A Walk Through Chicago's Gold Coast
When I made the move to Chicago from suburban Ohio, I looked for a sense of home. That meant walk-up entrances to houses, neighborhood parks, and tree lawns (that’s what Ohioans call the grassy area between the sidewalk and the street). The city and suburbs may seem like a contradiction, but I found aspects of both at my new home in the Gold Coast.
The name of the neighborhood derives from its past as the epicenter for Chicago’s rich and famous, and while the elegant architecture of the homes stands the test of time, the area offers so much more than seemingly unattainable mansions. The suburban greenery is there, grocery stores and shopping are all within walking distance, family- and dog-friendly pathways are throughout the neighborhood, and highly rated restaurants abound.
This guide will take you through the must-see spots in the Gold Coast, starting in the northern corner (under Lincoln Park). So, take a walk, and make sure to check out Lake Michigan to the east, and see why Chicagoans—and out-of-towners—have been flocking to this area since the 1880s.
International Museum of Surgical Science
Nestled in the upper right corner of the neighborhood on Lake Shore Drive, the International Museum of Surgical Science is a hidden gem often overlooked for Chicago’s larger museums. Over 10,000 square feet is dedicated to taking patrons through the history of surgery and medicine, along with art exhibits throughout. Be sure to check out the historical artifact collections, including an iron lung, antique medical instruments, and skeletons.
The outside of the building is just as intriguing; the museum is inside a historic lakeside mansion—one of the few that remain on Lake Shore Drive—built in 1917 that was designed to look like a French chateau. The museum is open seven days a week and offers guided tours on Thursdays at 2 p.m.
Astor Street District
A walk through the Gold Coast would be incomplete without a stroll down North Astor Street. This district spanning the 1200-1600 blocks of Astor is recognized as a historic landmark because of the beautiful 19th century homes featuring various revival styles built by Chicago’s high society.
The regal mansions with grand entrances, perfectly kept landscaping, and eye-catching flower beds sit tucked away from the towering skyscrapers just a few blocks over. Many residences have more than 7 bedrooms and luxurious features, so it’s no surprise to see a price tag reaching well over $2 million on the street.
Original Playboy Mansion
Before Hugh Hefner moved his well-known Playboy Mansion to Holmby Hills in Los Angeles, the magazine mogul lived in the Gold Coast. While the Chicago residence doesn’t have some of the famous features the LA property did—like tennis courts, grottos, and aviary buildings—the home was host to notorious parties and the Playboy bunnies. Some of the visitors to 1340 N. State Parkway included The Rolling Stones, Barbara Streisand, and Warren Beatty.
When Hefner made the move to LA in the 1970s, he rented the manse to the The Art Institute of Chicago to use for dorms. Now, the mansion is split into seven lavish condos—in the past they have sold for more than $3 million.
3 Arts Club Cafe in Restoration Hardware
In a courtyard under a glass ceiling, the 3 Arts Club Cafe is tucked inside Restoration Hardware’s massive Chicago flagship store on 1300 N. Dearborn Parkway. The name of the cafe pays homage to the women’s club previously housed in the building that was dedicated to the three arts of music, painting, and drama.
A chandelier comparable to a piece of art, an opulent water feature, and vibrant trees decorate this posh cafe offering brunch and dinner menus; some standout items include the lobster roll and smoked salmon. While you wait for a table, grab a drink—there’s a bar serving beer, wine, and coffee—and walk through the upscale room displays that provide some serious home design inspiration and Instagram-worthy moments.
Goudy Square Playground Park
Part of the allure of the Gold Coast is its perfectly manicured lawns and tree-lined streets that almost makes it feels like you aren’t in the city. Goudy Square Playground Park only adds to that feeling.
This .61-acre park at 1249 N Astor St. underwent a renovation in 2014 that brought it a soft-surface playground, swing sets, and park benches as part of the Chicago Plays! program. The active community park is encompassed by shady trees, decorative fencing, and landscaped grounds that create a suburban feel in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Oak Street Beach
In the summer, Oak Street Beach is a prime hang-out location. With a stunning view of the skyline to the north and the blue water of Lake Michigan to the east, this beach is a perfect mix of Chicago’s natural beauty and urban appeal.
If the weather is right, lifeguards are on duty so people can take a dip in the lake. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent, and concession stands and volleyball courts are open during the summer. You can access the bike and running trails along the beach at any time, but go at sunset to see the skyline against a breathtaking backdrop.
Lou Malnati’s
Lou Malnati’s makes a lot of lists for Chicago’s best deep-dish pizza, and Gold Coast residents have it within walking distance from their doorstep. Staying true to an old family recipe, Lou’s pizza has a flaky, buttery crust with layers of gooey mozzarella, toppings, and a fresh tomato sauce.
The first Lou Malnati’s opened in Lincolnwood in 1971 and 56 locations have since opened in the Chicago area. The Gold Coast location at 1120 N. State St. is the largest and serves as the flagship store. Make sure to call ahead though; it’s common to wait over an hour during the lunch or dinner rush.
Devereaux
The entrance to this bar—located in an alley off State Street—may be unassuming at first, but once you get through the doors and take an elevator ride to the 18th floor, you’ll see what the hype is all about. This glamorous rooftop lounge on top of the Viceroy Hotel has unmatched views of the Gold Coast and Streeterville that are enjoyed best with an inventive cocktail or small plate from their bar.
Adding to the trendiness is a rooftop pool with towel service and lounge chairs that is open throughout the summer. The warmer months are when you’ll be able to get the full experience of Deveraux, but the swanky indoor lounge is still open during the off-season.