Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
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Monday, October 14
Mt Greenwood - the original hood, yo
This strikes me as a very odd question. I grew near Devon & Western, so of course that is the "best" neighborhood for me. It is my home. How could I have a favorite neighborhood that wasn't my home?
Not everyone still lives in the neighborhood they grew up in, Dennis. Nor does everyone love the neighborhood they live in.
For me, I'd say Andersonville (and I don't live there, but I can get there easily from home). It has most of the necessary amenities, a good mix of apartments and homes, and it's a quick jaunt over to the Lake.
I'm sticking with Chicago Magazine - Rockwell Crossing!
I've not read the story yet (huge caveat) but lists like this are frequently bogus: http://www.justinmassa.com/2010/04/hownottosearchforhousing/
what is awesome about the web is that it has the potential to capture the long tail of 'best neighborhoods' - depending on your unique situation what is 'best' could vary dramatically. lists written with a certain bias / viewpoint gloss over what is a hugely important decision for any family.
Budlong Woods!!
- nearby bars, restaurants, etc. in Lincoln Square
- great park along the river
- accessible via CTA but still drive-able for errands without parking being a p.i.a.
- awesome name
I'm going to go with Edgewater Glen. Lots of great variety of restaurants nearby, close to Andersonville and the lake. The only thing we could use more of is ice cream shops (sorry the Dunkin Donuts/31 Flavors combos don't really cut it anymore).
Well, my home of Hyde Park is my favorite, but if I were to choose another neighborhood, I'd say Pilsen. There's a lot of variability in architecture and commercial establishments, and there's a decent community life. I don't know if I could ever live there because of concerns about gentrification displacing the current residents, but it's a great place.
In the time I've lived in Chicago, I've really fallen in love with Printer's Row. It's got that "downtown" atmosphere, but is quiet and more peaceful. That's not to say it's boring though! It really embodies everything I love about Chicago and is so rich with history. Between being near Columbia and having the Printer's Row Book Fair right in your front lawn, there is always something going on. Definitely an under-appreciated neighborhood.
River West. Yes, I live there, but it has a great view, I can walk home in 20 min, plus the blue line and the 65. I have Jewel, Richards, Emmitt's, etc. I also have free parking, laundry, no deposit, or lease. And my cats like it too. I admit I'm biased.
Rogers Park....of course!
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What is Chicago's "urban ethos"?
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What're you drinking?
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What's your reaction to the Supreme Court's decision on the Affordable Care Act?
Taking it to the Streets [20]
Chicago Street Fairs: Revolting or Awesome?
I Can Be Cruel [9]
Be real: what is the meanest thing you've ever done?
Andrew Huff / May 24, 2010 11:48 PM
Another semi-recycled question, made relevant again by Chicago magazine's recent list and the fact that we asked about favorite neighborhoods all the way back in 2003. Chances are your faves have changed since then.