Chicago Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Chicago ILhttps://www.delphinehomes.com/blog/Copyright DelphineHomes.com2021-11-18T06:24:29-07:00tag:delphinehomes.com,2012-09-20:1801Berghoff Oktoberfest Chicago<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Blog_Image/Oktoberfest_celebration.png" width="1120" height="630" alt="Oktoberfest celebration" title="Oktoberfest celebration" /><br /><br />Location (previous years)
(indoors) The Berghoff @ 17 W Adams St, Chicago, IL<br />(outdoors) Federal Plaza @ 219 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL
History
The Annual Berghoff Oktoberfest is Chicago’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebration. The restaurant’s founder, Herman Joseph Berghoff, was a German immigrant in the late 1800s who brought this authentic cultural celebration to the central loop of downtown Chicago.
The Berghoff has been open since 1898, when Herman started selling beer from his own brewery. When prohibition hit, the restaurant became famous for its hearty and authentic German food, which you will find plentiful at the Oktoberfest celebration (tip: don’t skip on the giant Bavarian pretzels)!
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Event Information
The three-day event kicks off with a “tapping of the keg,” and before long everyone is raising their steins with a hearty “prost!” Wear your lederhosen and dance to the traditional German music and contemporary tunes performed live. The event features special lunch and dinner menus, bourbon tasting, and all the bratwursts and pork stew you could want.
<a href="http://www.mycondovalue.info/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Whats_your_condo_worth.png" width="1500" height="500" /></a>2020-06-06T15:16:00-07:002021-11-18T06:24:29-07:00Delphine Nguyentag:delphinehomes.com,2012-09-20:1798The 5 Most Luxurious Apartments in Downtown Chicago<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Blog_Image/The_5_Most_Luxurious_Apartments_in_Downtown_Chicago.png" width="1120" height="630" alt="The 5 Most Luxurious Apartments in Downtown Chicago" title="The 5 Most Luxurious Apartments in Downtown Chicago" />
It seems by the time one luxury apartment is completed in downtown Chicago, another one is already being constructed, each trying to outdo the others in amenities, spaciousness, and epic views of the Windy City. There are so many possibilities for you when selecting a new apartment, let alone a new neighborhood of Chicago, it can be hard to choose. I’ve got you covered on what’s trending now in 2020 –– here’s our list of the five most luxurious apartments in downtown Chicago right now :
ECHELON in Fulton Market
Where the <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/west-loop">West Loop</a> meets <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/river-north">River North</a>, that’s where you’ll find the Echelon luxury apartments of Fulton Market. Once a warehouse district, Fulton Market is now gentrifying into a popular restaurant and art scene. The popular chefs CJ Jacobson and Grant Achatz have restaurants nearby, plus there are excellent locations for a night out like Maude’s Liquor Bar.
Residents of Echelon can enjoy panoramic views of the downtown Chicago skyline from their apartments, which has made these luxury apartments a top choice. The apartments come with a 24-hour concierge, an outdoor pool, fitness and business centers, and in-unit laundry facilities. The spacious bathrooms and natural light feel especially luxurious.
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NICHE 905 in River North
Niche 905 in <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/river-north">River North</a> lives up to the neighborhood's reputation for excellent design. This luxury apartment feels more like a spa than an apartment complex. Current residents wax poetic about the rooftop outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, on-site pet grooming, complimentary coffee bar, and yoga studio. And that is just the beginning of the long list of luxurious features at Niche 905.
The greatest and oft-repeated praise is that you can’t beat the view. Not only do individual apartments have floor-to-ceiling windows, but from the rooftop, residents can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of downtown Chicago. When the yearly Air & Water Show comes around and the planes fly overhead in loops and whirls, you’ll have the best seat in the city.
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LINCOLN COMMON in Lincoln Park
There is not one, but two separate apartment buildings for the Lincoln Common in Lincoln Park. That means you have double the chance to find an apartment in this luxurious complex. With frequent residential social events, two sky lounges, and a game room with an arcade, shuffleboard, and pool tables, you can meet other residents and make new friends quickly. There is always something to do both in Lincoln Common and Lincoln Park itself.
Lincoln Park is one of the most well-known neighborhoods of downtown Chicago thanks to the Lincoln Park Zoo, concert venues, beautiful parks and lakefront, and the plethora of trendy cafes and restaurants. Living at either tower of the Lincoln Common puts you at the heart of this destination hot spot.
NEMA in the South Loop
The South Loop is already known for its constantly expanding listings of luxury apartments, but the new NEMA apartment complex stands above the rest (it really does––it’s now Chicago’s tallest apartment building). 70,000 square feet of NEMA are devoted to nothing but luxury amenities for its many residents. It has a basketball court, golf simulator, squash court, two pools... and that’s just for sports lovers.
We are hard-pressed to say the NEMA doesn’t have everything you could think of. There are concierges just to fix your tech, an outdoor deck fitted like a spa, and the “Chef’s Kitchen” where residents can learn from cooking demonstrations on Subzero and Wolf appliances. They even have “smart elevators” that use algorithms to move riders to their desired floor with the most efficiency and speed. Living at NEMA is like living in the luxury apartments of the future.
LUXE ON MADISON in the West Loop
The Luxe on Madison seems to have been built specifically with foodies in mind. The West Loop of downtown Chicago is known for its world-class fine dining––the Oriole, Next, and Smyth restaurants are all around the corner from this luxury living spot. Residents of the Luxe on Madison enjoy spacious kitchens with a generously sized kitchen island, quartz countertops, and modern stainless steel appliances. It’s an ideal apartment for entertaining dinner guests.
Even if cooking and fine dining aren’t your thing, the Luxe on Madison has many other luxury amenities such as large private balconies, computer lab and conference room, drop-off and pick-up dry cleaning, and even a West Loop Market on the first floor. And, of course, you can always go to the deluxe rooftop deck to take in the stunning downtown Chicago skyline.
Which of these luxury apartments in downtown Chicago are right for you? Luxury may just be in the eye of the (skyline) beholder.
<a href="http://www.mycondovalue.info/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Whats_your_condo_worth.png" width="1500" height="500" /></a>2020-05-26T05:24:00-07:002020-05-29T13:47:47-07:00Delphine Nguyentag:delphinehomes.com,2012-09-20:1249Chicago Architectural Tour<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Blog_Image/Chicago_Architectural_Tour.png" width="840" height="472" alt="Chicago Architectural Tour" title="Chicago Architectural Tour" />
World-Class Chicago Architecture: Chicago Buildings to See on Your City Tour
From the lakeshore to the banks of the Chicago River, from the North Side to the South Side, the city of Big Shoulders brims with some of the world's most spectacular architecture. Chicago's distinctive skyline is tenanted by world-class buildings like Willis Tower and the John Hancock building. Chicago buildings' history is rich, but the story of the city's skyscrapers is an ongoing tale as evidenced by new Chicago high-rise condos and cutting-edge contemporary Chicago skyscrapers. If you're planning to tour the city to get to know its architectural character or to reflect on an area for a potential real estate purchase, you will want to get to know the city from an architectural perspective. Take our "tour" and learn about what makes the Chicago skyline so unique and where you can find some of its most famous architecture.
About Chicago Buildings Tours
As a world-famous city, Chicago features many types of tours. From downtown walking tours to bus and boat tours, these tours showcase the greatest Chicago buildings to see. We've organized our content to reflect major areas of the city. Consequently, if you're visiting the East Side or the West Side of Chicago, you can easily scroll to the section to find a listing of the area's most celebrated buildings and architectural landmarks. As one of the largest cities in America, Chicago seems to have no shortage of captivating buildings, but we've tried to include the most renowned—the highlights that you absolutely do not want to miss on any tour of the city. If you are interested in Chicago architecture, enjoy our informative "tour" and learn what makes Chicago such a prominent American city in terms of architecture and style!
Many of the following architectural features are open to the public, but some are home to private residences. Even if you're only able to view them from their exteriors, they are well worth checking out owing to the significant contribution they make to the Chicago Skyline or Chicago history. Feel free to click on the links to learn more details about the buildings and structures that interest you most.
