South Loop Condos
Over the past 20 years the South Loop has grown into one of the hottest neighborhoods in Chicago. The tree lined streets, neighborhood feel and proximity to the loop have attracted people from all over Chicago. The neighborhood has a special place in my heart since I've lived here since 2003 and have watched many of the condos that comprise the South Loop as they were built.
There are many reasons the South Loop has attracted so much attention. The neighborhood has incredible access to Chicago's waterfront, museums, parks and Chicago culture. The South Loop also has arguably the best views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. From anywhere in the neighborhood, you are only steps away from the Museum Campus which is home to the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum. The South Loop is also home to Soldier Field where you can see my beloved Bears play or catch one of the many summer concerts that come through the city. Whether you are tailgating for the Bears game or spending an afternoon at the Museums, the South Loop is a great place to live and play!
South Loop Housing
The South Loop is filled with many great housing options. The majority of the inventory is comprised of condos in both mid rise and high rise buildings and town homes. Many of the high rises in the area are full service buildings with 24 hour door staff, gyms, pools and other luxury amenities. Many of the condo buildings were built during the housing boom of the late 90's into the mid 2000's so they are newer and carry with them many of the luxuries of younger buildings such as good noise isolation and updated plumbing and wiring. Real estate in the 60605 zip code continues to grow and I'm excited to see what the neighborhood looks like in 10 years.
South loop buildings
The South Loop has smaller neighborhoods within its borders. Museum Campus is one of the neighborhoods that anchors the northern portion of the South Loop. This neighborhood sits just south of Roosevelt Road and is comprised of 5 high-rise buildings and a number of surrounding town homes. A few blocks south is considered Central Station which is a mix of town homes, high-rises, and converted lofts. From 16th Street to 18th Street along Prairie Avenue is considered the Prairie District. This area has a mix of 3 high rises and town homes. This area also includes the Glessner House which is a historic landmark and the old Marshal Fields Mansion.
What area should you choose?
This question largely depends on what you want in your new home. Each neighborhood has similarities but also differences. The northern neighborhoods are more convenient when walking to the Red Line, Grant Park and some of the bars and restaurants in the neighborhood. As you move further south in the South Loop the neighborhood takes on a more residential feeling. The other neighborhoods are still accessible to restaurants and bars but are bit more quite than Museum Campus.
All of the areas within the South Loop have great access to the lake, have tree lined streets and have great access to parks and outdoor activities. I encourage to you walk the entire neighborhood to get a feel for the different areas.
Nearby Public Transit
CTA
at Cermak/Chinatown, Clinton, Harold Washington Library, Harrison, Jackson, LaSalle, LaSalle/Van Buren, Quincy, Roosevelt
Metra
Milwaukee District North, Rock Island District, Metra Electric Main Branch, North Central Service, Milwaukee District West, BNSF Railway, Heritage Corridor, Southwest Service, South Shore
at Union Station, Chicago LaSalle St Metra, Van Buren St Metra, 11th St Metra, 18th St Metra, McCormick Place Metra, 27th St Metra, McCormick Place, Museum Campus/11th Street, Van Buren Street