Quieter than the Loop but still close enough to partake in downtown Chicago’s wide-reaching activities, Dearborn Park is the ideal urban dwelling for those who like their big city setting but crave a bit of small town appeal. As far as housing is concerned, think modern meets traditional. Dearborn Park is one of Chicago’s newer residential districts, so historic brownstones and classic charm is replaced by the community’s own school of class, which encompasses new multi-unit buildings and townhome complexes, some with a tinge of vintage design scheme and old-fashioned architecture. For the most part, though, new high-rise developments, modern home designs and contemporary condo/lofts on tree-lined streets provide upscale yet affordable real estate with enough green space to avoid the “concrete jungle” environment of most inner-city communities.
A good selection of mid-rise lofts and high-rise apartment buildings dot Dearborn Park. Condos here are fairly affordable, although some have upmarket prices. Many of these units have spacious, open layouts with floor-to-ceiling windows and some even have balconies. Two bedroom condos and lofts run between $275,000 and $500,000, but if you’re living the single life you can get a one-bedroom place or a studio to meet all your needs for just around $200,000. There are pockets of townhouses (most have garages), however, you’ll have to pay anywhere from $475,000 to $800,000 for a two or three-bedroom.
One of the perks of living in Dearborn Park is the close proximity to South Loop attractions. You’re within minutes of the Field Museum, Shedd Aqaurium, Alder Planetarium, Grant Park and Soldier Field, plus the lakefront trail, acres of gorgeous shoreline and the harbor are right there, too.
If you’re in the mood for something more laidback than the wild grounds of Chicago’s most popular destination spots, check out the neighborhood’s namesake recreational lot. Dearborn Park, just south of Dearborn Street Railroad Station, offers tennis courts, sidewalk bike and jogging paths, and plenty of lush green space perfect for an early afternoon picnic. If you don’t feel like crafting your own sandwiches for the event, stop by Jimmy Johns for a signature French bread sub or grab a slice of pie at Pizza Ria.
Dearborn Park’s shopping scene is just as simple as its culinary one. Forget the eclectic boutiques, high-end clothiers and upscale department stores of the Loop, residents in this neighborhood count on the local Target and Ace Hardware for all their mainstays. Of course, those haute couture shops are just around the corner if you’re in need of some serious retail therapy.