Music, Food, Culture, and Art – There’s a Festival for Every Season Near Our Chicago Apartments

No matter the season, there is always something fun and entertaining going on in Chicago. Celebrate music, food, culture, art, and history throughout the year at festivals and events where you can revel and feast to your heart’s content. Need some ideas? Here are some of the best happenings in Chi-town throughout spring, summer, fall, and winter.

 First Bites Bash – Enjoy tastings from more than 70 of Chicago’s best chefs at the First Bites Bash. Held at the gorgeous Field Museum, guests can nosh on gourmet food while sipping on wine, beer, and spirits. Keep an eye on the website for details about the next event.

 Chicago Auto Show – Consider yourself a gear head or car enthusiast? You’ll definitely want to check out the Chicago Auto Show held every February. Visitors can marvel at the 1,000 different vehicles on display at the largest auto show in North America.

 Bacon Fest Chicago – Bacon-lovers will rejoice at this bacon-centric festival held in April. Baconfest is a walk-around tasting event where guests can sample creative bacon dishes from some of the best chefs in the city. A portion of all proceeds goes to local food charities.

Millennium Art Festival – What’s better than a festival involving incredible artwork, crave-worthy food, and live music? A free festival! Held in June, the Millennium Art Festival is a free, three-day celebration of painting, ceramics, photography, furniture, and more, with tasty treats and interactive experiences along the way.

 Chicago Ale Fest – With over one hundred craft beers, dozens of food trucks, live music, and local artisans, the summer edition of the Chicago Ale Fest is the place to be. Held in mid-July, it’s the perfect festival to enjoy the sunshine while sipping on some of Chicago’s finest microbrews.

Windy City Smokeout – Bands. BBQ. Beer. Find all three of these amazing things at the Windy City Smokeout in mid-July. Festival-goers can watch some of their favorite country artists while eating some finger-lickin’ BBQ from 20 of the world’s best pitmasters. Check out the festival’s website for the full line-up and schedule.

Chicago Hot Dog Fest – Hot dogs and summer go hand-in-hand, so it only makes sense to spend a sunny August weekend at the Chicago Hot Dog Fest. Known as the city’s largest picnic, attendees can enjoy hot dogs prepared in different regional and ethnics styles then dance to live bands and learn about Chicago history.

Arts in the Dark – Described as a “magical evening parade that celebrates Halloween,” Arts in the Dark showcases unique and spooky floats, performances, costumes, and puppets set against Chicago’s sprawling skyline. The event is free and open to the public.

Christkindlmarket Chicago – Accomplish all of your holiday shopping while enjoying festive entertainment, sipping on mulled wine, and eating yummy food at the Christkindlmarket Chicago. Featuring international and local vendors, the German-style outdoor market is a truly unique shopping experience. Admission is free.

Living at our luxury apartments in Chicago provides you with so many benefits—both onsite and off. No matter the time of year, you’ll always find a memory-making experience around town. Browse our Chicago communities and floor plans today.

From Budget and Vintage Finds to Luxury and High-End Brands, There Is Something for Every Shopper Near Our Chicago Apartments

Whether it’s out of necessity or you’re simply looking for a little retail therapy, Chicago is the city for shopping. Charming neighborhoods and communities are scattered throughout the city offering shoppers unique finds at boutiques, high-end shops, thrift shops, and chain stores alike. Living at our luxury Chicago apartments provides you with the convenience of being in close proximity to some of the best shopping the city has to offer. Here are some of the most popular shopping destinations in the Windy City.

Lakeview

Lakeview is actually a combination of East Lakeview, Wrigleyville, Boystown, and the Southport Corridor, so expect to find a wide array of eclectic and fun shops. Off Southport Avenue, shoppers can stop into their favorite popular chains along with trendy, small boutiques. Then, make your way to Lincoln Avenue, Belmont Avenue, Halsted Street, Clark Street, or Broadway Street for retro and vintage finds, gourmet food, and designer clothes. Be sure to stop into Waxman Candles to see candles made onsite with fragrances inspired by Chicago neighborhoods. And don’t forget to pick up your Chicago Cubs gear at the many shops and stands near Wrigley Field.

