A question we are commonly asked is what are the best family neighborhoods in Chicago?

City living isn’t just for young professionals. With a wide range of activities, family-friendly restaurants, and top schools, Chicago is the perfect place for your family to find a home.

We’re often asked what are the best neighborhoods to live in Chicago, a topic we love to talk about. In addition to our last piece, we’re honing in on which neighborhoods are the best for your family to settle into if you’re thinking about making a move.

Lincoln Park

In addition to a high level of safety, Lincoln Park’s sprawling park landscapes allow outdoor time to be mingled with fresh air and beautiful lake views. Home of the Lincoln Park Zoo, there are many other family attractions and activities that make this neighborhood perfect for raising a family. Bubble’s Academy is one of Chicago’s premier preschools with an arts-integrated curriculum. Check out the Little Beans Cafe for lunch with a large play space or RJ Grunts a classic burger joint voted the most kid-friendly restaurant in Chicago.

River North

The lively River North has many great options for families looking to live in a vibrant family neighborhood. For the kids, Sprouts Academy is a unique preschool with a green focus. Weekends are best spent at The East Bank Club, the perfect place for a family fitness membership with tennis, golf, swimming, and a kid’s activity center. Don’t forget to grab dinner at Quartino, a great family-friendly restaurant with an extensive Italian menu built for family-style sharing.

Gold Coast

An extremely safe and upscale neighborhood, family summers are always fun in Gold Coast with Oak Street Beach around the corner. Goudy Square Park is a great place to bring kids after a Saturday lunch at Lou Malnati’s pizzeria. Education is key in this family neighborhood as Gold Coast is home to Walter Payton College Prep, Northside College Prep, and Jones College Prep, which were voted some of the best public high school in the country.

West Loop

A trendy, rapidly-growing neighborhood, West Loop has many activities and restaurants perfect for city-living families. Green Beginnings is an award-winning preschool that focuses on teaching children skills to be lifelong learners. If you’re looking for fun ways to keep your kids active, POW! Kids offers martial arts and self-defense class, while Brooklyn Boulders is an ideal place to try out rock climbing. Stop by the Little Goat Diner after class for classic comfort food and a shake.

Lakeshore East

Lakeshore East is a safe, quiet neighborhood that sits where the river meets the lake. At the heart of this family neighborhood is a botanic garden with a gated children’s play park with interactive splash features and a dog and owner friendly dog park. Bright Horizons is a reputable preschool in the area and the Village Market includes easy grocery shopping and great dining options.

South Loop

South Loop is a wonderful place for a family Chicago experience. Situated right next to the Museum Campus, classic museums such as the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium are a short stroll away. Northerly Island is the perfect place to catch a family-friendly concert or take a nature hike at the 6-acre McCormick bird sanctuary. Afterwards, grab breakfast for dinner at the old-school Eleven City Diner.

If you’re looking for a new Chicago apartment or condo and want more info on neighborhoods in Chicago click below!