Lake View East, Chicago, IL Apartments

Thinking of moving to Lake View East? Here’s what you need to know.

With a rich supply of bars, nightclubs and restaurants, Lake View East is brimming with fun and festivities, including the annual Pride Parade, the signature event of this highly-visible gay community. It’s also known as “Boystown,” and was ranked as one of the top big city neighborhoods by Money magazine in 2013. Situated on the city’s north side along the shore of Lake Michigan, Lincoln Square is located to the northwest and Wrigley Field is also nearby. Although the neighborhood is known for its nightlife, it quiets down a bit in the brownstones south of Belmont.

Who’s There?

With the neighborhood stacked with gay nightclubs such as Roscoe’s and Sidetrack, it is certainly no closet secret that Lake View East is proud of its gay identity and enjoys flamboyant celebrations like the Northalsted Market Days. Both gay and straight people enjoy the fun atmosphere, from the welcoming shops to vibrant restaurants and bars that tend to cater to a younger crowd. Housing in Lake View tends to be less expensive than in neighboring Lincoln Park.

What’s Around Lake View East?

Lake View has easy shore access to Lake Michigan on its eastern side, but you’ll have to head further north or south for the swimming beaches.  Wrigley Field is within walking distance, and the street scene near the field on game days is a draw in itself. The neighborhood’s primary strip runs down Halsted Street, with its southern border on Belmont Avenue and its northern border on Grace Street. Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan form Lake View’s eastern border and feature a gorgeous harbor, tennis courts, ball fields, golf, biking and walking trails, and a popular dog beach. 

What Do You Do In Lake View East?

With lots of civic events, farmers’ markets, and an annual Festival of the Arts, Lake View East is an active and energetic neighborhood. It features a slew of one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques, along with more established, national brand shops. Residents of Lake View can take advantage of the park area’s 1,200 acres featuring a range of activities, including a nature museum, boat harbor, zoo, and bird sanctuary.