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Downtown Chicago Architectural Marvels
Downtown Chicago is loaded with many of the city's most notable architectural structures. As the commercial heart of the city, Downtown is very much the city's heart. Named the Loop because it has been encircled by rail lines, the downtown area of the city is enjoyably walkable if you choose to visit its famed structures on foot. Of course, public transportation and taxis are reliable too. The following structures are must-see attractions that you'll find in the Loop.
As one of the world's most notable architectural wonders, Willis Tower does truly deserve a visit on your Chicago building tour. Originally called the Sears Tower, Willis Tower was once the tallest skyscraper in the world. In fact, it held on to this title from 1973 to 1998. It remains one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions with its 110 stories and popular Skydeck with its visually astounding views of the city and lake.
If you're a shopping guru, you definitely want to head over to State Street to check out Macy's. However, its building formerly and quite famously housed Marshall Fields. The Marshall Field and Company State Street Building was constructed in 1892. The granite building takes up an entire city block. As a National Historic Landmark, the building features on many tours of historic Chicago. This massive building includes a mosaic vaulted ceiling designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany that is among its signature ornamentation.
Sullivan Center is another famed Chicago commercial building that once housed the Carson, Pirie, Scott, and Company Store. The building was completed in 1899 and has been used for retail purposes since that time. Its decorative ironwork façade is one of its signature features.
If you're making your way down Michigan Avenue, you'll want to view the renowned Art Institute of Chicago. It's hard to miss thanks to its stone lions that guard its entrance. This landmark is one of the country's oldest and largest art museums and is home to famous works like Renoir's Two Sisters and van Gogh's Bedroom in Arles. The building itself was constructed for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition and is constructed in the Beaux Arts style.
The Richard J. Daley Center is located in the Loop between Dearborn and Clark Streets. The tallest flat-roofed building in the world, the Daley Center, as it's known, is a fixture on Chicago building tours and even made an appearance in the Batman film Dark Knight. The building was completed in 1965 and is ornamented by a famous Picasso sculpture, another famous landmark of the city.
The Chicago Cultural Center is located in a distinctive building that used to house the Chicago Library. Completed in 1897, this building boasts some illustrious features like its doric columns, intricate mosaics, and walls of Cararra marble. The Tiffany glass dome that crowns the Sidney R. Yates Gallery is particularly noteworthy. The center features many exhibits and has become one of the city's most popular cultural attractions.
The Field Building was constructed in 1934 and is listed as a Chicago Landmark. Featured in the Art Deco style, the building is an important architectural feature in this part of the Loop where it sits at 135 South LaSalle Street.
Once the tallest building in Chicago, the Pittsfield Building was constructed in 1927 and is, today, a celebrated Chicago Landmark. The building is located in the Jewelers Row District of the city and includes a beautiful five-story atrium in its interior with balconies and gleaming surfaces. Today, the building is home to jewelers, medical offices, and various commercial businesses.
The Blackstone Hotel has hosted many presidents during its tenure. It was constructed in 1909 and has undergone substantial renovations. Although many of the historic features of the hotel were lost during its renovation, there are still numerous well-preserved spaces like its barbershop. The hotel has shown up in several films including The Color of Money and The Untouchables.
Overlooking Lake Michigan, the celebrated Drake Hotel was constructed in 1920 and is one of the city's landmark hotels. During it tenure, this historic hotel has hosted such notable guests as Winston Churchill, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Herbert Hoover, Judy Garland, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Joe DiMaggio, and many others. Various films like Risky Business, What Women Want, and My Best Friend's Wedding have included the hotel in scenes. The hotel has long been famous for its Afternoon Tea.
If you're a fan of modern architecture, you will want to visit the Inland Steel Building that was completed in 1957. Its brushed stainless steel features pay homage to its post-WWII era of architecture. The building has been a Chicago Landmark since 1998.
Built in 1886, the Rookery is the city's oldest still-standing high-rise. The building features a steel frame and 12 stories. Its lobby was redesigned in 1905 by architecture Frank Lloyd Wright. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and, today, provides a home for various commercial companies.
A Neo-Gothic skyscraper, the Tribune Tower is a distinctive part of Chicago's skyline. Located at 435 North Michigan Avenue, the building was completed in 1925 on the site of the former Tribune Tower that burned in the Chicago Fire. Currently, the building is being converted into high-rise condominiums and is supposed to be completed by 2020.
The Monadnock Building is an imposing building in the Loop that's located at 53 West Jackson Boulevard. The building was completed in 1893 and, at one time, was the world's largest office buildings. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is regarded as one of the city's seminal skyscrapers.
Old Chicago Main Post Office
The Old Chicago Main Post Office is a sprawling nine-story building served as Chicago's main post office until the late 20th century when it was moved to a more modern facility. Today, the headquarters for Walgreen's occupies the building's 200,000 square feet.
Palmer House is an historic Loop hotel that was originally built in 1875 and was rebuilt in 1925. Today, the hotel is operated by Hilton but it continues to be revered for its historic features. Illustrious figures who have spent time at one of the illustrious hotel's incarnations have included Sarah Bernhardt, Eleonora Duse, Ulysses S. Grant, L. Frank Baum, Oscar Wilde, and Mark Twain.
Orchestra Hall was built in 1904 and features more than 2,500 seats. It is home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as well as other musical organizations. It is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
The Auditorium Building and its accompanying theatre date to 1889. Constructed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler, the building currently features home performances by the Joffrey Ballet. However, during it's tenure, it served as the home for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chicago Civic Opera.
Chicago's Civic Opera House was completed in 1929. It is one of the largest auditoriums on the North American continent—second only to New York City's Metropolitan Opera House. The illustrious structure boasts a dazzling Art Deco design and is, today, home to the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
The historic Dearborn Station was constructed in 1883. While this brick structure no longer serves as a rail station, it does provide retail space and a shopping mall. Fans of railroad history will certainly want to view it.
Chicago River Highlights
The Chicago River is a major feature of the city. Many of Chicago's historic neighborhoods flank its banks. Today, some of Chicago's most notable structures can be viewed by taking a river tour or walking along the Riverwalk. Be sure to note the following on your Chicago buildings tour.
Famous for its Art Deco style, the Merchandise Mart is a massive structure located on a junction of two branches of the Chicago River. The building is a titan among Chicago buildings, owing to its 4,000,000 square feet. Until 2008, this building was so large that it warranted its own Chicago zip code! There are tours of the building, but it's certainly an impressive site even when viewed from river on a boat tour.
Marina City is situated on the north bank of the Chicago River and is a mixed-use building that is home to bother commercial and residential spaces. Marina City is noteworthy because of its "city within a city" complex. Completed in 1968, the structures that make up Marina City has a claim to fame of being the first urban high-rise residential complex in the country. As you view it, you're sure to note its distinctively mid-century modern style.
The dazzling Wrigley Building is one of the city's most recognizable buildings. Completed in 1924, the building was originally built to be the headquarters for the Wrigley Company. A picturesque feature on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, the Wrigley Building is located on the northern banks of the Chicago River. Modeled after the Cathedral of Seville, the building commands an arresting position on any Chicago River tour.
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Michigan Avenue Bridge
Spanning the Chicago River in downtown Chicago, the Michigan Avenue Bridge opened in 1920. Its decorative work, plaques, and sculptures underscore its eye-catching appeal and historic significance. The bridge was proposed as early as 1891 as a means to link parks on the city's North and South Sides. Most river tours and Loop tours will include this feature for a visit.
The building known as 330 N. Wabash boasts a commanding presence on the Chicago River. This building was constructed in 1973 and its one of the city's more modern skyscrapers. The building features 52 stories—several of which comprise the prestigious Langham Hotel, which has been called one of the best in the nation.
If you're a fan of contemporary architecture, don't miss checking out 150 North Riverside. This unique high-rise was completed in 2017. Because of its unique super-structure, the building only encompasses about 25% of its lot. It is situated on the west bank of the Chicago River and features 1.2 million square feet of office space.
