Gold Coast Chicago Apartments

Right off the bat, the Gold Coast gives you that classic Chicago feel—grand, yet totally approachable. Just a quick hop from downtown, this neighborhood is a little slice of the city’s ritzy history mixed with today’s desire for high-end amenities. With clusters of historic mansions and vintage row houses sprinkled with luxury modern apartment buildings, there’s no hiding the neighborhood's grandiose charm. Add to that the architectural delights of historic giants like the Old Chicago Water Tower, the Charnley-Persky House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Drake Hotel on East Lake Shore Drive, and you have a neighborhood that’s brag-worthy.

Life here strikes a balance between the peace and quiet of residential bliss and lively streets peppered with the city’s best shops, eateries, and nightlife. It’s an area that attracts everyone, from eager young professionals to those looking to enjoy a stylish retirement. With Gold Coast rentals ranging from stunning high-rise apartments to quaint, gilded-age apartments, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds. And enjoy they do! This neighborhood hosts a variety of local events and festivals that bring everyone together, from outdoor concerts and art shows to food festivals and holiday celebrations. It’s events like these that take Gold Coast from an upscale shopping and dining district to a communal neighborhood full of friendly faces.

Where is Gold Coast, Chicago?

Gold Coast sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, just north of the Chicago Loop and River North. It is bordered by North Avenue to the north, Lake Shore Drive to the east, Oak Street to the south, and Clark Street to the west, its proximity to the lake makes it the perfect neighborhood for anyone who loves a stunning view. This is especially true given that many Gold Coast apartments sport rooftop decks, providing residents with spectacular panoramas of the lake and the Chicago skyline from the comfort of their own homes.

Close to other prestigious Chicago neighborhoods, Gold Coast residents can quickly head over to Streeterville to the southeast to admire the cultural attractions like Navy Pier. To the northwest, Old Town is befitting its name, filled with historic charm that’s been upgraded with modern conveniences. Lincoln Park to the north is famed for its expansive parkland, zoo, and conservatories, an ideal neighborhood for those fun, nature-infused day trips.

This central spot makes Gold Coast apartments a top pick for anyone looking to live right where the action is, surrounded by all the perks of city life.

Things to do in Gold Coast

Living in the Gold Coast means having some of Chicago's most fascinating attractions right at your doorstep. Start with a leisurely walk past the historic mansions like the Charnley-Persky House and the Patterson-McCormick Mansion on North Astor Street, for a glimpse into the architectural past.

For bibliophiles, the Newberry Library is just around the corner. This neighborhood gem is stuffed with rare books and manuscripts from the past six centuries. There’s also the International Museum of Surgical Science just a short stroll away, and is the only museum dedicated to surgery in North America. Not for the faint of heart, you’ll find skeletons, surgical artwork, and even a two-headed mummified child!

Those with a black Amex can try to find their upper credit limit while shopping along the Magnificent Mile, where a mix of high-end boutiques and retail giants offer the best shopping experience in the city. For a more relaxed vibe, grab a book and head to Mariano Park for some daydreaming in a picturesque setting. Oak Street Beach is the perfect sandy-city getaway, where an afternoon sunbathing or a quick dip in Lake Michigan brings us back down to earth.

Gold Coast, Chicago, Transportation

Gold Coast stands out as one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Chicago, though that doesn’t mean you don’t have options! The CTA Red Line serves as a quick link to downtown and other parts of the city, while multiple CTA bus routes zip you around the neighborhood and beyond.

For cyclists, Divvy bike stations are scattered throughout the area, and dedicated bike lanes make cycling a viable and safe option. Car owners should note that while parking is available, it can come with restrictions and permits might be necessary depending on the area. Overall, getting around Gold Coast is easy, whether you’re on foot, biking, or using public transit.

Gold Coast Schools

Public, Private, and Charter Schools

If you're raising kids in Gold Coast, you're in luck when it comes to schools. This neighborhood packs some top-notch educational opportunities where students from kindergarten to high school can thrive. The Ogden International School focuses on global education, teaching multiple languages with a focus on understanding diverse cultures. We also have the Latin School of Chicago, a place where academic rigor meets a plethora of clubs and sports, providing students with a well-rounded experience.

Universities, Colleges, and Higher Learning Institutions

The proximity to higher education institutions adds to the appeal of renting in Gold Coast. Notably, Loyola University Chicago's Water Tower Campus undergraduate and graduate programs are steps away from the neighborhood, while the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law provides top-tier legal education near the center of Gold Coast.

