The 19 Best Neighborhoods in Chicago (By a Local)

Whether you’re looking to move to Chicago or just visit for vacation, getting an idea of the city’s neighborhoods is a great thing to do. As a resident, I always tell visitors that the best of Chicago lies in its neighborhoods, and not exploring them would be a mistake!

That being said, each neighborhood offers something unique. And not all areas are suited for tourists. But if you know where to look, you’ll find hidden gems, local flair, and so much more.

Read on to start discovering Chicago’s neighborhoods, from the popular and obvious ones to some personal favorites. And while you’re here, check out my guides to what to do and where to stay in Chicago.

19 Best Neighborhoods in Chicago

The Loop 

The center of downtown Chicago, with access to major cultural attractions, parks, shopping, and dining.

📍 Google Maps | Chicago Loop Alliance Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Chicago Athletic Association, part of Hyatt

The Loop is the true, geographic center of Chicago. In fact, all of the city’s train lines meet here, forming a “loop,” hence the name. This is what most people think of when you say “Chicago.”

This is where you’ll find a mix of modern high-rises, historic city buildings, eye-catching skyscrapers, The Art Institute, Millennium Park and “The Bean,” and other iconic places. You’ll see above-ground train lines weaving through the streets, and Lake Michigan’s waters lapping to the east. 

Although the Loop feels touristy, this is the place to be if you want convenient access to some of the city’s biggest attractions. The Loop is bustling, busy, and everything you’d expect in a city. It’s got the name brand shops and upscale restaurants alongside longstanding establishments and trendy chains. 

Whether you’re looking for housing or just a hotel, you’re pretty much guaranteed a high-rise here.

Pros of the Loop

• Centralized location
• Close to major attractions, shopping, and dining
• Bustling atmosphere
• Don’t need a car to get around
• Accessible by Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines

Cons of the Loop

• Touristy
• Can be crowded
• Noisy
• Lacks a “local feel”

📚 Related Reading: A lot of Chicago’s festivals and events take place in the Loop’s Grant Park. Read our list of 18 Best Chicago Festivals for more information!

River North

A popular, vibrant downtown neighborhood that’s great for younger crowds.

📍 Google Maps | River North Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Westin Chicago River North

River North is another bustling downtown neighborhood in the midst of the action. It’s located where it sounds like it is, on the north side of the Loop, just above the Chicago river. The neighborhood tends to draw 20 and 30-somethings because of its restaurants, atmosphere, city-feel, and proximity to the Loop. Homes here are a mix of modern high-rise apartments and condos.

River North offers residents and visitors alike access to art galleries, popular restaurants, high-end shopping, some museums, and even landmarks like THE Mart and the Marina City “Corncobs.” You’ll also have access to the Chicago Riverwalk for things like running or walking your dog. And public transportation is easily available.

Pros of River North

• Popular neighborhood
• Central location with lots of attractions
• Access to places like grocery stores
• Don’t need a car to get around
• Accessible by Brown, Purple, and Red Lines

Cons of River North

• Not as many parks and open green spaces
• Can be a bit crowded
• Noisy at night
  

Streeterville

A lively neighborhood that’s close to Lake Michigan, the Magnificent Mile, and Navy Pier.

📍 Google Maps | Streeterville Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Loews Chicago Hotel

Streeterville is a downtown neighborhood sandwiched between Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile. Its proximity to the Loop and nearby attractions creates a good blend of tourism and residential living for young folks, couples, and families alike. 

If you’re looking to be close to downtown but not quite in the Loop, then Streeterville is a convenient location. Because of high-rise living and the bustle of being downtown, this is a good neighborhood for working professionals who really want that central city feel. But the Lakefront Trail is a short walk from anywhere in the neighborhood, offering a nature reprieve.

Pros of Streeterville

• Access to attractions
• Good shopping nearby
• Proximity to Lake Michigan and lake activities
• Don’t need a car to get around
• Accessible by the Red Line

Cons of Streeterville

• Noisy
• Pricier
• Can feel a bit touristy

📚 Related Reading: Best Chicago Beaches

Lincoln Park

A family-friendly neighborhood with tons of green space, things to do, and a charming local feel.