If you're bound for the lake front, take time to check out the Chicago Harbor Light that's located at the mouth of the Chicago River and to the east of Navy Pier. The light was constructed for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. The light is active and does not allow for public access; however, you can still enjoy its distinctive exterior and position on the lakefront.
North Side Must-See Architectural Attractions
The North Side of Chicago features many historic neighborhoods and within them, you'll find some of Chicago's most historic and revered buildings. One of the city's most renowned architectural structures is Wrigley Field. This historic ball field opened in 1914. It is home to the Chicago Cubs and is the oldest ball park in the National Baseball League. For baseball fans, it's a must-see attraction on the North Side.
The John Hancock Center is a recognizable fixture of the Chicago skyline. Located at 875 North Michigan Avenue, this building was completed in 1969 and was constructed in the structural expressionism architectural style. When visiting this world-famous skyscraper, be sure to check out 360 Chicago, its celebrated observation deck located on the 94th floor of the building. It boasts dazzling views of the surrounding cityscape and lake.
Completed in 1921, the Chicago Theatre brims with Art Deco style. This structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a Chicago landmark. Its marquee is a recognizable symbol of the city's cultural scene, but its interior is certainly worth touring or, better yet, witnessing along with a show or theatrical performance.
The Palmolive Building, also referred to as the Playboy Building, is located at 919 North Michigan Avenue. Completed in 1929, the building was built for Colgate-Palmolive-Peet Company but was purchased by Playboy Enterprises in 1965. Today, the building has been converted to residential condos.
Chicago Water Tower is located on the Magnificent Mile on your way northward from the Loop. Constructed in 1869, the tower is a major city landmark and was built to contain a large water pump. The distinctive castle-like architecture of this structure famously inspired the White Castle fast food chain.
The Bush Temple of Music was constructed in 1901 and once housed a piano company. It boasts French Renaissance Revival architecture. It has been listed as a Chicago Landmark since 2001.
The Uptown Theatre is currently closed, but recently, city residents have learned that funds have been set aside for its renovation. This Art Deco theatre was built in 1925 and features 4,381 seats. The largest theatre of its kind, the Uptown features a five-story lobby and is even said to rival Radio City Music Hall in terms of overall size. Residents of the city are certainly looking forward to its revival.
Located in Lincoln Park, the Biograph Theatre was built in 1914. Though it was housed a movie palace and was the site where John Dillinger was shot by FBI agents after viewing a film, the theatre, today, features live performances. This theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also designated with Chicago Landmark status.
The Allerton Hotel is located on the Near North side heading north on Chicago's Magnificent Mile. The hotel, now known as the Warwick Allerton, is a Chicago Landmark and first opened its doors in 1924.
The Edgewater Beach Apartments was constructed in 1928 and is a co-op residential building that is famous for its pink façade. The building was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places and is regarded as a neighborhood jewel.
An important example of a 19th century urban school building, Assumption School was constructed in 1899 as a Catholic elementary school. It is built in the Beaux Arts style and features intricate brick and stonework. The school was famously founded by Mother Francis Xavier Cabrini in order to serve the community's Italian inhabitants. Upon opening, the school charged no tuition.
The Hotel St. Benedict Flats feature luxury "French-style" apartments. The building was constructed in 1882 and designed by architect James J. Egan. It is renowned for its stunning art glass windows and distinctive pressed metal features. In short, the building is simply too attractive to miss on your tour of the North Side.
West Side Architectural Attractions
As one of Chicago's major sections, the West Side contains many historic buildings that feature largely on Chicago history and architecture tours. The city is home to many historic churches, including Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral. This church is a Chicago landmark and also listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.
Holy Cross Church was completed in 1915 as a place of worship for the area's Lithuanian immigrants. Its Baroque style makes it an architectural standout in the region. The church is featured in many books about Chicago architecture.
Constructed in 1871, the First Baptist Congressional Church is featured in many books on Chicago architecture chicago new development condos.
It is an Illinois Historic Landmark and a Chicago Landmark. The church's interior has been imitated by many subsequent church builders in the country.
A Chicago landmark, the Chicago Board of Trade Building is also a National Historic Landmark. The building is well-known for its Art Déco architecture and has even been the site for movie productions. If you can, be sure to take a tour of its interior to witness its gleaming marble surfaces and captivating artwork.
Although many of its buildings have been demolished, Hull House remains an important Chicago landmark. This settlement house was founded by Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr in 1889. Many immigrants to the city spent time at the complex that once contained 13 buildings. Today, the Hull Mansion and dining hall are open to the public as a museum.
Formerly known as the AT&T Center, the Franklin Center is located on the west side of the Loop. The 5th tallest building in the city, the Franklin Center is an office building that was completed in 1989. Relatively new to the city skyline, this building is a modern structure boasts a block-long lobby and 650-seat restaurant.
Constructed in 1911, the Chicago and North Western Railway Power House is featured in the distinctive Beaux Art style. Today, the building is used for mixed purposes including commercial space, but it initially was the site for an important area power house. The building was finally awarded Chicago Landmark status in 2006.
The Union Park Hotel is located on the Near West Side and was built in 1930. Its decorative Art Deco style and ornamentation continue to make it an area standout in terms of architectural embellishment.
The Humboldt Park Field House and Refectory and the Boathouse Pavilion are arresting West Side sights. Designed as a "pleasure ground" with lagoons and gardens, the park complex was developed between 1905 and 1920. The park and its structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Though designed by the father of skyscrapers, architect William LeBaron Jenney, Garfield Park shows the architect's more artful side. The park and its historic structures are located in the East Garfield Park neighborhood. The park's golden-domed administration building and bandshell attract many visitors and fans of historic architecture.
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South Side Chicago Architectural Highlights
As the largest section of the city, the South Side sprawls and, not surprisingly, features many of the city's most important architectural attractions. Don't miss the building highlights on your Chicago architecture tour.
Constructed in 1872, the Second Presbyterian Church of Chicago features the Gothic Revival style of architecture. The church was the place of worship for many of the city's most prominent families and its attendees include Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of Abraham Lincoln. Famous for its remodeled Arts and Crafts interior and illustrious stained-glass windows, the church continues to be a majestic sight. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark.
Located in Bridgeport, St. Mary's of Perpetual Help is a Polish cathedral-style church that dates to 1889. The illustrious church was attended by many of the city's Union Stockyard workers. While the church's exterior is impressive, its interior harbors some significant artworks, some of which were recently restored by the Art Institute of Chicago.
The Field Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world and was built in 1921. Two million people visit this museum each year. It is renowned for its collections of natural history and world-class exhibits.
The John G. Shedd Aquarium is easily one of Chicago's most notable attractions. An indoor public aquarium located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this aquarium was opened in 1930. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark is celebrated for its diverse range of exhibits. The building itself features Greek-inspired and Beaux Arts architecture.
Soldier Field dominates the area south of the Loop. This immense stadium is home to the Chicago Bears and also features a myriad of events. The stadium opened in 1924 and continues to be a major city attraction for sports fans and music lovers.
Dedicated to the study of astronomy, the Adler Planetarium is perched at the tip of Northerly Island and makes up part of the city's Museum Campus. It is a National Historic Landmark and boasts extensive spaces for exhibitions. The building opened to the public in 1930.
Completed in 1891, the Manhattan Building is a unique structure owing to its many bow windows that provide lots of natural light for the building's interior. This building has the claim-to-fame of being world's oldest surviving skyscraper to feature a completely skeletal support structure. The building's designer, William Le Baron Jenney, would go on to become one of the most important architects to pioneer tall buildings.
If you're touring Jackson Park on the South Side, make your way to the beach to visit the 63rd Street Bathing Pavilion, the oldest and largest beach house in Chicago. Its construction was completed in 1919 and was restored at the beginning of the 21st century. The pavilion continues to be used by beach-goers, boaters, and to house special events and exhibitions.
