River North

Mecca for Nightlife, Arts and Design
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who enjoys a lively nightlife, River North offers a diverse range of experiences in the heart of Chicago's urban landscape. River North is known for its upscale residential options, including high-rise condominiums and luxurious apartment buildings. The neighborhood attracts young professionals seeking a sophisticated urban lifestyle. This area is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred establishments to trendy cafes and international cuisines. In the warmer months, there are plenty of rooftop bars to explore, such as Bar Avec and IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge.

Often referred to as the "Art and Design District" of Chicago, it's home to numerous art galleries, studios, and showrooms. River North comes alive at night with its lively nightlife scene. The neighborhood is a hotspot for those looking for an exciting evening out. Visit Tao, Joy District or Celeste for a popular nightclub experience, enjoy live music at Howl at the Moon or sip on a cocktail at The Hubbard Inn. The Merchandise Mart, one of the world's largest commercial buildings hosts various trade shows and design events throughout the year. The Chicago Riverwalk extends through River North, providing a scenic pathway along the Chicago River. It's an excellent spot for strolling, people-watching, and taking in views of the city's iconic architecture.
What River North Residents
Think About Their Apartments
overall
8.2
value
8.0
amenities
8.0
social
8.0
management
8.1
safety
9.4
Median rents in River North
Studio
$
2,230
1 Bedroom
$
3,000
2 Bedroom
$
4,500

Living in
River North

Young Professionals
Upscale
Foodie
Lively Nightlife
High-Rises
Walkable
Public Transportation
Scenic
River North — None/10 Rating (based on 100 neighborhood reviews)
Absolutely loving it! People are always out and about and it is a great place to enjoy with your friends! It is also close to a bunch of other great neighborhoods and so if you want to venture out, it is really easy to do so!
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Sterling
Great neighborhood with lots to do and easy access to public transportation.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Cortland River North
We love River North. It doesn't feel as commercialized as Streeterville or the Loop while still being in the thick of it. We can walk to nearly anything we could ever want. We visit the lakeshore trail and riverwalk regularly. Lincoln Park is a mile away, but that doesn't stop us from walking to the farmer's market on Saturdays (also passing the one on Division and Dearborn along the way).
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
I can't think of any other neighborhood in the country with as many great bars and restaurants in such close proximity. I've lived here over a year and am still exploring new spot within two blocks of my building. The river is also two blocks away which provides for a fantastic place to walk or run. Only downside is there is no full-service gym in the neighborhood.. only boutique workout options like Soul Cycle.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
AMLI River North
It is very hustle and bustle but the energy is amazing! The dining options are 2nd to none and there is always something new to explore. The walking score of this neighborhood is 100% in my eyes - starbucks, jewel, whole foods, nail salons, walgreens, red line stop, bus stops, endless shopping, eye doctors, etc... you can literally walk everywhere you need to go.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Residences at Grand Plaza
The River North Gallery District or simply River North, in Chicago, is in the Near North Side, Chicago. It hosts the largest concentration of art galleries in the United States, outside of Manhattan. River North has experienced vast changes in the years 1990 - 2012 including the development of vast highrise buildings, nightclubs and restaurants. River North has become one of Chicago's top neighborhoods for nightlife especially on and around Hubbard Street.