📍 Google Maps | Lincoln Park Chamber Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Villa D’ Citta

Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s largest and most sought-after neighborhoods, especially for families and young professionals. Students are also drawn to this area because of its proximity to DePaul University. Located north of Old Town and right on the lakefront, Lincoln Park blends big-city living with a more quaint, community-oriented feel. 

Think local shops and restaurants, tons of green space, and access to major attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago History Museum, and more. This neighborhood is also home to great farmers markets. 

The neighborhood itself is named after the actual park, Lincoln Park, that’s located here. It’s a real gem and one of my favorite places in the city. The park has 1200 acres of green space along the lakefront and is home to tons of free attractions and activities. 

Pros of Lincoln Park

• Tons of outdoor space
• Great options for shopping, dining, and attractions
• Local, neighborhood feel
• Walkable
• Close to the lakefront 
• Accessible by Brown, Purple, Red Lines

Cons of Lincoln Park

• Pricier 
• A bit chillier because of its proximity to Lake Michigan 

👉 A visit to Lincoln Park is Day 3 of our 5-day Chicago itinerary. Get your free printable Chicago itinerary here!

West Loop

Chicago’s go-to foodie neighborhood with tons of amenities.

📍 Google Maps | West Loop Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast

Look no further than the West Loop if you want to satisfy your inner foodie. Over the last decade, this neighborhood has been on the rise with tons of options for shopping and dining. It’s trendy, and a place where upscale meets industrial. 

The Fulton Market District is particularly popular for a variety of creative and international cuisines. Here, you’ll find beloved Chicago restaurants like Girl & The Goat and Au Cheval, as well as iconic foodie joints from other cities, like NYC’s Levain Bakery and Portland’s Voodoo Doughnut.

The West Loop is one of the best neighborhoods for sports and entertainment as well. It’s close to the United Center as well as a ton of theaters for live performances like Broadway plays, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and Joffrey Ballet.

This area is also great for those who work in the Loop, as well as healthcare professionals since many hospitals and medical facilities are nearby.

Pros of West Loop

• Tons of dining and nightlife options
• Foodie destination
• Accessible by the Green & Pink Lines

Cons of West Loop

• Rising neighborhood costs
• Noisy

Wicker Park & Bucktown

An artsy, trendy neighborhood with great shopping, dining, and coffee shops.

📍 Google Maps | Wicker Park/Bucktown Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Robey

Head to the Wicker Park and Bucktown area if you’re looking for an artsy, more eccentric vibe. The neighborhood is located on the northwest side of Chicago. 

The center of Wicker Park, also known as “Six Corners,” is lively and vibrant — full of local shops, trendy restaurants, live music venues, and cool coffee shops. 

Historic buildings and brownstones make up the area, so you won’t find too many high rises. Overall, there’s a local yet trendy, grunge vibe here, and it’s great for younger crowds.

The 606 Trail (a 2.7-mile-long urban greenway) is also accessible from this neighborhood, with access points on N Milwaukee Ave and N Damen Ave.

There are many fun things to do in Wicker Park!

Pros of Wicker Park & Bucktown

• Tons of local places to check out
• Has a more local, neighborhood feel
• Nearby parks
• Access to the 606
• Accessible by the Blue Line

Cons of Wicker Park & Bucktown

• Bustling area, so may be noisy around the center
  

👉 Local Tip: For live shows, head to Subterranean and the Chop Shop on W North Avenue.

Logan Square

A friendly and artsy neighborhood with a laid-back, authentic atmosphere.

📍 Google Maps | Neighborhood Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Family-friendly, super clean Chicago Apartment in Logan Square

Logan Square is a friendly and artsy neighborhood that’s become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s located in the northwestern part of Chicago, just past Wicker Park and Bucktown along the Blue Line. 

It’s a great place for creatives to live since there’s a laid-back atmosphere with tons of unique places to explore. Think a mix of upscale and divey restaurants and bars, as well as funky local shops, and great places for thrifting. There’s a vibe to Logan Square that’s local, charming, and hard to beat.

The area also has a year-round farmers market that takes place on Sundays, and an old-school movie theater (Logan Theatre) that shows new releases, indie films, and cult classics. 

The residential side of Logan Square is a mix of old limestone homes, single-family homes, condos, and apartment complexes. 

Pros of Logan Square

• Tons of cool, local shops
• A variety of living options 
• Local, neighborhood feel
• Accessible by the Blue Line

Cons of Logan Square

• Distance from downtown
  

Pilsen

A colorful neighborhood overflowing with arts, culture, and community.