Harold Washington Library Center
Completed in 1991, the Harold Washington Library Center boasts 756,000 square feet. If possibly, you'll want to venture inside this public building to witness its enchanting Winter Garden located on its 9th floor. The building features 972,000 square feet devoted to the main library's extensive collection and exhibits.
While the near South Side is home to popular attractions, be sure to venture further south and explore the Pullman Historic District. Once the planned town of Railroad tycoon George Pullman, the neighborhood boasts various historic buildings, but its crown jewel must be the majestic Hotel Florence. Constructed in 1881, the Hotel Florence is built in the Gothic Revival style. Be sure to book a tour as the hotel's interior with its bar and period rooms are sure to amaze you.
Constructed for the 1893 World's Columbian Exhibition, the Museum of Science and Industry once housed the exhibition's Palace of Fine Arts and also provided the initial space for the Field Museum of Natural History before it moved to its current building in the city's Museum Campus. Located at 5700 South Lakeshore Drive, the building is one of the South Side's most popular attractions.
Located on the campus of the University of Chicago, Rockefeller Chapel was constructed in 1928. It features many Gothic features and is an imposing structure on the campus grounds. If you can tour the interior, be sure to note its impressive wood carvings.
Designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Robie House is a National Historic Landmark that is situated on the campus of the University of Chicago in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. The house reflects the Prairie School style of architecture and was completed in 1910. Fans of the architect's works are invariably drawn to this notable Chicago attraction.
The John J. Glessner House was designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson and constructed in 1887. Located at 1800 South Prairie Avenue, this residence boasts an innovative floor plan with its interior courtyard and abundance of natural light—both unusual features for 19th century residential dwellings.
Located in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, the Adams House is one of Frank Lloyd Wright's residential constructions. Its Prairie-style design underscores its distinctive look. If you're a fan of Wright's work, you'll want to tour his various city constructions.
The Henry B. Clarke House dates to 1836 and is regarded as the city's oldest surviving home. Part of the Prairie Avenue Historic District, the Clarke House houses a museum and features guided tours.
The Longwood Drive District is a stunning residential street that meanders through the South Side neighborhoods of Beverly and Morgan Park. The street is renowned for its stunning residences that include many historic homes.
Special Features
Dominating the Chicago shoreline is Navy Pier, a 3,300-ft. pier that ventures into Lake Michigan and features about fifty acres of shops, restaurants, parks, exhibition space, and special attractions like its Ferris Wheel and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination, attracting upwards of 9 million visitors annually.
Located in the middle of Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain is one of the world's largest fountains. It attracts throngs of locals and tourists alike with its majestic display. The fountain was dedicated in 1927 and was inspired by a fountain on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. Often dubbed the city's "front door," this extraordinary fountain is a landmark you don't want to miss.
These are among the most popular Chicago buildings and landmarks to see as you tour the city. Home to some of the tallest buildings in the world, Chicago features a world-famous skyline that features these buildings against the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. If you are searching for a new home in Chicago, a building tour will help you get to know various neighborhoods of the city and the architecture that lends them their distinctive characters. Look for Chicago buildings with roof access or Chicago new development condos that are located in exciting areas of the city. Whether you want to live in an historic structure or a cutting-edge new build, let us know what you're after and we'll help you achieve your real estate goals.
<a href="http://www.homevalueestimate.info/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Chicago/Whats_your_home_worth.png" width="1500" height="500" /></a>2020-04-16T12:00:00-07:002020-05-26T06:07:47-07:00Delphine Nguyentag:delphinehomes.com,2012-09-20:1208Move To ChicagoMoving to Chicago? Read these 51 Need-to-Knows First
Moving to a new city can be a daunting enterprise. We’ve decided to ease the pain by providing an article that covers everything that may be of interest to new Chicago transplants.
We’ve guided hundreds of clients relocating to Chicago for work or otherwise and have fielded their questions. In this round-up, we highlight some of the most common questions that have come up over the years, as well as several good-to-know tips curated by bonafide Chicagoans.
Topics in this article cover the gamut and include transportation, Chicago real estate, homes for rent, apartments and condos for rent, money, work, lifestyle, and lots more! We’ve even addressed certain topics that will be particularly useful for non-US citizens relocating to Chicago for work.
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As someone who moved to Chicago 10-years ago, I know how hectic taking the plunge and starting over in a big city can feel – particularly for families. Hopefully you’ll find these tips useful no matter your motivation to move to the windy city!
What do you need to know before moving to Chicago?
Dive in and find out!
1. It’s pronounced “Shi-ka-go-ans”
Chicagoans.
That’s what we call ourselves. You may want to practice this one in the mirror several times before walking it around the block. Not the easiest word to say, but you’ll undoubtedly refer to Chicago residents – and yourself - with this moniker sooner or later.
2. Lock-down accommodation prior to your arrival
One of the first questions you’ll want to ask yourself is whether you’re prepared to commit to buying Chicago real estate before your arrival, a long-term rental, or temporary accommodation before your arrival.
Your decision comes down to how much time (and money) you can shell out to scout your property before making the move. If you have the resources to visit Chicago and get the lay of the land and feel comfortable enough to sign a lease or examine the homes for sale and make your purchase before relocating – kudos to you. However, I’d recommend opting for short-term accommodation first for several reasons:
- You’ll get familiar with the city and have a better idea of what you want
- You’re less likely to be the victim of rental scams (more about that below)
- You won’t feel the pressure of biting off more than you can chew
3. Research everything you read in apartment listings
Most of us can read between the lines for those real estate buzz words that tend to fire off alarm bells. When an apartment is “cozy” – translation? Small. “Quaint” – translation? Old.
For this reason, read apartment listings with a skeptical eye and research their claims, particularly when it comes to neighborhoods and boundaries. For example, Humboldt Park is not “West Wicker Park.” Not by a longshot.<a href="https://www.padmapper.com/" target="_blank"> PadMapper</a> is a useful tool to cross-check neighborhood boundaries via their map.
Our recommendation to anyone considering a move to a new, unfamiliar city? Reach out to a local real estate professional and ask questions. Be sure that you connect with<a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/" target="_blank"> trusted Chicago realtors</a> with the experience, expertise, and local knowledge you need so you can make informed decisions.
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4. Make sure to book accommodation that will end on the upcoming 1st to give you enough time to find something more permanent.
Prior to your move, chances are you have a lot on your plate. Consequently, you may not have a heck of a lot of time to scour the rental market to snag something more permanent. In the meantime, consider booking an<a href="http://airbnb.com/" target="_blank"> Airbnb Chicago apartment</a>. You’ll have the comfort of knowing a place is waiting for you before your arrival. Besides, it’s more intimate and convenient than a hotel room. You can cook and have plenty of space, feeling like you’re in a sense, already home.
Most rentals start on the 1st day of each month. If you haven’t found a place after the 1st, then you may need to line something up for the following month.
Although most units rent on a lease that may be renewed every one or two years, you can find plenty of rentals that are month-to-month. Of course, you’ll probably want to find a place that’s furnished if it’s short-term. If you’re ready to commit to a longer-term unit, then unfurnished would suit you fine.
5. Consider renting a private room in someone’s home
If you’re flexible on whether you want an entire apartment to yourself or can make do with a private or shared room in someone’s home, then Airbnb has apartments to suit just about any budget. Renting a room in someone’s house or apartment can be a great option. Most<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/" target="_blank"> Airbnb</a> hosts we’ve come across are quite gregarious and eager to chat about their city.
Renting a room in their home not only puts a roof over your head while you look for a more permanent solution, it gives you a great opportunity to pick a local’s brain and learn more. Plus, you might hit it off and make your first new friend in Chicago!
While useful, sites such as<a href="https://chicago.craigslist.org/" target="_blank"> Craigslist</a> can be risky if you commit to a rental, sight unseen. While Craigslist is a great resource for apartment searchers, it’s something you really must explore “on the ground.” Locking down an apartment via Craigslist remotely is not ideal, why?
