Lakeview is one of Chicago's oldest neighborhoods. Blending a variety of urban lifestyles, this rich diversity is reflected in Lakeview’s real estate. Belmont Harbor and Diversey Harbor are densely populated areas similar to the Gold Coast and Streeterville farther south. High-rise residential buildings overlook the lake, while vintage condominiums and apartments lie just west. Many units offer large square footage near the lake, shops, and restaurants. The high-energy intersection of Broadway, Clark, and Diversey thrives with stores, restaurants, and theaters. In central and western Lakeview, the housing stock includes new construction single-family homes and townhomes, vintage apartment buildings and two-flats, lofts and storefront conversions.
Lakeview also includes the area around Wrigley Field, known as Wrigleyville. Wrigleyville is a collection of rehabbed Victorian graystones, two- and three-flat buildings, courtyard apartment buildings, and condominiums. A few blocks north, one quiet and secluded landmark street-Alta Vista Terrace-is a hidden gem of historic row homes that resemble English Mews houses. The “Street of 40 Doors” is one block long and contains 40 single-family townhouses, with 20 distinct exterior styles including Doric and Ionic wood pilasters, Gothic arches, Palladian windows, stained and leaded-glass fanlights, bay and bow windows, and decorative woodwork. Those unfamiliar with the street may confuse it for a London row.
Lakeview is community area number 6 of the 77 Chicago neighborhoods. Bordered by Irving Park Road to the north, Diversey to the south, Ravenswood to the west, and Lake Michigan to the east, Lakeview can be divided into the smaller neighborhoods of Lakeview East, West Lakeview, and the famed Wrigleyville. Lakeview is the second most populated Chicago community.
Lakeview is home to one of the branches of Harry S. Truman College, as well as a number of Chicago Public and Private Schools. Lakeview is perhaps most known for being home to Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs. One would be hard pressed to find a dull moment on Clark Street or Addison Street, whether it is or isn’t a game day. Clark Street, which is south of Addison, is one of Chicago's best strips for nightlife and restaurants. Well known bars include Sluggers, The Cubby Bear, and John Barleycorn, where it’s not uncommon to run into athletes and celebrities. Popular restaurants include Mia Francesca’s and Will’s Northwoods Inn. Some other notable places of interest include the Vic Theatre and the Metro, two venues that host a variety of musical acts. There is no shortage of major events in Lakeview, which plays host to a large leg of the prestigious Chicago Marathon. A Halloween Parade and the annual Chicago Gay Pride Parade also make their way through Lakeview.
Lakeview transportation is superb—residents can reach downtown in 15 minutes via Lake Shore Drive or the Red and Brown Line 'L' trains. The two major stations serving Lakeview are Addison Station (known for its proximity to Wrigley Field) and Belmont Station. In addition, numerous bus routes serve the area and connect residents to the entire downtown area and taxis are very easy to hail in the Lakeview neighborhood.