📍 Google Maps | Pilsen Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Luxury Modern Home in Pilsen

In 2018, Forbes named Pilsen one of the “12 Coolest Neighborhoods Around the World,” and for good reason. This vibrant community is made up of a rich arts and culture scene and is home to a large Latino community, including many families.

The neighborhood is located on the Lower West Side and is made up of historic buildings, single-family homes, and condos.

All around Pilsen, colorful murals grace the sides of buildings. There are a variety of local art galleries and music venues, too. One of the most well-known is Thalia Hall, which is a historic theater known for bringing in a diverse lineup of comedians and indie artists. The National Museum of Mexican Art is also here. 

Lastly, Pilsen offers an incredible selection of authentic Mexican cuisine. So, if you stop by, plan on staying for lunch or dinner. You’ll thank me later!

Pros of Pilsen

• Great local shopping and dining
• Rich arts and culture
• Colorful street art
• Accessible by the Pink Line

Cons of Pilsen

• Farther from downtown 

Chinatown

A lively neighborhood with incredible eats, and a rich sense of culture and community.

📍 Google Maps | Chinatown Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Chinatown

Chinatown is just east of Pilsen along the south branch of the Chicago River. This neighborhood has over a century of history and continues to be the center of the Chinese community and culture in Chicago.

Chinatown is mainly populated by families and retirees, and many of the homes are condos and apartments. 

The main hub of this neighborhood begins at the crossroads of W Cermak Road and S Wentworth Avenue. Here, a large, ornate gate welcomes residents and visitors alike.

Along this main drag, colorful gift shops, Chinese grocery stores, restaurants, and bakeries line the streets. So, if you plan on stopping in Chinatown, come on an empty stomach to indulge in all the delicious cuisine. My favorite spot is Qing Xiang Yuang Dumplings.

For local attractions, visit Ping Tom Memorial Park, the Chinese American Museum, Pui Tak Center, and The ART Gallery.

Pros of Chinatown

• Great dining options 
• Rich history and culture
• Community-oriented
• Accessible by Red Line

Cons of Chinatown

• Distance from downtown
  

👉 Local Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer, a unique way to explore is by using the Chicago Water Taxi. It’ll drop you off at Ping Tom Memorial Park!  

Hyde Park

One of Chicago’s most historically and culturally rich neighborhoods.

📍 Google Maps | Hyde Park Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Study at the University of Chicago

Hyde Park is a neighborhood of rich history and cultural importance located on Chicago’s South Side along the lakefront.

The neighborhood is home to some of Chicago’s most significant institutions and attractions including the University of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Robie House, and so many others. 

A mix of students, young professionals, and families reside here, which makes the community vibrant and diverse. Hyde Park is also sandwiched between Washington Park on the west and Jackson Park on the east, providing residents and visitors with ample green space.

Even with all these major institutions and parks, Hyde Park has tons of local shops and restaurants.

Pros of Hyde Park

• Dog-friendly 
• Good schools
• Tons to do 
• Accessible by the Green Line 

Cons of Hyde Park

• Farther from downtown
• Less centralized 

Old Town

A buzzing neighborhood near Lincoln Park that mixes trend and tradition.

📍 Google Maps | Old Town Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Sono Chicago

The neighborhood of Old Town is located between Lincoln Park and River North. Old Town is great for adults of all ages but is particularly popular with 20-30-somethings.

Nearby Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan provide outdoor amenities, while the main drag, N Wells Street, has tons of trendy shops and restaurants and is great for bar hopping. Downtown Chicago is within easy reach, too. Homes here are a mix of apartments, condos, and brownstones.

Old Town is home to one of the world’s most famous comedy clubs: The Second City, which has produced more than its fair share of successful comedians. This club has certainly set a precedent, too, by creating a neighborhood atmosphere that’s fun, local, and laid-back. 

Besides The Second City, check out some other neighborhood institutions like Old Town Ale House or Zanies Comedy Night Club. 

Pros of Old Town

• Local, neighborhood feel
• Walking distance from the lake 
• Great entertainment options
• Accessible by Brown, Purple, and Red Lines

Cons of Old Town

• Not as family-oriented for those with young children 
• Noise in some areas

Gold Coast

An affluent and historic neighborhood known for classic brownstones, luxury living, and proximity to Lake Michigan.

