Welcome to Lakeview
A bustling pocket of Chicago’s metropolitan area, Lakeview offers the perfect balance of city life and suburban community. The community aspect of Lakeview is what brings this neighborhood to life, with a constant cycle of events producing an atmosphere of excitement and belonging.
From traditional pubs serving the perfect pint to trendy cocktail bars offering chic beverages, the bar scene in Lakeview is unparalleled. Best of all, public transportation is a priority, with residents having unlimited access to every corner of the neighborhood and a straight shot into the city.
Residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to the architectural styles found within Lakeview. Greystone townhomes and high-rise condominiums are a standard within city living, perfect for residents who have put down roots in this beloved neighborhood.
What to Love
- Engaging local culture
- Active bar scene
- Minutes to downtown Chicago via public transportation
Local Lifestyle
Lakeview is as relaxed as it gets within Chicago. The district is known for its boutique shops, hip art galleries, and lakeside parks overlooking Lake Michigan. Residents can enjoy beach volleyball, chess in the park, or cold summertime treat from one of the many local beach vendors. Every corner of the neighborhood is bursting with life, infusing the local culture with a laid-back atmosphere.
Lakeview also has a history of celebrating a range of demographics, mainly the LGBTQ+ community. The pride flag is a staple fixture within the Lakeview community, and the annual Pride Parade brings people from all over the state to celebrate.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
In a salute to queer culture, Sidetrack is a gay bar beloved for its welcoming atmosphere, campy charm, and amazing music. Their bar always serves creative drinks, and their music creates immaculate vibes. Locals love the bar's fantastical elements, transporting them to a classic discotheque experience.
At Ella Elli, residents sip on craft cocktails, like their Rosemary Gimlet, and enjoy delicious Italian-Mediterranean dishes like sea bass with fire-roasted tomatoes, creamy risotto, and tapas. Another neighborhood gem is Wood. As a six-time Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, this local restaurant has won hearts with its use of local produce and relaxed lounge style.
The Belmont Theater District in Lakeview is the largest theater district in Chicago, with over 20 theaters available for a memorable night out. Lakeview Orchestra boasts professional musicians performing classical pieces intermingled with original works created to enhance the strengths of each performer. Their concerts have been deemed a monument of musical excellence by locals and reviewers alike.
The Music Box Theatre was built in 1929 and has since been converted into Chicago’s most esteemed independent film theater. In addition to showing the latest releases, cult classics, and foreign films, independent movies are featured with the mission of preserving traditional film culture through exclusive viewings.
Things to Do
It is a natural progression for a bustling neighborhood like Lakeview to have a constant cycle of events to unite residents and celebrate local life. The Pride Parade is a staple event drawing in the queer community across Chicago. In this vibrant celebration of support, both those within the LGBTQ+ community and allies flock to wave the rainbow flag and have fun.
In the summer, dozens of farmers’ markets line the streets, providing fresh produce for residents, like Low-Line Market and Roscoe Village Farmers Market. Artists in the area have taken center stage to share their talents with the annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts and the Spring Lincoln and Roscoe Art and Craft Fair.
Musicians are the main event during Market Days, a summer music festival with live music, drinks, and queer representation, dominating Halsted for a weekend of great music and nonstop fun.
