Old Town neighborhood is located on the north side of the city, known for its historic houses, tree-lined streets, and vibrant nightlife. Many people dream of living in Old Town because of its convenient location, close proximity to the lakefront, and abundance of dining and shopping options.
However, living in Old Town also comes with its own set of challenges. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about living in this neighborhood, from the pros and cons to the cost of living and the best things to do in the area.
Whether you are considering moving to Old Town or are already a resident, this post will provide valuable insights and tips for making the most of your time in this wonderful neighborhood.
Neighborhood Characteristics
Old Town is known for its historic charm, character, and structures that survived the great Chicago fire. Old town park is south of Lincoln Park and north of River North. This historic neighborhood is located within walking distance of Lincoln Park Zoo and downtown Chicago.
The neighborhood is home to a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Gothic, and Queen Anne. Many of the houses in Old Town have been well-preserved and feature ornate details such as intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and turret-like towers.
In addition to its historic homes, Old Town is also home to a number of boutique shops, restaurants, and pubs. The neighborhood is known for its lively nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs catering to a range of different interests.
One of the things that make Old Town so unique is its proximity to the lakefront. Located just a few blocks away, the lakefront offers a variety of recreational activities such as running, biking, and swimming. It also budded to the Gold Coast neighborhood, another great Chicago neighborhood.
Old Town is also conveniently located near several public transportation options, including the Red Line and several bus routes, making it easy to get around the city.
Cost of Living
Like any urban neighborhood, living in Old Town comes with a higher cost of living compared to more suburban or rural areas. The median home price in Old Town is around $550,000, which is significantly higher than the city-wide median of $290,000. Rent prices in Old Town are also relatively high, with a one-bedroom apartment costing an average of $1,500 per month.
However, it’s important to note that the cost of living in Old Town can vary greatly depending on the specific location and type of housing you choose. Some areas of Old Town may be more expensive than others, and renting a house or townhome may be more affordable than an apartment. Additionally, living in Old Town may come with some cost savings in other areas, such as transportation and dining, as many amenities and services are within walking distance.
Living in Old Town can be more expensive than other parts of the city, but the convenience and proximity to amenities may make it worth the extra cost for some people.
Transportation
Old Town is conveniently located near a number of public transportation options, making it easy to get around the city. The neighborhood is served by the Red Line of the Chicago ‘L’ train system, which provides access to the downtown Loop area and beyond.
There are also several bus routes that run through Old Town.
For those who prefer to drive, Old Town is easily accessible from major highways such as the Kennedy Expressway and Lake Shore Drive. The neighborhood also has a number of public and private parking lots and garages, as well as street parking. However, it’s important to note that parking can be limited in Old Town, especially on busy weekends or during special events.
Restaurants and Shopping
Old Town is home to a wide variety of dining and shopping options, making it a great place to live for those who enjoy trying new restaurants and exploring boutique stores. The neighborhood is known for its lively nightlife, with a variety of old town bars and clubs catering to a range of different interests.
In terms of dining, Old Town has something for everyone. The neighborhood is home to a number of popular restaurants, including cozy coffee shops, trendy brunch spots, and fine dining establishments. Old Town is also home to a number of specialty food stores and markets, where you can find everything from locally-sourced produce to artisanal cheeses and meats.
Here are some popular choices:
Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern:
This historic restaurant has been serving up classic American fare since 1932. Known for its ribs and prime rib, Twinanchors is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Nookies on Wells:
Classic American comfort food. A family-owned local chain of casual American restaurants with all-day breakfasts on the diverse menu.
Old Town Ale House:
Old town ale house was Tony Bourdain’s favorite bar, as seen on a Parts Unknown episode, it is one of the most unique dives in Chicago – and maybe even the world. Its walls are adorned with strange, crude, and lewd paintings of politicians in obscene acts, which can’t be found anywhere else. It’s a historic staple of the Second City and has become a beloved landmark. Old Town Ale House is a must-see!
Kapéj Coffee:
This cozy courtyard, converted into a coffee shop, offers a remarkable selection of coffee from around the world. The friendly staff will happily order any bean or roast of your choice and customize it to your taste. The space is inviting, with comfy lounge chairs, working areas, and large tables. Besides coffee, the shop also offers delicious bagels, salads, sandwiches, and pastries.