State Street & The Loop

Most tourists and Chicagoans would say the Magnificent Mile is the most well-known shopping area in Chicago, but sometimes you just want to avoid it. You’re next best bet for options is State Street. Not only will you find popular stores like Nordstrom Rack, T.J. Maxx, and Urban Outfitters, but it’s also home of the famous Macy’s store which occupies an entire city block.

Bucktown & Wicker Park

Like antiques, vintage clothing, and vinyl records? Then you’ll definitely want to spend some time poking around Wicker Park and Bucktown. The neighborhood is an interesting mix of old neighborhood businesses combined with edgy boutiques and eclectic galleries—all of which encompass the area’s bohemian vibe. Although the price tags in this area are a little high, the neighborhood still has its grit. Be sure to stop into Asrai Garden for a brief ‘zen moment’ in the high-paced, chaotic city.

Gold Coast

If luxury and high-end fashion are what you’re into, then you’ll love perusing the shops in the Gold Coast, particularly the area’s Oak Street District. Known as the go-to destination for all things couture, the gorgeous street is home to designer showrooms for Chanel, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Giorgio Armani, and more. You’ll even find a Yves Saint Laurent inside the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Chicago. Between the well-known names, you’ll find smaller boutiques like Shinola Detroit and VMR.

Lincoln Park

You can spend the entire day wandering around Lincoln Park and the area around Armitage Avenue and Halsted Street. Not only are there plenty of boutiques selling everything from home decor and gifts to clothing and art, but there are also stunning Victorian homes lining the street to marvel at while you’re shopping. Pop into Art Effects where shoppers can find unique home decor and a backroom filled with clothes, jewelry, and more.

Budget-shopper or high-end couture ‘snob’—whatever type of shopper you identify as, Chicago has something for you. Browse our Chicago apartments today and make your favorite neighborhood your home.

Chicago and Pizza… Need We Say More

‘Pizza’ and ‘Chicago’ are basically synonymous—it’s the city’s iconic dish. Many would argue that deep-dish is the only pizza style a true Chicagoan eats, while others say thin-crust or pan-style reign king. Whatever style of pie you’re into, there are plenty of mouth-watering pizza establishments in the Windy City. In your search for Chicago apartments, you may want to consider your proximity to one of these six delicious pizza spots that the locals know and love.

Pequod’s Pizza

With two locations in Chicago (and a sister restaurant), Pequod’s is a casual pub serving authentic deep-dish pizza with a cheesy, caramelized crust that will have you dreaming about it for days after you’ve tried it. This neighborhood favorite cooks their pizza in cast-iron pans, so expect to have cheese overflowing onto the edges—with the perfect amount of ‘burn’. You’d be hard-pressed to find a Chicagoan who doesn’t love a Pequod’s deep-dish pizza. Check out their website to view their menu and pub hours.

Burt’s Place

Started by the same gentleman as Pequod’s in 1971, Burt Katz opened Burt’s Place in 1989, and the beloved pizza joint is now run by the new owner Jerry Petrow with all of the same recipes and methods. Expect to find crave-worthy caramelized crust with every delicious topping imaginable. In fact, it’s the only deep-dish pizza that the legendary Anthony Bourdain said he’s ever loved.

Connie’s Pizza

Located off Archer Avenue and another location at McCormick Place, Connie’s Pizza has been flipping pies since 1963. Not only do they offer deep dish, but they also serve thin crust, stuffed crust, and signature pan pizzas. Connie’s has earned national recognition for its delicious pie featuring zucchini, ground turkey, capicola, meatballs, soppressata and more. Order online and get a pizza delivered right to your door—you can even share the Chi-town love and have one shipped anywhere in the U.S.

Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company

If you’re looking for a pizza that isn’t your standard deep dish or traditional pan, you’ll want to pay a visit to Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. That’s because Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company has been serving their one-of-a-kind Pizza Pot Pies since 1972. Each pot pie is made from scratch using triple-raised Sicilian-style dough, homemade sauce, sausage, and lots of cheese. They also have warm, toasty grinders too. Visit their website to view their menu.

Coalfire Pizza

It’s not deep-dish, it’s not pan-style, it’s its own thing—Coalfire is firing up their very own coal oven pizza. With two locations, Coalfire cooks up thin-crust, coal-forged pizza that comes out perfectly charred from their 1,500-degree oven. Try their Sopressata & Broccolini with mozzarella, soppressata, broccolini, stracciatella, house-made chili oil, and mint. And be sure to check out Coalfire’s happy hour where guests can dine on discounted pies and wash it down with $3 beers.

