Uptown
Uptown Living
Uptown has a glamorous past as the stomping grounds of Charlie Chaplin, Gloria Swanson and Al Capone. Today it shines as a place to call home for Chicagoans seeking incredible access to the lakefront, public transportation and a vibrant entertainment scene.
Uptown’s early glamour is still reflected in its historic buildings. The neighborhood’s commercial and cultural center is Broadway, with historic Uptown Square at its center.
The area experienced a housing construction boom following the World’s Columbian Exposition. Several of the neighborhood’s luxurious entertainment venues were built in the 1920s reflecting the ornate artistry of the Exposition pavilions.
Uptown continues to be one of the city’s most popular destinations for music lovers, with rock concerts at Aragon Ballroom and Riviera Theatre and jazz at the legendary Green Mill. The jazz venue was a favorite of notorious gangster Capone, who used its underground tunnels to bootleg whiskey and make a hasty retreat from police.
In addition to entertainment, the neighborhood has a number of independent bookstores, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. The community works to balance new development with a commitment to preserve its past.
As an Uptown Resident
Uptown Style
Homebuyers have their choice of many housing styles, from lakefront high-rises and vintage walk-ups to new-construction condos and townhomes. A number of beautiful old mansions also line several streets just west of Margate Park.
The Area
Public Transportation: Chicago’s busiest route, the Red Line is great for getting around to the north & south sides of Chicago & for getting into the Loop. A fan favorite, the Brown Line runs throughout the Northwest Side, starting in Albany Park into the Loop. Beginning all the way in Chicago’s North Shore suburb, Wilmette, the Purple Line passes through Evanston and into Chicago's North Side, while also extending even further south into the Loop during weekday rush hours.
Highway Access: Getting to the highway can be tough, but it’s nothing most couldn’t manage.
Other Perks: Close to the Lake & Lake Shore Drive
KM Mini Guide
Best Jazz Bar: Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
Red Line ‘L’: Berwyn, Argyle, Lawrence, Wilson, Sheridan
Brown Line ‘L’: Damen, Montrose, Irving Park
Purple Line ‘L’: Wilson
Metra: Union Pacific North at Ravenswood Metra
