Chicago’s Gold Coast is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the city, built from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire.
The mansion near the lake gave way to high rises and apartment buildings that are still there today.
Gold Coast is the destination for great restaurants, especially steakhouses.
Prior to the name Gold Coast, it was referred to as the Astor Street District which came from John Jacob Astor. He was one of the richest men in the 1800s and even though he was not from Chicago his name brought in other wealthy individuals and families. What we now know as Lake Shore Drive was once swampy and undesirable land. Potter Palmer, a wealthy dry goods merchant, filled in this area and built the Palmer Mansion which was the largest home in Chicago at the time. The Gold Coast is now one of the wealthiest urban areas in the United States.
The Gold Coast focuses on three architectural styles: the Queen Anne, the Richardsonian Romanesque, and the Georgian revival style. The Queen Anne style has gables, transepts, angles, recesses, balconies and towers. Richardsonian Romanesque style can be identified by round-arches and lintels in rock-faced masonry. The third style, Georgian revival style, is rectangular in plan and has symmetrical facades. The styles define Chicago’s Gold Coast character while connecting it to its past.
Gold Coast is known for its steakhouses and Gibson’s Steakhouse is the epitome of classic Chicago steakhouse. Enjoy a traditional steak, but make sure to leave room for dessert and try their signature carrot cake. 3 Arts Club Cafe is located in Restoration Hardware’s atrium featuring a water fountain underneath a crystal chandelier, couches, and glass seating. Head there for lunch and enjoy the light coming in through the ceiling. Maple & Ash is another steakhouse, yet with an edge to it. The first floor has a more casual fare with burgers and martinis, while the upstairs has fancy steaks and offers a $200 tasting menu.
Sparrow is a Sophisticated Cuban-inspired bar serving rum cocktails & craft beer. Enjoy their wide range of cocktails and sugar cane spirits. Check out LuxBar for their “Build Your Own Manhattan” menu, wine list, and extensive beer menu. Enjoy the seasonal and classic cocktails from pressed juices, premium ice, and an extensive selection of spirits, especially whiskey and bourbon. Berkshire Room features a Dealer’s Choice menu that allows you to choose the spirit, flavor profile, and glassware.
The Gold Coast has a variety of things to do and discover. If you are looking to shop, 900 N Michigan Shops has everything that you could possibly need. During the hot summer months, soak in the sun at Oak Street Beach. For children and families check out the Lego Store and the American Girl Doll Place, both located in the Water Tower Place. Washington Square Park is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors or for a wedding ceremony.
Walking Score:
Bike Score:
Transit Score:
CTA L: Red Line
CTA Bus:
– #151 (Sheridan)
–#146 (Inner Diver/Michigan Express)
– #22 (Clark)
–#36 (Broadway)
Canterbury Court Apartments
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The Deco North Lake Shore
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1350 North Lake Shore Drive
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Charming and spacious one bedroom with hardwood flooring and in-unit,…
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