Ricobene’s

Ricobene’s is most-loved for their insanely delicious Breaded Steak Sandwich, however, their whipping up some drool-worthy deep dish pizza too (with thin crust and pan-style options as well). Their no-frills establishment is great if you don’t have a lot of time or just want to pick up a slice to-go. Try “The Works” with sausage, pepperoni, bacon, mushrooms, onion, and green pepper. Someone in the group not into pizza? Ricobene’s has sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, wings, and more.

If there’s one thing that should be on your checklist in your search for apartments in Chicago—it should be ‘close to great pizza’. With endless options in this fantastic city, you’ll be happy to know you’re never far away from a delicious slice. Browse our Chicago apartment communities and schedule a tour today.

The 5 Best Neighborhoods for Nightlife Revelers Near Our Chicago Apartments

Nights in at our luxury apartments in Chicago are always nice, but sometimes, you just feel like going out. When you and your friends are looking for a night out on the town, Chicago has a few great neighborhoods for bar-hopping and nightclubs that you won’t want to miss. From dive bars and sports bars to trendy dance clubs and comedy clubs—Chi-town has it all. Here are five of the most popular neighborhoods for Chicago revelers.

Wicker Park

Six Corners in Wicker Park has to be mentioned strictly for its unique and distinct place in the Chicago nightlife scene. North Milwaukee Avenue has an extremely diverse mix of pubs, bars, and clubs for every walk of life. Some of the neighborhood favorites and must-stop establishments include The Owl, East Room, The Radler, Emporium, The Rocking Horse, and Slippery Slope. Not only are the bars eclectic, but so is the area itself. Expect to have some great people-watching while being entertained by musicians and artists along the way.

River North

No one can deny that Hubbard Street in River North is one of the craziest nightlife spots in the city. No matter what day of the week, there are always late-night happenings to be found in River North. Mostly concentrated on Hubbard Street from State to LaSalle, you’ll find partiers of all ages and all professions. From hipsters and newly-21-year-olds to businessmen and hardcore service industry personnel, River North has a bar for everyone. Popular spots include Hubbard Inn, Joy District, El Hefe, Howl at the Moon, Mother Hubbard’s, and Three Dots and a Dash.

Lincoln Park

Casual and fun—that’s how you can sum up the Lincoln Park nightlife scene. One of Chicago’s most bar-populated areas, Lincoln Park has one bar after another, particularly on Lincoln Avenue from Fullerton to Wrightwood. Locals and visitors, college students and 30-somethings can be found at places like Lincoln Tap Room, Prost, Red Lion Pub, Elbo Room, Lincoln Avenue Social, and Delilah’s. Lincoln Hall is also located in this area, so drinks before or after a concert is always an option.

Wrigleyville

Bar hopping is just what you do in Wrigleyville, specifically, on Clark Street. And if you happen to be there during or after a Cubs game? It’s madness—in the best way possible. From Belmont all the way to Grace Street, the area is completely lined with bars filled with tourists and locals alike. The list of hot-spots in the area is long but some of the neighborhood favorites include Old Crow, The Cubby Bear, Irish Oak, Smart Bar, Sluggers, and Deuce’s and the Diamond Club.

Boystown

Boystown is known as the LGBTQ-area of Chicago but it doesn’t matter if you’re straight, gay, blue, or yellow, everyone is welcome to party and live it up in this trendy and fun neighborhood. The most popular part of Boystown sits on North Halsted from Grace to Belmont. Start by visiting the historic gay bar The North End before making your way to Bobby Love’s. Take a quick break before partying into the early morning hours at Scarlet Bar, Elixir Lounge, and Progress Bar. Feel like something a little more low-key into the wee hours? Try The Closet or Wang’s off North Broadway.

Drinks, music, laughs, and good times can all be found within minutes from our apartments in Chicago. Browse our Chicago communities, explore our many floor plans then schedule your tour today.

7 Heart-Pumping and Exciting Outdoor Activities in Chicagoland

Sure, Chicago is known for its cold and brutal winters, but Chicagoans put up with it because they know once the sun comes out, the outdoor fun begins. Hiking, kayaking, biking, playing—this massive urban city has so much to offer for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. When you live at our apartments in Chicago, you’re never far from adventure and one of the 580 city parks. Here are some of the best outdoor activities that Chicago has to offer.

Pedal, Jog, or Stroll the Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront Trail is both cyclist- and pedestrian-friendly and is an impressive 18-miles long. Take in some vitamin D as you walk, jog, or bike past gorgeous harbors of Lake Michigan, parks, boardwalks, and a stunning view of the Chicago skyline. Find trail maps, access points, and more at the Chicago Park District website.

Climb High at Maggie Daley Park

Part of Millenium Park, Maggie Daley Park features incredible climbing walls for every skill level that reach up to 40-feet high. Not only that, but you’ll find mini-golf, tennis courts, and a skating ribbon where you can rollerskate or rollerblade in the warmer months and ice skate during the winter months. Check their website for upcoming programs and events.

Kayak Down the Chicago River

Take in the gorgeous views of the Chicago skyline while getting some exercise at the same time. Chicago offers many tours by kayak that takes you past famous buildings from well-known architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright. Or, you can simply rent a kayak and explore on your own. Kayak Chicago has all the info you need.

Rent a Divvy Bike and Explore

Don’t feel like walking but don’t want to bother with public transport? Or perhaps you’re just looking to get a bit of a sweat on. Either way, Divvy Bike is the answer. Bike share stations are scattered all across the city where residents can rent a bicycle 24/7, 365 days a year. Don’t worry about having enough bikes to go around, they have a fleet of bikes 3,000 strong. Visit their website for pick-up and drop-off information.

Get Your Fitness on at The 606

Get your lungs pumping on The 606—a 2.7-mile long elevated walking, running, biking, rollerblading, and skateboarding path that takes Chicagoans and tourists through some of the city’s best neighborhoods with art installations along the way. Feel free to detour off to explore Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, Humboldt Park, and more. Check out The 606’s official website for more information.

Spend a Day at the Beach at Lake Michigan

Chicago boasts 26 miles of breathtaking shoreline which provides plenty of opportunities for beachgoers to soak in the rays and get active with watersports. Take a dip in the refreshing water, participate in a volleyball tournament, let your pup play at Montrose Beach, or rent paddleboards and jet skis for a little adrenaline rush.

Zipline Your Way Through Bemis Woods

If you like being surrounded by the forest and trees, you could spend hours hiking along the hundreds of trails in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. But, if you’re looking to experience the forest with some more excitement, then you’ll definitely want to soar through the treetops on a 2,000-foot-long zipline in Bemis Woods. Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park’s website has all the details.

When you live at one of our Chicago apartments, you’ll never find yourself bored—especially when the sun is shining. Browse our Chicago communities and schedule a tour today.

Booming With Culture: There Is So Much to Explore Near Our Chicago Apartments

You can’t mention Chicago without talking about culture – that’s because the city is teeming with it. Our luxury Chicago apartments can be found in neighborhoods scattered about the city ranging from hip and trendy to historic and celebrated. Regardless of where you live in this bustling metropolis, there is culture to be found around every corner. Art, music, theater, or dance – Chicago has something for every type of culturalist out there.

Learn more about your great city and enjoying enriching experiences at these must-visit Windy City cultural stops.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra/Symphony Center

Enjoy a night with the symphony at the Chicago Symphony Center. Sit back and listen to performances by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra including classical pieces conducted by renowned conductor Riccardo Muti. Visitors can also experience jazz performances and CSO at the Movies when the orchestra plays the original score along with a film. Hungry? Grab a meal before or after the performance at the adjoining Tesori Italian restaurant.

Chicago Architecture Center

Chicago is chock-full of incredible architecture and the Chicago Architecture Center is here to celebrate it. Set inside the historic Sante Fe building, the Chicago Architecture Foundation has been preserving the history of the great and famous architecture around the Windy City. During the warmer months, be sure to check out the guided river cruise or the many downtown walking tours the Foundation provides.

Art Institute of Chicago

When talking about culture, it’s impossible not to bring up the Art Institute of Chicago. This cultural staple of the city houses more than 300,000 pieces of artwork from famous artists like Georges Seurat and Grant Wood. After admiring some of the greatest pieces of art on earth, grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant, Terzo Piano. Check their website for information on rotating exhibits.

