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Overview
Just north of Lakeview and east of Ravenswood, Uptown is a bit of a hidden gem within Chicago's North Side. The historic neighborhood has undergone myriad changes over the years, including several new developments along Wilson Avenue. Historic brownstones and single-family homes fill the quiet, tree-lined streets, giving it a more suburban feel. But make no mistake, Uptown is buzzing with entertainment options along Broadway Avenue. Here, you have multiple options for food and nightlife, including two concert venues right down the street from each other. At the heart of the neighborhood's bar scene is the historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, which is not only known for being a classy cocktail lounge, but also for being one of Al Capone's favorite hangouts. Montrose Beach is also just a short walk away.
Homes in Uptown
Where To Live
The southernmost portion of Uptown has a decidedly urban feel, with vintage penthouses offering plenty of space and modern condominiums integrated with shopping districts and corner stores. Further north, near Andersonville, the neighborhood has a slightly more suburban feel with fenced-in yards, spacious gardens, and plenty of street parking. A variety of Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese establishments can be found in the northeast section of Uptown, known as Asia on Argyle.
The Red Line train cuts through the center of the neighborhood, stopping at Argyle, Lawrence, and Wilson. Residents living further east are within walking distance of lakeside amenities such as the Lakefront Trail and Montrose Beach.
Price Vibes
From homes to entertainment, Uptown screams affordability, especially when taken into the context of the North Side. Featuring a wide range of home styles, the neighborhood mostly offers townhomes and mid-rise condos, with a few single-family homes sprinkled in. Closer towards the lake are newer condo units, offering a more luxurious side of Uptown. If you are looking for lakeside living at an attainable price, look no further than Uptown.
Around Uptown
Where To Eat
With Uptown's rich history as an immigrant neighborhood and cultural melting pot, inhabitants of this area can experience cuisines from all over the world. The Asia on Argyle district offers plenty of spots to get a great bowl of pho — start with Tank Noodle — and the Peking duck at Sun Wah BBQ is a culinary adventure you’ll remember fondly. Further south on Broadway Street, Demera serves up some of the finest Ethiopian cuisine that you’ll find in Chicago. Old-school diners and late-night Mexican restaurants also abound, and thanks to Uptown’s working-class sensibility, you won't break the bank heading out for a bite to eat.
Friday Night Fun
Uptown’s entertainment district is known far and wide as a guaranteed good time. Party with your favorite rapper while they’re in town performing at the Aragon Ballroom or rock out to your favorite band at the Riviera Theatre. For a more mellow night, grab a drink at the famous Green Mill Cocktail Lounge and listen to world-class jazz musicians play in an intimate setting.
The Perfect Sunday
Meet some friends at Montrose Beach for a pickup game of beach volleyball followed by a picnic by the lake. Let the local bike shop give your bike a tune-up while you rest at a coffee shop, then hit the Lakefront Trail to take in views of Lake Michigan. Head west to explore Graceland Cemetery, where visitors from all over come to pay their respects to some of Chicago's most famous residents.
Transportation Options
The main transportation hubs of Uptown are the two Red Line stations at Lawrence Avenue and Wilson Drive. This line runs north/south along the coast of Lake Michigan and will take you (almost) anywhere in Chicago. There are bus routes running east/west on Foster Avenue and Lawrence Avenue that will carry you to the beach or nearby Ravenswood. If you need to travel Downtown, hop on a north/south route along Marine Drive, Sheridan Road, North Broadway, or Clark Street. Close proximity to Lake Shore Drive makes traveling by car a breeze (but actually, look out for those high winds rolling off the lake) and parking is relatively easy to come by this far north.
Living Here
Locals Love
Spacious apartments and homes at a reasonable price • Representation of cultures from all over the world • Easy to find and often free street parking • Convenient access to public transit
Residents Say
When walking around the streets of this neighborhood, it's hard not to feel like you have left Chicago, that is until you walk to Montrose Beach and get a fantastic view of Chicago's skyline.
- Uptown Resident
Homes for Sale
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