Here’s What It’s Like Living In The Loop, Chicago

High-up silvery-blue towers frame the infamous Chicago Loop in the most magnificent way. The modern buildings like The Nuveen building and the Boeing Building reflect the sights of historic buildings like The Mart, formerly known as The Merchandise Mart, and the elegant theater, The Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The light-green Chicago River flows along the north side of the Loop and the has become one of the most fun parts of the city, especially during the summer. 

The Chicago Riverwalk is home to wine bars, ice cream shops and restaurants and it’s not uncommon to hear live music playing from the Tiki Bar, Island Party Hut, located between Lake Shore Drive and Columbus Drive on the Riverwalk. One of the most special things about Chicago is that you can relax on the river with a glass of wine, music and a friendly crowd – It’s so easy to make friends in a city that’s full of nice people!

Many know the Chicago Loop as a business hub, and yes, the Loop is still where most Chicagoans commute for work, but it’s also a beautifully classic Chicago neighborhood for after-work play-time, too.

Here are some of the best places to go for after-work fun:

South Branch Tavern & Grille – 100 S. Wacker Dr.

This great patio on the River is the perfect escape after a day at the office. Meet friends or colleagues at South Branch Tavern & Grille for a drink, and don’t leave without trying the famous Bang Bang Shrimp!

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant – 1 E. Upper Wacker Dr.

Happy Hour is kind of their thing here. Parmesan truffle fries and an agave margarita costs you $10, for example. Check out the McCormick & Schmick’s Famous Happy Hour Menu, here.

Raised Rooftop at Renaissance Hotel – 1 W. Wacker Dr.

Raised Rooftop is a cozy, urban rooftop bar with impressive Chicago River views – perfect for warm or chilly nights with fire pits and space heaters throughout the outdoor space.

Ceres Cafe – 141 W. Jackson Blvd.

Known for a high booze-content in drinks, this bar at the Chicago Board of Trade keeps people coming back for more. The casual downtown post-work ambiance makes this American Diner a great hangout.

River Roast – 315 N. LaSalle Dr.

That old red brick building in Chicago with the clock tower on it – Reid-Murdoch Building, home to The World of Whirlpool also has an incredible restaurant right on the river, River Roast! The large planters on the patio provide a ton of greenery, making this urban spot feel super cozy. Check out some of the unique drinks and snacks on the menu – right here!

Here are the best places to get home necessities in the Loop:

• Mariano’s – 333 E. Benton Pl. #206
• Go Grocer – 1255 S. Michigan Ave.
• Walgreens – 201 W. Madison St., 79 W. Monroe St. and 151 N. State St. Floor 1
• Target – 1 S. State St.
• Jewel Osco – 550 N. State Street

One of the best things about living in the Loop is the ease of abundant CTA train stops, so getting around is easy and convenient!

Does the Chicago Loop sound like a place you could see yourself calling home? Learn more about living in the Loop, then contact Luxury Living Chicago Realty to learn more about the luxury apartment market in Chicago and to set up a showing today!