Neighborhoods Around Chicagoland
Northbrook IL
Members of the Potawatomi tribe were the earliest recorded residents of the Northbrook area. In 1833 the Potawatomi ceded their Illinois lands and moved to a place near Council Bluffs, Iowa. Afterwards Joel Sterling Sherman and his family bought 159 acres of land in the northwest quarter of Section 10 for $1.25 per acre; as of 2010 Northbrook’s downtown is located on this site. Northbrook Real Estate was a great value back then.
A man named Frederick Schermer donated the land used for the first railroad station, named Schermer Station and later the community was named Shermerville after him. By the 1870s Shermerville was a farming community. In 1901 the community was incorporated as the Village of Shermerville. The village changed its name to Northbrook in 1923. The name was chosen because the West Fork of the North Brach of the Chicago River runs through the Village. At the time of incorporation it had 311 residents and 60 houses. After the end of World War II, Northbrook’s population began to rapidly increase, as residents moved into homes for sale in the area. Between 1950 and 1980, the town’s population rose from 3,319 to 30,735 and today has 33,600 residents.
Northbrook today is a bustling prosperous village on Chicago’s North Shore, located at the northern edge of Cook County, Illinois. The village is home to Northbrook Court shopping mall, the Ed Rudolph Velodrome, the Chicago Curling Club, and a number of highly rated schools including Glenbrook North High School. In addition there are Shabonee School, Wood Oaks Junior High School, Meadowbrook Elementary School, Greenbriar Elementary School, Westmoor Elementary School, Northbrook Junior High School, Wescott School, Maple Middle School to name but a few. Northbrook Real Estate values are on the rise.
Northbrook also boasts an outstanding public library, wonderful parks and recreation activities and an endless variety of shops, services and restaurants. Easy access by car, Metra, or Pace to Chicago, makes Northbrook a wonderful home to many. There are homes for sale near these amenities, with condos for sale also within walking distance.
While the original Potawatomi tribe didn’t own real estate, or live in condos, you will find there are many homes for sale, including an assortment of condos for sale in and around Northbrook.
South Loop - Chicago IL
The South Loop is a dynamic mix of attractions, histories and neighborhoods. Much of its eastern edge is encompassed by the Museum Campus, an impressive collection of cultural treasures that include the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium. South Loop Real Estate is becoming a hot commodity. This campus sits on scenic lakefront parklands that are an extension of Grant Park. With 319 acres of green space and recreational fields, Grant Park is known as “Chicago’s front yard” to locals and also plays host to major city events such as Taste of Chicago, Chicago Blues Festival and Lollapalooza.
The burgeoning neighborhoods of the South Loop, River City, Dearborn Park, Printer’s Row and Central Station offer culture and amenities galore. Offering some of the city’s most interesting architecture in the form of lofts, condos and townhomes, the South Loop is a marvel to the eyes. With Lake Michigan bordering its eastern side and the major expressways to the west, transportation is a breeze. If you work in the Loop, convenience is an understatement. Punctuated by colleges, restaurants, book stores, theatres, department stores and world-famous museums, this area brims with energy.
Jutting out further into Lake Michigan is Northerly Island, a peninsula sought out by nature lovers, while along the southern edge the sports fans know Soldier Field as the stadium for the beloved Chicago Bears football team. Meeting attendees are most familiar with McCormick Place, the largest convention center in the country, which is also in the immediate area.
Motor Row District along South Michigan Avenue and nearby Prairie Avenue District, the “Millionaire’s Row” was lined with mansions belonging to Chicago’s most wealthy elite during the end of the 19th century.
In the Adjacent Printer’s Row neighborhood, urban loft condos now fill the commercial spaces in what was formerly the center of the Midwest’s publishing industry. Connections to this past are still seen within the venerable, independent book stores and annual summer lit fest here. But business professionals and students have brought new life and redevelopment, filing the restaurants, music clubs, smaller theaters and museums that have all established themselves in the community.
The amazing development of condominiums and townhomes continues into 2017, bringing new neighbors, services, and value to the area which are quietly and steadily moving south on the lake front towards Hyde Park.
The South Loop was one of Chicago’s first residential districts, which recent redevelopment has again South Loop Real Estate market is booming. You will find there are many homes for sale, including an assortment of condos for sale in and around The South Loop.
