Bucktown | Wicker Park

 

 

Many consider Bucktown and Wicker Park part of the larger West Town area. Residents in these neighborhoods appreciate the trendy shops and places to eat along Milwaukee Avenue, which runs through these areas. Bucktown and Wicker Park are found northwest of the Loop area.

Although these two communities neighbor one another along W. Bloomingdale Ave, they are generally considered distinct spaces that share a boundary. The name "Bucktown" is taken from the word for a male goat, "a buck," and was associated with the area in the days when it was agrarian and many goats wandered the then-pastoral grounds. Wicker Park is named after its founders, who were brothers that donated land to the public. Many residential areas in these neighborhoods are considered Chicago row houses in industrial, brick, and modern designs with the latest amenities and many expansive patio views.

 

Bucktown/ Wicker Park residents tend to dress well and participate in the thriving arts community at varying levels. With so many music cafes, it's difficult to avoid becoming involved or remain unfamiliar with the city's music scene. While this area has many single-family row houses and properties, there is something for everyone in the artisan district, whether it's the art, the food, the music, or being involved in a hip neighborhood.

 

In a district filled with craftsmanship, the culinary arts are truly a form of art and entertainment created by the local restaurants. Other establishments provide unique, remarkable experiences. The Map Room is a local pub with over 200 brews where guests can flip through travel books. Le Bouchon is a French restaurant with a menu of fantasically authentic cuisine.

Antico serves northern Italian cuisine and has a delightful patio to enjoy in the summertime. Dolci Amori is an Italian bakery with plenty of sweets and delightful concoctions. Big Star Tacos on Damen Street is another popular local favorite. Weegee's Lounge has a 1940s theme and shuffleboard table, which make it an original pub.

If you’re on a retail therapy excurision, AKIRA carries designer goods and clothing for women.

The 606 Trail is an elevated, 2.7-mile trail that was once a rail line and is now a place for brisk exercise or walking. Mozart (Amadeus) Park sees plenty of visitors and is home to summer film screenings.

Holstein Park in Bucktown is more of a traditional park with three acres of walking space, sports courts, and a city swimming pool. The Midtown Athletic Club is a members-only gym with a rooftop pool and sauna in addition to traditional workout facilities and tennis courts.

Wicker (Charles, Joel) Park has a gorgeous fountain and film screenings in the mainspace and is named in honor of the brothers who dedicated their land to the city of Chicago. The Hermann Weinhardt House is another iconic site in Chicago.