Located just south of Bucktown and northwest of the Loop, Wicker Park is a thriving community that has grown increasingly popular with urbanites who enjoy the energy and diversity of the North Side neighborhood.
The community was named after Charles and Joel Wicker, who bought 80 acres of land in the area in 1870. An influx of residential and commercial development came to the area after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, when affluent Germans and Scandinavians flocked to the neighborhood and built large mansions on Pierce and Hoyne Streets. Today, Wicker Park is considered one of the hippest neighborhoods in Chicago, home to a diverse mix of businesses and lifestyles.
Housing styles in Wicker Park range from historic 19th-century mansions to modern new construction condominiums and single-family homes. Vintage walk-ups, three-flats and loft-style apartments and condominiums can be found throughout the neighborhood. The CTA Blue Line offers convenient access to the Loop and O’Hare International Airport, while the Kennedy Expressway allows for an easy drive to surrounding neighborhoods and suburbs.
Wicker Park is known for its eclectic assortment of hip cafes, independent stores, dive bars, high-end boutiques, hole-in-the-wall art galleries, yoga studios and peaceful city parks. Many of Chicago's most popular restaurants are also located in the neighborhood, including Big Star, Small Cheval, and local favorite, Piece Brewery and Pizzeria.