A common definition puts the River North neighborhood in the area north of the Chicago River and the Merchandise Mart, south of Division Street, east of the Chicago River and west of Wabash Avenue. Along with hundreds of art galleries, the area holds many bars, dance clubs, popular restaurants and entertainment venues.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Kingsbury Plaza
While there is a lot of street traffic, including slow-walking people tourists/suburbanites at their phones and trying to figure where they are going, the neighborhood has incredible amenities all within walking distances - Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Jewel all within three blocks of each other; plus incredible restaurants and bars running the gamut from packed and trendy to divey gems. Great mix of young professionals, young families, and a surprising number of retirees
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
2 East Erie
Apartment is beautifull. They fix everything and deal with everything right away when its needed. It is beautiful. But where building located is very noise and it is very hard to deal with it when you come home very tired and waking up few times a night doesnt help the other day
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
I mostly love the neighborhood. As a young woman I feel relatively safe walking alone at night because it is very lively after the sun goes down especially on the weekends. Sometimes there are questionable people around due to how close the red line is.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
It's definitely a convenient place to live, and it makes my commute to work only 10 minutes. However, it can be pretty crowded around the building, mostly filled with homeless people. This can be very overwhelming and irritating
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River Plaza
It's great in the sense that its very central. I can get to school easily as well up to lincoln park, wicker and west loop. Also lots of walkable restauraunts and bars. BUT less green space and definitely a more "downtown" vibe
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
57 W Erie St
River North is most convenient neighborhood to live. The lake, bar scene, transportation is all walking distance. My only complaint is the sirens that seem to consistently go on, but it's the city. You get used to it.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
The neighborhood is amazing! I live right in the heart of River North/Gold Coast. Everything is within walking distance: from mag mile, to gold coast, to Hubbard street. Everything is less than a 10-15 minute walk.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
Streeterville lacks character, but is is conveniently located near downtown. There is very little green space -- I didn't have a pet, but when I walked over with my family's dog it is virtually all sidewalk.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Plaza 440
The area is fairly safe but can be noisy because of the nearby hospital and fire station. There are plenty of restaurants and bars, and the high end shopping on Michigan Avenue is a few blocks away.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
This area is up and coming with tons of new restaurants, high rises, and parks to enjoy. The area feels safer than other neighborhoods because there are lots of people around at all times.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Parc Huron
There is a lot of hustle and bustle around where I live since i'm so close to the magnificent mile. There are tourists and homeless people scattered about but no one really bothers you.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
30 East Huron
Pros:
Great restaurants
Close to everything
Lots of public transportation