Glencoe IL
This North Shore suburb was developed as a model community in 1869. Strict zoning ordinances were set to ensure the preservation of nature. Streets and homes were built along the natural contours of the land for the most distinctive environment possible. This tree-lined village has been the proud receiver of the “Tree City USA” award since 1985. Glencoe offers the charm of a small community combined with sophisticated amenities. Glencoe Real estate including homes for sale and condos for sale are often sought after by home buyers who appreciate this community.
DISTANCE TO DOWNTOWN CHICAGO
22 miles
AVERAGE DRIVE TIMES
30 minutes to Chicago Loop | 30 minutes to O’Hare Airport | 60 minutes to Midway Airport
TRANSPORTATION
Those who buy houses for sale in Glencoe often commute into the city. Express commuter trains reach Chicago’s Loop in 29 minutes. The Edens Expressway (I-94) is just two miles west from the center of Glencoe. I-94 can take you southeast to the city or northwest to Wisconsin.
GLENCOE AMENITIES
Shopping & Dining
Downtown Glencoe contains many small specialty shops and services. There are 6 restaurants including everything from Deweys burger joint to the upscale Guildhall restaurant. The nearby Northbrook Court mall features additional restaurants and upscale shops including Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor and Macy’s. There is a lot of shopping to choose from close to many condos and homes for sale.
Schools
The top rated elementary schools take a developmental approach and offer bus service for those students who are not in walking distance. Students then move on to New Trier High School in nearby Winnetka, a school highly regarded for academic excellence. Several private schools are available in neighboring communities. Houses for sale near schools usually sell for higher prices and are in greater demand.
Glencoe Recreation
Bordered by Lake Michigan on the east and the Forest preserve and lagoons on the west, Glencoe incorporates community beaches, tennis courts, one public and two private golf courses, and bike trails. Glencoe’s active Park District maintains 44 parks and offers year-round recreation for all ages in both indoor and outdoor facilities. There is an excellent theater in Glencoe called Writers Theater which offers year round performances. The 320-acre Chicago Botanic garden with 26 spectacular gardens, is a place of ever changing beauty. You can bike around it or take wonderful garden walks admiring all the magnificent flowers and highly unusual gardens. The Botanic garden is located to the west of the Village and offers various horticulture classes for enthusiasts as well.
It should be clear that Glencoe real estate (homes for sale and condos for sale) are a high priority for many people. Whether a first time purchase, or moving up so that their family can grow, home buyers in the Glencoe area know what they want. If you are looking for condos & houses for sale in Glencoe or you want any help regarding Glencoe Real Estate, then contact Eileen Brennan today.
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Gold Coast - Chicago IL
Chicago’s Gold Coast includes the Streeterville and Mag Mile neighborhoods and is true to its moniker. Perhaps some of the finest Chicago luxury real estate is located there. A long time elegant and sophisticated stop for living, working and playing, Chicago’s Gold Coast has the finest shopping west of Park Avenue.
The Mag Mile is home to Bloomingdale’s, Chanel, Macy’s, Neiman-Marcus, Prada, Sak’s 5th Avenue and more than 120 retailers at Water Tower Place. Oak Street is home to dozens of boutique retailers including Hermes, Vera Wang, Kate Spade, Lester Lampert, Harry Winston and Barney’s of New York. The Gold Coast’s Streeterville neighborhood is a residential pocket located between Michigan Avenue and the lake. The Museum of Contemporary Art is a famous neighbor, with Northwestern University and Lurie Children’s Hospital on the border. Distance to Downtown Chicago 0-2 miles Average Drive Times 6 minutes to Chicago Loop | 29 minutes to O’Hare Airport | 19 minutes to Midway Airport Transportation An elaborate system of expressways, taxis, buses, subway and elevated trains makes transportation convenient. Recreation The Lakefront provides an array of activities including swimming, boating, bike trails and jogging paths. The nightlife in Chicago is extravagant with clubs open until the early morning hours. Music options run the gamut from rock to rap and blues to jazz. Dining alternatives range from fine dining to informal.
Belmont Harbor - Chicago IL
These neighborhoods are really extensions of Lincoln Park and DePaul in many ways. High-rise apartments continue along the edge of the park up to Belmont Avenue, and vintage homes and smaller apartment buildings make up the balance. In addition, new construction townhouse complexes blend with vintage buildings to complement the housing mix. Entertainment of all forms thrives in this north side area, and coffee bars, restaurants and boutiques are found along the main arteries. Several major hospitals are located in the area, and transportation is excellent. The park offers a boat harbor, tennis courts, miniature golf and lots of wide open green space.
