Right off the coast of Lake Michigan, Gold Coast has a dense, urban feel that is defined by upscale homes, impressive high-rise apartments, and equally superb businesses. Gold Coast is a great location with numerous parks and excellent schools. As one of the country's more affluent neighborhoods, Gold Coast is home to many excellent restaurants (
Maple and Ash,
Somerset,
Gibson’s Steakhouse) as well as intricate attractions dating as far back as the 19th century (Chicago Water Tower,
Newberry Library,
Broadway Playhouse). Gold Coast is also a hub for shopping with boutiques and luxurious shopping centers as well as the
Magnificent Mile, a strip along the border of the lake which is home to plenty of shops (
900 shops, Macy’s, Kendra Scott, etc.) exquisite dining (
Terrace 16,
Redhead Piano Bar,
Carmine’s, Francesca’s) and great attractions like
Navy Pier and
The Art Institute of Chicago. There are also places for kids such as the
Chicago Children’s Museum,
Lincoln Park Zoo, and the
Amazing Funhouse Maze which are all located in and around Gold Coast. This area of Chicago has no shortage of attractions and events that are sure to appeal to any individual in the area. Whether you are looking for great food and fantastic nightlife or enjoyment for the whole family, Gold Coast has plenty to offer. This area also has easy access to transportation including the Metra,
el trains, and bus transport.
River North is a neighborhood located directly north of the loop on the other side of the Chicago River and lies just a few blocks from Lake Michigan. River North has a dense urban feel, and many professionals live in the area. River North is known as one of the best neighborhoods to live in Chicago. This area of Chicago, like adjacent neighborhoods, was made up of mainly warehouse buildings that were used during Chicago’s industrial age. Today, those warehouses have been turned into some of the city’s hottest nightclub scenes as well as many trendy and grand art galleries. While River North is home to good schools, plenty of parks, and even more restaurants, the neighborhood is best known for its artistic design and love of the arts. From art galleries (
Addington Gallery,
Gruen Gallery, etc.) to live music at night (
The Bassment,
Untitled Supper Club,
Blue Chicago), this community has much to offer in terms of attractions. Nightlife in River North is almost unparalleled as the restaurant and bar scene can be experienced in many different fashions. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of many exquisite restaurants (
The Smith,
Etta,
Frontera Grill, etc) or cocktails at any number of trendy lounges (
Gilt Bar,
Arbella,
Celeste,
Three Dots and a Dash, etc.). Dance clubs like The Disco also provide a great atmosphere for any night out. Along with the nightlife, River North has entertainment for the whole family with great parks for relaxing or for recreation as well as fun attractions like
The Escape Game Chicago. The
Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier are also within walking distance which offer even more experiences for anyone looking to explore Chicago. River North also has easy access to the interstate as well as train and bus transportation.