Lakeview is arguably the most lively and accessible neighborhood in Chicago. There’s no shortage of entertainment here. Start with Blue Man Group if you haven’t already seen the sensational phenomenon that has entertained more than 35 million people of all ages. Or the American Blues Theater, winner of American Theatre Wing’s prestigious 2016 National Theatre Company Award.
The Annoyance Theatre & Bar is great for improv rooted plays, musicals and sketch-comedy. There’s also the historic Athenaeum Theatre, the oldest continuously operating off-Loop theatre in Chicago. Other local theatre companies include TimeLine Theatre Company, Music Box Theatre, Vic Theatre, Stage 773, Chicago Theater Works and Shattered Globe Theatre Company.
Parking in the area can be challenging during special events, like Chicago Cubs home games at Wrigley Field, just to the west of Lakeview, but there are areas reserved specifically for residential permit parking. The good news is public transportation is easily accessed everywhere in Lakeview. Between the Red and Brown lines, there are at least half a dozen “L” train stops in the neighborhood. Combined with 16 local bus routes, it’s easy to get around Lakeview and get to downtown, the suburbs, or Midway and O’Hare airport. And if you cycle, there are lakefront paths north to Evanston, and south to Michigan Avenue and beyond.
There’s an endless number of wonderful places to eat in Lakeview, including Dinkel’s Bakery, the inimitable Ann Sather, Bar Pastoral, Barcocina, Uncommon Ground, Bulerias Tapas Bar, Ceres’ Table, Chicago Diner, Bobtail Ice Cream Company, DMK Burger Bar, Scooter’s Frozen Custard, Wishbone, Wood Restaurant, and Yoshi’s Cafe. Grab a beer at one of the neighborhood breweries like Burnt City Brewing, Corridor Brewing & Provisions, or DryHop Brewers.
Stay close to downtown and explore all that the city has to offer with easy living in Lakeview.