6. Be wary of scams when apartment hunting
Craigslist is the go-to resource for apartment hunters, and for good reason! The housing section is versatile, featuring the categories of apartments/housing, housing swap, house wanted, office/commercial, parking/storage, real estate for sale, rooms/shared, rooms wanted, sublets/temporary, and vacation rentals. For anybody looking for a temporary, as well as permanent solution, Craigslist is a great tool.
Unfortunately, the awesomeness of the site has been taken advantage of by con artists. In fact, it’s projected that up to 25% of listings in the Craigslist housing section are scams!
Some common red flags include owners that are out of town, a background check requested before you see the property, no photos, or worse – photos of a legitimate listing that have been cloned by the scammer with a price that’s “too good to be true.”
Do the listing photos have MLS watermarks? Eeeek. Watch out! This indicates that the individual who posted the ad scraped the photos elsewhere and doesn’t have the original pics. You can perform a reverse image scan of the apartment listing photos with<a href="https://tineye.com/" target="_blank"> TinEye</a>. Or, right-click on the image and choose “Search Google for Image.” In this way, you can see whether the apartment pictures have been used in other listings.
Fortunately, house hunters can red flag suspicious ads, upon which Craigslist removes them rather fast. But often the listing has been live long enough to bait unsuspecting renters into the trap.
This won’t happen to you because you’ve been warned!
If you’re trying to secure a rental unit before you land in Chicago, be sure to contact reputable rental agencies or even<a href="http://www.delphinehomes.com/"> myself</a>.
7. There are 245 neighborhoods in Chicago
Whoa, that’s a handful, eh? Each neighborhood is a rich tapestry of history, folkways, and quirks. Fortunately, we’ve cut down on some of the legwork for you and provided a list of our favorite Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/chicago/">View Chicago Neighborhoods</a>
8. Choose your neighborhood before choosing your apartment
Of course, there are several variables that come into play that will help you narrow the 245 neighborhood options down to… 25? Maybe? Commute, safety, lifestyle, and price will all factor into determining which neighborhood(s) you want to target in locating your apartment or home.
9. Keep in mind - summer move-in dates are in high demand
Why does everyone here in Chicago seem to move in the summer season?
One word: WEATHER!!!
Chicago enjoys warm, beautiful summers, making the months of June through September a popular time to move. The higher temps mean higher demand, and with that – higher prices.
While there are more options on the market, rentals and homes tend to sell fast. This leaves less room for renters and home buyers – particularly first time homes buyers - to maneuver when negotiating for deals.
10. The busiest months to move in Chicago are May and August
You’ll also quickly discover that May and August are the two busiest months to move in Chicago. In May, college students are moving to the city to get installed before their term starts. In August, college students pack up and move away.
Expect moving vans, movers, and related professionals to be busy – with prices higher than usual.
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11. The slowest moving month in Chicago is November
For those who aren’t all that thrilled about the competitive rush for Chicago rentals in summer, you may prefer the slowest month of the year – November. Although you may risk it snowing (it’s a pain to lug grandma’s organ through inches of snow), there are fewer people looking to move, making it easier to negotiate rent and snag a great deal.
This slow period tends to continue through February, making November through February the low-season in Chicago.
12. Do you know Chicago’s two “moving days”?
Okay, here’s a secret; and like magicians, realtors aren’t supposed to divulge their secrets so don’t tell anyone I told you…
There are, what we call in the biz – “two moving days” in Chicago. On these two days, about 20% of the properties sold or rented will be moved into.
These two days are October 1st and May 1st.
Of course, these timeframes aren’t an exact science. Remember the 245-neighborhood thing? Yeah, you have to take that into consideration. Each neighborhood has its own ebbs and flows. The neighborhoods that see younger renters may experience a higher turnover. On the flip-side, neighborhoods that are more attractive to families who often look for a more permanent home will be different.
Anyway, keep these timeframes in mind as rental hunt.
13. Chicago is the eight most expensive U.S. city for renters
According to a<a href="https://chicago.curbed.com/2017/2/15/14522448/chicago-rent-affordability-report-2017" target="_blank"> recent rent affordability report</a>, Chicago ranks eight most expensive city to rent in the US. While this ranking may make your eyeballs pop out of their sockets, you can pop them back in because the news isn’t all bad.
As far as US cities go, given the innumerable amenities, history, culture, and housing stock that windy city has to offer, Chicago is a steal by comparison. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago is averaging $1,080. A one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco? Triple that number.
Good news is average rent in Chicago seems to be trending downward,<a href="https://www.apartmentlist.com/il/chicago#rent-report" target="_blank"> clocking in 2% cheaper</a> in February 2019 compared to January 2019. Perhaps 2% isn’t a reason to jump up and down, at least it’s going in the right direction and not ballooning out of control as we’ve seen in many other metros.
14. Consider ditching the car…
Chicago transplants contend that the speed-limit within the metro are considered mere suggestions by local drivers. Hey, maybe their favorite deep-dish pizza place is about to close, we won’t judge. While it’s true most wheel-bound locals drive fast, the city is relatively drivable by big-city standards.
If you’re a car person, the inclement weather,<a href="https://www.valuepenguin.com/moving-to-chicago" target="_blank"> outrageous insurance fees</a>, and overall hassle of maintaining a car in Chicago might be worth it. If you’re one who just wants to get from A to Z by any means necessary, whether that be car, bus, subway, boat, donkey, or passenger pigeon – then you’ll be happy to discover that Chicago is one of the best cities for public transportation, making car ownership moot.
15. Keeping your car? Heed this day…
Ye ‘ole street cleaning days are carved in stone in Chicago. If your vehicle is parked on the street during said day, it will get towed… and you will pay a fine… and you will never forget the street cleaning days in your neighborhood again.
16. Oh yeah, and these months on snow routes
There’s more…
Chicago gets a lot of snow, right?<a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/city/illinois/chicago" target="_blank"> 35 inches on average</a>. Every year, beginning December 1st through April 1st, cars are prohibited to park on over 500 miles of main road. Officials at the Department of Streets and Sanitation enforce this ban, regardless of whether there is any evidence of the white stuff. It’s not that these government employees hate snowmen, snowflakes, and everything that’s beautiful in the world – it’s simply a precautionary measure that allows workers to salt and plow the city’s main roads in the event of snowfall.
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If you do manage to find a parking spot not on a snow route, be sure to follow this local custom: he who shovels claims the spot. That’s right, parking spots are claimed based on who shoveled the spot first – it’s a hard-earned prize for having a car in Chicago.
17. Car owners also get taxed…
If your car is within city limits for 30-days or longer, you must purchase a City Vehicle Sticker. This is an annual tax levied by the city for your wheels, no matter how awesome they are. New residents have 30-days from their move-in date to purchase a Chicago City Vehicle Sticker. Don’t forget to display it, otherwise it doesn’t count. You can purchase your sticker online through the<a href="http://www.chicityclerk.com/city-stickers-parking/purchase-options" target="_blank"> City Clerk’s office</a>.
Let’s get away from the topic of car ownership and move towards more fun things, shall we?
18. For an aerial view of potential parking spots, there’s the Skydeck!
Chicago is known for being the birthplace of the skyscraper – and who can argue with that from this view!
You’re on top of the world at the Willis Tower. For a 25-year stretch, it was the tallest building in the world. The view at the top affords an eye-gaping 50-miles and four states.
For the adventurous, the Ledge at the Skydeck will put some butterflies in your stomach. Don’t worry, there is no risk of flying off or getting whisked away as the ledge is within a four-walled glass enclosure. The drop is still off the charts – it’s 100 floors down…
19. The “L” will become your favorite letter in the alphabet
In other cities, public rails are called “subway,” “metro,” or “tube” – but in Chicago, it’s called simply the “L”.
L stands for “elevated” – because most of the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) tracks are above ground, affording riders awesome views. From your seat aboard the L you can admire plenty of Chicago’s best sights, from lakefront views to museums, parks, zoos, and of course what Chicago is most known for – architecture!
Fares are comparable to other cities. For those relying on the CTA for most of their travel, the monthly pass may be your best choice. At $105 per month at the time of writing, the monthly pass will take you throughout the city limits and beyond.
