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Discover Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is a glitzy historic district located just north of downtown Chicago, with its upscale fashion scene serving as its biggest draw. The urban neighborhood is one of the most affluent in the country, and traces its wealthy origins back to 1885, when millionaire Potter Palmer built a castle-like mansion on Lake Shore Drive and the city’s wealthy residents began to move from the south side to the north side, spurring the area’s growth. While the mansion isn’t there today (it was demolished in 1950), you can still find other historic mansions, many built with distinctive limestone blocks, lining the streets, as well as specialty boutiques, great restaurants, and internationally recognized retail.

The location features several swanky food options, from the 3 Arts Club Café — a popular brunch joint with a renowned atmosphere — to The Goddess and Grocer, a sandwich spot that specializes in international combinations of traditionally distinct dishes. The Clark and Division stop on the CTA’s Red Line train will put you within prime walking distance of many of the neighborhood’s hotspots, like Chicago classic Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria (be sure to try “The Lou”) and the highly rated Mexican joint Velvet Taco. You might also benefit from alternative options to getting around, like the #22 Clark bus (a straight shot to downtown), or the #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express bus, which ferries passengers from popular places like the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum to the city’s North Side. There are also bike lanes on portions of Dearborn, Clark, and Wells street if you want to move about on two wheels.

But perhaps the best reason to live in the Gold Coast neighborhood is that you can walk to some of the coolest places in Chicago in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking to stay on top of the latest fashion trends or to be at the forefront of the newest and sleekest happenings in Chicago, the Gold Coast is the place for you.