Bucktown - Chicago IL
Bucktown has undergone a thorough regentrification. Originally comprised of modest Chicago cottages and two- and three-flats, this handsome neighborhood boasts trendy boutiques and chic restaurants. You’ll find interesting new loft buildings and very upscale multi-million dollar homes balanced with more modest, well-maintained single-family homes and multi-unit residences. Easy access to expressway.
East Side, New East Side & City Center - Chicago IL
This area is comprised of renovated railroad land, vacant lots, old office buildings and Navy Pier. It continues to develop with an exciting mix of high-rises, townhomes, luxury hotels, restaurants, movie theatres, University of Chicago Graduate School and NBS Tower. Look for fabled views of Lake Michigan, parks and skyline. Easy access to expressways.
Lakeview - Chicago IL
Lakeview includes and overlaps several smaller neighborhoods within its boundaries & Diversey Avenue on the south, Irving Park Road on the north and Ravenswood Avenue on the west. Along the lake, it includes the neighborhoods of Diversey and Belmont Harbors.
Lincoln Park - Chicago IL
As its name suggests, the area is bounded by beautiful Lincoln Park. This mature neighborhood boasts lovely brownstones and greystones, high-rises and elegant new single-family homes. You’ll find respected private and public schools, trendy restaurants, hospitals, every conceivable service and shop. It’s easy to see why this is one of Chicago’s most sought after neighborhoods.
Lincoln Square - Chicago IL
Located in the heart of Chicago’s North Side, Lincoln Square conveniently connects with the city’s major thoroughfares and public transit, including the CTA Brown Line, the Metra Union Pacific North Line, Western, Lawrence, Lincoln, Montrose and Foster Avenues. About 40,000 residents from cultures around the world live side by side on Lincoln Square’s tree-lined streets and patronize its mixture of independent and one-of-a-kind businesses. Developed a century ago, Lincoln Square has long been a desirable neighborhood to live, work and enjoy life.
Old Town - Chicago IL
This historic area of Chicago boasts a number of pre- and post-Chicago fire properties that enjoy landmark status, along with many lovely condos and multi-million dollar single-family homes. Adjacent to a broad range of services, restaurants, shopping, theatre and beautiful Lincoln Park. This is a highly desirable and in-demand area.
Ravenswood-St. Ben's - Chicago IL
Now popular for its affordable homes, Ravenswood has experienced a real estate renaissance thanks to hundreds of live-in rehabbers. A cluster of family neighborhoods, it also offers spacious apartments at reasonable rental rates, many in smaller courtyard buildings. Eclectic is the best description of this homey, residential district.
River North & River West
Both areas sprouted and then exploded in the past five years thanks to the conversion of storage and manufacturing facilities into hard loft residences. The area also features a wide variety of exciting new single-family homes, mid-rise soft lofts and condominiums and high-rises. Very hip galleries, restaurants, shopping, etc. Easy access to highways and just minutes from Michigan Avenue and the lakefront.
Streeterville - Chicago IL
Often compared to New York City’s East Side, this area features a mix of condominiums, hotels, Northwestern Memorial Hospital and University, Museum of Contemporary Art, Water Tower Place, John Hancock Center and much more. Streeterville also offers proximity to restaurants, churches, synagogues, banks, and the famed Magnificent Mile.
Wicker Park - Chicago IL
This area continues to expand and develop with the same mix of housing as Bucktown. Definitely an area to consider for future residence. Great restaurants, eclectic shops, etc.
Evanston IL
Located on Lake Michigan, Evanston is a vibrant North Shore suburb of Chicago. Evanston covers more than 7.8 square miles, has a diverse population of about 75,000 residents or 30,000 households and boasts gorgeous beaches and quiet tree-lined streets.
Distance to Downtown Chicago
10 miles
Average Drive Times
25 minutes to Chicago Loop | 32 minutes to O’Hare Airport | 42 minutes to Midway Airport
Transportation
Express commuter trains reach Chicago’s Loop in 21 minutes. Four CTA bus lines connect Evanston to the city and nearby suburbs. The Edens Expressway (I-94) is just west of town. Sheridan Road, which runs along the Lake, becomes Lake Shore Drive as you head into the city.
