This property is located on a beautiful tree-lined block of Buena Park, a historic area in the southeast corner of Chicago's Uptown neighborhood. Buena Park is a laid-back "hidden gem" near the lake with many long-time residents in some of the city's architectural masterpieces. Uptown is one of Chicago's most diverse neighborhoods - racially, socially, politically and economically. Buena Park boasts of million dollar graystones just blocks from retail outlets where you could hear one of 87 languages spoken by resident shoppers. Uptown today is a blend of cultures from all over the world juxtaposed over its own unique American story. Once an area of great opulence and home to a nationally renowned entertainment district that's the envy of Manhattan, Uptown suffered following the stock crash of 1929. As the wealthy fled the area in subsequent years, many buildings transitioned to cheap housing and attracted waves of immigrants from all over the world - Africans, Latinos, Swedes and Vietnamese being prominent ones. Remnants of past Art Deco magnificence are still visible on the facade of its buildings. Green Mill, a famous jazz hangout for the Mob and big-name celebrities (Sinatra was a regular) still thrives, along with acclaimed venues like the Aragon Ballroom and the Uptown Theater.
At last, though, Uptown is now reaping the rewards of its diversity. Years of co-existence among disparate cultures created a colorful and vibrant community that's tolerant but proud, highlighted by the amazing Southeast Asian pocket on Argyle Street. The beauty of Uptown is the amazing array of different vibes visitors can experience just walking from block-to-block - from its gentrified pockets to unique shops and restaurants of various international themes. Andersonville, on the northern tip of Uptown, has not experienced the highs or the lows of central Uptown, and strikes a casual sophisticated feel. Originally a destination for Swedish immigrants, whose influence can be seen in a few restaurants and bars, it has become a hub for Chicago's GLBT community. The stylish boutiques and inviting restaurants have made it a great place for people of all backgrounds to live, and a laid-back destination for shopping or entertainment.
A little over a mile east is Montrose Park which abuts Lake Michigan. The park hosts soccer, volleyball and frisbee tournaments as well as other sporting events for both local and foreign players, particularly from Latin America and Europe. There are all types of outdoor activities to enjoy - jogging, biking, boating, tennis, golf, rollerblading, kiting and fishing in a safe and festive environment.
The lake takes about 15-20 minutes to walk from the property, and it's about the same to Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. There are great neighborhoods to shop and dine at within a mile to mile-and-a-half radius of the place, Lakeview, Andersonville and Lincoln Square being ones that are a treat for any visitor. As an added convenience, vacationers can leave their car in the private parking area provided behind the building and rent a Divvy bike from a station a block away, to access said attractions. The Red LIne train station 1/2 mile away gets you downtown in 15-20 minutes.
In terms of shopping for food and supplies, Jewel Supermarket and Target are each two blocks away from the property. Good restaurants of various types and ethnic flavors also abound at moderate prices.
There are two banks a block away - Chase and PNC - for those needing to do any financial transaction while vacationing.