Gold Coast Events

Gold Coast can get quite lively, with events popping up throughout the year. Annual highlights include the Gold Coast Art Fair and the Wells Street Art Festival, which attract artists and attendees from all over the city. There are plenty of farmers markets, like the popular Division Street Farmer’s Market, which brings everyone together for some outdoor shopping, while seasonal activities such as summer beach events and winter holiday celebrations provide year-round enjoyment.

Gold Coast is a socially active community where book clubs, trivia nights, knitting circles, and other friendly get-togethers pop up regularly, giving newcomers an opportunity to quickly find friends amongst neighbors.

Having a beautiful apartment in Gold Coast Chicago comes with some major perks. Just steps from your door, Rush Street is filled with a decadent array of dining spots, from old-school Chicago steakhouses like Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse to trendy seafood destinations like Hugo’s Frog Bar. For fancy meals with a modern twist, Maple & Ash serves an innovative take on the classic steakhouse experience, with a plush lounge and a business casual dress code.

While pizza lovers stuff themselves at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, a local hangout that won’t break the bank, The Goddess and the Grocer is where the laidback and health-conscious go to get their fill. Steakhouses, pizza shops, and salad bars galore, don’t think that Gold Coast cuisine stops at the border. This neighborhood is also home to some delicious international cuisines, from authentic Italian dishes to the exquisite Japanese omakase at Sushi By Bou.

Renting in Gold Coast means that every meal can be an adventure, and with such a variety right outside your door, you’re in the lap of luxury and at the heart of a culinary paradise.

Gold Coast’s nightlife has something for everyone, whether you’re into high-energy lounges or dark, quirky dive bars. The Pump Room in the Public Hotel has a taste of old-school glamour where you might just feel like you’re stepping into a scene from a classic movie. It’s perfect for a fancy first date, where you can dress up and sip crafted cocktails while pushing through the get-to-know-yous.

For a different vibe, Zebra Lounge is a piano bar with a lot of character (and a lot of characters!) It’s a great place to unwind with friends and sing along, or listen to others try to sing along, to some live tunes. Sparrow transports you back to the 1930s speakeasy era, mixing old-world charm with modern mixologist skill and ideal for anyone who appreciates a well-mixed drink, post-prohibition.

There are also several seasonal events that transform the neighborhood into a wild party scene or an elegant gathering spot, depending on the occasion. Finding an apartment in Gold Coast means your nights can be as lively or as laid-back as you want them to be, with the best drinks and fun just a stroll away from your living room.

In Gold Coast, coffee lovers are in for a treat. From Intelligentsia Coffee, where locals love to mingle, to the stunning 3 Arts Club Café inside a Restoration Hardware, getting your caffeine fix in this neighborhood is akin to a mini luxury escape. For on-the-go javaholics who need a pick-me-up between errands, Whispers Coffee & Tea serves out of quaint kiosk right in the middle of Mariano Park.

If you’re craving something heartier or find yourself out late, Tempo Cafe has a full diner menu around the clock. Of course, those who love their staples will have access to the handful of Starbucks, Peet’s, and Dunkin’s that are scattered around the neighborhood.

Whether you're a coffee aficionado seeking artisan brews or someone who values quick and easy access to familiar comforts, renting in Gold Coast means you're never more than a few steps away from your next great cup.

Despite its flashy reputation, Gold Coast has a good mix of swanky high-rises and surprisingly affordable apartments at a wide range of prices. It’s a diverse market that really caters to different budgets and lifestyles, offering an inclusivity that is common throughout Chicago.

Most of the living spaces in Gold Coast are in high-rise buildings, which is typical for a neighborhood so close to downtown. But if you love old-world charm, you won’t be disappointed. There are some truly stunning historic mansions along streets like Astor, Goethe, and Schiller. And if you’re after something a bit more modern or budget-friendly, there are plenty of options in newer high-rises and older mid-rise buildings. You can even snag a vintage apartment if that’s more your style.

As for prices, they’re pretty reasonable considering the locale. You can get into a Gold Coast studio apartment for just under $2,000 a month. One-bedroom apartments go for around $2,000 to $4,000, and a two-bedroom will set you back between $3,000 - $6,000. If you need more space, three-bedroom apartments average above $6,000, and if you’re really looking to splurge, there are some spectacular four-bedroom apartments, though they do come with a heftier price tag. If you're eyeing a spot in downtown Chicago, Gold Coast should definitely be on your radar—it’s got the perfect blend of history, luxury, and a lively community vibe.

