Welcome to Gold Coast
A contemporary neighborhood bursting with character and upscale amenities
A classic and upscale community located in downtown Chicago, the Gold Coast mixes quiet, tree-lined streets with bustling commercial districts, offering the best of both worlds in one convenient location. Known for its high-end retailers and fine dining opportunities, Gold Coast is the prime location for those who want to see and be seen and those who seek a luxurious lifestyle. Enjoy plenty of diverse housing options, from stately mansions to luxe condos and apartments, and take a short walk to the Magnificent Mile to indulge in a shopping spree.
With several busy commercial districts surrounded by quaint and peaceful residential spaces, life in the Gold Coast is ideal for anyone who loves a mix of the great outdoors and luxury living.
What to Love
- Gorgeous tree-lined streets dotted with prestigious homes
- Close to the lakefront with beautiful beach access
- High-end retail and dining opportunities on every corner
Local Lifestyle
With beaches bookending the outskirts of the neighborhood and quick access to the shore, the Gold Coast is ideal for those who enjoy spending their time outdoors during the warmer months. Loaded with character, recreational opportunities, and the best luxury shopping and dining destinations, life in the Gold Coast is truly easy-living. Serene neighborhoods and walkable streets give way to the lively downtown center where residents appreciate the best of both worlds: small-town charm and endless entertainment opportunities in one small district.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Craving steak and seafood? Make a reservation at Tavern on Rush, an upscale luxury steakhouse along the famous Rush Street, or visit Gibsons Bar and Steakhouse for the best prime Angus beef in the city. Both destinations offer excellent fine dining opportunities and unparalleled service — make sure to call early for reservations, as they’re always busy.
Blue Door Kitchen and Garden is a farm-to-table oasis led by Chef Art Smith. Letting the seasons dictate the menu, this restaurant is known for its rotating creations and relationships with local farmers and purveyors. Hoping to bring an honest reputation of sustainably sourced ingredients in a flavorful and healthy menu, Blue Door Kitchen and Garden is the place to experience if you’re craving quality, handcrafted meals and desserts.
3 Arts Cafe in Restoration Hardware offers excellent, high-quality meals in one of the most detailed and intricately designed dining spaces in the city. Located in the historic Three Arts Club in the Grand Central Garden courtyard, 3 Arts Cafe features timeless classics for brunch and dinner and offers an esteemed wine collection from top wineries in America and Europe.
Visit the Oak Street District for high-end luxury retailers like Dior, Prada, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. With one-of-a-kind gems in a small, centrally located space, Oak Street is ideal for those on the go looking for designer brands and unique finds. Another favorite shopping spot are the 900 North Michigan Shops attached to the Four Seasons Hotel. Boasting dozens of stores on six stories and with additional restaurant options and entertainment spaces, the 900 Shops are a favorite destination for upscale luxury shopping in the Gold Coast neighborhood.
Things to Do
Oak Street Beach is a popular summer hotspot for swimming in the lake. The beach features a waterfront cafe, volleyball rentals and bike rentals, and a beautiful mural running along the Lakefront Trail and the Oak Street Beach underpass. The perfect place for swimming and catching up with the friends, Oak Street Beach is the go-to summer destination to cool off under the Midwestern sun.
An annual event held along the shores of Lake Michigan, the Chicago Air & Water Show is a spectacular event of awesome displays in the air and in the lake. A favorite event since its inception in 1959, it is the largest free show of its kind in the United States and features aircraft performances, children’s activities, water-skiing and boat demonstrations, and the best performances by daredevil pilots. Spend the day on the beach and be “wowed” by these jaw-dropping stunts and incredible talents.
Relax on the grounds of Washington Square Park nestled across the street from the Newberry Library. A tranquil location during the warm summer months and an enchanting hideaway in the winter, Washington Square Park features a stunning floral garden and fountain and is a popular destination for weddings and casual afternoons spent in nature.
Book a room at the palatial Waldorf Astoria Hotel and enjoy a state-of-the-art spa experience and award-winning dining options. Deluxe rooms include white marble bathrooms, a soaking tub, and a fireplace in the sitting area for those long Chicago winter nights. Offering beautiful cityscape views and impeccable hospitality renowned throughout the world, a stay at the Waldorf Astoria is a true luxury experience.
Schools
There are several high-achieving schools in the Gold Coast neighborhood. Some include: