One of Chicago's most affluent neighborhoods, the Gold Coast is part of Chicago's Near North communities, situated directly east of Old Town along the magnificent shores of Lake Michigan. It's bounded by North Avenue, Lake Shore Drive, Oak Street, and Clark Street. The fairy-tale and picturesque neighborhood exudes historic charm, combining a mix of Romanesque, Queen Anne, Tudor, Art Deco, and modern architecture, luxurious mansions, vintage and mid-century condominiums, tree-lined streets, and a host of public transit options.
Nestled about one mile north of the downtown area, the Gold Coast is a small affluent community. You can only compare its luxurious atmosphere with the likes of New York's Upper East Side and San Francisco's Pacific Heights. A condo in Chicago’s Gold Coast allows you to enjoy the history of the city, as well as the many places of interest worthy of weekend itineraries, such as hot dining spots, comedy clubs, museums, bars, and so much more. Enjoy the vibrant vibe and the feeling that you’re truly established.
Benefits of living in Gold Coast condos
The perks of living in the Gold Coast of Chicago are unmatched by any other neighborhood. Whether you take up residence in one of the historic mansions on Astor St. or a mid-century condo in the Gold Coast, the benefits abound.
Unmatched tranquility
The bustling city of Chicago is home to over 2.5 million people, and you may think it’s impossible to find a neighborhood that provides an air of tranquility. But in spite of its 14,973 residents, you'll immediately feel the serenity as you enter the Gold Coast. Stroll along Lake Shore Drive, take in the beauty of the lake and the city skylines, and discover quiet streets with tree canopies over walkways and sidewalks, filled with friendly and welcoming residents walking their pooches and children on scooters.
Strolling Lake Shore Drive, you'll discover Gold Coast condos for sale in a mix of pre-war and mid-century buildings nestled along the lakeshore. They boast architectural designs and facades that combine brick and limestone exteriors, Art Deco design elements, and shiny, gold doors that welcome you home every day.
Easy access to the Magnificent Mile
Photo courtesy of The Magnificent Mile websiteIf you're a shopping enthusiast, you'll be delighted to discover that The Magnificent Mile begins or ends in the Gold Coast, depending on which direction you're walking. The Magnificent Mile covers three-quarters of Chicago's Michigan Avenue and is lined with a myriad of shopping destinations.
Start your shopping spree at the intersection of Walton Street and Michigan Avenue, where you'll find various luxury boutiques and fashion stores, including BVLGARI, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Hermes. These stores have collections of trending apparel that will get you ready to splurge some cash.
Still, at the corner of Walton and Michigan, you'll find Bloomingdales and a plethora of retailers occupying the eleven blocks that follow. Just down the street lies the famed Water Tower Place with renowned brands such as Ralph Lauren, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Ave, just to mention a few.
A flavorful gastronomic scene
When you feel like eating outside your condo, there are plenty of delicious spots to suit your taste, whether you love authentic American cuisine or regional delicacies. From fine-dining destinations to neighborhood mainstays, you won't miss a spot to satisfy your hunger.
Upscale dining at Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse
Image courtesy of Gibsons Bar & SteakhouseGibson’s Bar & Steakhouse is an iconic steakhouse with three Chicagoland locations. Its classic, renowned, and warm atmosphere welcomes you to enjoy some juicy and prime cuts in Gold Coast. Although this upscale restaurant seems fancy, you'll love the friendly and welcoming staff, who’ll make you feel right at home. But there's more to Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse than its delicious steaks; reserve a table for a dinner date or a special occasion and enjoy an array of cocktails, the butcher's choice steak, and finish up with dessert.
Italian cuisines at Carmine's
Nestled in Gold Coast's restaurant triangle off Rush Street, Carmine's is one of those bustling restaurants that serve finger-licking Italian cuisine. It features a large shaded patio, where you can snag a seat and tingle your taste buds to the best Italian dishes, such as veal parm and Bolognese, meatballs, and pizza. They also have an assortment of wines to help you wash down your meal.
Best tacos at Velvet Taco
For the best blend of flavors, head to Velvet Taco at 1110 State St. It's dubbed the "place of tacos without borders" for a reason. Diners can order their tortillas with all sorts of toppings. The food here is incredibly delicious, so pack your appetite and have a taste of scrumptious menu offerings like the Nashville hot tofu, chicken and waffles, and shrimp and grits.
Mouthwatering brunches at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
A farm-to-table oasis located in the heart of the Gold Coast, Chef Art Smith’s Blue Door Kitchen & Garden offers incredible seasonal dishes that showcase American heirloom foods, the freshest ingredients, and a commitment to sustainable and responsible sourcing. Enjoy their celebrated brunch with friends and family, where you can dine on everything from classic chicken and waffles to delicious quiche lorraine and beignets topped with fresh fruit.
Conveniences
Chicago's Gold Coast is historic preservation. This means you won't find the likes of Target or Harry Winston opening its outlets in the community. Even so, the dreamy neighborhood offers everyday conveniences to stock up on your supplies.
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Potash Market—When you want to go grocery shopping, head to the Potash Market. The store has two locations, one at 1520 N Clark in the northwest corner of Gold Coast and the other at 875 N. State Street in the community's southern section. Whichever location's close to you, you'll be surprised at the selection you will find in a boutique grocery.
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Aldi—Another grocery store, Aldi is the best place to get huge discounts on your groceries. It lies just three blocks west of the neighborhood, right at the corner of Wells and Division.
- Jewel Osco—A full-service grocery store, Jewel Osco lies on the corner of Clark and Division.
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Whole Foods—Whole Foods lies half a mile south of the Oak Street shopping district near Huron and Dearborn. It's best-known for its high-quality and fresh organic foods and ingredients.
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Pharmacies—For medicine and medical supplies, Gold Coast's residents can either shop at CVS or Walgreens pharmacies. The former lies on State and Division, while the latter has two locations just a hair outside the neighborhood; one at State and Walton and the other at Division and Dearborn.
Parks and green spaces
When you need a place to spend a balmy summer afternoon relaxing or playing, Gold Coast has several parks and green spaces to let loose and have a fun time alone or with family.
Oak Street Beach
Chicago is unique in that it’s one of the destinations in the world with urban beaches. Luckily, both North Ave. Beach and Oak Street Beach lie within walking distance of your condo. These sandy beaches welcome you for a day of summer fun, under sunny blue skies, with magnificent views of the city's skyline. After basking in the sun, gather a group of friends and enjoy beach volleyball, before cooling off with a dip in Lake Michigan and/or a cocktail from one of the beachside bars.
Washington Park
You'll discover Washington Park between Dearborn and Clark, just a block south of Oak Street. This park spans three acres and has a green, lush lawn with beautiful trees and a water fountain. It's perfectly manicured, and the various flowers blend sublimely to create a picturesque landscape from spring to fall. It's one of the best places in the Gold Coast to relax and reconnect with Mother Nature in the middle of a bustling city.
Lakefront Trail
Suppose you've spent time on Oak Street Beach and still have time to spare; in that case, head to the Lakefront Trail, which features four paved lanes for walkers, runners, bikers, dog-walkers, and more. It's also an excellent place to keep fit with a morning run with a magnificent view.
Ready to move into your own Gold Coast condo?
Are you looking for a luxurious neighborhood in Chicago? At Choose City Living, we’re dedicated to making your search for a home a memorable experience. Contact us today and let us handle all the details to ensure you find your dream home in your dream neighborhood.
*Header photo courtesy of Compass