For more information on fares and purchase options, visit the<a href="https://www.transitchicago.com/fares/" target="_blank"> CTA website</a>.
20. Commuters rejoice with Metra commuter rails
For high-speed, affordable, and convenient commuter travel bee-line for Metra. This commuter train schleps everyone, from tourists to locals within the city proper to the Chicago suburbs, such as Northbrook, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Downer Groves, Oak Park, among others with efficiency and grace.
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Over 495 miles of commuter rails serve 240 stations across the city. Metra also offers monthly passes for regulars. Prices vary, depending on your “zone.”
For info on Metra monthly passes, visit<a href="https://metrarail.com/tickets/monthly-pass" target="_blank"> Metra’s website</a>.
21. Ridesharing abounds
With over 66,000 rideshare vehicles in Chicago, you won’t have any issues calling on Uber or Lyft. In fact, there are so many rideshare drivers that advocacy group,<a href="http://chicagorideshareadvocates.org/" target="_blank"> Chicago Rideshare Advocates</a> is putting pressure on officials to follow New York’s charge and cap the number of rideshare vehicles in the city. Boosting wages and improving drivers’ safety is also a priority for the group.
22. Chicago has not one, but TWO airports!
Home to one of the world’s busiest airports,<a href="https://www.flychicago.com/ohare/home/pages/default.aspx" target="_blank"> O’Hare International Airport</a> (ORD) is just 15 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. O’Hare has 5 terminals and serves both domestic and international flights. To and from the airport is a cinch. Of course, you can call an Uber, Lyft, or Taxi – but if you or your visitors would rather save some money, public transportation is easy peasy – plus you’ll avoid traffic!
From O’Hare, the Blue Line takes you downtown in about 40 minutes. Trains depart at least every 6-10 minutes during the day. By night, travelers won’t be stranded, with trains departing every 30-minutes.
You may or may not find yourself traveling through<a href="https://www.flychicago.com/midway/home/pages/default.aspx" target="_blank"> Midway International Airport (MDW)</a> very often, as it is mainly served by American, Southwest, and United Express. Some of the destinations out of Midland, include Denver, Austin, and Phoenix. However, it’s fun to have two airports rather than one, yes?
From the sky, Chicago is a sight to behold. The flat terrain is anything but dull, thanks to the grid system. At night, the streets extend across the sky as far as the eye can see. Take a look at one Reddit poster’s night photo from the sky to see just<a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/oddlysatisfying/comments/6bv53z/chicago_at_night/" target="_blank"> how impressive this grid is</a>!
23. It’s unlikely you’ll ever get lost…
Chicago’s innovations don’t stop at skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza. Chicago’s grid system is not only stunning from the sky, it makes navigating the city easy for local sand out-of-towners alike. Once you understand the grid system, you can do as Bear Grylls and get dropped off anywhere in the city and find your way back – and you won’t have to drink your own urine or kill any centipedes getting there!
Here’s how it works:
The State/Madison intersection marks the origin of Chicago’s address grid system. The address at Madison and State is 0/0. Madison Street divides the city north and south, while State Street divides it east and west.
From State/Madison, each city block address increases in increments of 100. For example, two blocks north of Madison and State would be 200 North Madison. Every eight blocks roughly equals one mile. The grid system is not only useful in planning your route, but it can help you estimate how far away your destination is.
24. You’ll want to explore, especially if you love coffee.
Chicago has an obscene number of coffee shops. And we’re not talking about first wave or second wave. No, that would be yucky – and Chicago is not yucky!
Heck, maybe it classifies as third wave officially, but it tastes like the freakin’ 100th wave… Check out a comprehensive list of<a href="https://chicago.eater.com/maps/best-chicago-coffee-shops-map" target="_blank"> Eater Chicago’s favorite coffee shops</a> in Chicago or peruse our selection below ~
For kicks (and hits) visit the ‘80s-themed coffee<a href="https://www.thewormhole.us/" target="_blank"> The Wormhole</a> located in the Wicker Park neighborhood. If you ask nice, they “might” let you test-drive the DeLorean!
For something a bit different, check out<a href="https://limitlesscoffee.com/" target="_blank"> Limitless Coffee</a> located in Fulton Market. According to the owners, the drinks are “healthy” with a variety of add-ins, such as activated charcoal. Sounds good to me!
<a href="https://sipofhope.com/" target="_blank">Sip of Hope</a>, located in the Logan Square neighborhood serves up caffeinated beverages; 100% of the proceeds fund local mental health initiatives. Drink up!
25. The place to find that perfect button you can’t find anywhere else!
The<a href="http://www.buttonmuseum.org/" target="_blank"> Busy Beaver Button Company</a> is a legend in the pinback button manufacturing industry. (And don’t pretend you didn’t know there was such an industry, come on)! The company creates custom buttons for businesses all over Chicago and the world, and maybe the universe!
Let’s get away from the seedy, unscrupulous button industry and drive directly to what’s truly special at this location: the button museum. Visitors can drool over hundreds of buttons, from old advertising buttons to Ban the Bra buttons, to Cabbage Patch Kids buttons to Anti-Nixon buttons.
Examining these buttons gives the visitor a candid eye into American identity and generational struggles. The artwork is impressive too! Best of all, buttons are still being made today and you can see the button craftsmen at work while visiting the museum.
26. Bringing Fido? Let the city know!
All dogs four months and older must be registered with the City of Chicago. The fee to register is $5 per month if Fido (or Fida) have been spayed or neutered. For dogs that have not been neutered, the registration fee is $50. Don’t delay purchasing your dog license, as fines will be incurred daily.
27. Speaking of Fido… there’s a fountain to commemorate him
Chicago is known for its art. Museums, architecture, and… shit fountains?
Yes, that’s what we’re dealing with here.
Chicago’s own Jerzy S. Kenar created the bronze coil fountain – and there isn’t room for any subjectivity here; this ain’t abstract, no mistaking it. This fountain is shaped like a hot pile of dog feces. The fountain is intended as an ironic and subtle (?) reminder to dog owners to pick up after their pets.
Some may say this is a bit passive aggressive, but we just think it’s pretty funny. And beautiful, maybe?
Nah, just funny…
28. Every season brings its advantages, but the fall foliage is something else!
Chicago absolutely looks it’s finest in the fall – no question about it. Vermont doesn’t have the market cornered as far as autumn-hues are concerned. In the fall, Chicago is blanketed with mustard yellows and burnt oranges that make city-dwellers elsewhere green with envy.
29. Chicago is the 6th-best biking city in the United States
Chicago’s flat topography lends itself to a great bike ride. Of course, more than terrain is at play when determining whether a city is bike-friendly. It also takes solid, well-thought out infrastructure and lots of funding to secure bicyclists have dedicated lanes and can ride safely.
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According to the site<a href="https://www.bicycling.com/culture/a23676188/best-bike-cities-2018/" target="_blank"> Bicycling.com</a>, Chicago ranks the #6 most bike-friendly city in the United States due to its emphasis on creating protected bike lanes and offering bikers over 176 miles of buffered as well as off-path roadways. Lots of money is being funneled into bike-related projects, with over $53 million dollars invested in 2018 alone.
Thanks to a $12 million gift, the city is separating bikes and pedestrians on the Lakefront Trail. This popular 18-mile walkway will soon enjoy a bike path for bikers and a separate pedestrian path for walkers to boost safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Biking is so efficient, that riders may opt to bike to work rather than driving or public transportation. Of course, upon arrival you may want to take a shower before meeting up with clients or colleagues.
30. You don’t need to own a bike to enjoy a bike ride
<a href="https://www.divvybikes.com/">Divvy</a>, Chicago’s bike sharing program, has a fleet of over 6,000 bikes and 570 docking stations strategically placed across Chicago and Evanston areas. A push to add new Divvy stations to underserved neighborhoods has been in the works, ensuring any Chicagoan who wants to ride a bike has access.
The goal is that by 2020, every Chicago resident will live within half a mile of an accessible bike route.