Overall, Old Town is a great place to live for foodies, with a wide variety of dining options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American fare, trendy gastropub dishes, or plant-based alternatives, Old Town has something to offer.
Entertainment
Old Town Chicago offers some of the best entertainment in the city, from live music and comedy shows to dance clubs and bars. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a quiet evening of culture, you’ll find it in Old Town.
For comedy fans, Second City is the place to be. This iconic sketch comedy theater has been making audiences laugh since 1959 and continues to produce top-notch shows.
Old Town has plenty of dance clubs and bars to choose from. Just south is The Hangge-Uppe is one of the most popular spots, featuring a wide selection of music, from hip-hop and techno to classic rock and country.
For a more laid-back atmosphere, check out the Utopian Tailgate, which serves craft beer and pub grub. No matter what type of entertainment you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Old Town Chicago. The area’s vibrant culture and diverse selection of venues make it one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods.
Pros and Cons of Old Town
Pros of Old Town
1. Rich History: Old Town is one of the oldest parts of Chicago, and it’s full of interesting stories and landmarks. From the iconic Second City comedy theater to the historic St. Michael’s Church, there’s a lot of culture to explore and appreciate.
2. Abundant Amenities: Old Town is home to countless restaurants, bars, shops, and more. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a quiet afternoon spent browsing the local boutiques, you’ll find plenty of options in Old Town.
3. Easy Accessibility: Old Town is close to the Loop and public transportation is plentiful, so getting around is easy. You can take the train or bus to almost anywhere in the city, and you’ll never have to worry about being too far from the action. Lincoln Park Zoo as next door for example.
Cons of Old Town
1. High Cost of Living: Old Town is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Chicago, and the cost of living can be prohibitively expensive for some. If you’re looking to live in Old Town, you’ll need to have a good budget plan in place.
2. Crowded Streets: Old Town can be quite busy, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to the area. The streets can be quite congested and navigating them can be a bit of a challenge.
3. Limited Parking: Parking is at a premium in Old Town, and you may have difficulty finding a spot if you don’t plan ahead. Street parking can be tough to find, so you may need to look into alternative solutions.
History
Old Town, located in the Near North Side and Lincoln Park areas of Chicago, Illinois, is a historic district full of Victorian-era buildings, most notably the iconic St. Michael’s Church, which was one of the seven buildings that miraculously survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
No legal entity is known as “Old Town”, but claims have been made as to the nature of its legally unspecified borders: some say that the border of Old Town is the hearing distance from the bells of St. Michael Church, at the intersection of North, clark street and ogden avenue. In the 19th century, German immigrants moved to the meadows north of North Avenue and began farming what had previously been swampland, planting celery, potatoes, and cabbages, leading the area to be nicknamed “The Cabbage Patch”. This name stuck until the early 1900s. Klinkel Hall, a German beer-hall in 1854 at what is now 1623 north Wells, was involved in the Beer riot of 1855. During World War II, the triangle formed by North Avenue, Clark Street, and Ogden Avenue (since removed) was designated a ‘neighborhood defense unit’ by Chicago’s Civil Defense Agency. In the years immediately after the war, the population of “North Town” sponsored annual art fairs called the “Old Town Holiday”, which were popular attractions for the neighborhood. This eventually led to the formation of the Old Town Triangle Association in 1948 by residents who wanted to improve the condition of buildings that were suffering from physical deterioration.
In the 1950s, much of Old Town was an enclave for many of the first Puerto Ricans to emigrate to Chicago, who referred to this area as part of “La Clark”. While there is no legal entity known as “Old Town”, some claims state that the border of Old Town is the hearing distance from the bells of St. Michael Church, at the intersection of North, Clark Street and Ogden Avenue.
Conclusion
Living in Old Town is an exciting experience for those who are looking for a unique urban experience. With its rich history and beautiful architecture, it is an ideal place to live for those who are looking to be connected to the city while still having a sense of community.
From the bustling city life to the cozy cafes and boutique shops, Old Town Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to relax with a cup of coffee in a cafe, take in a show at one of the many local theaters, or explore the city on foot, you can find something to do in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for a unique urban experience, then Old Town Chicago is the perfect place to call home.
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