📍 Google Maps | Gold Coast Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Ambassador Chicago, part of JdV by Hyatt

Head to the Gold Coast if you’re looking for luxury. This affluent neighborhood, nestled behind N Lake Shore Drive and west of beautiful Lake Michigan, is known for its picture-perfect streets and classic brownstone homes.

Gold Coast is a great location for couples and families who are willing to spend more on condos and single-family homes. Although, luxury high-rise apartments are also available. 

Outside of Gold Coast’s residential areas, residents and visitors can expect luxury shopping from big names like Prada and Versace, as well as smaller boutiques.

Overall, the neighborhood is known for its historic architecture and upscale amenities. For the crème de la crème of Gold Coast architecture, head to Astor Street District to see 19th-century homes.   

Pros of Gold Coast

• Proximity to the lake and downtown Chicago 
• Local, residential feel 
• Well kept neighborhood streets
• Is an “architectural jewel box”
• Accessible by the Red Line

Cons of Gold Coast

• Cost of living is higher
• Property options may be limited due to historic buildings
• May be limited options for pet owners, depending on each property
• Less casual dining options

West Town

An active neighborhood with diverse influences and an eclectic vibe.

📍 Google Maps | West Town Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Ruby Room Inn

West Town is located north of the West Loop and a few blocks south of the Wicker Park & Bucktown area. This melting pot of a neighborhood is a place where a diverse range of influences come together to create a unique, bustling enclave. 

Here, historic buildings, brownstones, and apartment buildings make up the streets. West Town is a great neighborhood for families and individuals who enjoy an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. The area is also home to some of the best live music venues. It has a similar atmosphere to Wicker Park and Bucktown, but it’s more affordable.

Chicago Avenue is the main drag of this neighborhood, but nearby Ukrainian Village and East Village are also worth checking out. Take the 50 bus on N Damen Ave between West Town and Wicker Park to get a better feel for the residential side of this area. 

Pros of West Town

• Close to many Chicago parks 
• Relaxed and friendly local feel 
• Accessible by the Blue Line

Cons of West Town

• Traffic congestion around the center of West Town
• Noise in some areas

📚 Related Reading: Best Time to Visit Chicago | Local Tips on When to Go

Andersonville

A welcoming, community-oriented neighborhood known as the “shop local capital of Chicago.”

📍 Google Maps | Andersonville Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Guesthouse Hotel

Andersonville is a family-friendly neighborhood about 10 miles north of Chicago’s downtown Loop. This suburban-yet-urban city neighborhood is known for its Swedish roots, as well as its large LGBTQ+ community. 

In addition, Andersonville is vibrant with local flair. So much so that it’s been called the “shop local capital of Chicago” because its main street features a variety of unique, independent businesses. Think anything from casual neighborhood cafes to artisanal gift shops. Plus, the neighborhood is highly walkable.

Homes are a mix of apartment buildings, single-family houses, and condos. If you enjoy an eclectic, local vibe and don’t mind the long distance from downtown, Andersonville could be for you. 

Pros of Andersonville

• Community-oriented feel
• Cheaper than other neighborhoods
• Accessible by the Red Line

Cons of Andersonville

• Farther from downtown

👉Local Tip: In the summer, enjoy Chicago festivals like Midsommarfest and Pride celebrations.

Lake View

A relaxed, local atmosphere with tons of nearby activities from sports and outdoor recreation to arts and culture.

📍 Google Maps | Lake View Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Hotel Zachary

Lake View is a laid-back neighborhood just north of Lincoln Park and next to the lakefront. This community area is often broken down into west, central, and east Lake View, with other neighborhoods being included in the mix. 

Wrigleyville (where the Chicago Cubs’ Wrigley Field is located!) and Boystown are popular areas on the central and east sides, while Roscoe Village borders the west edge of the neighborhood. 

Overall, Lake View has a local vibe with tons of bars and pubs, restaurants, family-friendly amenities, cafes and restaurants, and more. You’ll enjoy convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities near the lakefront and entry to the northern section of Lincoln Park. 

If you’re not into sports, check out Lake View’s historic Music Box Theatre. Here, you can watch a diverse lineup of indie and foreign films, as well as cult classics.

For families, young professionals, and baseball lovers, Lake View is a great neighborhood to look into.

