your apartment search based on your wants and needs. For instance, some areas are more convenient for dog owners, people who drive, or people who prefer to walk or take public transit. Some areas are known for being more lively and some areas are known for being quieter. Finding out which neighborhoods are best suited to your preferences can be research intensive and time consuming, especially when you have many other variables to coordinate in your move. Working with a broker who has an intimate knowledge of Chicago can save you time and energy.
Fluctuating Market
In the downtown Chicago rental market prices, availability, and concessions can change daily. It can be complicated to keep track of which buildings offer what specials under a multitude of various parameters (i.e. “2 months free on a 13 month lease if you move before the 15th or 1.5 months free on an 18 month lease if you move between the 21st and 30th”). The pricing system many managed high rise buildings use changes the pricing based on supply and demand. For instance, if there are 5 of the same layout available, the prices of all 5 will gradually decrease, but as soon as one or more is rented, the prices of the remaining apartments will significantly spike.
It’s typical for units to rent quickly, even a month before they are even vacated by the current tenant. With so many people moving at a given time, pricing and availability can be difficult to track. Brokers’ full time jobs are to know the special concessions, pricing changes, and availability at downtown Chicago buildings. By working with a broker, you won’t have to worry about keeping an eye on all these variables.
Specialization
Most brokerages specialize in either for-sale listings or rental listings, but seldom both. Leasing agents in the downtown area have intimate knowledge about each distinct Chicago neighborhood in which they have inventory. Working with a broker who is specialized in the area you’re looking in can not only help you find a great apartment deal, but can also serve as a tour guide and may know all the area’s great restaurants, salons, pet groomers, or even dentists.
Relocating to downtown Chicago for work? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Most downtown luxury apartment buildings offer top-of-the-line amenities. In a four-season city like Chicago, residents love having an indoor pool they can use year round. Looking for luxury apartments for rent with indoor pools? Check out a few of our favorite Chicago apartments with a pool below!
Property 85 offers amenities galore. Between two club-grade fitness centers, multiple levels of outdoor and rooftop terraces, a movie theatre, private dining lounge, co-working space, and more, we have to say the indoor pool area is the pièce de résistance. The indoor pool area also includes a large hot tub, steam room, and sauna. The back wall of floor-to-ceiling windows open, weather permitting, to a rooftop outdoor terrace, creating an indoor-outdoor feel. The versatile space is complete with lounge chairs, a light-up water wall, and trendy light fixtures, making it one of the most impressive Chicago apartments with an indoor pool.
Property 2 offers the best of both worlds: enjoy the spacious outdoor pool in the warmer months and the equally as spacious indoor pool year round. In addition to multiple pools, this Lakeshore East apartment building offers a plethora of other amenities and plenty of space to socialize or spread out and enjoy a moment of tranquility (80,000 square feet of amenity space, to be precise). The outdoor running track, spacious rooftop deck (that feels more like a large park), and media screening room are just a few of the additional amenities that make this downtown property feel like a resort.
River North apartment property 45‘s indoor pool area is a lower level oasis, away from the hustle and bustle of fast-paced downtown living. Between the tranquil sound of the waterfall wall, mood lighting, steam room, sauna, hot tub, and massage treatment room, a luxury spa experience is only a quick elevator ride away, anytime. Love wine as much as you love the spa? Among other amenities, property 45 also has a wine cellar and tasting room just down the hall from the indoor spa area.
Looking for luxury Chicago rentals with a pool? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Congratulations. You’ve finally scored that amazing South Loop loft near the Museum Campus, a Streeterville condo overlooking Navy Pier or the perfect Gold Coast pied-a-terre.
Now what?
Moving into a downtown area is stressful but moving more than a couple of floors above street level adds a degree of difficulty that would challenge even a seasoned relocator. Before you start packing, there are several things you should keep in mind:
A move into a downtown high-rise might be the best you’ll ever make. Soul-renewing views will be yours at a glance. Your life will be filled with sunlight. An open window will bring fresh air instead of exhaust and insects. You’ll be close to everything, yet just an elevator ride away from seclusion. And given the amenities most luxury high-rises offer, your home will be a place to truly relax and recharge rather than just another item on the to-do list.
Whichever luxe Chicago neighborhood you prefer — be it Lincoln Park, the Loop, River North or beyond — finding the high-rise apartment that fits your needs is as easy as reaching out to Downtown Apartment Company.
Chicago may be among the most bike-friendly cities in the country, but its residents embrace running as well. With a running season unofficially bookended by the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8K in March and the Chicago Marathon in October, interesting and available running trails are a year-round must for the many residents training for their big race.
Fortunately, many neighborhoods have access to lovely and lively running trails. Here are a few favorites:
Lincoln Park — At 1,188 acres, Lincoln Park offers runners a patchwork of trails that take you past or through a zoo, a stunning nature sanctuary, five playgrounds and an archery range, as well as by statues, a conservatory, a lagoon and a museum. Residents from the Gold Coast, Old Town and Lincoln Park can easily access the trails. A simple loop from the south fields, past the south lagoon, around the zoo and down Stockton Drive will put you in 5K range.
Chicago Riverwalk — Though it can be a bit crowded with pedestrians and construction on its eastward expansion is ongoing, the Riverwalk is great for a quick run through a canyon created by some of Chicago’s signature architectural achievements. Its south bank route is through Lakeshore East, and the Loop, but just across the river are Streeterville, River North and the West Loop. Out and back over its entire length — from Lake Shore Drive to the confluence of the river’s branches near Randolph Street — will get you a roughly 3-mile run. If you want to amp up the cardio, run the Michigan Avenue stairs.
Lakefront Trail — As of December 2018, what had been an 18-mile combined use trail has been divided into an 18-mile bike path and an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail. Essentially all of it is sandwiched between Lakeshore Drive and Lake Michigan, with stunning views throughout. The Lakefront Trail stretches from 71st Street on the South Side to Ardmore Avenue on the north, but the most magnificent miles might be where it skirts the South Loop. This leg takes runners past McCormick Place, Northerly Island, through the Museum Campus and along Grant Park while offering iconic skyline views.
Jackson Park/Midway Plaisance Park/Washington Park — The annual Chicago Half Marathon starts and finishes in Jackson Park, where the Lakefront Trail begins. This 500-acre eastern border of the Hyde Park neighborhood still holds remnants of the 1893 World’s Fair and is the future home of the Barack Obama Presidential Center. Runners with a love of Gothic architecture will pass natural beaches and bird sanctuaries to reach the Midway, a mile-long swath of green through the University of Chicago campus that connects to 372-acre Washington Park. This run is roughly three miles from the center of Jackson Park to the Center of Washington Park.
There are a lot of places to find luxury living in Chicago — if your definition extends only as far as the walls of the building in which you live. But being in a neighborhood that urges you to get out and break a sweat, to remain vital in a vital city, is a luxury worth prioritizing.
Looking for great deals on luxury rental apartments near downtown Chicago? Check out these spotlight deals of the week!
Studio
Rent Amount: Net $1508 ($1645 + 1 month free on a 12 month lease)
New construction alert! Between great amenities, modern finishes, in-unit laundry, and the convenient location, Property 161 has it all. This luxury apartment is located just a few blocks from Whole Foods, the CTA blue line train, and the Metra trains at Union Station. The amazing concessions include the ability to waive the move-in fee and one month free rent, which mean this West Loop studio apartment could be yours for the cost of the $50 credit check! These concessions won’t last, so click here for more pictures & details!
Convertible
Rent Amount: $1431 Net Effective ($1561 + 1 month free)
If view and square footage are your most important criteria, this apartment may be for you. We love this apartment for its abundant closet and kitchen storage space, stunning views of the river, skyline, and Lake Michigan, and convenient access to the Pedway, a subterranean system of walkways that shields pedestrians from the elements by connecting the downtown area underground.
1 Bed
Rent Amount: $1573
Looking to live in a 1 bed off Michigan Avenue for under $1600? Here’s your rare unicorn apartment! With hardwood floors, newly renovated amenities, and on-site conveniences (like valet dry-cleaning, package receiving, high-speed internet, door staff, and a resident coffee bar), this apartment is an amazing value! Pet friendly property 75 is less than a block from the John Hancock Center, two blocks from the Chicago CTA Red Line train, and three blocks from Lake Michigan’s Oak Street Beach. Name a better steal– we’ll wait.
2 Bed
Rent Amount: $2550
We love the location of this stunning 2 bed rental. Printer’s Row property 14 is located just a few blocks from multiple major grocery stores (including Jewel, Trader Joe’s, Target, and Whole Foods) as well as the CTA Red, Orange, and Green Line trains to the Loop, Northside, and Midway international airport. This pet friendly building has outstanding amenities and a club-grade fitness center. Residents love this 2 bed for its spacious balcony, reclaimed wood accents, huge bedroom closets, and “homey” feeling.
Looking for great deals on luxury apartments near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
“A convertible? Like a car with a retractable roof?”
To those in the know, renting a convertible apartment is one of the best ways to score a deal. The term, “convertible”, simply means that a layout is a hybrid of a studio and 1 bedroom layout and can refer a broad range of unit styles. Renting a convertible can be a great option if your price range doesn’t allow for a 1 bed but you want more separation than a studio would typically provide.
Some convertible apartments in Chicago have fully enclosed bedrooms with a sliding door instead of a hinged door (as you’d typically find in a traditional 1 bed). Some have four partial-height walls or have 3 1/2 walls with no door. However, some convertibles are essentially large studios with an alcove for a bed.
Here are a few of our favorite convertible studio apartments in Chicago (all of which have in-unit laundry)!
Property 85- Michigan/Lake
Property 85’s convertible made the list because we love the sliding sea glass door separating the bedroom from the living space. Although the bedroom is fully enclosed and the layout is comparable in size to a 1 bed, this layout tends to run anywhere from $150-300 less than the traditional 1 beds in this building.
Property 5- Kingsbury/Grand
Looking to be in the heart of River North without breaking the bank? Convertibles at River North property 5 have full-sized one bedrooms with wooden, sliding doors, plenty of closet space, and even an ensuite Juliette balcony. We love this layout because it offers terrific separation and is currently $450 less than a traditional 1 bed layout in this building. What a deal!
A note to pet owners: the spacious dog run (adjacent to the building’s private portion of the riverwalk) makes this building a must-see! Looking for dog friendly convertible apartments for rent in Chicago? Check out property 5!
