Andersonville & Edgewater

Between its historic architecture, dynamic bar scene, and bustling main street, Andersonville is a thriving example of a charming urban neighborhood. When it comes to shopping, you’ll find Chicago’s “shop local capital,” with an array of independently owned storefronts — and a conspicuous lack of anything that remotely resembles a chain store. Stock up on everything from antiques to artisanal gifts to authentic Swedish pastries.

Along Clark Street’s restaurant strip, you can take your pick from cozy diners, craft brew emporiums, triedand- true holes in the wall, and some of the city’s best comfort food spots. Come summer, Pride Month’s Midsommarfest celebrates Andersonville’s Swedish roots and LGBTQ+ culture. Make a flower crown or don a viking hat, taste Swedish delicacies, and rock out at the Pride stage.

Parks and greenspace are abundant in the area. Winnemac Park — located just west of Andersonville — is a huge oasis that includes wildlife paths, baseball fields and a large playground. Or head south on Clark to the newly-renovated Chase Park with a running track, outdoor pool and field house full of classes and activities.

Edgewater literally hugs the water’s edge, with miles of beaches and green spaces to relax in — and pretty stunning views over Lake Michigan from seven miles north of the Loop.

Family-friendly Edgewater is an antique and vintage shopper’s haven. Browse for hours at Broadway Antique Market and nearby Edgewater Antique Mall, then continue the vintage vibe in the neighborhood’s Bryn Mawr Historic District, a charming reminder of 1920s Chicago.

Edgewater’s global mix of cultures makes the neighborhood a culinary feast. It’s also famous for authentic delis, boutique grocery stores and specialty farm stands. Outside of food and antiquing, Edgewater is lauded for its storefront theatre district, where you’ll experience innovative productions in intimate, immersive 50 – 100 seat theatres.