Cons:
Annoying people on the weekends
Wish the grocery store was closer
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Cortland River North
I grew up in Chicago and have always wanted to live in River North. I consider it a safe neighborhood with excellent nightlife and restaurants where I frequent often.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
west77
Close to any and all public transportation. Easy to walk. Everything is nearby! Only downside is tourists during summertime which can crowd sidewalks and businesses.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Millennium Centre
So far, I'm loving this location. It's close to public transit & the main train stations. I also love being close to lots of good (but pricey) restaurants.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River North Park
River North is one of the best neighborhoods in the city, due to its proximity to various restaurants, night life activities and a short commute to the Loop.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Wolf Point West
Quiet, safe, working professionals/young families, great restaurants nearby and the amazing EBC.. river, "Taste of River North" in the summer is wonderful!
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
411 W Ontario St
Lots of shops, restaurants, bars, venues to check out in the local area. Plenty of gym, grocery, employment options nearby. Easy transit options nearby.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
I have always liked River North. It is a very safe neighborhood and there are a number of restaurants and bars around the building that I go to often.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
west77
Very professional neighborhood. Can be a little dead at times, and then rowdy on the weekends, and there is no grocery store anywhere nearby.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River North Park
Great nightlife with a lot to do, but it can get a little rowdy at times. Specific location of river north we are in is very quiet though.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Wolf Point East
The best of Chicago: great food, bars, shows, safe. Only downside is the commute. If you have a car, great; otherwise it can be tough.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Parc Huron
River North is amazing neighborhood. It is lively in the night so if you are young and are looking to go out, its the perfect place
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
400 North LaSalle Apartments
Love the neighborhood. A lot of restaurants and bars in the area. Very social area and I love going out in the neighborhood
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Sterling
This is the place to be. So many restaurants and bars. There are people out at every time of day/night and it feels safe.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Grand Plaza
Great area with lots of restaurants and bars. Very walkable with small parks and close to the beach and lakefront path.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
Safe neighborhood. Lots of light around the area and people outside at all hours and not too noisy in the surroudning.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
Great restaurants, convenient shopping. Close to public transit. Amazing place to live, best neighborhood in Chicago
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
One of the best nightlife areas and safer than most. It's great to live here because you have all at your door.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Plaza 440
Great neighborhood, and so is nightlife. There's a variety of bars and restaurants around. Safe environment.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
Great neighborhood to live in right next to all the top bars and restaurants as well as convenience stores.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
EnV Chicago
Great neighborhood. Lots of wonderful restaurants in walking distance. Close to red, brown and blue lines.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Grand on Grand Condo Association
It's a safe neighborhood with a lot to do within walking distance. Also is close to public transportation
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Wolf Point West
Love being in the heart of river north. Very easy to get to Gold Coast and Old Town and the Loop as well.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
Walking distance from bars, restaurants, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Jewel Osco, Mag Mile, and the loop.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
west77
I feel very safe in this neighborhood. there is security downstairs in the lobby to check guests in.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
It is perfect for me. Close to work. Close to nightlife. Close to transit to get anywhere I need to.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
Great location for public transportation! I feel very safe in this neighborhood!
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
Great shops and restaurants around, convenient transit location.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
Even within 1.5 miles of the Loop, it's possible to find quiet, scenic little places to breathe in the city. River North holds several of these pockets. We're walking distance to the lake in one direction, and a park in the other.
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6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Apartments above the LaSalle Flower Shop
It's a safe area, close to work as well as other professional offices, high rises and grocery stores. The down side, however, is the noise due to a fire station nearby.
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None
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Grand Plaza
Transit stop two blocks away. Giordano's is right next door. Many restaurants and one block from Magnificent Mile.
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Chicagoan
River North Park is directly across the street from a church for religious goers -- this is a very convenient trip for Sunday mass.
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6
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River North Park
close to classes, grocery stores and pharmacies
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
2 East Erie
Love river north! Really downtown and close to it all. Super young area with a ton of bars and restaurants. Also a quick walk to loyolas Watertown campus that I study at on the weekends.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
It is nice to live a little bit outside of Streeterville because things are quieter, but it is still very close to campus (we live about a 10 minute walk away). There are many restaurants and bars in the area, and we also live walking distance from a few nice parks. It is also very convenient to have a Trader Joe's, a Jewel Osco, Walgreens, and CVS within a couple blocks.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
2 East Erie
river north is a very busy, diverse, accessible and high energy area. it remains our favorite neighbor in the city and is centrally located which makes transit to most other parts of the city or even the suburbs feasible. in recent years there has been an increase in petty theft, but i always felt safe.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
This place is very touristy and often quite crowded, but it feels very safe and there is a lot to do. Restaurants tend to be very crowded but I've been to a couple that are very good - just need to make reservations in advance. There are also cheaper eating options (chipotle, etc). Within walking distance to a lot of fun places like Navy pier and the museum campus!
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Chicagoan
So close to the loop, it's easy to get anywhere. All stations and lines are connected and are a short walk between each other, and buses are frequent with many stops.
It's a sort of business district, so you're in the middle of all the skyscrapers, but they're all beautiful and nothing seems to block out the light. The riverwalk is gorgeous, and is especially fun to walk along on summer nights. It feels safe and secure.
There are so many places to go out to eat, we're spoilt for choice. That said, the cost of living downtown is pretty high. As much as with any big city like Chicago, e.g. New York.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
This neighborhood has everything every person needs. There are restaurants from all genres of food, bars for every person's liking and lots of fun places to visit. Being so close to the river, lake and tourist attractions, it's easy to host guests from out of town and be close to everything they need to see!
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River Plaza
River north has everything you need. I have a car, but walk everywhere - jewel-osco is centrally located, target is nearby, and great restaurants are everywhere. The neighborhood is also right across the river from the loop for east access to millennium park and the Chicago theater.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
