Chicago is a city of neighborhoods — 77 biotic community areas to be exact — each with its own vibe , history , and genius . If you ’re ready to start exploring , this list covers the most iconic ( and the out of sight gems ) amongChicago neighborhood .
Here are 10 standout neighborhood that showcase the culture , history and energy that define the Windy City .
1. Lincoln Park
Just off Lake Michigan , Lincoln Park is known for its zoo , green spaces and formal residential architecture . With attractions like the Chicago History Museum and a strong common sense of community , it ’s the perfect blend of nature and urban center living .
2. River North
Once industrial — and now a bustling neighborhood of voguish restaurants , graphics gallery and nightlife — River North is a magnet for creatives and professionals likewise . Its " nerveless agent " and central location make it a go - to for visitor .
3. Hyde Park
Home to the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry , Hyde Park swash a copious tapestry of Black chronicle and academic prestige . nestle near Jackson Park , it ’s an eclectic mix of mind and inhalation .
4. Wicker Park
Wicker Park is a bustling enclave known for live music , trendy restaurants and vintage shop . Located on the west side , it ’s a favorite for young professionals drawn by its youthful energy and originative bombilation .
5. Humboldt Park
This west side neighborhood pulse with Puerto Rican pride , well display during Fiesta Boricua . The park itself propose straggle green spaces and a lagune , while the streets are fill with murals , shops , and cultural center .
6. West Loop
Formerly a meatpacking district , West Loop has metamorphose into a culinary epicenter . With renowned eateries and loft - fashion housing , it ’s a modern commixture of historical homes and industrial chic . Expect nightlife , markets and urban bound .
7. Beverly
turn up on the south side , Beverly volunteer a suburban tactile property within city limits . know for its historical homes and Irish - American inheritance , it ’s a passive area staring for families look for a quieter slice of Chicago .
8. Roscoe Village
This north side gem feels like a modest hamlet in the heart of the urban center . line with quaint shops , deep brown houses and friendly occupier , Roscoe Village is staring for stroll and family outing .
9. Bronzeville
dub the Black Metropolis , Bronzeville is a hub of Black life and civilisation . ample in malarkey story and civil right legacy , it uphold to thrive as a community full of hidden gems and revival spirit .
10. Chinatown
With vibrant shopfront and authentic eats , Chinatown invites visitant to wander its blocks and taste its offerings . It ’s a lively , immersive goal for entertainment , dining and cultural admiration on the south side .
Whether you ’re a tourist or a womb-to-tomb Chicagoan , search these neighborhood is a journeying through the very heart of the metropolis . So grab a map , hops on the 50 , and pop discovering the computer architecture , history and nip that make Chicago truly world - class .
We created this article in continuative with AI technology , then made sure it was fact - tally and redact by a HowStuffWorks editor .
