Ravenswood
The Ravenswood Land Company owned a good portion of the northside, including Lincoln Square, North Center, and a bit of Albany Park. It developed railway stations for agriculture, textiles, and passengers. As time gave way, industry turned into a thriving artistic neighborhood and a perfect place to call home.
Following the Metra tracks from Irving Park to Foster, the neighborhood has a plethora of repurposed buildings: housing businesses, lofts, and offices. Expanding further west, are well rehabbed homes, apartment buildings, and modern strips of shopping.
Ravenswood is known as one of the busiest centers of Chicago art, with galleries, centers, and organizations all dedicated to the fine arts. The post-industrial architecture of the old warehouses, posed against the Metra and el tracks make for an inspiring backdrop to live, work and play.
Here are some great places in this artsy neighborhood:
Food
- BienMeSabe
You must have the arepas at this Venezuelan cafe. - Margie’s Candies
Famous for their terrapins, try a malted or a huge banana split. Its all good! - River Valley Market
This farmer-owned grocery store offers local products fresh from the field. - Shanghai Inn
Since 1960, this delicious Chinese restaurant has provided carry out and dine-in. - Spacca Napoli
There is always a line at this traditional Italian pizzeria- complete with brick oven.
Shopping
- Ravensgoods
A small business that is the best gift shop to get all things local. - Nadeau Furniture
Specializing in repurposed furniture, this is a fun store to tour. - Celtica Gifts
Get your Claddagh rings, woolen sweaters, and breakfast teas at this Irish shop. - Turin Bicycles
This store has a wide selection of bikes and gear. They also do repairs. - Rock n’ Roll Vintage Guitar Shop
If you are looking for a musical vintage piece- here it is!
Music
- Martyr’s
One Chicago’s classic stages for all types of bands. It’s always a good time here. - Silvie’s Lounge
Local bands had their first shows at this small stage. Silvie is still the bouncer. - O’Shaughnessy’s Public House
A pub serving bangers and mash and touting traditional music. - Carol’s Pub
A Honky-Tonk dive with some of the best western tunes this side of the Mississippi! - Interstellar Space Records
A small vinyl store focusing on hip hop, R&B, Reggae, Jazz, and Soul.
Things to Do
- Malt Row
Drink at Begyle, Half Acre, Empirical, Koval, Dovetail, Spiteful and many more. - Forteza Fitness
Learn self defense WITH SWORDS!!! - Golf 312
Digitally learn how to perfect your swing and wow all the people on the green. - Magic Inc.
You can either take lessons or just replace your linking ring set at this unique shop. - Ravenswood Used Books
Filled to the rafters with books, this spot also hosts live readings.
Art/Culture
- Still Point Theatre
This community based theatre troupe adds a special touch to short act plays. - Lill Street Arts Center
Classes of all types- jewelry, pottery, drawing, glassblowing and more. - Vagabond School
A community for actors offering audition notices, coaching, and studios. - Wayward Arts
This galley/tattoo shop is a fun place to be visually pleased. - Underscore Theatre Company
A troupe focused on musical theatre- always carrying a tune!
Schools
- ARA District #2 & #3
- McPherson Elementary (CPS)
- Chicago Montessori (Private)
Pre-K through 8th Grade - Amundsen High School (CPS)
- Lake View High School (Magnet)
Transportation
Explore Ravenswood