Shopping & Dining
Specialty stores, art galleries attract locals, city dwellers and suburbanites. Every Saturday in summer for the past 30 years there is a farmers market near Oak and University Place. From burgers to more exotic fare, Evanston is a premier dining center with local favorites like Found, Lulu’s, Lucky Platter, and Jilly’s Café, as well as Potbelly and Chili’s.
Schools
Elementary schools, Evanston Township High School, provide regular and accelerated studies programs in conjunction with Northwestern University, one of the nation’s most prestigious universities. The University combines innovative teaching and pioneering research in a highly collaborative environment. NU provides students and faculty exceptional opportunities for intellectual, personal, and professional growth in a setting enhanced by the richness of the Evanston Community.
Recreation
Evanston has 3 community centers, a senior center, 5 public beaches, and an art center. Three theatre programs provide year-round entertainment: the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre, The Children’s Theatre and the Piven Theatre. Programs are offered for every age and every interest: ballet, pee wee sports, gymnastics, ice-skating, hip hop or fencing to name just a few. Adults 55 and older can make friends and enjoy new activities at the Levy Senior Center.
Winnetka IL
Located 19 miles north of Chicago’s loop,this suburb incorporated in 1869, as the Village of Winnetka, an Indian word meaning “beautiful land.” Winnetka is home to nationally renowned New Trier High School, serving students from Winnetka and five surrounding suburbs. Winnetka’s prime location, adjacent to miles of Forest Preserve area, is enhanced by its parks and open space with 18-hole golf course and vibrant Downtown area with charming Boutiques shops and restaurants. Winnetka is proud of its diverse architecture that includes homes designed by noted traditional, Prairie Style and modern architects. Throughout the village you will find Winnetka real estate including charming bungalows, traditional Colonial homes and stately mansions.
Because of it’s proximity to the forest preserve, real estate such as homes for sale and condos for sale in Winnetka often sell quickly.
Distance to Downtown Chicago
22 miles
Average Drive Times
32 minutes to Chicago Loop | 35 minutes to O’Hare Airport | 44 minutes to Midway Airport
Transportation
There are many residents of Winnetka that work in the city. That is one advantage of buying houses for sale in Winnetka. Express commuter trains reach Chicago’s Loop in about 40 minutes from 3 stations: Elm Street, Indian Hill, and Hubbard Woods. Sheridan Road to Lake Shore Drive or the Edens Expressway (I-94), provide easy access to the city.
AMENITIES
Shopping & Dining
The village features 4 small business districts or downtown areas with restaurants, shops, and small businesses. All these areas are a short walk or drive from many condos and homes for sale. You can eat outside at O’Neil’s on a crisp, fall evening, grab a steaming hot beverage at Caribou Coffee or shop for clothes at E Street Denim. Edens Plaza shopping Center is located nearby and has many fine stores. Old Orchard mall in Skokie features a variety of department stores including Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Lord &Taylor and Macy’s.
Schools
Winnetka residents are served by the Winnetka Public School System, District 36, which consists of:
Hubbard Woods Elementary Schools
Crow Island Elementary School
Samuel Sewall Greeley Elementary School
Private Schools:
St. Faith Hope & Charity
Sacred Heart School
North Shore Country Day School
There are many houses for sale within walking distance to many of these schools.
Recreation
The Winnetka Park District provides residents with programs including sports, camps, classes, performing arts, and waterfront activities. Winnetka’s stunning parks, green space, and beaches plus The Skokie Lagoon are perfect for residents who love biking, fishing, boating, and bird watching. Winnetka also features an indoor tennis club, a public golf course, an ice rink, and a boat launch at Lloyd beach. There is also the Neilsen center, where you can enjoy year round tennis, in door ice rink, and paddle ball courts thanks to the generosity of the Neilsen family. Last year [2013] new turf was added to the sports field making play easier for all outdoor sports.
It is for these reasons and more that Winnetka continues to grow and prosper. Property values for condos for sale, and homes for sale in this charming community continue to rise, making Winnetka real estate a sound investment. If you are looking for condos& houses for sale in Winnetka or you want any help regarding Winnetka Real Estate, then contact Eileen Brennan today.