Property 82- Illinois/Michigan
At 695 square feet, this convertible is even larger than most 1 bedroom layouts. The floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city bring in maximum natural light and add to the grandeur of the unit. The bedroom area in this floor plan has an alcove with two half-walls separating it from the living area. We love this building for its outstanding amenities and convenient location, as it provides covered access to Whole Foods and is right on the border of Gold Coast and Streeterville. The unique layout can be hard to picture, so see the floor plan below!
Why Choose a Convertible Apartment?
Choosing to rent a convertible apartment has many perks. For example, it enables you to save on rental costs while allowing you the flexibility and feel of a one-bedroom apartment. Moreover, a convertible apartment offers you privacy through defined sleeping and living spaces. Additionally, it’s small enough to make cleaning easy.
At Downtown Apartment Company, we can help you find the perfect convertible apartment that suits your needs and lifestyle. Our team stays well informed on the market and has the expertise to help you find the perfect one.
Browse our luxury apartment offerings and reach out to us today for more information!
Depending on who’s counting, a list of Chicago’s neighborhoods can number into the 200s. Come summer months, it seems as though each of them hosts a festival of some sort, defined by the local culture, commerce, cuisine — or just a desire to get outside with neighbors and invite the whole city over for a beer.
The beauty of Chicago is finding your favorites. Here are five festivals that are always among the best.
If the preceding festivals don’t pique your interest, don’t give up. Maybe Bike the Drive is more your thing, or Riot Fest or Lincoln Park Greek Fest would be more to your liking. With so many festivals in easy reach, developing your own “best of” is half the fun.
Millennium on LaSalle is a luxury apartment rental building in the Loop’s financial district and was originally built in 1902 as the National Life Building, which was designed by Jenney and Mundie. The 13-story building was recently converted from an office building, most recently known as Barrister Hall, into an amenity-rich residential property. The 216 units will include studio, one, and two bedroom apartments as wel as 7,000 square feet of retail space in the ground level.
The contemporary units will have sleek, elegant finishes. Kitchens will feature stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, premium Italian cabinetry, a tile backsplash, and an in-unit washer and dryer. Bathrooms will have marble tile and premium lighting.
Units will also have hardwood throughout and be outfitted with smart home technology. Technology features include integrated USB power sources, a pre-wired media hub, and integrated Bluetooth audio.
The fourteenth floor will feature a portion of the resident amenities including a pool, sports court, fitness center, common lounge, and a landscaped rooftop terrace with grilling stations.
The lower level will house a media screening theatre, two gaming media rooms, a computer room with co-working space, and a music rehearsal and recording room. Residents will also have access to many conveniences on the lower level, including valet dry cleaning and wash-and-fold service, additional storage, 24-hour maintenance, and bike amenities—which include bike storage, a workshop, part and supply vending, as well as other resources.
Pet amenities include a dog run on the fourteenth floor and a dog spa on the lower level.
The renovated lobby will provide a “modern aesthetic within the historic marble-clad space” according to the architecture firm on the job, Fitzgerald Associates. Residents will have a morning coffee lounge on the first floor, as well as outdoor café-style seating, pending approval.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Noca Blu is a new luxury apartment building in Logan Square.
Looking for state-of-the-art amenities and contemporary finishes in a neighborhood away from the downtown hustle and bustle?
Step inside the apartments at Noca Blu for modern kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and trendy nickle finish fixtures. The appliance package includes a garbage disposal, microwave, dishwasher, ice maker, and in-unit washer and dryer in every unit. Each unit will also feature spacious, custom walk-in closets, wood-like flooring throughout, track lighting, and an efficient VRF HVAC system. Select units will have spacious, private terraces and IOTAS Smart Home technology. All units on the 5thand 6thfloors will have high ceilings, as well.
Units will be comprised of studio, one bed, and two bed layouts. Starting prices will be around $1700 for studios, $1850 for one beds, and $2575 for two beds. See the gallery at the bottom of the page for more pictures of the stunning interiors!
This pet-friendly apartment building will house plenty of resident amenities and conveniences.
Amenities will include a fitness center with free weights, a rooftop resident lounge with grilling stations, billiards, a bocce ball court, and a resident co-working lounge with free, high-speed Wifi.
Noca Blue will also offer services to make residents’ lives a little simpler, like Amazon Hub package receiving lockers for 24-hour secure package pickup, bike storage, on-site parking, and Butterfly MX. Butterfly MX is a virtual concierge that allows residents to remotely grant access to guests and deliveries via smart phone with a live front-door video feed. Furthermore, Noca Blu is just a couple blocks to the CTA Blue Line train– the ultimate convenience. The Blue Line goes directly to the Loop and O’Hare International Airport.
Noca’s fantastic move-in specials can change daily, so contact us today for details! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago is everything: City of Big Shoulders and of intimate neighborhoods, home to blue collars and high culture, where the residents can point you to the best Italian beef or the nearest Michelin star with equal alacrity. Living in the Second City is an adventure of the first magnitude.
Here are 10 facets of the diamond that is Chicago.
All the sports: You’ve got the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox and Fire covering the major pro sports. If just making the scene is your thing, Wrigley Field is one of the oldest venues in sports and the United Center is one of the most frenetic. Northwestern University provides bowl-caliber football just across city limits in Evanston, while Loyola and DePaul universities offer big-time college basketball north and south of the Loop. And if you’re running devotee, more than 44,000 of your like-minded friends took on the Chicago Marathon in 2018.
All the brains: University of Chicago and Northwestern University are two of the most prestigious universities in the country. University Village, around the University of Illinois-Chicago campus, is a diverse and energetic neighborhood, while DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus is as much a part of that neighborhood as the bordering green space. DePaul’s Loop Campus, Columbia College and Roosevelt University flood the South Loop with students, creating something of a college town in the heart of downtown.
All the seasons: As the saying goes: “Chicago has two seasons, winter and construction.” As the other saying goes: “Don’t like the weather? Wait 10 minutes.” The truth is, few cities are as beautiful as Chicago in the summer. Seeing the city come to life at the first blush of spring is inspiring. Sweater weather can prompt an easy day trip in any direction to see the fall colors or pick apples. As for that other season, well, there’s a certain pride in surviving a Chicago winter and the very specific ways of reserving a parking space you’ve meticulously shoveled out.
Transportation: Two major airports — one on the north side, one on the south — serve the city. Rail lines and the interstate highway system recognize the city as a Midwest hub. In 2016, bicycling.com named Chicago the Best Bike City in America for its many miles of dedicated bike lanes and trails and its expansive bike-sharing network. Whether you’re cabbing it, catching a CTA bus, riding the El, taking a carriage ride past Water Tower or a bicycle rickshaw in Wrigleyville — or enjoying a sightseeing cruise on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan — Chicago has a way to get you there.
The greatest lake: Chicago has done a terrific job of making Lake Michigan a gem to be shared by everyone,. From Jackson Park on the south to Edgewater Beach on the north, the 18-mile-long Chicago Lakefront Trail offers dedicated biking and pedestrian paths over the length of the city’s most scenic real estate. Many of Chicago’s public treasures hug the lake, from the museum campus to Navy Pier and Grant, Millennium and Lincoln parks. Whether you’re taking a dip off North Avenue Beach or finding a perch on Northerly Island from which to watch the Fourth of July fireworks, there is plenty to enjoy.
Art appreciation: The Art Institute of Chicago houses an incredible collection of works from every conceivable movement. The Museum of Contemporary Art has a narrower focus but is no less spectacular. Beyond that, Chicago’s dedication to public art affords up-close glimpses of thousands of works, from Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate sculpture (known affectionately as “the bean”) to statues honoring historical figures and modernist sculptures by Picasso and Miro. Beyond that, Chicago embraces its varied architectural history and the art in its edifices is a gift to be unwrapped over years.
Food: A reasonably ambitious walker could have lunch in Chinatown, a snack and a visit to the National Museum of Mexican Art in Latin-tinged Pilsen, dinner in Little Italy and dessert in Greektown. A seriously ambitious diner could have a third Chicago-style hot dog (always with celery salt, never with ketchup) or a generous slice of deep-dish pizza. An incredibly ambitious restaurateur could attempt to join Chicago’s crop of 22 eateries that have earned at least one Michelin star as of 2018
Culture: According to the New York Times, Chicago has emerged in recent years “as the go-to city for Broadway tryouts.” That’s not to mention the city’s percolating theater scene, which along with the Lyric Opera, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, The Second City, Joffrey Ballet and Hubbard Street Dance barely scratch the surface of all that Chicago’s performing arts community offers.
Neighborhoods: Chicago is a city of neighborhoods — roughly 200 of them.; some maintain the character and cultures of their founders, some have evolved to reflect the roots of their current residents; some are devastatingly hip, some are immune to changing trends. Whether you’re considering Andersonville or Old Town, Bucktown or Ukrainian Village, Printers Row or River North, there’s a neighborhood that’s sure to feel like home.
The best fests: Taste of Chicago draws more than a million visitors to Grant Park each year. The Chicago Blues Festival celebrates the music first electrified on the city’s South Side. Pride Fest is the annual weekend-long celebration of Chicago’s LGBTQ community. There are fests that celebrate music, art, literature, different foods and various ethnicities. In fact, by city hall’s count, there are more than 400 neighborhood festivals in Chicago each year.
Whether you’re considering a brand-new high-rise in Lakeshore East, an artist’s loft in River North or an elegant Gold Coast condo, the experts at Downtown Apartment Company can help. Contact us to get started.
Coeval luxury apartments, located at 14th and Wabash, are new rentals in the South Loop.
The pair of towers will have a combined total of 261 luxury units, 95 parking spots, both indoor and outdoor resident amenities, and retail space in both buildings. Units will range in size and include studios, 1 beds, including some with guest half baths, and 2 bed layouts.
The two towers were designed by Chicago-based architecture firm, Pappageorge Haymes Partners and will be managed by Greystar. Developer, CMK Companies, purchased the parcel in 2017 and broke ground the following Spring. CMK has several other notable, recent South Loop developments. 1345 South Wabash, a 16-story condo building, half of the massive 8-acre Riverline project, and 1333 South Wabash, a 28-story apartment rental building just up the block from Coeval, have all been CMK developments.
The prime South Loop location is just blocks to the lake front as well as three major grocery stores, night life, shopping, public transportation, and public green space. These pet friendly apartments are also just steps from multiple dog parks, including Grant Bark dog park at Grant Park.