Love the neighborhood - great location with proximity to the loop, Lincoln Park, etc. Wish the city of Chicago had better East-West trains for access to Wicker Park and Logan Square, but given the train system, this location is truly the best you can get.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
We decided to rent this apartment for its proximity to our work place in the Merchandise Mart. The nearest train station is Brown Line at the Merchandise Mart. There's a CVS, ACE hardware store, and Starbuck's across the street.
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River North Park
River North is a nice neighborhood, conveniently located near the Loop for work and for restaurants/bars in other nearby neighborhoods. I would probably prefer another neighborhood closer to a grocery store and restaurants/bars.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Wolf Point West
Walking distance to all the best nightlife & restaurants downtown. Movie theaters nearby, close to riverwalk, walking distance to millenium park (if you dont mind walking far), MIchigan Ave and State Street shopping.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
420 W Ontario St
Definitely not as noisy , much quieter than where I use to live in River North. Sometimes a little bit of a walk to some of the bars and restaurants but you have the Grand bus that picks up right in front of the apt.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Kingsbury Plaza
Within walking distance to countless bars, restaurants and clubs. Also near the lake, shopping on Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier. As a young woman I feel relatively safe walking alone during most times of the day.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
There's so much to do in River North and we're right near everything you could want; however, be prepared for all of the tourists. It's a lot and less of a neighborhood than many other Chicago areas.
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River Plaza
I have lived in Chicago my whole life and River North is my favorite neighborhood. I work in the loop so it is an easy walk to work and there are tons of restaurants and bars around the area.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
west77
River North is a great location. A lot of bars and restaurants in the area. Transportation is made easy. Plenty of grocery stores. Downside is there are a lot of noisy clubs in the area.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
630 N Franklin Condos
There is no better location if you want to be in the midst of the hustle and bustle of downtown. I am on a high floor and don't have issues with noise from bars and restaurants.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
AMLI River North
I am not a bar scene person but this is still a great area to be in with lots of great shops and restaurants. Plus it is close to public transit, the loop and the lake.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
You're so close to grocery stores, restaurants, the movie theater and bars! If you don't want to drive everywhere and be close to the action, this is the place to be.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Ontario Place
Great spot to be in as long as you can handle the weekend noise since while you close to everything thag does mean your in the middle of the noise on the weekends
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Flair Tower
You can't beat the location, safety, and overall vibe of river north. This is technically in the "arts district" of river north, which means it's less crowded.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
225 W Huron St
Awesome neighborhood. In the midst of nightlife but not too loud. Close to Whole Foods and Trader Joes. Walking distance from the lake and Old Town as well.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
west77
I love living in the area. It is very clean and safe/well lit because it is by all of the big hotels. However, that mean you are also is a touristy area.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Plaza 440
The neighborhood is relatively safe and well lit. It is great to be so close to many bars and restaurants and have close access to public transportation
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Chicagoan
I'm not a fan of River North. It doesn't provide the bars/restaurants I enjoy and it's difficult for friends to find parking when they want to visit.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
400 North LaSalle Apartments
River North is always busy and high tourists in certain pockets. I always felt safe even at night, though there are a lot of bums all around
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
An expensive neighborhood to live in, but you feel way more enmeshed in the city here than you do over in streeterville in my opinion.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Bernardin
The neighborhood is calm and friendly but also very beautiful. It's peaceful but you can also find things to do! Lots of dogs too :)
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
645 N Kingsbury St
Neighborhood is the best in Chicago, but building is a little more secluded than others (which can be nice because quieter)
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Wolf Point West
River North is a great area to live - anything you can possibly want is within walking distance - right out the front door
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
2 East Erie
Lots of shopping (State st and Michigan Ave), bars, and restaurants. There are also a tons of gyms in the neighborhood.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
The neighborhood is lively and fun. Lots of restaurants and bars nearby. Also very close to mag mile and subway lines.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Sterling
Lots of restauraunts, night life, and fun things to do in the area. I love the River north area its been a lot of fun
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Sterling
Great restarants, nightlife, a great gym nearby (FFC Gold Coast) and a nice park as well (Washington Square Park)
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
Great part of the river north/river west area but we need a grocery store! That is the only fault to this area.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One River Place Condominiums
Vibrant young people everywhere. Lots of places to eat. Very good location. Always something to do everyday
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
River Plaza
Centrally located, but can get over run with tourists in the summer and winter. Convenient red line access.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
2 East Erie
The neighborhood is so nice and peaceful! You can do lots of things. I love the city and people around me.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
AMLI River North
Lots of restaurants and bars to check out in the area. Bus station stop and divvy stop are very close by.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Two River Place
There are tons of bars and restaurants in the area as well as Michigan ave right down the street........
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
west77
Everything is walkable distance and the stores near are very useful and high end. I love living here.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Asbury Plaza
Great neighborhood! I always feel very safe, there is a doorman i nthe lobby to greet you everytime.
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Marina City
It's downtown, so you basically know what you're getting. Busy during the summer and on weekends.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Trump Tower Chicago
Very fun, "happening" neighborhood. Center of all that Chicago has to offer!
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10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
AMLI River North
If you’re willing to have a commute to campus, it’s worth it.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Caravel
Lots of restaurants and activities.
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One Superior Place
close proximity to bars, restaurants, parks, shopping, and work! most everyone is friendly, and there are a ton of kids, families, and dogs. love this neighborhood!
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
One River Place Condominiums
Best restaurants in Chicago, close to the blue line.
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Wolf Point West
there is time where it can be bad and good. But overall its a fun and nice place. Great people, friends
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5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
225 W Huron St
River North has everything you could ever need
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9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
30 East Huron