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31. Sail, cruise, and paddleboard – but don’t feed the sharks on Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan offers unforgettable views that will make even the most jaded of Chicagoans catch their breath. From the water via one of the several water taxis or sailboats, the Chicago skyline is a thing of beauty. Or, for those land lovers that refuse to get wet – views from the shore are pretty darn nice, too.
Admiring Lake Michigan, it’s easy to forget that this glorious body of water is in fact a lake – and not the Atlantic.
32. Who said there aren’t any beaches in the Midwest?
Chicagoans who like to make-believe that they’re coastal have several terrific beaches to saunter, particularly on the north side of Chicago. Rogers Park and Montrose Beach are two local favorites.
For those of us with our dogs in tow (our registered dogs, mind you), Montrose is ideal as it is open to dogs. Osterman beach, renowned for its nachos, is another hot spot. Eating gooey hot cheese goop with your toes in the sand? Why not.
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33. Millennium Park is where you’ll find Chicago’s most iconic public art
Located in “The Loop” neighborhood in the heart of downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is filled to the brim with art, music, and gardens.
While it’s home to many sculptures, including the interactive Crown Fountain, the most celebrated public sculpture is Anish Kapoor’s “Cloud Gate;” to locals, it’s simply called “The Bean.”
This elliptical arch that looks very much like a kidney bean with a highly-reflective, futuristic-looking surface distorts the city’s skyline as well as the human faces that peer into it.
No matter the time of year, Millennium Park’s motto is generosity. From free movie screenings every summer Tuesday night to free workout sessions, as well as free after-school programs for teens. This is a park Chicagoans cherish!
For more Chicago “best-ofs,” check out this article from <a href="https://www.thecrazytourist.com/top-25-things-to-do-in-chicago-il/" target="_blank">The Crazy Tourist</a>.
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34. And yes, the Lincoln Park Zoo is free, always
Chicago is one of the best cities for families in large part to the variety of activities that can be had – for free. Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, the<a href="http://www.lpzoo.org/" target="_blank"> Lincoln Park Zoo</a> is home to ~1,100 animals and around 200 species. Founded in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. Residents include penguins, polar bears, reptiles, birds and many more.
If adults want to leave the kids at home and enter the wild side, the zoo offers an “Adults Night Out” event. Meow!
35. Job market is competitive – time to network!
Like most cities, the job market is cut-throat. Fortunately, you are the master of your own fate and have the ability to network (you’re charming, after all). If you don’t know anyone and don’t have a job lined up, it can be especially tough. Personal referrals are everything. Get yourself out there and start making friends.
You need to get out more anyway, right?
Company Name
Address
2017 Rank
Walgreens Boots Alliance
108 Wilmot Rd, Deerfiled
17
Boeing Company
100 North Riverside, Chicago
24
Archer Daniels Midland Company
77 W Wacker Dr #4600, Chicago
45
United Continental Holdings, Inc.
233 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago
83
The Allstate Corporation
2775 Sanders Rd, Northbrook
84
Exelon Corporation
10 S Dearborn St 48th Floor, Chicago
89
Kraft Heinz Company
200 E Randolph, Suite 7600, Chicago
106
Mondelez International
3 Parkway N, Deerfiled
109
Abbvie
1 Waukegan Rd, North Chicago
111
McDonald's
2111 McDonald’s Plaza, Oak Brook
112
US Foods
9399 W Higgins Rd #500, Rosemont
124
Sears Holdings Corporation
3333 Beverly Road, Hoffman Estates
127
Abbot Laboratories
100 Abbott Park Road, Abbott Park
135
Conagra Brands
222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza #1300, Chicago
197
CDW Corporation
75 Tri State International, Lincolnshire
199
Illnois Tool Works, Inc.
155 Harlem Ave, Glenview
202
Discover Finacial Services
2500 Lake Cook Rd, Riverwoods
277
Baxter International, Inc.
1 Baxter Parkway, Deerfiled
281
W. W. Grainger, Inc
100 Grainger Pkwy, Lake Forest
282
LKQ Corporation
500 W Madison St Suite 2800, Chicago
304
Tenneco, Inc.
500 N Field Dr, Lake Forest
322
Navistar International Corporation
2701 Navistar Dr, Lisle
337
Univar
3075 Highland Pkwy #200, Downers Grove
338
Anixter International
2301 Patriot Blvd, Glenview
359
RR Donnelley
35 W Wacker Dr, Chicago
388
Jones Lang LaSalle Inc.
200 E Randolph St # 430, Chicago
391
Dover Coparation
3005 Highland Pkwy, Downers Grove
392
TreeHouse Foods, Inc.
2021 Spring Rd #600, Oak Brook
427
Motorola Solution, Inc.
500 W Monroe St, Chicago
433
Old Republic International Corp.
307 Michigan Avenue, Chicago
439
Packaging Corporation of America
1955 W Field Ct, Lake Forest
450
Ingredion Incorporated
5 Westbrook Corporate Center, Westchester
456
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
2850 Golf Rd, Rolling Meadows
462
Essendant
1 Parkway N, Deerfield
487
Fortune magazine, June 7, 2017 issue
36. Build your network before you arrive
Whether you have friends and family in Chicago or not, it’s a good idea to start broadening your network before you arrive.
Career advice website<a href="https://www.themuse.com/advice/moving-to-a-new-city-how-to-network-before-you-go" target="_blank"> the muse</a> has great tips on how to network from afar. For example, you may presume that you don’t know a soul in Chicago – try tapping your LinkedIn connections and you might be surprised. On that note, use<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/" target="_blank"> LinkedIn</a> to research regional associations or chapters in your line of work and interests.
<a href="https://www.meetup.com/" target="_blank">Meetup</a> is another fantastic resource to explore local events and opportunities to get together with others who share your interests. And if your favorite hobby doesn’t exist? Say, “truffle hunting in Grant Park” – you can create your own Meetup and start a trend in Chicago.
37. Of course, sports are an easy way to make friends (or enemies) …
If you love sports (and depending on what sport teams you root for, please don’t let it be the Twins or Cavaliers – in which case, you might as well not move to Chicago), making friends in Chicago is a piece of cake. You can join a recreational league or if you prefer to<a href="https://foursquare.com/top-places/chicago/best-places-sports" target="_blank"> enjoy sports without raising your heart rate</a>, there are innumerable spots to enjoy everything from football to baseball to hockey to lawn bowling!
38. Chicago is home to the nation’s second-oldest ballpark
Home to the Chicago Cubs since 1916, Wrigley Field was purchased by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. (yes, at one time there was such a thing). The stadium is smack-dab in the middle of a residential neighborhood and is one of the few US sports venues where locals can view games from their Chicago condos roofs.
The scoreboard, which is manually operated, has been around since 1937. Although it’s never been whacked by a baseball, it has been hit by a golf ball when golfer Sam Snead teed off from home plate.
39. Minimum wage
Illinois’ state minimum wage is $8.25 per hour. Chicago, however, has set its own higher minimum wage rate set to take effect July 1st, 2019 upon which the minimum wage will increase to $13.00 dollars per hour.
On February 19th, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill to raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 dollars per hour by 2025.
40. Largest Latino museum in the US
The<a href="http://www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/" target="_blank"> National Museum of Mexican Art</a> is a treasure-trove of Mexican Art. The permanent collections, rotating exhibits, performing arts-showcases, and the spectacular Day of the Dead exhibition makes this museum a must-do no matter the time of year.
41. And for the aspiring surgeon…
If you’re an aspiring surgeon or just enjoy surgical history (alright…..), The<a href="http://imss.org/" target="_blank"> International Museum of Surgical Science</a> is the museum for you. Holding over 7,000 artifacts documenting the history of surgery, visitors will find an amputation saw from the 1500s, iron lungs, and early heart valves. For those who aren’t comfortable around surgical equipment and gore, there is the room full of cadaver murals.
42. Most bars close at 2AM but there are exceptions…
Most bars in Chicago close at 2AM. However, being the 3rd largest city in America, the powers-that-be somehow know that at 2AM the party is just getting started. For those folks, there’s the “4AM bar.”
