Lakeview is one of Chicago’s most sought-after neighborhoods, combining proximity to Lake Michigan with a mix of micro-neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Known for its nightlife, dining, shopping, and entertainment, Lakeview is a “city within a city” where you’ll find something for every lifestyle. Whether you’re exploring the sporty energy near Wrigley Field, the vibrant culture of Northalsted, the charming Southport Corridor or the quirky and posh shops throughout the neighborhood, Lakeview offers a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
Northalsted, also known as Boystown, is a vibrant LGBTQ+ enclave with some of Chicago’s hottest nightlife and cultural attractions. The heart of Halsted Street is alive with rainbow-colored murals, funky boutiques, and award-winning restaurants. Highlights include:
Sidetrack: Dance and sing along to drag shows, musical-themed nights, and epic parties.
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club: Dinner with a drag show, offering fabulous entertainment and cuisine.
Wood: A Michelin-awarded restaurant serving contemporary American dishes.
The area is also home to the Legacy Walk, the world’s only outdoor LGBTQ+ history museum, and hosts annual events like the Chicago Pride Parade in June and Northalsted Market Days in August.
For dining, don’t miss vegetarian classics at The Chicago Diner or cozy Swedish cinnamon rolls at Ann Sather.
The Southport Corridor is a picturesque, walkable area brimming with high-end shopping, excellent dining, and vibrant entertainment options. This family-friendly neighborhood, serviced by the Brown Line, offers a mix of housing styles, including charming brownstones, greystones, and new construction.
Tango Sur: A beloved BYOB Argentinian steakhouse known for its hearty portions and warm atmosphere.
Steingold’s of Chicago: A Jewish deli with standout bagels and sandwiches.
Coda di Volpe: Sleek and modern, offering Italian pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and innovative small plates.
Corridor Brewery & Provisions: A casual craft brewery serving inventive beers and gastropub fare.
Bombastic Café: Specialty coffee and sparkling sodas with a creative twist.
Brou’né Desserts: A bakery offering decadent brownies, cookies, and blondies.
El Mercado Food Mart: An Argentinian grocery store known for its quality meats.
Southport is also a hub for live entertainment:
Music Box Theatre: A historic cinema showing foreign, independent, and classic films.
Mercury Theater: Renowned for homegrown productions like Avenue Q and Spamalot.
Athenaeum Theatre: Chicago’s oldest continuously operating off-loop theater, offering a variety of performances from opera to dance.
Cafe Tola: Vibrant and colorful, serving coffee, tacos, and empanadas.
Ela Elli: An upscale spot for international cuisine with a cozy bar area.
Stretching through the heart of Lakeview, Belmont Avenue and Broadway Avenue are known for their eclectic mix of vintage shops, theaters, and unique restaurants.
The Vic Theatre: Hosting live music and comedy shows.
The Annoyance Theatre: A beloved venue for improv and comedic performances.
Croatian-Vietnamese Cafe Sunrise: A unique fusion spot offering creative dishes.
Drew’s on Halsted: American bistro fare with a popular patio for outdoor dining.
The area boasts funky vintage shops like Ragstock and independent bookstores like Unabridged Bookstore, making it a hub for unique finds.
Wrigleyville, nestled in the northern part of Lakeview, is home to the iconic Wrigley Field, the second-oldest baseball stadium in the United States. Built in 1914, Wrigley Field is the heart of the neighborhood, drawing Cubs fans and sports enthusiasts from across the globe. On game days, the streets buzz with excitement as fans flock to local sports bars like:
Murphy’s Bleachers: A historic bar offering rooftop views of the stadium and classic ballpark food.
Cubby Bear: Part sports bar, part rock venue, and a must-visit for Cubs fans.
Sluggers: Famous for its arcade games and batting cages.
Beyond baseball, Wrigleyville boasts live music at the legendary Metro and craft BBQ at Smoke Daddy. For visitors, the Hotel Zachary provides a stylish base to explore the neighborhood and beyond.
Whether you’re catching a game in Wrigleyville, celebrating Pride in Northalsted, or enjoying a night at the theater on Southport, Lakeview offers an unforgettable mix of energy, charm, and culture. It’s the perfect neighborhood for anyone looking to experience the best of Chicago.
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