Getting to Know
River North

Neighborhood Boundaries
dining
Adagio Teas
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
Beatrix River North
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Osteria La Madia
Portillo’s Hot Dogs & Barnelli’s Salad Bowl
The Capital Grille
Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar
grocery
Trader Joe’s
Whole Foods Market
convenience
7-Eleven
7-Eleven
CVS Pharmacy
fitness
Amplified Pilates Center
CorePower Yoga
ENRGi Fitness
Flywheel Sports
Pure Barre
Reform Chicago
River North CrossFit
River North Gym
UFC Gym
coffee
Asado Coffee Roasters
Brunch Cafe
Peet’s Coffee
bus
125 (bus)
156 (bus)
156 (bus)
22 (bus)
29 (bus)
36 (bus)
65 (bus)
65 (bus)
65 (bus)
rail
Brown Line (metro)
Red Line (metro)
parking
Mart Parc Wells Garage
MidCity Parking 430 W Ohio St
River North Parking, Inc 11 E. Illinois St.
SP PLUS Hubbard221
Valet Parking Professionals Smith and Wollensky Restaurant - Valet Kiosk

Best Apartments
in River North


Studio $1,842
1 Bed $1,709
2 Beds $3,387

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Studio $1,595
1 Bed $2,000
2 Beds $4,100

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Studio $1,744
1 Bed $1,917
2 Beds $2,763

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Studio $2,172
1 Bed $2,486
2 Beds $3,914

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Studio $1,665
1 Bed $2,126
2 Beds $3,319

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Studio $2,411
1 Bed $2,962
2 Beds $3,769

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Nearby Neighborhoods

Neighborhood Guide
River East
A Developing Area with Lots of Eateries and Popular Entertainment Spots
Neighborhood Guide
Streeterville
With an interesting historical background, Streeterville is an attractive and family oriented neighborhood.
Neighborhood Guide
Gold Coast
Gold Coast is a culturally diverse neighborhood with great restaurants, bars and fashion boutiques!
Neighborhood Guide
Magnificent Mile
Magnificent Mile has a developed and contemporary neighborhood with several shopping and dining options throughout the area.