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Overview
Ravenswood's boundaries are as fluid and flexible as the creative folks who live there. Some say it's part of Lincoln Square, others Lakeview or Uptown. All are technically correct, but it's easy to see why other Chicago neighborhoods want to claim this one. With awesome culinary and arts scenes, Ravenswood is not just a night-out destination, but a place for a family, foodie, or burgeoning creative to plant their feet.
Ravenswood's history dates back to the late 1800s when a real estate group developed the land to be a prime neighborhood for families and commuters--a reputation the area still holds today. Full of historic, architecturally inspiring homes and a renowned entertainment district, Ravenswood is a local favorite nestled on the city's North Side. Ravenswood manages to capture the convenience of the city combined with the charm of a smaller town, and thanks to a very active Chamber of Commerce, there are neighborhood festivals scheduled year-round. With everything from a neighborhood-wide garage sale to a local art walk, this neighborhood cultivates a community among its residents.
Homes in Ravenswood
Where To Live
The neighborhood is known for its residential, "courtyard-style" buildings. Ravenswood Gardens is the historic eastern subdivision of this area and is home to beautiful, single-family homes and condos with a vintage appeal. El stops on Western Avenue, Damen Avenue, and Montrose Avenue are convenient to Ravenswood residents on the southern end of the neighborhood, while residents farther north enjoy living near beautiful Winnemac Park.
Price Vibes
While Ravenswood features some truly palatial homes in its historic district, the rest of the neighborhood is considered one of the area's more affordable options, thanks to its distance from the Downtown area. You'll most commonly find courtyard buildings in the area that offer reasonably priced condos, especially when compared to some other North Side neighborhoods. Factory spaces that have been converted into loft-style condominiums are common in Ravenswood, giving the area's condo options more flair than its neighbors. If you're looking to drop a bit more cash, though, there are plenty of single-family homes to be found on Ravenswood's tree-lined streets.
Around Ravenswood
Where To Eat
The dining scene in Ravenswood offers a wide selection of cuisine. Enjoy everything from sushi and upscale French fare to gourmet burgers and locally crafted beer and liquor. Ravenswood has become one of the city's dining destinations, with several Michelin-Star restaurants found in the neighborhood.
Friday Night Fun
Grab some Greek food and a local microbrew, then check out a concert at the renowned Old Town School of Folk Music. For a special occasion, check out Band of Bohemia, the first brewpub to receive a Michelin Star. Fine food and drink is the main nightlife attraction in this typically quiet neighborhood.
The Perfect Sunday
Take a run through one of the three parks in the neighborhood and treat yourself to a restful afternoon at the regional public library. With sizable willow trees and calming nature trails, Winnemac Park is a jewel of the neighborhood. Later on, you might catch a game at a wood-fired pizza joint or grab some local beers to watch it at home with friends.
Transportation Options
While Ravenswood isn't exactly the closest neighborhood to Downtown, it has one major upside: the Metra commuter rail runs right through it, making the ride to the Loop quick and painless. Additionally, the Brown Line and Red Line trains service the Ravenswood area for those trying to navigate more locally. Ravenswood is also fairly car-friendly, offering plenty of free street parking. And that distance from Downtown we mentioned? It also makes traffic in the area much more tolerable.
Living Here
Locals Love
Great transportation access • Buying local • Ample street parking
Residents Say
I love Ravenswood because it feels like a town that has it all in the middle of a big city. You don't need to own a car and can get to bars, restaurants, nightlife, schools, grocery shopping, and more easily. Not only does the area have a lot to offer, it's a short walk to the Brown and Red Line trains and the Metra for quick access to any of the other great neighborhoods in the city. Many of the buildings are old factories, which adds to the historic charm of the area.
- Ravenswood Resident
Homes for Sale
Think Ravenswood might be the right neighborhood for you?
There are plenty of potential dream homes for sale!
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