Apartments at Coeval start around $1475. Contact us below to stay up to date on specials and availability.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The Chicago real estate market is abundant with opportunities and competitors who are ready to jump on that perfect pad. Before you sign a year lease, make sure you know what to look for (and what to avoid) when apartment hunting in Chicago.
Here are the top 15 tips we give our clients:
1. Know what you want (and what you can afford). Before you even browse listings, think about what you want and what you can afford. How many bedrooms? What amenities? Vintage building or new luxury condo? Look at your budget and determine what you can realistically afford. If you start searching without this data, you run the risk of falling in love with someplace you can’t afford.
2. Start your search early. Savvy apartment hunters leave themselves two to three months to find their next Chicago apartment, so they can see what’s out there and find something ideal. The Chicago real estate market can be tight. Waiting until the last minute may not give you as many options
3. Look in spring or fall. Summer is the most popular move time in Chicago, which means peak competition and pricing. If you can move in spring or fall, you’ll enjoy better inventory and may even save money.
4. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Yes, you can still get a good deal on a Chicago apartment, but there are many scams out there. Use your discretion. If something feels off about the landlord or the situation, trust your gut. If an apartment is listed for way below market price, then it might not be available.
5. Don’t overlook hidden costs of commuting. If you work across the city, you’ll have higher commuting costs. Over the lifetime of your lease, you will pay hundreds of dollars more in commuting fees. Crunching the numbers puts that in context and can help you decide what’s a better deal — that perfect apartment on the outskirts or the runner-up that’s walking distance from work.
6. Never overlook the neighborhood. There are tons of great neighborhoods in Chicago, but not all are right for you. It’s better to have a good apartment in a great area than a dream apartment in a neighborhood you don’t enjoy.
7. Work with an apartment company. Navigating the rental market yourself is stressful. Get help from an apartment company that knows the Chicago real estate market.
8. Ask about AC. In Chicago, you need an air conditioner, yet not all buildings come with central air. Always ask, never assume. If there is no central air, inquire whether the landlord provides window units (and if so, how many) or whether it’s your responsibility. If it falls to you, measure the windows and make sure they accommodate a standard unit, so you don’t have to purchase a pricey specialty unit to beat the heat.
9. Check the water pressure. Check the water pressure — make sure you have more than a trickle before moving in.
10. Don’t try to hide bad credit. If your credit is poor, it will come out sooner or later. Be upfront with your real estate agent, so he or she can identify landlords who place less importance on a credit check.
11. Drill down with crime data. Chicago neighborhoods can vary block by block. Rather than be spooked over something you hear, check the crime statistics for your block and the surrounding areas. CLEARMAP from the Chicago Police Department is one tool to use.
12. Never pay cash. Think about it: If someone is asking for cash for first, last and security, he or she doesn’t want a paper trail. What is the likelihood that he or she is a legitimate landlord versus a con? The Chicago area has seen many scams where someone rented an Airbnb apartment and posed as a landlord advertising a rental. If someone needs immediate payment and asks for cash, find a store that sells money orders and keep the stub as proof of payment.
13. Be ready. Competition is steep. When you find a place that fits your criteria, do your due diligence, but do it quickly. If everything checks out, take the apartment or someone else will.
14. Always read the lease. Even if a landlord tells you the lease is boilerplate, read it and make sure you understand what you’re signing. Some landlords require tenants to pay a portion of maintenance costs. If so, this should be written in the lease.
15. Always get renters insurance. Not only is renters insurance required by many landlords, but it’s the best way to safeguard your possessions from theft or damage and protect yourself from liability. You never know what could happen, so don’t go without.
To get help with your Chicago luxury apartment search from a leading apartment company serving downtown Chicago, contact us today.
If you’re living in, or planning to move to, Chicago in 2019, congratulations. A truly great American city awaits you.
Whatever you do, don’t become one of those Chicagoans who never ventures to Western Avenue on a hot summer day to sample an iconic Rainbow Cone. Don’t let your time in Chicago end without loosening winter’s icy grip with a visit to the tropical environs of the Garfield Park Conservatory.
Do check as many items as possible off this bucket list of traditional and trendy experiences:
Grab a tin of Garrett Mix: You might be a block away when you first smell the gourmet popcorn churned out of copper kettles in the heart of downtown since 1949, now available at locations in the Loop, West Loop, Streeterville, Lakeshore East and beyond. The classic combo of caramel and cheese popcorn is what you want — and napkins.
Baste in the bleachers: Wrigley Field, the second-oldest ballpark in the Major Leagues, is a must-do. The only way to do a game at Wrigley is a day game in the heat of the summer. In the bleachers, wearing as little clothing as is legally allowed, while drinking a draft beer.
Chime in at The Second City: The Second City is ground zero for sketch and improvisational comedy in the United States. This Old Town institution often riffs off audience suggestions, and nothing quite beats the exquisite tension you feel just before shouting “marsupials!” in a crowded room.
Drinks at The Signature Lounge: Have a cocktail and take in the amazing views 96 floors above the convergence of the Gold Coast and Streeterville — and one floor above The Signature Room at the 95th — in the edifice formerly known as the John Hancock Center and now referred to by its address, 875 North Michigan Avenue. Unless you’re a local.
Do the Lakefront Trail: Except during the harshest storms, this 18-mile Chicago Park District trail extends across the most-photographed areas of the city — from the South Loop to Lincoln Park and points beyond. Newly divided into lanes for bicyclists and pedestrians, there are few better places to sightsee and work up a sweat simultaneously.
Get the blues: Chicago electrified the blues. At Buddy Guy’s Legends in the South Loop, the namesake owner is still electrifying audiences during an annual January residency. However, Kingston Mines, opened in Lincoln Park in 1968, helped (along with some British Invasion superstars) launch the blues out of South Side clubs and is a great place out of which to stumble in the wee hours (Saturday night sets start as late as 3:30 a.m. on Sunday morning).
Remember, a list of all of Chicago’s attractions would be impossible to finish — and ultimately incomplete. Part of the beauty of Chicago is not just visiting its acclaimed restaurants — Alinea, for example — or to know the traditional favorites in Little Italy. It’s discovering places yourself that you can tell other people to put on their bucket lists.
From the postcard perfect Buckingham Fountain to the convention mecca that is McCormick Place; from the main branch of the Chicago Public Library to the Museum Campus; from the Bears to Buddy Guy — all of these make their home in Chicago’s South Loop.
Many Chicagoans, as well, are choosing this neighborhood — or neighborhoods, given the expanding nature of what is defined as the South Loop and its diverse and engaging microcommunities.
What does the South Loop offer its residents (and, frankly, visitors from throughout the city, suburbs, country and world)?
Music: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island is a brilliant lakefront concert venue that features inspiring skyline views and national acts. Soldier Field books the biggest tours. Buddy Guy’s Legends, on South Wabash, draws stellar blues and jazz artists. On State Street, Reggie’s Rock Club is a perfectly grungy joint for up-and-coming acts, cold beer and great burgers.
Sports: Soldier Field is home to the Bears. Wintrust Arena, next to McCormick Place, hosts DePaul’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, along with the WNBA’s Chicago Sky. The White Sox play at 35th Street, basically a warning track fly from the southern border of the South Loop. For participation sports, Grant Park is the premier location in the city for that Chicago original — 16-inch softball (and the 12-inch variety), and the lakefront is filled with joggers, bikers, swimmers and boaters as long as weather permits.
Culture: The Museum Campus features the Field Museum, home to a cast skeleton of the largest dinosaur ever discovered; the John G. Shedd Aquarium, which houses beluga whales; and the Adler Planetarium, the first such facility in the western hemisphere. Then there’s the Harold Washington Library Center, the main branch of the Chicago system, occupying a full city block of State Street from Congress Parkway to Van Buren, housing more than 1 million holdings and open seven days per week.
Food: Chicago cuisine varies from neighborhood to neighborhood, and the South Loop includes or is adjacent to Chinatown, Greek Town, Little Italy and Pilsen, an enclave of Latin culture. Just north of Roosevelt Road on Jefferson Street, don’t forget Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen, established in 1942 and arguably Chicago’s best Jewish deli.
Traditionally, the South Loop was loosely defined as the area bordered by Congress Parkway to the north, Roosevelt Road to the south, Grant Park to the east, and the Chicago River to the west. Many now push the southern and western boundaries to I-55 and the Dan Ryan Expressway, respectively. More important are the various communities that have woven themselves into the fabric of the South Loop: Chinatown, the Cultural Mile, Dearborn Park, the Prairie District, Printers Row, River South and the Wabash Corridor.
Here they are in the broad strokes:
Chinatown: The heart of Chicago’s Asian community and an important Chinese business hub in the Midwest, Chinatown bridges the gap between narrower definitions of the South Loop and the White Sox’s Bridgeport neighborhood.
Cultural Mile: This gorgeous, though less celebrated sibling of the Magnificent Mile, is a stretch of Michigan Avenue with breathtaking views of the lake, the Museum Campus and Soldier Field.
Dearborn Park: Notable for quiet, tree-lined streets and a decidedly residential bent.
Prairie District: A historic district that featured the city’s poshest homes in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire, the Prairie District blends landmarked buildings with high-rises and newer townhomes and row houses.
Printers Row: Home to Lit Fest (a great summer book fair) and many landmark buildings, this former printing and publishing hub is among the most intimate areas of the South Loop.
River South: Marked by lots of retail development in the last couple of decades, this area combines urban authenticity with suburban convenience.
Wabash Corridor: Columbia College has kept this South Loop area full of funky, artsy types for decades. Gritty, kinetic and evolving all apply.
The South Loop is full of dramatic and charismatic living spaces, from brick and timber lofts along State Street to the 21st century high-rises near Roosevelt Road and Michigan Avenue, a Wabash Avenue townhome or a Congress Parkway condo. Regardless, Downtown Apartment Company, with its extensive knowledge of architectural details and personal amenities, is the best resource for finding your perfect place in the bustling and beautiful South Loop. Contact us today!
727 West Madison (formerly known as One South Halsted) generated quite a bit of buzz as the tallest high-rise West of the highway. This new West Loop luxury apartment tower will feature extensive amenities, luxury interiors, and hotel-like services for ultimate convenience.
727 West Madison’s lobby decor gives a subtle nod to the building’s exterior. The elliptical-shaped furniture pieces, decorative accents, and light fixtures resemble the eye-catching, round shape of the building’s outside. The unique metals and wallpapers give visitors and new residents a taste of the striking design they’re about to see in the rest of the building.
The 7th and 45th floors house the bulk of resident amenity space. On the 7th floor residents have access to places to work, entertain, and relax.
