Chicago’s many neighborhoods are so unique that when exploring a new spot you might have to remind yourself that you haven’t, indeed, left the Windy City altogether. This collection of unique neighborhoods is what makes Chicago one of our favorite places to live, and our four (and counting!) homes in the city are evidence of that.
All of that is to say that not every Chicago neighborhood is for everyone. If there was a neighborhood that could be for everyone, however, that neighborhood would be the Downtown Loop. Clinging to the edge of the Chicago River, the Downtown Loop is a microcosm of the city it occupies—with major cultural institutions, excellent restaurants, and relics of old Chicago punctuating this legendary neighborhood.
If all of that hasn’t convinced you to pack your bags and head for the Second City, here are five more reasons to move to the Downtown Loop, Chicago.
Great eats
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While Downtown Loop isn’t Chicago’s true foodie destination (here’s looking at you, Devon and Hyde Park), there’s still a far greater-than-average supply of delectable grub to be found in the Downtown Loop. From low-fuss (or no-fuss) Cuban fare at Cafecito to rooftop restaurants like Cindy’s and just about everything in-between, Downtown Loop has fare of all flavors. Our pick? The ever-so-eclectic Beatnik on the River. Just a short walk from our Downtown Loop home, LINEA by Common (more on that later), Beatnik’s mediterranean-inspired menu is complemented by some of the neighborhood’s best drinks—making it a go-to for LINEA by Common members.
Old Chicago, new Chicago
The Downtown Loop is where the past meets the future, and many of Chicago’s most historic buildings and spaces call the neighborhood home. While some structures exist in their original form, others have been revitalized and brought into the 21st century. The aforementioned Cindy’s, for example, sits atop the legendary Chicago Athletic Hotel, which has stood tall since 1890. Another of the Downtown Loop’s architectural marvels, the Versailles-inspired Buckingham Fountain has remained one of the largest working fountains in existence since its completion in 1927. No matter where you look in the Downtown Loop, you’re bound to lay eyes on Chicago history.
An art destination
The nexus of Chicago’s art scene, the Downtown Loop is home to some of the city’s—and the country’s—best museums. Masterpieces of the modern era find their home at the Museum of Contemporary Art, where landmarks in science and innovation (as well as the world’s largest T. Rex fossil) can be found at the Field Museum. Downtown Loop’s crown jewel, however, is the 300,000 work collection at the Art Institute of Chicago. We can’t think of any better way to spend an afternoon (or several afternoons) than by soaking up the centuries of talent housed in the AIC.
Chicago’s front door
Excited to experience the vibrant Downtown Loop in Chicago? Discover the heart of the city with Common’s shared apartments in Chicago. But that’s not all – when you choose Common, you get more than just a place to live. Enjoy hassle-free leasing, a thriving community, and exclusive perks. Make the Downtown Loop your home and explore all that Chicago has to offer. Start your journey with Common today!