These 4AM bars are few and far between, and frankly at that hour you may just want to go back home and catch some zzzzzs. However, if you’re a night owl and want one last night cap, (or does 4AM qualify as a “morning cap”?), you can check out Timeout’s list for the<a href="https://www.timeout.com/chicago/bars/chicago-bars-open-till-4am-or-later" target="_blank"> best 4AM bars in Chicago</a>.
43. Your taste buds better be ready…
Everyone is familiar with Chicago deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, beef sandwiches, twinkies, beer, and brownies (well, just about all of your guilty food pleasures); but you may not know about the “Taste of Chicago” food festival. It’s where all these amazing delicacies – and more – congregate (but not for long, as they get consumed fast!).
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During the summer months, Chicago is a time of indulgence – well, more indulgent than usual… Over one million stomachs attend – and the way they eat, some would suspect cows aren’t the only mammals with two!
44. And when “Taste of” isn’t on, street food will console
Look – I live in Chicago okay? Did that sound defensive? I guess it did, sorry…
It’s just if this list is going to properly prepare you for moving to Chicago, then you need to know everything – and I mean everything. Sure, yours truly does eat and drink more than her share – but you will too after you become one of us! Muhahaha!
Let’s just say eating and drinking is a Chicago pastime and leave it at that, okay?
One of the best things about Chicago’s food scene is that you can always find inexpensive, flavorful, and downright inspiring food from a counter, cart, or curb. $1 tacos, snow cones, polish sausage, fresh mangoes, and dozens of other items you didn’t know you needed until you saw that glorious box on two wheels.
45. Home to the nation’s largest collection of impressionist artwork
Located in Grant Park, The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the<a href="https://www.artic.edu/" target="_blank"> most popular museums in the world</a> – and for good reason. Old Masters, American art, Asian art, African art, Impressionist and Post-Impressionist, Modern – you name it, they’ve got it.
Impressionist-buffs will be particularly, uh… impressed. Monet, Matisse, Seurat, Cassatt, and Van Gogh. The list of impressionist works goes on and on. In fact, The Art Institute carries the largest collection of Impressionist paintings outside of Paris. Take that, Paris!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Downtown_Chicago/chicago_downtown_the_art_institute_2_result.jpg" width="1192" height="845" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
46. Only one river in the world flows backwards – find it in Chicago
The Chicago River flows through downtown Chicago… backwards. This innovative feat of engineering is unique of its kind all over the world. Reversed for sanitation reasons, engineers diverted the sewage away from Lake Michigan’s water supply. Pretty good idea, eh? The raw sewage is carried upstream towards the Mississippi, which then flows south to the Gulf of Mexico.
Despite this engineering achievement, you’ll find that the Chicago River turns green every Saint Patrick’s Day. Don’t be alarmed, the river’s flow hasn’t been interrupted. The green color is intentional. It is not poop.
47. HQ for the Capone Mob during the prohibition-era
Al Capone, Bugs Moran, and Dion Johnny Torrio are just a few of the infamous names of Chicagoland mobster-dom that still don’t need any introduction. But most people don’t know the names of the other local mobsters of that era. Guys like “Greasy Thumb” Guzik, Murray “The Camel” Humphreys, “Bit Tuna” Accardo, and “Three Finger Jack” White.
Interesting? Sure. But we aren’t sure we even want to know how those guys got their nicknames, so let’s move on…
48. Hotbed of funny at Chicago’s Second City
Over the last 60 years,<a href="https://www.secondcity.com/" target="_blank"> Second City</a> has unleashed a deluge of comedy onto the world.
Comics such as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell, Bill Murray, Keegan-Michael Key, Jason Sudeikis, and many more have participated in this renowned comedy club and improv company when their careers were just getting started. Make time to see a show – who knows, the entertainer may be the next Stephen Colbert in 5 years… and you’ll have seen him first, right here in Chicago!
49. Setting up a bank account is simple
If you need to<a href="https://smartasset.com/checking-account/best-banks-chicago-il" target="_blank"> set up a bank account in Chicago</a>, you won’t run into any issues. National banks, such as Chase and Bank of America are ubiquitous. If you’d like a more local vibe, regional banks include BMO Harris Bank and MB Financial, among others.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1204/image/Downtown_Chicago/chicago_downtown_bank_of_america_result.jpg" width="1214" height="856" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
50. International buyers can purchase Chicago real estate
Due to Chicago’s attractive job market, the city sees an influx of highly-educated foreign-born professionals who immigrate to Chicago for work. In fact, many of our clients are new transplants not just to Chicago, but to the United States.
For international buyers, purchasing property in the US has its own unique real estate purchasing process. It’s important to work with an experienced realtor who understands the legalities and nuances of buying real estate for foreign buyers. The realtors at<a href="http://www.delphinehomes.com"> DelphineHomes.com</a> are experts of these regulations and have the deepest insight into the local Chicago market.
Born in Vietnam and later immigrating to the United States, Delphine has firsthand experience negotiating between varying cultures and customs. Reach out and she can assist in helping you choose translators, attorneys, inspectors, bankers, as well as introduce you to your American dream property. All the MLS listings are posted to our <a href="http://www.delphinehomes.com">website</a> and updated daily.
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51. The 5 most expensive Chicago communities to rent
The five most expensive communities to rent an apartment are: <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/near-north-side/">Near North Side</a>, <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/the-loop/">The Loop</a>, <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/near-west-side/">Near West Side</a>, <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/near-south-side/">Near South Side</a>, and <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/west-town/">West Town</a>. In these areas, rental housing is predominantly high-rises, larger apartment complexes, new construction, townhomes, and condos. Parking can be hard to find, so if you can snag a condo with parking that’s a major high-five for you!
One of the most popular Chicago neighborhoods is “The Loop.” This is where you’ll find Willis Tower, and you guessed it – tons of skyscrapers. After all, this is Chicago’s business district. Consequently, it’s largely packed with architecture, glass, steel, and offices.
The Loop is busy and hectic during the weekdays but come weekends, residents can enjoy a bit of a reprieve from the madness. One of the many advantages of North Side and The Loop is the walkability. Access to the theater district and nearby Millennium Park are highlights.
While you won’t find too many single houses here, you will find plenty to make up for it! Just a few of the trendier condos in The Loop include<a href="http://heritagechicago.com/" target="_blank"> The Heritage</a> and Six North Michigan. At 57-stories tall, The Heritage offers views over Millennium Park and Lake Michigan.
For “intimate luxury,” take a look at Six North Michigan. This luxury condominium offers terraces, high-quality appliances, and full-amenities.
One of the unmistakable condos in Chicago’s famous Magnificent Mile neighborhood is<a href="http://875northmichiganavenue.com" target="_blank"> 875 North Michigan Avenue</a>. Formerly named the <a href="https://www.delphinehomes.com/near-north-side/john-hancock-center-chicago-condos-for-sale/%20">John Hancock Center</a>, this 1,128-feet tall skyscraper was completed in 1969. The building is a destination in and of itself, offering an observation deck to sightseers and tantalizing amenities to tenants.
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There you have it! 51 need-to-knows and just wanna-knows before moving to Chicago.
If there’s one takeaway to this list, let it be this: Chicago has a culture that’s a good match for most anyone. This is enormously comforting, isn’t it?
When moving to a new city, you want to know a bit about the culture so you can mentally prepare and anticipate how you might fit in. Chicago is one of the most welcoming cities you’ll ever experience. Chicago is a diverse and inviting city with the generous and hospitable Midwest sensibility.
Chicagoans are resilient – and with the kind of weather we experience, you’ve just got to be! In fact, the local saying is “if you don’t like the weather, wait 15 minutes!”
As someone about to embark on something as life-changing as a big move, you are resilient too! Chicago may be the perfect fit for you.
Here, we embrace change – whether it be a change in weather, a job, or a move. After all, summer will arrive (eventually). And what do we do here in the summer? Block parties and outdoor events galore!
And you’re invited.2019-04-15T02:26:00-07:002019-05-02T21:39:53-07:00Delphine Nguyen