The coworking space, conference rooms with presentation screens, and library are perfect for anyone who works from home. Skip your morning Starbucks run and stop by the resident coffee bar!
The game room, party room, media theatre, and chef’s demonstration kitchen are excellent for entertaining year round.
The club-grade fitness center features a private yoga studio and Pelaton bikes! The 7th floor also has a lounge with funky swing-chairs and panoramic views of downtown Chicago.
New in town? Get to know your neighbors at one of many curated resident events!
Pet owners love the pet amenities at 727 West Madison! Keep your apartment bathroom for “people use only” and take your dog down to the on-site pet spa to wash up. Wintertime in Chicago can make dog walking inconvenient. Thankfully, residents have full use of the on-site dog run and watering station!
Enjoy beautiful weather and views of the city from the 45th floor. The outdoor terrace, pool deck with cabanas, spa, and indoor sky lounge are expected to open in May 2019.
Residents also enjoy the conveniences provided at 727 West Madison. Secured access-controlled parking, electric car charging stations, rental bikes, 24-hour package receiving, bike storage with repair tools, 24-hour concierge, 24-hour maintenance guarantee, WiFi in common areas, and Away-From-Home services are just some of the many luxuries available!
Starting prices are as follows:
$1735 for Studios $1900 for Convertibles
$2290 for 1 Bedrooms $3135 for 2 Bedrooms
We take a lot of factors into consideration when decorating an apartment. We pick new color schemes, hang our favorite paintings, and try to find that perfect feng shui. Many times, finding the ideal balance of style, comfort and serenity means including fresh flowers or living plants. Unfortunately, not all flowers and house plants are suitable for homes with pets, and many of them can cause serious illness if ingested by our furry friends. These common house plants are ones you should avoid having in your home if you live in a pet-friendly environment.
Aloe vera plants are common house plants that have been praised for their medicinal uses, but while the plants can be helpful to humans, they are often harmful for pets. The toxicity of aloe plants is in the skin and inner layers of the plant and is not typically found in the interior gel. Pets that ingest the leafy parts of the plant may experience diarrhea, vomiting or tremors. Be sure to keep aloe vera plants in a place your pets cannot reach if you prefer to have them in your home for medicinal purposes.
The holiday season often means decorating your apartment with festive holiday plants, such as poinsettia or mistletoe. Poinsettia unfortunately exudes a milky sap that can cause oral irritation, diarrhea or vomiting. Mistletoe contains the toxins pharatoxin viscumin and toxalbumin, which can cause gastrointestinal problems and even cardiac collapse in the most severe instances. Consider using fake versions of these plants for holiday decorations instead.
Sago palms, also known as cardboard palms or coontie palms, may look like a taste of the tropics in your home, but they are house plants poisonous to cats and dogs. Ingestion of the plant’s cycasin toxin can lead to symptoms as simple as increased thirst and vomiting to the extremes of liver failure, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis or death. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your pet has ingested the toxins of a sago palm.
Tulips are beautiful, and if you purchase a bouquet of flowers during springtime, they’ll probably be included. However, tulips contain the toxic principles tulipalin A and B, which can cause diarrhea, depression, hypersalivation and vomiting. The highest concentration of toxic principles is found in the bulb.
English ivy is another one of the several toxic plants for cats and dogs. Also known as sweetheart ivy, it’s commonly used as a decorative plant indoors. Though when English ivy is ingested, it can lead to irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and mouth — as well as abdominal pain, excessive salivation and diarrhea. Use nontoxic Swedish ivy instead.
Many pet owners ask, “Are orchids poisonous for cats or dogs?” The answer is often ambiguous. Phalaenopsis orchids are nontoxic for your domesticated pets. However, while orchids are house plants safe for dogs and cats, it’s wise to keep your animals away from them. Fertilizers and pesticides may have been used on the plants before purchase, and your pets could consume those toxic chemicals if allowed to nibble on the leaves.
It’s important to note that while some house plants are dangerous for pets, most of them are not. Consult the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® searchable database for a complete list of nontoxic and toxic house plants, so you can decorate your home in a way that looks and feels pleasant without causing any harm to your furry family members.
The crack-of-dawn blender user, the late-night AC/DC listener, the dog that barks at falling leaves. If you’ve lived in an apartment, you’ve probably dealt with a noisy neighbor. Sometimes it’s easier than others to pop in earplugs and go back to sleep. However, apartment life doesn’t mean you constantly have to sacrifice your serenity and relaxation to accommodate those living around you. The following ways to deal with noisy neighbors and other essential apartment living hacks can help ensure your apartment is the sanctuary you’ve been seeking.
The quest of creating a comfortable apartment environment begins before moving into your space. Ask the landlord or leasing agent about which floors or areas of the apartment complex are the quietest, and inquire about any recent noise complaints. Higher floors tend to be quieter than lower floors.
Communication is key to understanding your neighbors and coexisting in an apartment complex with minimal issues. Neighbors are typically unaware that they’re disturbing someone, so before consulting the landlord, speak directly to your neighbor about what’s bothering you. Ask for a phone number, so you can text him or her if the noise is too loud.
Sometimes neighbors are not as neighborly as we’d like, and complaints must be brought to the landlord for action to be taken. Many times, there are bylaws or lease clauses that allow your landlord to take more formal measures against the noisemaking. This way, the noisemaking is documented. If it continues, you may ultimately watch a new, hopefully quieter, neighbor move in.
Apartments are typically smaller than most single-family homes, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. Save space by using over-the-door storage racks, hooks and even risers to create storage space underneath your bed. Think about creating more vertical space when horizontal space is limited.
Renting an apartment usually means you don’t want to dump a lot of money into the space that you won’t get back when it’s time to move. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways to upgrade your space with budget-friendly items or those that you can take with you. You may not be able to update the entire bathroom, but you can purchase a new showerhead to make your shower more enjoyable. If you’re interested in a bigger upgrade, ask your landlord for a discount on rent for major improvements. The landlord will often agree, because upgrades will allow him or her to increase rent for future tenants.
Similar to upgrading certain areas of your apartment, you can take several energy-conserving measures to reduce power use and save money. Items as simple as window shades and LED light bulbs can save you a substantial amount of money each month — which can be used toward anything you please, including rent. A programmable thermostat can also guarantee you’re not using an unnecessary amount of heat or air conditioning when you’re not home.
Living in an apartment doesn’t have to be a struggle. Communicate well with your neighbors and landlord, make optimal use of your space, and upgrade items that will improve your daily life — and you’ll quickly see how easy it is to thrive in an apartment setting.
The DAC team had the pleasure of attending the grand opening for Loukas Development’s The Van Buren, one of the West Loop’s newest luxury high-rises. The event, hosted by CS Modern Luxury, included tours of the artfully styled model units, a ramen bar, and a friendly crowd eager to check out the development. (As you can see, the photo booth also caught our attention!)
One of the most notable takeaways was the quality of the interiors, which feature Nest thermostats, high ceilings, abundant closet space, large windows that maximize natural light, and warm grey cabinetry. Top-of-the-line kitchens include soft-close cabinets, GE stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, spacious layouts, mosaic tile back splashes, and Edge to Edge 30 gas ranges.
Club-grade amenities include ample co-working space, a rooftop grill and lounge terrace, concierge service, onsite dry-cleaning, a modern fitness center, a 4,000 square foot deck on the third floor, and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
With competitive move-in specials, apartments at The Van Buren are sure to go quickly. Contact us today to learn more about the incredible deals available!
By Sophie Morrison
The question of Rent vs. Buy depends on the properties in question, Chicago’s real estate market, and your personal circumstances and goals.
In certain climates, it is wiser to keep your assets liquid to capitalize on any general price drops. In a more bearish market, some homebuyers like to think of houses as being “on sale”. Prices tend to be lower, as do interest rates.
Furthermore, the market can vary by neighborhood and price point. Each area is its own economic ecosystem so its important to work with a knowledgeable broker who can keep you informed on which inventory is most likely to appreciate.
Home Buyers in Chicago Say That:
Renters in Chicago Say That:
Our home sales division, Downtown Realty Company, recently sat down with Huffington Post to discuss 6 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Buying a House.
Important questions included:
Other important questions to consider include:
By Sophie Morrison
Moceri + Roszak, an architect and developer duo who have had back-to-back successful lease ups in the residential market, are breaking into the office building market with 145 S. Wells.
The 20-story tower will feature loft-style offices with extensive amenities including an outdoor terrace with fire pits, a wading pool, a bar, and an indoor lounge sporting table tennis, billiards, golf simulators.
Office tenants will have access to many amenities, including an outdoor pool
See the gallery at the bottom of this page for more renderings of the incredible amenities, courtesy of Thomas Roszak Architecture.
The trend of amenity-heavy commercial buildings has increased with the development of 625 W. Adams and 151 N. Franklin, as well as the Union Station and the Old Main Post Office redevelopments. There are also plans to build similar amenities in other Chicago buildings, like the Loop’s Franklin at 222 W. Adams.
Moceri + Roszak are known for incorporating thoughtful design, modern, glass and concrete accents, and building common spaces with a high space-to-resident ratio.
The lobby at Moceri + Roszak’s 2017 development, Linea Apartments
Their 2017 development, Linea Apartments in the Loop, is a boutique-style building with just 265 rental apartments, but features the amount of amenity space typically seen in a building with over 600 units.
Although little is known about the interior finishes at 145 S. Wells, one can speculate there might be a resemblance to the finishes at their residential developments. Given the similarity between their two most recent projects, JeffJack in the West Loop and Linea Apartments in the Loop, it is clear that Moceri + Roszak have their own branded style.
Interior finishes at Linea Apartments
Interior finishes at JeffJack (even the throw pillows look the same)
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near 145 S. Wells available now? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
By Sophie Morrison
Ranking as West Loop’s tallest high rise, 727 West Madison, also known as One South Halsted, is nearing completion by end of 2018. 727 West Madison is being developed as a joint venture between co-developers Fifield Company and F&F Realty and designed by FitzGerald Associates Architects.
This luxury high rise will feature a glassy exterior, sleek interiors, and a cylindrical shape to maximize city skyline views. The plans call for 42-floors, 492 rental units, and more than 10,000 square feet of ground level retail space.
Ranging from studios to three bedrooms, the units are crafted with top-of-the-line finishes.
Individual residences will include stylish plank flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows boasting views of the cityscape and Lake Michigan. In the kitchens, you’ll find chef ready finishes including quartz countertops, flat-paneled cabinets, and high-end stainless steel appliances.
