The community of the Loop includes the neighborhoods of both the Loop and Printer's Row.
Boundaries: Defined by the "L" track loop, Wabash (45 E) to Wells (200 W), Jackson (300 S) to Lake (200 N)
Chicago's bustling financial center combined with historic buildings, architecture, restaurants, shopping, museums, outdoor sculptures, and, of course, one of the largest buildings in the world (The Sears Tower), makes the loop a must-see in Chicago. Monday through Friday, the Loop buzzes with the sounds of office workers flooding into work and day tourists lining up to see the sights of Chicago. From Frank Lloyd Wright masterpieces to outdoor statues by Picasso, Chagall, and Nevelson, there is always something to discover. In the summer there is a Farmer's Market in Daley Plaza, and in the winter ice skating and a giant Christmas Tree draw visitors and natives alike. If the hustle and bustle gets to be too much, step into the Art Institute of Chicago, and see works such as Seraut's "A Sunday on La Grande Jette", and Picasso's "The Old Guitarist" or jump on a tour bus or trolley and whisk through the downtown area. Shopping also offers an escape, and with Lord and Taylor, Marshall Fields, and Carson Pirie Scott stores, to name a few, there is no lack of items to be seen and purchased. After hours, the nightlife springs into action as numerous bars and nightclubs open their doors and the theatergoing public rushes in to see performances at any of Chicago's four largest theaters. Transportation is abundant in the Loop. Each El and train line passes through downtown and there are numerous transfer points between lines. High-rises, new developments, and rehabbed buildings are abundant in the Loop area and many have secured parking. Anything from a studio to a penthouse or multi-level apartments can be found. Driving in the loop can be expensive and time consuming but there isn't much that can't be reached by train or a quick walk.
Web: http://www.greatersouthloop.org/
Boundaries: Polk (800 S) to Congress (500 S), State (0 E/W) to Clark (100 W)
Zip Code: 60605
Printer's Row derives its name from the many printing companies that once did business there. More recently, older buildings have been converted into loft apartments, restaurants, or boutiques, but are still identifiable by their cornerstones and commemorative plaques. The Dearborn Street Train Station also provides a welcome distraction with a variety of shops, cafes, and businesses contained in a historic, preserved former Train Station. The area is largely residential, and Dearborn Park provides an excellent outlet for joggers, walkers, bikers, and children, complete with a number of playgrounds nearby. Located just blocks from the Chicago Board of Trade, Printer's Row is the closest escape from the bustle of the Loop and equipped with an array of night clubs, restaurants, hotels, and theaters all within a short travel distance. In June, the Printer's Row Book Fair is frequented by over 70,000 people per year and is replete with seminars, book signings, performances, and outdoor tables hosting over 170 booksellers enticing visitors from throughout Illinois. Parking can be a problem here, but public transportation is ample and many of the restaurants have valet parking. The homes range from rehabbed brownstones and single-family homes, to high-rise apartments spanning from studios to three and four bedrooms.