River North Overview
Chicago’s River North neighborhood is home to one of the largest collections of art galleries in the USA, second only to Manhattan's collection of art galleries. There are over 100 art galleries in this small neighborhood! Since many of galleries are located near the intersection of Superior and Huron Streets, this area has jokingly become known as SuHu.
River North got its start as an industrial area but later became a warehouse district. However, when the warehouses began closing down in the 1970’s, the large, empty buildings attracted various artists and writers who were looking for loft and studio space. This what contributed to the creation of a neighborhood that was artistic, but also struggling.
Since that time, River North has changed completely! It is now a hip, cultural hub filled with art galleries, antique stores, boutiques . . . and many urban professionals. It has Chicago’s highest concentration of restaurants, and as such, this small neighborhood has become a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
In recent years, the further development of galleries, specialty eateries, and chic condos and lofts has moved west of the Chicago River as well. This rapidly-growing neighbor of River North is aptly named “River West.”
River North Homes for Sale
Neighborhood residents are primarily professionals who have chosen this neighborhood because of its proximity to downtown Chicago and The Loop. They live in a variety of townhomes, mid-rise condos, and warehouse that have been converted into upscale lofts.
One of the area’s landmarks is also a popular place to live. Marina City is located at State Street and the Chicago River at the southern end of River North. Often called the “Corncob Towers” because of its unique design profile, these 60-story towers hold several shops, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a skating rink, a marina, and even a bowling alley. Because there is so much going on there, the entire complex, which was designed by architect Bertrand Goldberg and completed in the early 1960s, has often been called a city within a city.
When the weather permits, those living in River North and River West can walk to their jobs downtown. When the weather fails to cooperate, the CTA Red Line and Blue Line L serve commuters, whether they are headed to work or shopping downtown, or in the opposite direction, to O’Hare Airport. Several CTA bus lines criss-cross the area as well. And don't forget the Chicago Expressways and Lake Shore Drive are also nearby.
Locate this neighborhood on our Chicago Neighborhood Map!
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