The kitchens are custom with porcelain tile walls and floors with seamless frameless glass shower doors.
An expansive amenity floor will be situated above the parking garage.
Residents and guests alike can enjoy the outdoor amenities including a spacious sun terrace with pool, lounge chairs, cabanas and grilling stations with intimate seating for dining. Inside, residents can find state-of-the-art fitness center with separate yoga, pilates and barre studios. A private massage room can be used at your convenience as well.The screening room with surround sound is the perfect place to extend your immaculate living areas. 727 West Madison will also feature pet amenities, including a dog spa.
The West Loop neighborhood is a bustling area home to some of Chicago’s greatest restaurants. Located near restaurant row on Randolph, you’ll never run out of amazing cuisine options! Great parks and street fairs often line the streets of West Loop, always making for great things to do on weekends.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
With Chicago’s West Loop continuing to expand and see a boom of new construction, 166 N Aberdeen is one of the newly proposed buildings that could join the neighborhood.
The current proposal would turn the site of the Fabbri Sausage Plant into a sleek 20-story apartment building. Brought to us by the developer MCZ and designed by SCB, this tower brings more luxury apartments to this highly desired neighborhood.
With ground floor retail space and planned 236 rental units, it will become a perfect one-stop-shop for all future residents. Amenities include a stunning pool deck and 13th floor sky lounge. The renderings show stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and private resident balconies and a masonry base in keeping with the existing style of the West Loop neighborhood.
166 N Aberdeen is located in the heart of the Fulton Market District, a rapidly growing neighborhood near the West Loop, offering residents an outstanding place to live, dine, work, and enjoy plentiful entertainment!
Interested in luxury apartments for rent near the West Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Chicago has terrific dining options scattered far and wide. But the compact and posh Gold Coast puts some of the city’s greatest gustatory charms at its residents’ doorsteps.
Here are five favorites for fine dining on the Gold Coast:
La Storia Ristorante: Handcrafted pasta in the southern Sardinian style is featured at this intimate and clubby relative newcomer to the neighborhood. After opening in late 2015, La Storia quickly made its mark and was Michelin-rated within two years. Also a feature is the locale: La Storia occupies a pair of converted single-family homes — one built in 1896, the other in 1918 — on Dearborn Street. Additionally, the space contains a mural by noted political caricaturist Edward Sorel, who has 41 New Yorker covers to his credit.
Spiaggia: The southern gatekeeper to the Gold Coast — at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Oak Street — Spiaggia has one Michelin star and two winners of Bravo’s “Top Chef” in executive chef Joe Flamm (Season 15) and chef-partner Tony Mantuano (Season 2). Mantuano has spent 30 years creating modern takes on Italian fine dining classics, which are paired with one of the deepest wine lists in the city, some 700 bottles strong.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: Opening in 1989, Gibsons occupies the Rush Street space that was once home to Chicago celebrity mecca Mister Kelly’s. While the nightclub featured talents ranging from Bob Newhart to Barbara Streisand, you’re more apt to see local and visiting pro athletes at Gibsons. Steak is the star, and every cut served is USDA Gibsons Prime Angus — the restaurant bills itself as the first in the country to be awarded its own USDA Prime certification. Little wonder it is known as Chicago’s highest-grossing independent restaurant, with nearly $25 million in sales in 2016.
Booth One: The current incarnation of the Pump Room occupies the space of what was perhaps Chicago’s most famous celebrity jaunt, in the Ambassador Chicago hotel (formerly the Ambassador East). The Pump Room reserved its Booth One for only the most celebrated celebrities, while Booth One promises everyone gets the A-list treatment. Classic American dishes and cocktails bring a bit of a Don Draper vibe to a place where every meal feels like an event.
Le Colonial: A two-story rowhouse leaves the Rush Street craziness at the door for an immersive experience in Vietnamese dining straight out of Southeast Asia’s elegantly formal 1920s French Colonial tradition. Le Colonial’s first-floor, white-linen tablecloth dining room features traditional Vietnamese dishes. On the second floor, there’s a bar, lounge and all-season terrace overlooking Rush Street.
Living in the Gold Coast brings many things to mind — stately mansions, trendy boutiques along Oak Street, Michelin-starred restaurants and rowdy, randy Rush Street. But dogs?
Don’t be fooled. Wiggly Field to the north and Jackson Bark to the south may be higher-profile doggie destinations, but the Gold Coast manages to bring posh to the pet set quite nicely.
Though it may not seem a neighborhood suited to man’s best friend, Gold Coast canines can live the high life as easily as the locale’s human habitues. The following are among the best ways to pamper your pooch in and around the dog-friendly Gold Coast:
Nico Osteria: Since opening in 2013 in the luxuriously romantic and pet-friendly hotel Thompson Chicago, Nico Osteria has been a hit with the dining set for its winning approach to seafood and Italian favorites. The menu changes daily, but what doesn’t change in the warm-weather months is a patio that hugs the corner of Rush Street and Bellevue Place — offering 80 great people-watching seats for paying customers, plus ample space for their four-legged friends. How pet-friendly is Nico Osteria? In June, the restaurant partnered with The Asher House, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing homeless pets, and One Tail at a Time, a no-kill shelter, for an adopt-a-pet event on the patio.
Belmont Harbor Dog Beach: Yes, pets are allowed on the Gold Coast’s Oak Street Beach — but only on a leash. The Belmont Harbor Dog Beach is 2 miles up Lake Shore Drive and lets Rover roam. It’s not as big as the Montrose Harbor Dog Beach a bit farther north, but the gently sloping beach is great for smaller dogs just looking to get their feet wet, while bigger dogs can still get enough depth to swim.
Mercury’s Canine Cruise: While there are many sightseeing boats that sail the Chicago River and lakefront for architecture cruises and the like, Mercury sets itself apart with a Canine Cruise. This pet-friendly excursion boards at 10:15 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays from July 7 through Oct. 7 from Mercury’s landing at the Michigan Avenue Boat House on the Chicago River just south of the Gold Coast. Leashed dogs and their owners get a narrated tour touching on Chicago history, architecture and notable dog-friendly highlights — plus water bowls are plentiful and there is a newspaper-lined restroom for the dogs.
Based on the quality and diversity of its restaurants, one might guess Chicago’s city flag is adorned with Michelin stars. Except, the flag is a four-star affair, and Michelin rates only as high as three — which translate as “exceptional cuisine — worth a special detour.”
Among the 25 Chicago restaurants to earn at least one Michelin star in 2018, two landed the coveted three-star distinction. But dining in Chicago is more than merely eating your haute meal.
There are classic steakhouses, traditional spots cooking for every ethnicity, dazzling spaces serving daring cuisine from culinary stars. To truly taste Chicago would take years, but here’s a list of some of Chicago’s greatest restaurants in its greatest neighborhoods.
Alinea: This Lincoln Park space, since opening in 2005, has been named the best restaurant in the world by at least three different organizations in three different years. It closed for a redesign for four months in 2016 and still has an eight-year streak of three-star Michelin ratings. The food? Adventurous. “Cutting edge,” “multi-sensory” and “innovative” are hints given by the website, but this stuff is as much art as food.
Girl & the Goat: A star in the West Loop’s Randolph Street dining corridor, because chef/owner Stephanie Izard opened the place in 2010 fresh off becoming the first female winner of TV’s Top Chef. Touting a “family style menu of tasty, bold flavored foods with a global influence,” a recent Girl menu offered dishes such as wood oven roasted pig face, escargot ravioli and green garlic pierogis.
Spiaggia: Where Streeterville meets the Gold Coast, fine-dining Spiaggia shares Mag Mile space with the no-less-excellent Café Spiaggia. Executive Chef Joe Flamm won Season 15 of Bravo’s Top Chef in 2018, following in the footsteps of founding chef-partner Tony Mantuano, who not only won a Top Chef, but in 2005 was named Best Chef Midwest by the James Beard Foundation. Spiaggia has offered upscale Italian cuisine for more than 30 years — and dishes such as gnocchi with truffle, ricotta and parmigiano reggiano, or cinghiale (a wild boar chop in an Italian dessert wine with morel and pistachio) keep customers returning — as does a wine list some 700 bottles long.
Rosebud Prime: One among eight restaurants in the Rosebud group that started with a Little Italy pasta house in 1977, Prime is the Loop’s go-to spot for classic steak in a town that knows a classic steak. But, if you don’t feel like the 22-ounce, bone-in ribeye, or the 16-ounce bone-in filet with wild mushrooms, try the Rosebud Brick Chicken, or the Steakhouse Burger tabbed by ChicagoBurgerBible.com as the No. 1 burger in the city.
Topolobampo: There are dozens of places in River North worth a look — from the Michelin-rated Naha (American fare with Mediterranean influences) and Sixteen (in the Trump Tower) to the Chicago outlet of L.A.-based sushi purveyor Katana. But venerable Topolobampo, serving upscale Mexican since 1991 under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Rick Bayless, is still at the top of its game, winning the nation’s Outstanding Restaurant title at the 2017 James Beard awards. Frontera Grill, next door to Topolobampo and another Bayless venture, won the award in 2007.
Old Town is just that — old. Its now-desired addresses just west of the Gold Coast and Lincoln Park were largely swampland until German immigrants began farming there in the 1850s. St. Michael’s Church is one of seven buildings to survive the Chicago Fire. It was home to an artists’ colony in the 1930s, was Chicago’s first gay-friendly neighborhood of note, and was the Midwest’s center of 1960s counterculture.
Now, comedy is king. But the home to The Second City, iO Theater and Zanies Comedy Club can tickle more than merely your funny bone. Rich with history, thick with pubs and restaurants, when it comes to Chicago neighborhoods, Old Town is more neighborly than most and the entertainment equal of any.
Here are some essential sites when Old Town is your destination.
A Red Orchid Theater: A Red Orchid Theatre turned 25 years old in 2017. Co-founded by actor Michael Shannon (The Shape of Water, Revolutionary Road), the 70-seat house offers serious, frequently edgy and sometimes experimental theater in an intimate space.
The Fireplace Inn: The Fireplace Inn has been selling barbecued ribs out of its Wells Street home since 1969. Such is the character of the neighborhood that you might find yourself dining beside the softball or volleyball teams sponsored by the establishment, or comedy fans headed up the block to Zanies or The Second City.
