Gold Coast
The aura of Old Chicago floats through the streets of Gold Coast. From impressive architecture and Second City history to the hustle of Michigan Avenue and serenity of the lakefront, this neighborhood has it all! Just north of Chicago’s famously active River North neighborhood, this pocket of the city is serenely quiet and removed from the bustle of its surroundings.
What used to be known as the Astor Street district, home to the Chicago elite of the late 19th century, the Gold Coast has since become an eclectic mix of mansions, row houses, and high rises- neatly settled against streets of boutiques, parks, and restaurants.
Having survived the Chicago Fire, residents have steadfastly called the Gold Coast their home, where they have “lived and worked… raised families, and took care to create a special place and to preserve its beauty and character for future generations.” It is truly an aware and active community of history lovers.
Gold Coast offers more than just history- check it out!
Food
- Blue Door Kitchen
Serving American food on mismatched plates with a unique atmosphere. - 3 Arts Club Cafe
Located in the flagship Restoration Hardware, this cafe is gorgeous and tasty! - Maple & Ash
This posh steakhouse has proved to be a Gold Coast staple. - Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse
A High Fidelity Office fave – literally everything is good here and you must get dessert! - Somerset
This multi-level American restaurant is known for its seasonal menus with local goods.
Shopping
- Restoration Hardware
This flagship store is full of funky housewares and impulse buys! - Leonidas Cafe
This chocolatier is great for gifts, or maybe a treat for yourself. - Chicago Health Foods
Organic and holistic supplements galore can be found at the healthy deli! - Moncler
High end outerwear for that camping trip or the next polar vortex! - Chicago Teahouse
Over 200 types of tea can be found at this shop, plus all the tea accessories.
Music
- Zebra Lounge
This speakeasy-esque bar features great cocktails and live jazz every night! - Red Head Piano Bar
This Chicago staple is known for its cigar lounge and wine selection. - Primary NightClub
Table service and EDM are found at this fun nightclub! - Graham Foundation
A venue is known to host experimental music, from electronic to acoustic. - The Terrace
The park just off the MCA, hosts jazz concerts every Tuesday in the Summer.
Things to Do
- Porchlight Music Theatre
This independent theatre focuses on comedic and dramatic musicals. - Lookinglass Playhouse
Experimental theatrics housed in the famous Watertower. - Museum of Surgical Science
Housed in a historic mansion, this strange museum is intriguing. - Oak Street Beach
Float in Lake Michigan in the midafternoon shadows of the John Hancock. - Chicago Sports Museum
All the Chicago greats under one roof!
Art/Culture
- Driehaus Museum
At this Gilded Age mansion, immerse yourself in art nouveau and Tiffany. - Charnley-Persky House
Tour this landmark, designed by Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. - Chicago History Museum
We’re more than just the Great Fire! Find out why at this institution! - Newberry Library
This architectural great houses some rare books and offers great classes. - Museum of Contemporary Art
This impressive modern art museum has rotating exhibits.
Transportation
- Red Line- 95th/Dan Ryan to Howard
Clark and Division - Brown Line- Loop to Kimball- Chicago
- Clark Street Bus #22
- North Avenue Bus #72
- Division Bus #70
- Sheridan/InnerDrive LSD #151
Express from Delaware/Michigan to Belmont/Sheridan
Explore The Gold Coast
