As one of Chicago’s (and the nation’s) most affluent and celebrated neighborhoods, the Gold Coast more than lives up to its name.
At the heart of Chicago’s cultural scene, the historic district is steps from a premier shopping district, award-winning restaurants, and prestigious museums and institutions. This attractive blend of mansions, historic row houses, and luxury high-rises attracts Chicago’s elite (and tons of tourists) for good reason.
Once little more than a swampy beachfront, the Gold Coast began to take its modern form in the wake of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In the spirit of reconstruction, real estate mogul Potter Palmer received a loan to fill the swamp and prepare the area for development. In the following years, Marshall Field, Cyrus McCormick, and others built impressive mansions in the neighborhood.
Decades of increasing popularity gradually transformed the area. Rather than castle-like mansions, Gold Town’s streets became lined with huge houses on narrow lots. This economy of space led to the construction of luxury high-rise buildings along Lake Shore Drive, shattering previous conceptions that apartments could not be for the wealthy. In these years, many cultural institutions, including the Newberry Library and the Latin School of Chicago, were established in the area. By the 1920s, the Gold Coast was firmly the heart of upper-crust Chicago society.
Today, home to much of Chicago’s elite in business, entertainment, and politics, the Goal Coast retains all of its historical prestige. A bridge to Chicago’s illustrious past, it is also a vital part of its present and future. Tourists come from across the world to explore the area’s shopping and dining, cultural attractions, or to simply marvel at its beauty.
Residence in the Gold Coast puts some of Chicago’s best restaurants in your backyard. Celebrated restaurants include Chicago steakhouses, authentic Italian, and even Michelin Star winners. Rush Street is a local food haven with mouthwatering options including Gibson’s Bar and Steakhouse and Jellyfish’s world-class sushi. Not all the restaurants in the Gold Coast are upscale, great mid-range and casual options are also available.
Including part of the famous Magnificent Mile shopping district, and lined with upscale boutiques and national and international retailers, the Gold Coast is a premier shopping destination. The Magnificent Mile’s 460 stores, 275 restaurants, and more make it one of the most famous shopping districts in the world. With so much variety, the options are endless.
On top of being a shopping and dining destination, the Gold Coast is known for its entertainment and nightlife. The area is a theater hub, with historic companies such as the Lookingglass Theater, Broadway Playhouse, and the comedy institution, The Second City. Art lovers will enjoy the Museum of Contemporary Art, while The Newberry Library hosts a collection of priceless artifacts. And, given the beauty of the area, a simple evening stroll past Chicago landmarks is always an attractive option.
In nicer weather, Lake Michigan and the lakefront beaches are only steps away. The Gold Coast is bookended by two of Chicago’s nicest beaches, the Oak Street and North Avenue Beaches. Just to the north lies miles of lakeside trails and all the splendor of Lincoln Park, including the free Lincoln Park Zoo. Washington Square Park, founded in 1842, is famous for its role as a public forum. The park’s restored fountains and manicured grounds make it a perfect stop for relaxing in the city.
Featuring a variety of full-service mid-rise and high-rise condos in vintage and contemporary styles, classic urban row houses, as well as stately mansions, the Gold Coast’s offerings are one-of-a-kind. Residents enjoy beautiful beaches, world-class culture, great shopping and dining, as well as excellent public and private school options. One of Chicago’s great neighborhoods, living in the Gold Coast is a symbol of success.