The Second City: Two primary theaters, a comedy club and four smaller stages, plus a film school and training center, make up the complex that first moved to the corner of North Avenue and Wells Street in 1967. Ground zero for the nation’s improv and sketch comedy scene, The Second City was a pivotal proving ground for the careers of Joan Rivers and John Belushi, Tina Fey and Chris Farley, Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell — not to mention Bill Murray.
Henry Gerber House: Designated a National Historic Landmark in 2015, this North Crilly Court residence was home to Henry Gerber from 1924-25, when he founded the first gay rights society in the United States — the Society for Human Rights.
Topo Gigio Ristorante: Dining aficionados know Kamehachi is Old Town’s sushi spot, and Blue Door offers a charming farm-to-table experience, but Topo Gigio is as good as Italian dining in Chicago gets — and that’s very good indeed. The vast menu — especially the pasta section — is truly impressive. But when weather permits, Topo Gigio’s outdoor dining areas in front and to the side of its building are what take it over the top.
Old Town Pour House: Ninety craft beers on tap. Need we say more?
Fudge Pot, a tremendous candy shop, has occupied its parcel on Wells Street since 1963. Old Town Aquarium is a fish owner’s paradise, featuring custom aquarium design and the city’s largest collection of exotic fish.
And if you just happen to be in town, the 69th Old Town Art Fair drops into the Old Town Triangle Historic District on June 9 and 10. One of the great art fairs in America and one of Chicago’s favorite festivals, the fair gathers some 250 artists and 30,000 fair-goers — who also partake in a garden walk of more than 50 private gardens, a children’s corner, food court and live music.
Pushing over a year a half of negotiations, developer John O’Donnell is ready to move forward with a massive redevelopment of Chicago travel hub, Union Station, which is also home to Amtrak, and the adjacent bus facility. Additionally, O’Donnell Riverside Development and Investment will present plans for a proposed tower atop the station. The plans feature 330 hotel rooms and 404 residential units above the historic building. The property adjacent to the station, currently a parking garage and bus facility, will soon be home to a new office tower as well.
As $1 billion plus worth of new construction is going to be put into the new project, residents and workers nearby can expect to see a huge shift in the dynamic of the bustling neighborhood. Located at the edge of West Loop and the Loop, the location is central for businesses and residential developments.
Along with new luxury residential units and office space, the plan will include the addition of new, more efficient train lines beneath the building. Union Station is about to get everything, and then some, to make it the ideal travel, work and living space for Chicagoans.
With the developer aiming for a comfortable and inviting space, it is proposed that outward-facing retail will add that to the 3.1 million square foot redevelopment. Planned to be completed within six years, this project is incredibly exciting for the Chicago downtown market.
In the summer, Chicago hosts a various amount of exciting activities that are all around the city. With something nearly every weekend, the downtown area is definitely a great place to be!
Grant Park Music Festival
Between June 13th through August 18th, enjoy a night under the stars listening to beautiful classical music with the stunning skyline in the background. On Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights check out the Loop hotspot at Grant Park while relishing in the music of a world-class orchestra and chorus. Pack a picnic for the lawn for added fun!
Catch a Baseball Game
With two hometown teams, whether you’re a White Sox or Cubs fan, a day at the ballpark is always a great time! Catch a game at Guaranteed Rate Field to watch a White Sox game or head over to Wrigley Field to check out the Cubs. Enjoy hot dogs and beers in the exciting atmosphere of game day! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the historic and legendary Wrigley Field with daily walking tours of the field and around the Ivy. Rain or shine, there’s always something to do!
Chicago Food Truck Fest
Calling all foodies in the city! A wide variety of delicious food trucks are coming together for yet another Food Truck Fest this summer. With over 45 trucks coming to the fest, guests can be sure to devour mouth watering food. Located in the city’s South Loop neighborhood, be sure to head over there the weekend of June 23rd and 24th to grab some incredible bites while enjoying the outdoors. With great drinks, games and music this fest is not to be missed!
Chicago Craft Beer Fest
Windy city beer lovers will hate to miss out on this one! The Chicago Craft Beer Fest happening in Lincoln Park July 21st and 22nd is the perfect afternoon activity in hops heaven! With more than 70 specialty beers, great eats and live music it’s an amazing place to bring your friends for a nice day in summertime Chicago!
If Chicago has one thing when it comes to luxury apartment rentals, it’s options.
While other cities may have one or two areas populated by the posh, Chicago offers many, each with its own vibe, but all unquestionably vibrant. Be it nightlife or dining, architecture or activities, here’s a look at Chicago’s nicest neighborhoods and what makes them special.
Gold Coast: Bounded by North Boulevard to the north, Oak Street to the south, Lake Shore Drive to the east and Clark Street to the west, Chicago’s Gold Coast is home to historic mansions and remains the domain of Chicago’s old money. The area is one of affluence, from the tiny shops along Oak Street (which branches off the bustling Magnificent Mile) to some of the greatest steakhouses in a city full of them. Rush Street’s nightlife district, cheekily referred to by some as the Viagra Triangle, is the place to see and be seen.
Lakeshore East: Tucked into a few blocks between Michigan Avenue, Lakeshore Drive, the Chicago River and Randolph Street, Lakeshore East is the new kid in town. Just north of the Bean, just south and east of Navy Pier and adjacent to the theater district, this unbeatably convenient area — also known as the New East Side — features several skyscraper condominium projects completed since 2006, and several more on the way. Forty percent of the area is greenspace.
Lincoln Park: If high-rises aren’t your thing, Lincoln Park could well be. Separated from the lake by Chicago’s largest park (home to the Lincoln Park Zoo, Conservatory and Lagoon), Lincoln Park, with its tree-lined streets of brownstones and greystones, offers more charm and intimacy than many others on this list. DePaul University injects some youth, famous blues joint the Kingston Mines some grit, and a plethora of dining options along Halsted Street and Lincoln Avenue add some cultural diversity.
The Loop: West of Michigan Avenue, overlooking Grant Park, Maggie Daley Park, Millennium Park and the Art Institute, Chicago’s Downtown Loop is home to, well, almost everything. Great architecture: Chicago Theatre, Willis Tower and the stunning Rookery Building among countless others. Business: The city’s financial district is there. Culture: Chicago Symphony, Lyric Opera, Joffrey Ballet and Harold Washington Library.
Old Town: In the ’60s and ’70s, it was the city’s bohemian epicenter. Second City, the famous comedy troupe, was born here. The Aragon Ballroom and Uptown Theater host national contemporary music acts. Green Mill Cocktail Lounge is the city’s oldest jazz club. Most of the pubs are on Wells Street. It was among the first city neighborhoods to gentrify, so new and old mix more easily here than in many areas.
River North: A grown-up artists’ enclave, Chicago’s River North is home to galleries, interior design businesses, high-end furniture stores, photography studios and production companies — not to mention the House of Blues. Along Ohio and Ontario Streets, you can mix with tourists; at The Baton Show Lounge with female impersonators; at Frontera Grill and Topolobampo with the foodies. Not much in the way of single-family homes here. This is high-rise living.
Streeterville: With Navy Pier, Hancock Center, Water Tower Place and the rest of the Mag Mile, Streeterville is home to many of Chicago’s most-visited attractions. It’ll be hard not to have a lake view while renting here.
South Loop: The south end of Grant Park, the clubs and restaurants of Printers Row and the museum campus, and McCormick Place’s convention spaces are all easily accessed by the denizens of the South Loop. The loft boom of the ’90s percolated among the old industrial buildings on Michigan Avenue, Wabash Avenue and State Street. Post-bursting of the housing bubble, high-rises have sprung up stretching south toward Soldier Field. “Up and coming” and “funky” are words not unheard here.
West Loop: Randolph Street has some of the best dining in the city. Music spots include the Bottom Lounge and City Winery. Greektown is here. So is Union Station, the city’s commuter train hub. Little Italy is close. Newer than most of the neighborhoods on this list, this former warehouse district has a hipster edge.
In the market for a luxury apartment in Chicago? Weighing your options between one place and the next? While you’re evaluating amenities such as square footage, parking and walkability, make sure you also consider this: How close is the apartment to great schools? If you’ve got school-aged children, of course, they’re going to be directly affected by your home’s school district. Yet even if you don’t have kids in school, you may still want to be near great elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and colleges. Why? Excellent schools aren’t just good for students; they’re good for the local economy — and a strong economy benefits everyone who lives in the area.
How can you find the perfect luxury apartment near some of Chicago’s best schools? Why are the Chicago neighborhoods with great schools in demand? What are the benefits of living in them? To help answer these questions and guide you toward the best apartment choice, here’s a look at the facts about apartments near great schools in Chicago.
Great schools make for great neighborhoods. Housing options are in demand when there are stellar schools nearby, so property values tend to be higher. Many of the neighborhood residents thus are engaged in their community, making it a great place to live whether you are a parent or not. Schools also bring sports, arts and other opportunities to the area; they also create jobs that attract skilled professionals. In a neighborhood with good schools, you can enjoy:
Chicago’s best neighborhoods offer outstanding opportunities for education. When you’re interested in finding an apartment in an area with top schools in Chicago, here are a few to consider:
Interested in learning more about apartments in Chicago with access to good schools? Visit our Chicago neighborhoods page and get started finding your new home!
When you’re looking for an apartment in downtown Chicago, you have all kinds of options. There are many great neighborhoods, apartments with open layouts, and even those special units with views of beautiful Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. Are there certain features or qualities that make a Chicago apartment stand out in today’s market? What are the must-haves that belong on an ultimate Chicago apartment checklist, and why?
To answer these questions and inspire you when apartment-hunting, here’s a roundup of some of the most important amenities to look for in your new home in Chicago. Think of it as a bucket list for finding the perfect luxury living situation.
When you’re looking for a new place to live in Chicago, keep top amenities at the front of your mind. Are you ready to shop? Browse our luxury apartment map and luxury penthouse map to explore what’s available!
Penthouses are the pinnacle of luxury apartments. The premium address is a perk in itself, but what are some of the specific amenities they offer? Read on to learn more about penthouse apartment living, and discover how to find a luxury Chicago penthouse to turn your dreams into reality.
Penthouse rental apartments promise a sky-high living standard. Let’s start with the incredible views they offer. Rather than looking at the city — and typically getting a view of a neighbor’s balcony — you’ll look down on sweeping vistas that can only be truly enjoyed from the highest apartment units. Living in a penthouse, you’ll enjoy a whole new perspective on the Chicago you know and love.
