Gold Coast

 Designer shops, historic mansions, lakeside living and award-winning restaurants come together to create the Gold Coast’s luxurious atmosphere. The homes that make up the Astor Street District were designed in revival styles like Queen Anne, Richardsonian Romanesque, and Georgian Revival — a reminder of the neighborhood’s original residents. These 19th century masterpieces are interspersed with condo buildings and townhouses from the 20th century, and this compilation of architecture spills into the rest of the Gold Coast. From stately mansions and vintage row houses, to high-amenity boutique buildings and condo high rises, homebuyers have a wide variety of options.

The pedestrian tunnel under Lake Shore Drive makes the Gold Coast the perfect starting point for a walk on the Lakefront Trail. A short stroll to the south drops you at Oak Street Beach where the sandy shore backs up to the Drake Hotel, providing a one-of-a-kind backdrop that no other city can offer.

The Gold Coast does three activities exceptionally well — shopping, dining out, and pampering. As the city’s premier shopping district, streets like Oak and Rush are packed with designer shops, high-end jewelers, and luxury boutiques. From Hermes to Harry Winston, the Gold Coast has it all. The restaurant scene is equally as impressive with Michelin Star and James Beard-winning establishments like Spiaggia and NoMi. Some of Chicago’s most beloved restaurants are in the Gold Coast, including Gibson’s, 3 Arts Club, Nico Osteria, and Le Colonial. And last but not least — the pampering! There are spas and salons on every corner. From the Waldorf Astoria’s Greek-inspired sanctuary to the spa at the Four Seasons, the Gold Coast is a one-stop-shop for relaxation and glam.

Adjacent to Washington Square stands the Newberry Library — one of the best research libraries in the world. Its collection includes 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, and 5 million manuscript pages. This world-famous library regularly hosts programs for the public like Meet the Author, Conversations at the Newberry, exhibit-related programming, and the annual Newberry Book Fair.

Where you’ll find me:

Admiring the light displays during the holiday season
Getting my hair done at Del Amiche on Oak Street
Buying dog treats and clothing at Tails in the City on Delaware Place
Eating dinner at Maple & Ash
Eating breakfast at Tempo Cafe
Checking out the newest exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art