River North - Chicago, IL Area Guide

Sitting at the center of the city, the establishment of River North dates back to the beginning of Chicago's history. The Sauganash Hotel, the city's first, was located in what is now known as River North. The neighborhood had to completely rebuild after the Great Chicago Fire, and the Chicago River played a role in making the neighborhood an industrial area as well as a port for barges and boats. After decades of decline, the area experienced a rebirth. New construction of high-rises and the demolition of old buildings helped to revitalize River North and turn it into a bustling neighborhood.

The City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower tells the story of the Great Chicago Fire through a series of permanent exhibits, and the Museum of Contemporary Art highlights some of the most famous modern artists.

Residents of the River North area don't need to leave the neighborhood for access to world-class dining and entertainment options. This neighborhood features restaurants owned and operated by world-famous celebrity chefs, as well as local chain restaurants that cater to both locals and tourists.

Frontera Grill, owned by chef Rick Bayless, has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation and has received awards from Michelin and Zagat. This restaurant remains true to the chef's culinary roots, focusing on authentic Mexican specialties with a modern twist. While it's hard for many to pick a favorite dish, frequent visitors to Frontera Grill order the mole or the carne asada. A limited number of reservations are accepted for this trendy yet casual eatery, but the majority of seats here are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Purple Pig gives locals and shoppers on the Magnificent Mile a chance to sample tapas, or small plates, that give patrons a taste of Mediterranean flavors in small, shareable servings. This restaurant specializes in charcuterie and cheese. In the summer, patio seating provides great people-watching as you enjoy your meal.

Many bars and clubs call the River North area home. From blues and funk to reggae and rock, River North offers fresh talent across stages big and small. Over at Spybar, the resident DJs and visiting spin masters play house music and techno for dancing crowds. Prices run high, but fans say the edgy, dark atmosphere and bumping music make up for it.

Driving in the River North area can be a challenge. Traffic tends to be fairly heavy, even during slow hours. Many residents get around the neighborhood on foot. For traveling to other areas of the city, the CTA trains and buses provide convenient options. The Brown Line and the Red Line both serve the area, providing access to the downtown area, south, north and northwest sides of the city.

Should you choose to drive, be prepared to pay for parking. Street parking rates run slightly lower than parking garages and can be a considerable expense if you are parking for more than a few hours.

Cyclists appreciate the dedicated bike lanes, as riding on heavily trafficked roads can be dangerous. Be sure to plan out a route that includes dedicated lanes and bike-friendly streets before hitting the road.

Hailing a cab in River North can be extremely easy, even at night. If you prefer not to take a taxi, you can arrange a ride with Uber.

The A. Montgomery Ward Park sits on the Chicago River, and this free public park includes a riverwalk area complete with benches and trees for shade. A large playground gives kids a place to stretch out and play. The riverwalk path is used by joggers who want a view of the city skyline as they go for their daily run, and a dog-friendly area makes this park a safe spot to exercise with your pet.

The City of Chicago hosts hundreds of annual festivals and events. Taste of River North represents the biggest celebration in the neighborhood, and it sells food and drinks from restaurants from all over the city. Head out of the neighborhood to Chicago Jazz Festival, Chicago Blues Festival or Taste of Chicago to experience some of the biggest annual events, all of which are hosted at Grant/Millennium Parks.

Renters living in River North pay an average of $2,813/month to rent an apartment, compared to the Chicago city average of $2,239. City dwellers exploring houses for rent in River North can expect to pay around $4,391/month. For those looking to buy, the average house is valued at $475,000, compared to the city average of $340,000.

Michigan Avenue, otherwise known as The Magnificent Mile, represents the main shopping district in River North. Here you will find high-end shops including Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Ralph Lauren and Cartier. Water Tower Place on Michigan Avenue houses more traditional shopping-mall options, including Macy's, Victoria's Secret and Gap.

While there are no grocery stores in the neighborhood, Jewel-Osco, Whole Foods Market and Mariano's have nearby locations for your grocery shopping needs. The Museum of Contemporary Art hosts a farmers' market that is open from June to October, giving residents convenient access to locally sourced meats, cheese, and produce.