In a penthouse, you also get to enjoy a private luxury apartment — remember, no one will be living upstairs from you — and you may even have your own elevator. Penthouses are further removed from street noise than any other unit, which means you are unlikely to hear emergency sirens, traffic or other sounds in the neighborhood while you’re going about your day or night. No wonder many penthouse dwellers feel like they have their own home, one with all the amenities of luxury apartment rentals.
Another great aspect of penthouses is that they tend to have more efficient layouts than the other apartments below, as well as amenities those other apartments won’t have — such as massive private outdoor patios. Penthouses typically offer high-tech tools that improve comfort and lower costs, whether it’s smart thermostats or state-of-the-art entertainment systems. In fact, select penthouses in downtown Chicago come with flat screen TVs and wired sound. These perks make penthouses appealing to anyone who wants these amenities without having to leave Chicago’s downtown area.
With the uptick in luxury apartments, you might be wondering whether penthouses are really all that different from other luxury apartments. While your typical loft will have floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light and provide sweeping views, this does not compare to the expansive views of a light-filled penthouse unit.
A penthouse apartment is, essentially, the crown jewel of its building — the unit with the best views, wonderful privacy, and high-end finishes. In a penthouse, you’re at the highest livable point of the building, in a unit likely filled with little touches that set it apart.
When you want the highest and most stylish apartment option, there’s no denying that the penthouse is the way to go.
Specific penthouse amenities vary by luxury apartment building. So when you’re hunting for a new home, consider what’s most important to you in an apartment — whether it’s a fitness center, pets allowed or heated underground parking — and search for luxury apartments in Chicago that offer these amenities. The right penthouse should feel like home — not just in terms of the interior look and feel, but also in terms of the location and building amenities.
The amenities in downtown Chicago apartments have been growing more exquisite with each year’s delivery of new construction. Most buildings we work with feature co-working space, a pool and hot tub, and fitness center. These buildings really take luxury amenities to the next level! If you’re looking for incredible luxury amenities in downtown Chicago check out the ones below!
One of the newest luxury amenities to come to many downtown high-rises is a golf simulator! In Chicago, we all know how unpredictable weather can be – never lose a day of practice through the rain and snow. Challenge your swing next to the top PGA Champions at River North Property 107 or Property 113. Choose from several options of legendary courses and always stay on top of your game!
Property 113 also features an arcade!
Another incredible luxury amenity that’s now available is a recording studio in the River West Property 139! Enjoy the music room and play your music the way you want to! This rental building also features a resident performance room with a stage, bar, and furniture made from recycled instruments.
Gold Coast Property 128 offers a massive rooftop, including a hot tub and heated pool, several semi-private cabanas, a bar, fire pits and grill stations, an expansive dog run, and even a private massage spa room!
In the South Loop, the new, stunning Property 135 offers residents and guests alike to move entertainment into the on-site bowling alley, bocce ball court, and movie theatre! In the private lanes, you can enjoy endless fun on those inclement Chicago days. Have fun with some friendly competition as you get to know your neighbors!
In Streeterville, Property 131 offers an expansive, two-story fitness center, with dedicated trainer rooms and group fitness classes, indoor and outdoor steam rooms and sauna, cold plunge showers, peloton bikes, several weight racks, racket ball, basket ball, and bocce ball courts, as well as a putting green!
Calling all aspiring sommeliers – check out the wine cellar at River North Property 45 or the Fireside Wine Lounge at South Loop Property 108!
Store your wine is the private, climate-controlled wine lockers and enjoy it in the connected tasting room. Extend your entertainment from your home to the wine cellar to feel as if you’ve just stepped into Napa Valley!
In the West Loop neighborhood, enjoy the Roof “Crop” at Property 137! Using advanced green-roof systems, the Roof Crop grows clean, responsibly grown produce for the building to share! The 3,000 square foot fruit and vegetable garden will offer residents, local restaurants, and grocers the locally grown produce. Skip the grocery store for some garden fresh meals! Although there are many places to enjoy fresh air at Property 137, one of our personal favorites is the expansive outdoor terrace, complete with beautifully landscaped greenery and fire pits!
Looking for downtown apartments with resort style luxury amenities in the downtown area? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The near West Loop neighborhood is a hustling and bustling area that has tons to offer to the downtown experience! In addition to year round nightlife, this neighborhood hosts some amazing summertime fests and fairs Randolph Street, perfect for everyone to visit! Check out some fabulous options below.
The Randolph Street Market Festival kicks off summer with the indoor + outdoor garden party! During the weekends starting May 26th & 27th, enjoy the day shopping with the Chicago Antique Market, Indie Designer Market, Modern Vintage Chicago and the Holiday Market. The festival has been dubbed “a mecca of cool”, “the Barney’s of vintage” and celebrity designer Nate Berkus says, “I love this market… the quality is incredible!” Check out incredible finds throughout the Chicago summer!
One of Chicago’s most iconic street fairs is the Taste of Randolph Street! Located in the heart of restaurant row on Randolph Street in the West Loop, come on down between June 15th-17th for activities for everyone to enjoy! For the 22nd Anniversary, the biggest names in Chicago cuisine will create delectable menus and incredible flavors. There will be two stages and a DJ stage for live music to complement the culinary experience. Some of the big name participating restaurants include Bar Siena, Mad Social, Belly Q, City Winery and many many more.
The annual summer music festival, Pitchfork Music Festival, is coming back to the near West Loop neighborhood this July. The primary focus is on artists and bands from alternative rock, rap/hip-hop, electronic, and has also included hardcore punk, avant-garde rock and jazz in it’s lineups making it the perfect festival for all music lovers. The fest also includes incredible food, drinks and art making it the perfect summer activity. Located off of Randolph Street in Union Park, the Pitchfork Music fest should definitely be on your radar.
Pitchfork 2018 Lineup
The West Loop Art Fest is returning to Chicago for its third annual event! During the weekend of September 16th and 17th, the hugely successful fair will bring even more art and entertainment this year. Featuring four blocks of vibrant art, live music bands, interactive art demonstrations including hot glass blowers, muralists, and fire dancers. Enjoy delicious food from the best food trucks the city has to offer! Now located on the desirable Fulton Street, over 120 of the countries top artists this perfect fall fest has something for everyone to enjoy!
All summer long, enjoy the incredible all-ages Movies in the Park located in Heritage Green & Mary Bartelme Park to be entertained by great movies while relishing in the amazing summer weather! Interactive activities are available prior to the movie start time for a fun filled evening. Movies start at dusk with varying end times.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the West Loop’s Randolph Street? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
The new McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters is landing at 110 N. Carpenter Street in Chicago this year. The super-sized development by Sterling Bay now plans to occupy nearly 500,000 square feet with its move from Oak Brook. The West Loop is home to some of Chicago’s finest galleries, nightlife and entertainment, luxury apartments, and outdoor amenity space. McDonald’s couldn’t have picked a better location!
A Rendering of the Sterling Bay Development
Property #120
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 9-minute walk or a 5-minute drive
Starting Price: Studios from $1750
Building #120 offers pristine, contemporary luxury in the Fulton Market district! At the intersection of great food, arts & culture this building is a sure standout. Apartment units feature beautiful custom kitchens featuring cabinets with soft close drawers, stainless steel whirlpool appliances and stunning quartz countertops. Impressively designed, enjoy hardwood flooring throughout your new home. Relax and enjoy the outstanding amenities as well such as the swimming pool, fitness center and rooftop entertainment lounge. Check out https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/120/ for more information about building #120!
Property #95
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 7-minute walk or a 3-minute drive
Starting Price: Junior 1 Beds from $2095
Enjoy the conveniences of being close to restaurants and nightlife on Randolph Street. Apartment units feature in-unit laundry, updated kitchens with gas ranges and hardwood throughout the entry, living space, and kitchen. Chic building amenities including an outdoor rooftop pool, hot tubs and lounge areas offer luxury at your fingertips! State-of-the-art fitness center makes fitness needs easily accessible. As a pet friendly building, a large fenced-in private dog park and grooming area is perfect for your furry friend. For more information regarding Building #95, visit https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/095-2/
Property #66
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 8-minute walk or a 4-minute drive
Starting Price: Studios from $1750
This building features 10-foot ceilings, oversized windows and wood plank flooring throughout the unit. Modern kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops boast luxury in addition to in-unit laundry. Building #66 offers a variety of on-site amenities as well including an expansive 24-hour fitness center, a screening room, expansive resident lounge with TV’s and press box dry cleaning drop-off & pick-up. If you’re interested in Building #66, check out https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/066/
Property #137
Commute to McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters : 13-minute walk or a 6-minute drive
Starting Price: Studios from $1895
Building #137 is a brand new build offering immense luxury in your own home! The apartment units feature modern kitchens with perfectly integrated appliances. Beautiful wood flooring throughout living and sleeping areas with rustic exposed concrete ceilings make this a cozy home. Building #137 offers a plethora of outstanding amenities as well. Featuring a rooftop pool, outdoor seating areas with fire pits too. State-of-the-art fitness center and private studio are perfect for all your workout needs. For more information on Building #137, visit https://www.downtownapartmentcompany.com/luxury-rentals/137/
The West Loop neighborhood is bursting with top restaurants and bars within the city limits! Don’t skip the fine dining and nightlife down Restaurant Row on Randolph St. Stop in and check out the eclectic galleries and green spaces everyone would love in their neighborhood!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near McDonald’s West Loop Headquarters? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
1407 South Michigan is one of the newest luxury high-rises breaking ground in the South Loop. This mixed-use building will feature 199 dwelling units, with rentals ranging in size from studios to 3 bedrooms, and over 40,000 square feet of commercial space.
Residents can enjoy living comfortably in their sleek, modern homes with floor to ceiling windows and beautiful hardwood floors. Stylish kitchens are perfectly showcased in the open concept layouts. Units will also feature walk-in closets, in-unit laundry, and balconies.
Not only are the units pristine, but also the building offers amenities galore! Residents can relax or have some fun in the sun while enjoying the outdoor pool, cabanas, and gas grills. Enjoy the starry nights while roasting marshmallows over the fire pits for a cozy night in, or get pumped up to workout in the unique outdoor exercise area. When the weather is less than perfect, take your workouts to the state-of-the-art indoor gym to never miss a beat! Take a scheduled workout class in the on-site yoga studio or shoot some hoops in the basketball court, making this building one stop shop for all your fitness needs. The building also offers a large game room featuring a pool, ping-pong, foosball, and card tables as well as a sport bar.
