The oldest area of Chicago, the Near North Side dates back to the 1780s, and includes the site of the first permanent settlement, built by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, where his home and trading post in “Eschecagou,” in what is now the modern day Michigan Ave Bridge.
It is the northernmost of the areas that form central Chicago. Originally known as McCormickville, as many members of the McCormick family built their mansions in the area. Most of the neighborhood is known for its great wealth, being inhabited by the city’s elite since the late 19th century.
The Near North Side has the most skyscrapers in the city, as well as the largest population count and includes some of the most well known areas which include Old Town / Old Town Triangle Historic District, Gold Coast, Goose Island, River North and Streeterville (which includes Navy Pier). St. Michael’s Church in Old Town is among only one of seven buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire in 1871.
The area is home to new construction high rises, stone mansions, as well as upscale retailers, renowned restaurants and highly desirable schools. The area is also easily accessible through the CTA’s Red Line which runs as a subway through downtown, the Brown Line that goes through Old Town and River North on the way to the Loop as well as the Metra.
