Welcome to Old Town
The historic heart of the Windy City
Just west of Lake Michigan lies historic Old Town Chicago. Popular for Victorian-era architecture, charming streets, and classic pubs, Old Town Chicago is walking distance from
Lincoln Park and just minutes from downtown. At night, crowds descend upon the many streetside cafes to break bread with family and friends at one of the neighborhood’s beloved, long-standing establishments. Folks from all walks of life call Old Town Chicago, and housing options include everything from single-family houses to walk-up condos and waterfront high-rises to historic brownstones at a variety of price points.
Originally settled by German immigrants in 1850, Old Town Chicago is rich in history, which can easily be found on Wells Street and the various restaurants that have been in business for many decades. In 1977, most of the Old Town Triangle was designated as a Chicago Landmark by the City Council of Chicago. Nowadays, the Historic District/Planning & Zoning Committee cooperates with the community and Landmarks Commission to preserve the historic value and character of the neighborhood.
What to Love
- Close to everything, with many ways to get around
- Extensive history and preservation offers a glimpse into the past
- Dozens of businesses in the area have been open for 30+ years
- Old Town is close to downtown, Lincoln Park, and the Chicago River
Local Lifestyle
Numerous buildings within the Old Town Triangle remain untouched and highly protected, thanks to the efforts of local preservation groups. These buildings house establishments that have remained open for generations and are adored by locals and tourists alike. Pizza parlors, Italian restaurants, and the oldest wine merchant in Chicago call Old Townhome.
More recent additions to the Chicago culinary scene are a short drive away, but most residents rarely need to venture outside the community if they don’t wish to. Comedy clubs, a variety of cuisines, and traditional live music can all be found steps away from your front door here.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Countless restaurants and bars in the area are just as historic as the buildings in which they reside, and quite a few have been open for decades. Old Town citizens have a long-standing relationship with their local eateries, watering holes, and family-run businesses. Famous comedy clubs, parks, gardens, and history museums bring life to one of the most quaint neighborhoods in the Windy City.
Chicago has no shortage of Italian restaurants, and Old Town is no exception. Some Chicago favorites include Topo Gigio, a chosen staple for over 25 years and consistently voted as one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. Top-rated dishes include conchiglie alla sarda and tortellini alla panna. Another adored Italian option can be found at Orso’s, an exquisite tradition for over 40 years. Patrons pack into this Chicago family-owned and operated landmark for old-school rigatoni and fresh takes on the classics, like jalapeño gnocchi.
Chicago isn’t all Italian eats, though — the third-largest city in the nation is also big on the barbecue. Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern has been serving up ribs, wings, and pork with all the fixin’s since 1932. For those who desire something classic and a bit more sophisticated, perhaps the five-star American cuisine at Old Town Pour House will hit the spot. Re-designed dishes like truffle mac-n-cheese and their specialty burger pair well with one of the largest beer menus Chicago has to offer. Wind down from a busy week with a bottle of red from The House of Glunz, the oldest wine merchant in Chicago. The House of Glunz also holds tastings and provides a weekly subscription delivery for club members.
Things To Do
One of residents’ favorite parts of Old Town Chicago is the proximity to Lincoln Park, which plays host to a zoo, a conservatory, beaches, museums, waterfront pubs, and other outdoor activities. Another famous landmark can be found inside The Second City, the birthplace of improv comedy. The Second City has introduced the world to well-known names in comedy like Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, Chris Farley, and others. Enjoy weekend evenings roaming up and down Wells Street from bar to bar, and top off your evening with a slice of Chicago-style deep dish pizza.
Schools
Countless education opportunities are available in this neighborhood, including:
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Lincoln Elementary School, kindergarten to grade 8, extensive history of producing award-winners in the Scripps-Howard National Spelling Bee
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Lincoln Park High School, grades 9-12, is one of the first schools in Chicago to offer the International Baccalaureate Program
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Catherine Cook School, preschool through grade 8, offers an abundance of after-school programs like sports, music, academic teams, and more
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Francis W. Parker School, junior kindergarten through grade 12, home of one of the first school newspapers to be completely produced by students