1407 South Michigan will be a highly pet friendly building. Your furry friends can enjoy an outdoor dog run and you can enjoy the convenience of an on-site dog walking service. Additional amenities include a movie theatre, clubroom, sauna, business center and onsite press box dry cleaning!
1407 South Michigan will be located just a couple blocks from museum campus, with convenient access to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium. Catch a Chicago Bears game at Soldier Field! Millennium and Grant Park are just around the corner, perfect for enjoying one of the many year-round festivals or events within the community! Check out some of the delicious restaurants close by including Tapas Valencia, Eleven City Diner, Burger Bar or the critically acclaimed Acadia.
Looking for luxury apartments for rent in the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Rising 47 stories above the near South Loop is the exciting new development, SoMi. With its glassy, artistic exterior, SoMi is a sure stand out in the recent boom of construction near South Loop. Delivering 500 residential units, 7,500 square feet of retail space, and 200-car garage makes this a one-stop-shop for the perfect downtown apartment home!
Brought to us by Murphy Development Group and Los Angeles-based CIM Group is this stunning high-rise. The tower was designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB) architects and broke ground in 2017.
With it’s glassy exterior, residents can expect stunning floor-to-ceiling windows inside the units. Residents and guests alike can enjoy several state-of-the-art amenities as well. A rooftop pool is perfect for catching rays while taking in the breathtaking city skyline; a Chicago must for all residents! Residents can also enjoy multiple lounge and co-working spaces.
Not only is the South Loop incredibly pet friendly but so is SoMi! Bring your dog down to the in-building dog park or enjoy one of the many dog parks within walking distance. Grant Bark Park and Millennium Park are now steps from your front door!
Though only in its beginning stages, SoMi near the South Loop will surely be a building to keep your eyes on! With its modern design, it cannot be missed. The South Loop neighborhood is home to some of the best dining, shopping, parks and activities in Chicago. Be sure to check out the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum, 12th Street Beach, or grab a bite at Flaco’s Tacos!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the loop!
Riverline, one of the most highly anticipated developments in the South Loop, will consist of 8 riverfront properties, 3,600 residences, retail space and 3.5 acres of open, public green space. Development partners, CMK companies and Lendlease, broke ground on the 14 acre site in fall of 2016.
Renderings courtesy of Perkins & Will
The first tower, known as Ancora, has begun construction. As the stunning centerpiece to the sprawling redeveloped site, Ancora will house 452 dwellings, a spacious amenity deck and a 230-car parking garage. The next building, Current, will go up shortly after. Riverline is the South Loop’s “new neighborhood” and strives to be a comprehensive community for residents to live, work, dine, and shop.
Ancora has a walk score of 95 and a bike score of 100, making it a rider’s paradise. This new neighborhood is as exciting as it is beautiful. Some of the outstanding amenities include an abundance of shared spaces such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, reading room, game room and a sports stimulator. Perfect for beautiful Chicago days, Riverline introduces numerous outdoor activities right in your backyard. Riverline features a rooftop amenity deck, a half-mile of continuous river walks and plenty of green space. All units are pet friendly, perfect for any dog owners looking to enjoy the South Loop’s many dog parks.
Inside, residents can enjoy seamless floor to ceiling windows, modern finishes, hardwood throughout, open floorplans, and sleek stainless steel appliances. With sweeping views of the sparkling city skyline, the full essence of downtown living is brought to life in these apartments.
The South Loop neighborhood, home to Riverline, features outstanding shopping, food, parks and activities. Home to Chicago’s museum campus, residents and guests alike have easy access to all weather activities. If you’re a Chicago Bears fan, make sure to check out the local Soldier Field!
Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!
Nestled in the near South Loop, The Studebaker features modern loft finishes in a newly converted residential building.
Units feature hardwood floors throughout, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, and porcelain tile backsplashes. Select units boast expansive outdoor terraces.
Large and floor-to-ceiling windows make for ample natural light and sprawling views of the Chicago skyline. High ceilings, exposed duct work, and lofted walls add to the charm of this South Loop gem.
Between amenities and location, The Studebaker is ideal for anyone with a busy lifestyle seeking convenience. The CTA Red and Green lines are just steps away, providing service to all parts of downtown Chicago, from the Loop through Lincoln Park, as far North as Evanston, and Southwest to Jackson Park. The Studebaker is also a short walking distance to 3 major grocery stores. Additionally, the South Loop is host to an abundance of small grocery stores, shops, and coffee houses.
The amenities in The Studebaker include a 900 square foot fitness center with both weights and cardio equipment, package receiving, and in-building dry-cleaning service through Pressbox.
Furthermore, The Studebaker is an extremely pet friendly building in one of Chicago’s most dog friendly neighborhoods! Click here for more on the South Loop’s dog friendly amenities.
Grant Bark Dog Park
One of the most beloved neighborhoods in Chicago is Lincoln Park. Offering an abundance of activities at a variety of venues, including the waterfront, bars, noteworthy restaurants and DePaul University, it’s no wonder why it stands out! With countless incredible things to do near Lincoln Park, here are some of the top attractions.
Lincoln Park Zoo is on a breathtaking 49 acre lot situated right along the lakefront. Open 365 days a year, this zoo has free admission every single day and is one of the country’s last free zoos. Home to nearly 200 species of animals, many of them are rare and/or endangered! During the winter, enjoy Zoo Lights, an abundance of elaborate light displays throughout the park, with additional winter themed winter activities and refreshments. Simply outstanding in warm or cold weather, you won’t want to miss Lincoln Park Zoo!
Topping some of the best things to do near Lincoln Park are some of the most incredible dining and drinking experiences in the city. Feel like you need a quick vacation to Southern California? Try out the highly reviewed Summer House Santa Monica! While out and about, check out Batter & Berries, this restaurant has been featured on many shows including Check Please, Chicago’s Best, You & Me in the Morning and Good Day Chicago! Some notable mentions were the french toast flight and deconstructed omelets! Then of course, there’s world renowned Alinea, a Michelin 3-Star restaurant that draws foodies from near and far to try creative contemporary tasting menus.
If you’re looking to enjoy a night out on the town Lincoln Park has many happening bars. Be sure to grab a drink on the Hotel Lincoln rooftop bar, The J Parker. With refreshing cocktails, sweeping city and lake views this place is a total win! Great music adds an exciting ambiance to this beautiful rooftop.
On warm, sunny days one of the best things to do near Lincoln Park is definitely catching some rays at North Avenue Beach! Take a break from the urban, concrete jungle and relax next to the sounds of waves. Home of Castaway’s Bar and Grill, you can now eat and drink while enjoying the beach as well. Do not miss this hot spot during the air & water show during the summer; it’s a must!
Located near the zoo is the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a botanic garden positioned perfectly in the city. Tucked away in a Victorian glass house, you can find numerous exotic plants from all over the world. View beautiful, rare flowers that cannot be seen in many places. We all know rainy days can be gray and gloomy but if you’re looking for things to do near Lincoln Park on in stormy weather, come by to bring some color back into your day!
In the heart of some of the city’s top attractions, Eleven40 is rising above South Loop to deliver luxury and affordability to one of Chicago’s liveliest neighborhoods. Recently kicking off, the construction for the new 26-story is underway, grabbing attention along the way with its glassy, exquisite exterior.
Sit tight; the South Loop will be opening Eleven40 just a few months away in the spring of 2018! Designed and developed between a joint venture with CA Residential and Keith Giles, this tower will feature both commercial and residential areas. On the floor level, 5,000 square feet of commercial space will be used in addition to the property’s 320 apartments.
Inside the glassy exterior walls will have a vast majority of studio and one-bedroom apartments, but will also house 80 two-bedrooms. With these options, you will surely find one that is just right for you! The luxurious building will also include outstanding rooftop amenities perfect for any bright and sunny day!
Not only does this tower boast luxury, but affordability is also one of their strengths. Eleven40’s rents will start about 20% less expensive than comparable buildings in the area.
The South Loop neighborhood is a Chicago staple and gem. Within walking distance is Museum Campus, which includes the Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum. Soldier Field is just around the corner! Perfect for any football fanatic! Other key points are great nightlife options just at your doorstep on South Wabash and South Lake Shore Drive. Find all the perfect parks your furry friends will enjoy as well throughout Grant Park. Conveniently located, Eleven40 is just around the corner from a Red Line station and all major bus lines.
Looking for luxury apartments near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the loop!
Known for its spectacular attractions like The Museum Campus and Chinatown, the South Loop is also one of the most dog friendly neighborhoods in downtown Chicago. With its four popular dog friendly parks and plenty of pet friendly luxury apartment rentals, the South Loop is the perfect place for you and your furry friends.
Grant Bark Dog Park
As the very first dog friendly park to be constructed in the South Loop, Grant Bark Park is also the largest dog friendly area in downtown Chicago. Located near Grant Park with more than 18,000 sq.ft. of space, this beautiful off-leash park is lined with honey locust trees, and also has a decorative fountain. The park is fully-fenced and double-gated with plenty of fresh water sources for your puppy.
Coliseum Dog Park
Located just south of Wabash Avenue, Coliseum Park has more than 2,800 sq. ft. of space, including a dog run and a raised area covered with turf. There is also a dog friendly fountain, along with a playground and recreation area located nearby.
Fred Anderson Dog Park
As one of the newest dog friendly parks in the South Loop, this park was completed in 2014 to pay homage to famed Chicago jazz musician, Fred Anderson. The park is specialized designed with two areas: one area designated for small dogs (5,200 sq. ft.), and another area designated for large dogs (13,700 sq.ft.). Once you enter the gate, there are two clearly marked entrances to distinguish these different areas. There are also dog friendly water-play fountains and tunnels, along with picnic tables for those perfect summer afternoons in downtown Chicago!
D’Angelo Dog Park
Located just off the west side of Franklin Street, this 5000 sq. ft. dog friendly park has its own pet friendly water fountain, along with a designated area for small dogs.
South Loop has amazing dog friendly parks, but it also regarded as one of the best neighborhoods for dog friendly luxury apartment rentals! Beautiful new additions to the neighborhood like 1001 South State and 1000 South Clark have great, pet friendly amenities like dog runs, pet care facilities, and grooming areas—1000 South Clark even has a 5,000 sq. ft. dog run.
Around the South Loop neighborhood, you’ll also find dog friendly restaurants like The Spoke & Bird, Kasey’s Tavern, and Square One—to name a few! The annual Chicago Food Truck Festival in the South Loop is another dog friendly event to check out.
Looking for Downtown Chicago luxury apartments near the South Loop? Give us a call today! We’d be happy to keep you in the loop!
