Why Lakeview East Is Considered To Be One Of The Best Places To Live In Chicago

By Anita Ortega


Chicago is a true hub of commerce, industry, finance and technology. Being the third largest city in the United States, boasting close to ten million people, it is also home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery on the continent. No wonder, because it lies between the Mississippi River Watershed and the spectacular Great Lakes. The O Hare International airport is the second busiest in the world. Among its many distinguished communities Lakeview East is worth noting.

This popular neighborhood boasts a vibrant population but it is especially noted for its strong and populous Jewish community. It is no wonder that the area is home to three of the largest synagogues in the area. Interestingly, the area is also noteworthy for a number of other churches, with the Lake View Presbyterian Church and Our Lady of Mount Carmel being the oldest in the city.

Geographically, the area is situated north of the greater Chicago metropolis. The area is divided into four distinct neighborhoods, with West Lake View, Halstead and Wrigleyville being the other three. The very name of the neighborhood suggests a lake nearby and it is indeed bordered by Lake Michigan. The first inhabitants were Swiss settlers which came to the area as far back as 1837.

Accommodation in this neighborhood is not cheap. It is considered to be an upmarket area and the many condominiums and apartment buildings all cater for well to do tenants or owners. The exclusive boutiques and restaurants are also considered to be upscale. Day to day business is generally conducted in the Halstead area. The area offers a vibrant nightlife and there are numerous pubs and clubs offering entertainment.

The area is known for its sophisticated cultural events, but it is the annual Gay Pride Parade that draws the biggest crowds. It is held on the last Sunday every June and it is so popular that many major thoroughfares have to be closed for traffic. The event has turned into an enormous street fair with numerous stalls and booths doing brisk business. The neighborhood is also the center of an annual vigil in honor of Matthew Shepard, a noted activist against gay hate.

The annual Festival of the Arts is another major cultural event hosted by this neighborhood. For an entire weekend hundreds of celebrated artists are showcased. Artists from every corner of the world vie for attention. Visitors are treated to art from just about every medium. In addition, massive stages host the best musicians Chicago has to offer and there are numerous demonstrations and even classes on offer.

Sports enthusiasts will also be more than satisfied with the facilities on offer. The area has a very active population and there are numerous sports clubs. Water sports on the Lake Michigan are popular, of course. The largest portion of the annual Chicago Marathon, one of the biggest in the world, is located in this area. The area is also well known for its world class golf courses.

Nobody will argue the fact that Chicago is a magnificent city and this community seems to be a perfect example of the well to do families and professionals that have chosen to live in this beautiful part of Illinois. The population is enlightened and modern, yet they are deeply conscious of their roots and history.




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