Welcome to Bucktown/Wicker Park
An inclusive, artsy community with short commutes
Bucktown's name comes from the Polish immigrants who settled there in the 1830s and continued to populate the area through the end of WWII. The Polish families in the area were known for keeping goats, which they called "bucks”. It's a name that's stuck for nearly two centuries. Like much of Chicago, Bucktown and the adjacent area of Wicker Park underwent a period of gentrification in the 1970s. However, unlike other areas of the city, it was primarily artists moving into the Bucktown area. That artsy spirit is still apparent in Bucktown today, which is known for its trendy, bohemian vibes.
Bucktown and Wicker Park cater to families, with excellent parks and single-family homes that exude charm. You'll have a short commute to downtown, with good links via the Blue Line and the 606. The peaceful, friendly neighborhoods and proximity to central Chicago make Bucktown and Wicker Park popular places for families and young professionals who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of busier areas.
What to Love
- Trendy, welcoming neighborhoods with a bohemian energy
- Great shopping and dining options from both independent and nationally-known brands
- Beautiful tree-lined streets and charming single-family homes
- Selection of fantastic in-demand loft conversions
Local Lifestyle
Bucktown and Wicker Park are all about celebrating the arts and individuality. Wander its tree-lined streets, and you will likely discover a stunning mural, a live music performance, or a charming independent boutique. It's a friendly community and tends to be quieter than other neighborhoods, thanks to its lower population density. There is a festive neighborly vibe to the place, and you'll likely get to know the people in your neighborhood as you frequent its independent cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Bucktown and Wicker Park are known for their exciting selection of eateries. Start with a trip to Etta, a local brunch hotspot. Get there early to grab a spot on the sunny second-floor patio. For a hefty dose of old-school cool, head to Club Lucky. The Italian restaurant serves up icy cold martinis in a classic diner environment. The Leavitt Street Inn and Tavern is the perfect place to meet friends for drinks, especially if you can snag a seat around the fire on the patio. On date night, the only place to go is Antico. It's an industrial-chic space serving seasonal northern Italian dishes.
Things to Do
Bucktown's bohemian energy means something interesting is always happening in the area. Walking tours, ice cream socials, and interest group meetups are common.
Living here puts you near The 606, an elevated trail perfect for walking or riding your bike. It’s a great way to connect to other parts of the city. You'll want to stay up-to-date on what's happening at Wicker Park, a hub of social life in the area. The park hosts the weekly Wicker Park Farmers Market on Sundays and has an excellent playground and dog park. You'll find several other parks in the area, including Pulaski Park, with its free community pool.