Pros of Lake View

• Local feel
• Wrigley Field is here!
• Safety 
• Accessible by Brown, Purple, and Red Lines

Cons of Lake View

• Farther from downtown

Roscoe Village

A small, hidden-gem neighborhood with bookstores, taverns, and cafes.

📍 Google Maps | Roscoe Village Neighbors Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Roscoe Village Guesthouse

Roscoe Village is a charming, quaint neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side, just west of Lake View. This is a great area to visit if you’re craving a cozy, small-town feel and want to escape the bustle of downtown Chicago. 

The main strip of Roscoe Village is W Roscoe Street. This street is super walkable and filled with neighborhood joints, cafes, and local shops. I especially love visiting the two bookstores here. The Last Chapter is a book shop that only sells romance novels. RoscoeBooks is a bookstore that has all your typical genres and a really welcoming atmosphere. 

I recommend visiting Roscoe Village for the charming local vibes. But be sure to stay for lunch or dinner at someplace like Kitsch’n on Roscoe or Turquoise Cafe & Restaurant.

Pros of Roscoe Village

• Local charm
• Lots of little shops and restaurants 
• Quiet 
• Driveable 
• Accessible by the Brown Line

Cons of Roscoe Village

• Farther from downtown

South Loop

All the perks of downtown living with access to museums, attractions, and more.

📍 Google Maps | South Loop Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Homewood Suites

South Loop is located below the Loop on the city’s south side, as its name suggests. Here, residents range from working professionals to couples and families. The neighborhood is a mix of high-rise apartments, condos, and converted historic buildings. 

The area is great for anyone who wants that vibrant downtown feel, but a little more relaxed. South Loop offers residents and visitors an endless array of activities and attractions.

Some of Chicago’s biggest museums are located here, like Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum.

South Loop is also home to many jazz, blues, and music venues, including Buddy Guy’s Legends. Historic districts like Motor Row, Printers Row, and “Millionaire’s Row” on Prairie Avenue are also located here. 

Pros of South Loop

• Proximity to downtown 
• Tons of attractions and museums 
• Downtown living 
• Accessible by Red, Orange, Green Lines

Cons of South Loop

• Less of a local, neighborhood vibe
• More limited nightlife scene

Lincoln Square

A small-town neighborhood with diverse culture and a slower pace.

📍 Google Maps | Lincoln Square Chamber Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: The Guesthouse Hotel

Enjoy a small-town feel in one of Chicago’s most culturally diverse neighborhoods, Lincoln Square. Located on the city’s north side, past Lake View, this neighborhood offers some old-world character and calmer pace that’s great for couples, families, and retirees.

The neighborhood’s main drag, Lincoln Avenue, even features cobblestone streets. A ton of specialty shops and diverse restaurants can be found here.

Although Lincoln Square is vibrant with a variety of cultural influences, the neighborhood has German roots. This is reflected in Lincoln Square’s annual summer festival, Maifest.

Pros of Lincoln Square

• Accessible by the Brown Line
• Quaint and friendly
• Local feel

Cons of Lincoln Square

• Farther from downtown 

University Village & Little Italy

Two communities come together to create a friendly, youthful neighborhood.

📍 Google Maps | Little Italy/University Village Website | School Districts: Chicago Public Schools | 👉 Best Hotel for Your Scouting Trip: Courtyard by Marriott Chicago at Medical District-UIC

University Village and Little Italy are two smaller neighborhoods in the Near West Side of Chicago, located just south of the West Loop.

Little Italy offers Italian influence and a community-oriented feel, while students from the University of Illinois at Chicago give University Village a youthful spirit. 

Together, the area has a casual and friendly atmosphere. W Taylor Street is the main hub of this and is full of family-run restaurants and shops.

The residential side of University Village and Little Italy is made up of condos, apartments, and historic buildings. The area is walkable, with ample green spaces, and is great for students and young professionals. Also, here’s a local tip: This neighborhood features an urban community garden, Taylor Street Farms.

Pros of University Village

• Close to other neighborhoods
• Dog-friendly 
• Accessible by the Blue Line

Cons of University Village

• More limited train access

📚 Related Reading: A Chicago Cheat Sheet for New Residents

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Thanks for reading my neighborhood guide for Chicago! To keep you comfortable and prepared no matter what time of year, check out our Chicago packing list!