Lakeview, IL, Website

Lakeview, Illinois Lakeview is found between Diversey Street and Irving Park Road, and west from the lakefront to Ashland Avenue. This interesting neighborhood has a history apart from that of Chicago. In 1865, Lakeview was officially made a town by an act of the Illinois General Assembly, and in 1887 the town of Lakeview was granted a city charter dividing it into seven wards. Two years later area had grown so greatly that (after a bitter fight) the Chicago City Council annexed the town of Lakeview.

The Clark, Belmont and Broadway shopping districts contain a wide variety of stores that accommodate all needs. The restaurants and bars cater to all tastes and are plentiful. Today, Lakeview is viewed as two areas: East Lakeview and West Lakeview. East Lakeview generously encompasses the area from Diversey Parkway to Addison and from the lake west to Sheffield. East Lakeview includes the neighborhood known as “Boystown.” This is Chicago’s gay district, and the alternative lifestyle is strongly embraced by the area’s inhabitants and businesses.

West Lakeview stretches west from Sheffield to Ashland Avenue and north from Diversey to Addison. Perhaps the hottest section of West Lakeview is the stretch of Southport from Diversey north to Irving Park. Over the past few years, this area has become the refuge of Lincoln Park expatriates who fled the congestion and high prices that plague Lincoln Park. West Lakeview has managed to retain its neighborhood charm while providing easy access to Lincoln Park, East Lakeview and Wrigleyville. This area is thickly covered with interesting restaurants, fashion-savvy shops, and more than a few neighborhood bars. The two brightest stars of West Lakeview are arguably the Mercury and the Music Box theatres, outstanding throwbacks to days when drama and film were truly wonderful experiences.