The Field Museum

If you’re into natural history, you’ll find yourself in heaven at the massive Field Museum. Visitors can travel back in time by descending into a recreation of an ancient Egyptian tomb, marvel at the massive skeleton of dinosaur bones, and become hypnotized by enchanting gems and stones in the Grainger Hall of Gems. Visit their website to keep an eye out for free admission days.

Goodman Theatre

For over 90 years, Chicago’s non-profit Goodman Theatre has been putting on dramas, comedies, and beloved holiday favorites like “The Christmas Carol”. Located in the Loop Theater District, guests can purchase tickets to full-scale musicals, one-woman shows, and nail-biting dramas. Be sure to dine at Petterino’s for a memory-making, golden-age experience.

Lyric Opera of Chicago

The world-renowned Lyric Opera of Chicago was founded in 1954 and is applauded for its artistic excellence. Year-round, the Lyric opera company presents a plethora of traditional operas in multiple languages from across the world. For those that don’t speak Italian or Portuguese, there is a projection screen that displays the lyrics in English. Make sure to arrive early for an educational pre-opera talk.

Adler Planetarium

Learn about astrophysics, astronomy, and the history of space exploration at the Adler Planetarium. Located at the outermost tip of Museum Campus, the Adler Museum features permanent exhibitions like “Mission Moon” and “The Universe: A Walk Through Time”. You’ll definitely want to make it a point to visit the Grainger Sky Theater which uses multiple projectors and a 70-foot dome to take you on an immersive journey through the stars. Check their website for after-hours, 21-and-over events.

Expand your mind, explore your senses, and learn about your city at the dozens of cultural institutions around Chicago. Browse our Chicago apartments and book a tour today.

Make Memories & Share Smiles with the Entire Family

Make memories, build bonds, and share experiences with your family around the great city of Chicago. Our Chicago apartments are never far from fun and excitement for your entire clan. No matter what time of year, time of week, or time of day, there is always family-fun to be found nearby. Here are some of the most popular places and things to do for families with kids of all ages in the Windy City.

Shedd Aquarium

With over 32,000 animals and over 5 million gallons of water, the Shedd Aquarium showcases some of the coolest and strangest creatures of the sea. You and your family will love exploring the wonders of the aquatic world as you pass by jellyfish, sharks, turtles, otters, stingrays, and more. The aquarium also offers programs for children and families like Asleep with the Fishes and Teen Science Expeditions. Visit their website for more information.

The 606 Trail

Get outside and get some exercise with the entire family at The 606. Once an abandoned rail line along Bloomingdale Avenue, The 606 is now an elevated trail for cyclists and pedestrians. You and your family can walk or pedal the trail while making stops at parks and art installations. Detour off the path for a bite to eat in one of Chicago’s many family-friendly neighborhoods.

Chicago Children’s Museum

Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon with the kids. Your children will love learning while playing at this fun museum with exhibits like Dinosaur Expedition, Kids Town, Storyhub, and WaterWays. The museum hosts weekly events for the whole family where you can learn about woodworking, expand your knowledge about science, or get creative with painting. Check their website for more information.

Centennial Wheel

Since you’ll already be at Navy Pier, your day wouldn’t be complete without a ride on the Centennial Wheel. Part of Pier Park, the Centennial Wheel is a 200-foot tall ferris wheel that provides you and your family with 360-degree views of sprawling Chicago. Whether it’s winter or summer or somewhere in-between, the view is always awe-inspiring. It’s a great place to point out some of Chicago’s major landmarks.

Skydeck

Let your kids hover above the city as they stand on a glass-floor extending over the 103rd floor of Willis Tower at Skydeck. Your family will have views spanning up to four states on a clear day while you’re 1,353 feet in the air on the all-glass Ledge. After you’ve got your adrenaline pumping, walk around and experience plenty of interactive exhibits located on the same floor.

Garfield Park Conservatory

Your family will love exploring inside one of the largest conservatories in the nation, Garfield Park Conservatory. Walk around and learn about plant life or attend family-friendly events where you can dig in the soil and learn about the environment. The conservatory is home to thousands of plant species housed in six greenhouses and two exhibition halls. Visit their website to view a list of programs for all ages.

You and your family will always have something fun and educational to do when you live at our apartments in Chicago. Browse our Chicago apartments and find the perfect home for you and your gang.