Affordable Gold Coast Apartment Buildings:

• 65 East Scott Apartments: Conveniently located with comfortable amenities and a community feel.
• Astor House Apartments: Offers spacious units with great city views and a rooftop pool.
• Elm Street Plaza Apartments: Features a fitness center and sundeck, close to shopping and nightlife.
• 1111 North Dearborn Apartments: Modern amenities in a prime location, including a fitness center and outdoor pool.
• 1350 North Lake Shore Drive Apartments: Stunning lakefront views with a range of studio to three-bedroom units.
• 20 East Scott Apartments: A charming building offering a boutique living experience in a vibrant neighborhood.
• 750 North Rush Apartments: Modern interiors with excellent facilities, including a fitness center and business center.
• 40 East Oak Apartments: Located just steps from Michigan Avenue, offering urban living with all conveniences.

Popular Gold Coast Vintage Apartment Buildings:

• 14 West Elm Apartments: Classic charm with modern comforts, located in the heart of Gold Coast.
• The Seneca Apartments: Historic building with unique architectural details and modern updates.
• The Chatelaine Apartments: Offers a blend of historical charm with contemporary living spaces.
• 10 West Elm Apartments: Features elegant finishes and is located close to shops and eateries.
• 50 East Chicago Apartments: Provides a luxury living experience with spacious layouts and vintage aesthetics.
• The Deco Lake Shore Apartments: Art Deco-style building with lake views and updated interiors.

Gold Coast Luxury Apartments:

• Chestnut Tower Apartments: Offers upscale amenities and refined apartment living in a desirable location.
• One East Delaware Apartments: Luxury living with top-notch facilities like a rooftop pool and fitness center.
• 55 West Chestnut Apartments: Combines luxury with convenience, situated near local attractions.
• 8 East Huron Luxury Apartments: State-of-the-art amenities and sleek designs for sophisticated living.
• Eight 0 Five Luxury Apartments: Modern luxury with incredible skyline views and first-class amenities.
• Aurelien Apartments: Contemporary design with rooftop lounges and a fitness club.
• Two West Delaware Apartments: Offers elegance and luxury with a pool, gym, and on-site management.
• The Sinclair Apartments: High-end fixtures and fittings with exceptional community facilities.
• State & Chestnut Apartments: Modern apartments with vibrant designs and an energetic community feel.
• 850 North Lake Shore Drive Apartments: Luxury lakefront living with historical significance and modern luxury.

In 1882, Potter Palmer, one of Chicago's most influential capitalists, laid the foundation for what would become a landmark on North Lake Shore Drive, between Banks and Schiller Streets. The construction of his extravagant 10,000 square-foot mansion, designed by architects Henry Ives Cobb and Charles Sumner Frost, took three years and cost a whopping one million dollars to complete.

This grand residence was the first time a local elite ventured north of the Chicago River, setting the stage for the development of the prestigious “Gold Coast” neighborhood. Potter Palmer's move north spurred a wave of opulent constructions, leading to what many now recognize as one of the city’s most affluent areas filled with luxurious Chicago apartments and homes. Palmer, also renowned for developing State Street and owning the iconic Palmer House Hotel, alongside his socially prominent wife Bertha, hosted numerous dignitaries and presidents like Ulysses S. Grant, James Garfield, and William McKinley, particularly around the time of the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893.

The interior of the Palmer mansion was an eclectic mix of styles from around the world, featuring a three-story central hall, an Italianate atrium, a French salon styled after Louis XVI, an Indian-themed room, a Moorish room, and a grand ballroom. It showed off exquisite murals by Gabriel Ferrier, a spectacular spiral staircase, and even an elevator. Interestingly, the sprawling mansion had so many servants coming and going, twenty-six in fact, that there were no exterior locks to avoid slowing them down!

After Potter Palmer passed away in the mansion in 1902, Bertha continued to live there intermittently until her death in 1918. Their sons maintained ownership until 1930, when they sold it to Vincent Bendix, an aviation and automobile tycoon, for $3 million. Potter Palmer, Jr. reacquired the mansion in 1933 for half that price. Sadly, the historic mansion was demolished in 1951, and today, the site is occupied by two large buildings that house some of the most sought-after apartments in Chicago.

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