Welcome to Uptown
Uptown is a vibrant neighborhood located on the north side of Chicago. Known for its rich history and diverse culture, Uptown is bordered by Foster Avenue to the north, Lake Michigan to the east, Montrose Avenue to the south, and Ravenswood Avenue to the west.
One of the main attractions of Uptown is its thriving music scene. During the 1920s, Uptown's new commercial center was named Broadway after its New York cousin. Where movie stars and gangsters once roamed, live music venues abound today.The Aragon Ballroom, a legendary venue built in 1926, has hosted some of the biggest names in music history, including Frank Sinatra, The Rolling Stones, and Prince. The Riviera Theatre and iconic Green Mill Jazz Club are also popular music destinations in the neighborhood.
Another notable landmark in Uptown is the historic Uptown Theatre, which opened in 1925 and has since been a popular venue for live performances and events. Although it is currently undergoing renovations, it is expected to reopen soon.
Other live entertainment options include the Black Ensemble Theater and Chicago Magic Lounge. And additional cultural delights await from art galleries to indie bookstores.
Uptown is also known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. The lakefront area includes Montrose Beach, which is popular for sunbathing and swimming, and the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, which is a popular destination for birdwatchers. Other notable parks in Uptown include the beautiful Winnemac Park, which features walking trails, a playground, and a community garden.
In addition to its outdoor attractions, Uptown is home to a diverse selection of restaurants, ranging from classic diners and fast food joints to upscale eateries serving international cuisine from Chinese to Southeast Asian to Ethiopian to Mexican. The neighborhood's Argyle Street is known for its Vietnamese restaurants and shops, while Broadway Street has a mix of independent and chain restaurants.
Commuters can travel along the Red Line train or several bus lines to get six miles south to downtown. Or, a lovely car trip down Lake Shore Drive awaits.
Uptown Real Estate
Uptown’s housing options range from high-rise condo buildings and vintage apartments to classic Chicago two-flats and single-family homes. The southern half of Uptown includes more multi-family dwellings, while the northern half has more houses with yards and gardens.
Many of the homes in the neighborhood were built in the early 20th century and have historic charm. There are also several new construction projects in the area, offering modern amenities and sleek design.
What to Do in Uptown
- Catch a show at a historic venue - Experience the magic of live music and theater at one of Uptown's iconic venues, such as The Aragon Ballroom, The Riviera Theatre, or The Green Mill Jazz Club.
- Head to the beach - Relax at Montrose Beach, which is also home to a bird sanctuary, skate park, volleyball nets, and a popular dog beach. Spend the day sunbathing or take a walk or bike ride along the lakefront trail.
- Discover international cuisine - Uptown is known for its diverse selection of restaurants, with Argyle Street being a hub for Vietnamese cuisine and Broadway Street offering a mix of international options.
- Shop at unique stores - Explore the eclectic mix of independent shops and boutiques in the neighborhood.
- Enjoy a night out - Grab a drink at one of the many bars and pubs in the area, such as The Fat Cat, a popular neighborhood bar with a large beer selection.
- Experience immersive theater - Check out The Neo-Futurists, a theater company that offers unique and interactive performances. The shows are different every time and are based on the true-life experiences of the performers.
