Gold Coast

[Featured Photo:  The Newberry Library overlooks picturesque Washington Square Park on the south end of the neighborhood.]

Definitely one of the more aptly named neighborhoods in Chicago, Gold Coast has been a posh destination since the neighborhood first arose from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire in the 1870s.  Initially home to many of Chicago’s wealthiest families, the Gold Coast has developed into a residential oasis near amenities both man-made and natural.

The borders of Gold Coast are:  North Avenue to the north, Chicago Avenue to the south, Clark Street to the west, Lake Michigan to the east.

Gold Coast residents have easy access to both Oak Street and North Avenue beaches, two of the most popular (and crowded) beaches in the city.  And the green expanse of Lincoln Park abuts the neighborhood to the north, offering plenty of space for both relaxation and recreation.

Architecturally, the neighborhood boasts tree-lined streets and some of the most beautiful examples of Victorian architecture in the city, alongside high-rise and mid-size apartment and condo buildings both old and new.

For shopping and entertainment, it would be tough to top Gold Coast. The Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue is just to the East, and in the neighborhood proper, Oak Street is lined with upscale boutiques and restaurants. In the middle of the neighborhood, Rush Street offers numerous options for dining and people-watching, particularly in the area popularly known as the “Viagra Triangle,” bounded by State, Rush and Bellevue streets.

Culturally, Gold Coast is also well-situated. It’s within walking distance to the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chicago History Museum and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the Art Institute and Loop Theater District are a quick El-ride away.

While it may not be a particularly “hot” neighborhood, Gold Coast doesn’t really need to be. It retains much of the cache it was born with and given its proximity to the lake and the city center, it remains a great place to live.

While many of the exclusive – and beautiful — residences built in the early 1900s remain, developers throughout the 20^th Century added numerous high-rises of varying quality. While these buildings offer more affordable housing options, buyers should be aware of some of the drawbacks of early high-rise living, including non-adjustable heat and air conditioning, slow elevator service, and occasionally expensive special assessments.

LuxBar:  For a more relaxed eating environment, head to this bustling tavern, where burgers and fried chicken rule the menu.  While still stylish – it’s the Gold Coast, after all – LuxBar dials back the pretension and offers great food at more reasonable prices.

Dublin’s:  A classic Chicago Irish pub, Dublin’s offers a fun, low-key atmosphere, a great sidewalk patio and hearty Irish pub food. Their corned beef is stellar, whether served with cabbage or piled high on their Reuben.

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse:  For a more upscale steakhouse experience, Gibsons sets the Gold Coast standard. Whether you’re negotiating a business deal or impressing a date, Gibsons offers the perfect backdrop – and a great martini!

Tavern on Rush:  Upscale but still casual enough, this classic Chicago steakhouse offers a great patio and classic steakhouse fare. Whether you splurge on a seafood tower or keep it low-key with a rib-eye, the lively atmosphere and great people-watching make it a worthwhile stop.

Michigan Avenue/Oak Street:  While I’ll highlight a few shops in this section, just wanted to note that literally everything is walkable from Gold Coast.  Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile is one of the nation’s premier shopping districts, while Oak Street offer a more exclusive, boutique selection of retailers and designers.

Restoration Hardware:  Located in the landmark Three Arts Club building, this Restoration Hardware location is not your typical furniture store. In addition to furniture, RH includes a fantastic (and gorgeous) restaurant in an interior atrium, a coffee shop and design services.

Bravco:  Nestled in among the pricey Oak Street boutiques is this little beauty supply shop, featuring brands not normally seen outside of salons at discount prices.

Morgenthal Frederics:  Unique eyewear for the discriminating (if nearsighted) Gold Coaster. You’ll be treated like four-eyed royalty at this optical boutique, with frames far beyond Lenscrafters, in both design and price.

Gold Coast residents are well-represented by the Gold Coast Neighbors Association, working to ensure that the neighborhood is a safe, beautiful, and welcoming community. Gold Coast businesses come together under the Magnificent Mile Association umbrella, working to ensure that the Gold Coast and surrounding areas remain a vibrant and eclectic shopping and dining destination.

Gold Coast residents are well-served by public transportation.  The neighborhood is bordered by two Red Line el stops at Chicago and State and at Clark and Division. In addition, bus lines run along Lake Shore Drive, Michigan Avenue and Clark Streets, offering quick access to the Loop. For drivers, most major highways are accessible via Lake Shore Drive, or more directly about a mile west of the neighborhood.  96 | 90 | 86