Nestled by the north side of the Chicago River, River North is brimming with culture, vibrant nightlife, an active art scene, and rich history. This historic downtown Chicago neighborhood was once an industrial district at the turn of the century. Nowadays, you will find everything from luxury apartments to trendy restaurants housed inside factories and warehouses that have been renovated into prime real estate.
Beyond its historic charm, River North also has many must-sees. The Gallery District that primarily runs along W Huron St. and W Superior St. is home to the second largest concentration of art galleries in the US, second only to Manhattan. Travel to the south end and you can't miss the world's largest commercial building, Merchandise Mart. There you can grab a tour of the expansive structure that warrants its own zip code, take cooking classes, or explore the interior design offerings. Outside you will find the world's largest video projection art installation that illuminates the large building in the evenings. This marvel sits on the Chicago Riverwalk—a 1.25-mile scenic trail lining Chicago River's edge that stretches from Michigan Avenue to Lake Street.
You can find some of the most luxurious Chicago apartments in River North, such as those located in The Magnificent Mile district. Additionally, there are the high-rise apartment buildings that offer breathtaking views, like Wolf Point West and 71 W Hubbard St. Want to live close to a park? Parc Huron, River North Park Apartments, or the townhouses on W. Chestnut St. fit the bill. However, you don't want to overlook the former factories and warehouses that strike a captivating mix of contemporary flair and old-world charm.
Located at 676 N LaSalle St., The Ardus is a prime example. The former industrial warehouse now flaunts modern apartments with floor to ceiling windows and spa-like baths with rain showers. Yet, there is still a touch of industrial aesthetic woven throughout the layout with elements like wood floors and concrete finishings. Overall, The Ardus is comparable to Hensley apartments and Amli River North. Similarities include a 24-hour fitness center, a rooftop deck, average rent prices, and contemporary styling. Floor plans for these studios, 1 bedroom apartments, and 3 bedroom apartments that range from 300 – 1700 sqft are available here.
Walk 5 minutes north to W Chicago Ave and you will find another piece of Chicago's history that offers an old-meets-new aesthetic and luxury amenities. The Bush Temple is a pet-friendly apartment complex that was once the headquarters for the Bush & Gerts Piano Company. It exemplifies style and charm with its polished concrete floors, floor to ceiling windows, and custom cabinetry. Units are available as studio apartments and 1 bedrooms that range from 300 – 800 sqft.
Part of the allure of the River North neighborhood is that it is easily accessible to those who prefer walking. East Huron St. especially scores a high walk score, with shopping, restaurants, and nearby parks such as Connors Square and Seneca Park. However, public transportation is also widely available with Brown line and Red line CTA stops and city buses throughout the neighborhood, making any commute a breeze. Another amenity this neighborhood boasts is its own hospital—Northwestern Memorial Hospital on 251 E Huron St., located across from Northwestern University.
Whether you are craving a steak supper or a quick sushi lunch, River North is the place to be. This neighborhood's vast array of dining options will appease foodies, as well as those with pickier palettes. On W Kinzie St. near EnV Chicago, you can experience RPM Steak, whose luxury dining has been enjoyed by celebrities like President Obama and Lady Gaga. Afterward, hop on up to W. Hubbard St. to enjoy a sugar rush from Jojo's Shake Bar, which offers an array of decadent treats from over-the-top milkshakes to cookie flights. The following are a few dining establishments we recommend.
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The Bush Temple is comprised of two residences that unite as one FLATS community. The historic French Renaissance Revival building on Chicago Avenue was renovated in 2017 and featured 101 apartments, a fitness center with complimentary classes for residents, and a 6th floor roof lounge. The Bush Temple lobby is open to the public with work spaces, cozy seating, and interiors that are a nod to the historic building’s usage as the headquarters of the Bush & Gerts Piano Company. Ground-level retail is currently occupied by Foxtrot Market and Ingrained, a health food shop. The lobby serves as the bridge between historic and contemporary, linking to a brand-new 16-story tower with 129 apartments and roof terrace, lounge, and pool with breathtaking views.
The Ardus, just a few blocks away, is an old-meets-new apartment building which incorporates a former 1920s warehouse with a glass and steel structure. The Ardus features studio and 1 bedroom apartments and 2-bedroom duplex luxury apartments and a gym, rooftop deck and lounge, and lobby with a Heritage Outpost coffee shop. Read more about River North on our blog.