subject: Look No Further than Lincoln Park Living [print this page] Look No Further than Lincoln Park Living Look No Further than Lincoln Park Living
Chicago is considered an amazing place on many fronts (phenomenal food, first-rate museums, entertaining theater, great shopping, beloved sports teams, nonstop nightlife), but one thing sets it apart from any other city in the world the unrivaled lakefront setting. Chicago has over 20 miles of continuous lake frontage reserved for public beaches, parkland, walkways, biking trails and boat harbors. The treasured shoreline is a spectacular backdrop for city life that is as much a part of the Chicago landscape as its celebrated architecture.
While there aren't any Chicago homes for sale directly on the water, the adjacent neighborhoods offer the next best thing. Lincoln Park is an especially sought-after community with everything the lakefront has to offer and a magnificent selection of residences for the willing and able real estate investor.
Lincoln Park homes and condos are separated from Lake Michigan by the neighborhood's namesake park, which houses the city's only zoo, nature museum, history museum and one of its conservatories. It also boasts Chicago's most popular beach (North Avenue Beach) and serves as the festival grounds for a number of annual events and the Green City Farmer's Market. Just across the street from the park, green grass gives way to vibrant stretches of establishments catering to both the family set and the student population that revolves around DePaul University. The campus attracts many youngsters to the area, however, stroller-pushing parents and active retirees are just as likely to occupy the sidewalks in this hot Chicago hood.
Of course, Lincoln Park homes/condos are quite different from typical downtown Chicago condos. Yes, there are several high-rise residential towers, but the majority of housing is situated in walkup buildings and single-family dwellings (that have either been converted into multiple units or remain stately private residences with million-dollar price tags). Chicago homes for sale in this market run the gamut in size, style and budget. Studio apartments in the larger developments may suffice for those living on their own and on a shoestring, while four-bedroom detached properties are probably more suitable for growing families with money to spend. For the most part though, Lincoln Park homes, condos and townhouses cost a pretty penny and are regularly hailed as the cream of the crop when it comes to properties outside downtown Chicago condos.
Lincoln Park living is a good mix of urban amenities and neighborhood quaintness. The most desirable Chicago homes for sale in this area enjoy a balance between the two. These properties run up and down tree-shaded blocks, set off from the main avenues where you'll find everything from big box stores to mom and pop shops. Corner playlots often break up the strings of residential faades, providing locals with a nearby retreat and much appreciated outdoor space. Restaurants, pubs, cafs, schools, retail markets and other services are never far away, but the commotion of such busy thoroughfares is hard pressed to impede on homeowners' peaceful Lincoln Park abodes
Naturally, not all Lincoln Park homes are tucked away from the bustling business corridors. There are a large number of rental properties and condos for purchase located above the storefronts, as well as sections of low-rise walkups along the neighborhood's traffic-heavy roads. Of course, being in the thick of Lincoln Park is still a far cry from living in downtown Chicago condos. It's common to recognize the people in your vicinity and get to know your neighbors. Street parking is tight, but you can usually find a spot not too far from your front door (just be sure to get a parking permit that corresponds with your residential zone). No car? The "L" trains make four stops in Lincoln Park and bus lines fill in the gaps with service along all the major arteries. It's a quick commute to the Loop, so downtown workers can experience the pleasure of Lincoln Park living and get to the office in no time flat.
There are loads more reasons why Lincoln Park has stolen the hearts of so many Chicagoans. And everyone has their own take on why this picturesque North Side neighborhood is their favorite. Will it be yours? If you're looking for Chicago homes for sale, it may be the perfect place to start!
