Welcome to North Center
Located in the city’s North Side, the North Center area of Chicago retains the charming influence of the early European immigrants who originally settled in the area, creating pristine homes boasting stunning architecture. Today, the area offers potential homeowners a blend of quiet residential areas, tree-lined streets, stately brick houses, and rolling parks, plus an enviable array of shops, restaurants, and bars, making North Center real estate especially appealing to those who want the best of the city along with a unique personality.
Recent History
North Center’s history is dominated by European cultural influences, but the area now sees a diverse spectrum of young professionals and growing families rubbing shoulders with the rest of the community.
Among the late 19th and early 20th century homes, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most talked-about and eagerly awaited festivals that the city has to offer, including Ribfest. Recently exposed to 100 million households across the globe on Food Network’s “Eating America, with Anthony Anderson,” this three-night event is Chicago’s favorite food and music festival, and serves as a proud testament to the area’s fun and thriving community.
Neighborhood
North Center area isn’t as busy or crowded as some areas of the city, but it still manages to provide a wide and wonderful range of shopping opportunities, eateries, nighttime venues, and even some of the best schools in Chicago.
For arts and crafts to extend the vibrancy of the area to your North Center home, head to Neighborly. A cute boutique on W. Montrose Avenue, it showcases an outstanding selection of high-quality wares that are often locally made. From impressive pieces of Midwestern art to smaller items, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for.
After you’re done making your new house into a home, try finding some vintage women’s clothing and accessories at Chic Squared, or some dazzling jewelry made by local Chicago artists and designers from Embellish. Guys can head to the Isle of Man, which features clothing from brands some as Barbour and Triumph, vintage memorabilia, and even a small selection of beard products amongst a pair of antique Triumphs and Ducatis.
The restaurant scene is similarly impressive, with a venue on offer to cater to a variety of taste buds. Just a small selection of options includes:
- Sticky Rice: Thai food is becoming ever more popular across the States, and Sticky Rice will show you why. Try Pad See Ewe and follow it up with durian in coconut milk.
- Laschet’s Inn: A modern venue that fully imbibes the area’s German-influenced heritage, Laschet’s will treat you to out-of-this-world schnitzel, goulash, and potato pancakes.
- The Bad Apple: For a bite of pure American goodness, head to The Bad Apple for a delicious burger and a stunning and enticing range of beers.
Residents will find that these popular locations are complemented by several schools, including:
A Day in the Life
Owners of North Center real estate are treated to a neighborhood that bustles with sights, shops, and activities, whether you’re heading out on the first day of Spring, basking in the warmth of Summer, enjoying the Autumn foliage, or wrapping up for winter.
One of the best ways to start your day at times of the year when the sun is shining bright is by heading to Revere Park. With its tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and gym, it provides a perfect excuse for North Center residents to kick off the day in an active fashion. When the days turn a little colder, Welles Park’s year-round indoor swimming pool is a welcome treat, and it’s also an attractive spot for picnics with its European-style gazebo.
That can be followed by a cup of coffee from the enchanting Blue Sky Bakery & Café, then you’ll be able to take your kids to Timber Lanes. This popular bowling alley is so old-school that they shun computers, letting you keep score the traditional way using a pencil and pad. It’s the perfect place for a family outing.
If you’re looking for more adult-oriented activities, try the Half Acre Beer Company Tap Room. This urban brewery creates small-batch beers for you to enjoy, and even provides weekly tours of its facility, with tastings included.
Borders
North Center finds its northern border at Montrose Avenue, its southern border at W. Addison St., its western border at the Chicago River, and its eastern borders at N. Ravenswood; Roscoe Village, which is also part of North Center, is bordered on the north by W. Addison, on the south by W. Diversey, on the west by N. Western, and on the east by N. Lincoln. Transit options include several Brown Line stops at Addison, Irving Park, and Montrose.
​Find North Center Real Estate With Chicago Home Partner
Chicago Home Partner is no stranger to the charming world of North Center, having helped dozens of people find rental properties, houses, and condominiums in the area. If you’d like some assistance navigating the thriving real estate market of the North Center, just contact one of our team members today.
