Old Town

 Old Town brings that storybook illustration to life with its Victorian-era architecture and narrow streets. Masterfully-crafted townhomes and character-filled row homes are tucked into a charming oasis of old trees, small gardens, and brick alleys. Scatterings of walk-up condo buildings, high rise condo buildings, and single-family homes help make this picturesque pocket of Chicago a desirable destination for all kinds of homebuyers.

Thanks to Second City and its famous alumni, Old Town is known as the birthplace of modern comedy improv, but the neighborhood exploration doesn't end there. Wells Street is home to a slew of independently-owned shops including Old Town Oil, Judy Maxwell Home, and Old Town Aquarium. You’ll find anything from fudge and specialty spices to high-end clothing and jewelry on Old Town’s main drag. Family-owned restaurants like Topo Gigio, Old Jerusalem, and Orsos keep locals full and happy with their authentic dishes and friendly service.

The neighborhood’s northern edge puts residents near the vast green spaces that make up east Lincoln Park, including the Nature Boardwalk within the zoo’s 35-acre property, several baseball fields, a soccer turf, an array of biking and running trails, and countless picnic areas. Old Town’s shoreline means access to beaches like North Avenue, Fullerton, and Oak Street. 

Plum Market adds another layer of convenience to the Old Town neighborhood. This specialty grocery store covers all your needs and then some with its fine selection of sustainably-sourced meats and fish, peak-of-season produce, chef-prepared meals, locally-sourced baked goods, apothecary items, wine and beer, fresh-cut flowers, and more. Cross the street and you’ll find yourself at House of Glunz  — the best wine shop in Chicago according to Chicago Magazine. 131 years of service later, it’s the oldest business in Old Town and it’s still owned by the same family.

After World War II, Old Town hosted an annual art fair called Old Town Holiday, giving the neighborhood its current name. A half century later, a love for art is still in the air every June at the Old Town Art Fair. 30,000 art admirers make their way to the neighborhood to catch a glimpse of the masterpieces.

Where you’ll find me:

Shopping on Wells Street
Browsing the art collections at the Old Town Art Fair in the summer
Eating delicious Mexican food at Adobo Grill