Streeterville, Chicago, is a lakefront community, making it among the most popular neighborhoods for its scenic views and vibrant waterfront activities. From sandy beaches to diverse dining and endless destinations, it’s no wonder that people travel all over to visit, and why locals love living here.
Explore everything that Streeterville has to offer with recommendations on the best places to visit, eat, and stay.
Where is Streeterville in Chicago?
The Streeterville neighborhood is located on the north side of downtown Chicago, nestled perfectly between the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. It’s a truly unique blend of coastal and city living, with plenty of things to do as a vibrant area in the city.
Streeterville, Chicago: A Local Travel Guide on Where to Visit, Eat, & Stay
Looking for fun things to do in Streeterville? Here are some of the best places to visit, eat, and stay with public transit directions.
Stroll Along the Iconic Navy Pier
Navy Pier is an iconic destination in the Windy City for locals and visitors alike. Also known as the People’s Pier, it’s a Chicago landmark that stretches over six blocks with over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, and more.
Its popular activities include:
•Centennial Wheel: A nearly 200-foot Ferris wheel and a major piece of Chicago’s cultural history.
•Boat Cruises: Dine on board with scenic views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.
•Public Art Installations: Check out beautiful public art displays while walking along the pier, like murals, massive sculptures, and stained glass windows.
Navy Pier is located at 600 E. Grand Ave, with various public transit routes, including water taxis, bike shares, and two onsite parking garages. The Millennium Metra station is about a 20-minute walk, but you can transfer to CTA Bus #124 to take you directly to the pier. The CTA also provides five bus lines to Navy Pier daily for easier travel.
Explore Lake Shore Park
Credit: Tripadvisor
With over seven acres and multiple facilities, Lake Shore Park offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities for all ages. Its amenities include tennis courts, a full-size gym, a children’s playground, and a quarter-mile soft surface running track. The park also hosts seasonal events year-round, such as Movies in the Park and summertime concerts.
Lake Shore Park is located at 808 N Lake Shore Dr. The Chicago CTA station is a nine-minute walk via the Red Line by train. The Michigan & Pearson bus stop is a four-minute walk via Bus 124, 143, 146, 147, 148, or 151.
Soak in the Sun at Ohio Street Beach
Nearby Navy Pier, Ohio Street Beach is a lakeside beach and the only one in Chicago that faces North—making it ideal for swimming enthusiasts who want to train in open water. You can relax in the sand, grill in designated areas, or simply soak in the sun to escape the bustling city.
Ohio Street Beach is located at 600 N Lake Shore Dr. The closest public transit option is the McClurg & Ontario bus stop, an eight-minute walk via Buses 120 or 121. The Grand CTA station is a 20-minute walk by train via the Red Line.
Shop at 900 North Michigan Shops
Credit: 900 North Michigan Shops
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly shopping option than the nearby Magnificent Mile, the 900 North Michigan Shops is a top retail destination. It’s a massive mall with seven levels of retailers, fashion boutiques, entertainment, and restaurants. From virtual golf to immersive art installations and a 22,000-square-foot dining hall, it’s perfect for hot, rainy, and any days.
The mall is located at 900 N Michigan Ave, with convenient public transit access. The Chicago CTA station is a six-minute walk by train via the Red Line. The State & Delaware bus stop is only a three-minute walk via Bus 36. There’s also an onsite parking complex with over 1,3000 spaces, pre-booking, and 24-hour access.
Fuel Your Coffee Needs at Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Credit: Starbucks Reserve
The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Streeterville isn’t your average Starbucks location. It’s a five-story multi-sensory experience designed for coffee lovers with different themes on each level. From a full-serve coffee cocktail bar to a rooftop terrace and cafes with floor-to-ceiling wall art, it’s a must-see destination.
It’s located at 646 Michigan Ave with multiple public transit options nearby. The Grand and Chicago CTA stations are an eight-minute walk, both via the Red Line. The Ontario & State bus stop is a six-minute walk via Bus 125.
Eat at the Best Local Restaurants in Streeterville, Chicago
Below is some of the best food in Streeterville to try, and why it’s worth checking out.
The Purple Pig
Credit: The Purple Pig
If you want to eat at one of the top-rated restaurants in Streeterville, The Purple Pig is a quality dining experience. Serving a blend of Italian, Greek, and Spanish cuisine in an open kitchen setting, it’s perfect for date night or takeout at home. They offer brunch, lunch, and dinner menus with weekly specials. From dock croquettes to squid ink pasta and an extensive wine list, you can enjoy Mediterranean flavors here in Streeterville.
The Purple Pig is located at 444 N Michigan Ave. The Grand CTA is a six-minute walk by train or bus via the Red Line and Buses 29 or 36.
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Credit: Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
If you prefer a more casual dining spot, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is a popular chain restaurant offering an upscale experience in a quick service setting. They have an all-you-can-eat menu with a wide selection of meats, marinades, and sides. Choose from premium sirloin with scallion sauce to BBQ calamari miso, spicy jalapeno edamame, and more–the combinations are endless.
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ’s Streeterville location is located at 210 E Ohio St. The Grand CTA station is an eight-minute walk by train via the Red Line. The Ontario & Wabash bus stop is a five-minute walk via Bus 125.
Beatrix
Credit: Beatrix Restaurants
Searching for bars in Streeterville? Grab a drink at Beatrix’s unique venue. It’s an American eatery with a wine/cocktail bar, coffeehouse, bakery, and outdoor seating. They have delicious handcrafted cocktails like mango gin & tonic and old-fashioned with single-barrel bourbon. There’s also a menu for all mealtimes with options like mushroom quinoa burgers, strip steak chimichurri, and cinnamon maple matcha drinks.
Beatrix’s Streeterville location is at 671 N St Clair St. The Chicago CTA station is a nine-minute walk by train via the Red Line. The Ontario & Wabash bus stop is only a five-minute walk via Bus 125.
Stay for the Weekend at Scenic Hotels in Streeterville, Chicago
Whether you’re visiting from the Chicago suburbs, out of state, or want a local staycation, here are some of the best places to stay in Streeterville.
The Drake
Credit: The Drake
Among the top-rated hotels in Streeterville, The Drake is a 1920s-style hotel with three upscale restaurants and a fitness center with lakeside views. There’s also an arcade at the ground level, making it perfect for families.
The Drake is located near The Magnificent Mile at 140 E Walton Pl. The Chicago CTA is a 10-minute walk via the Red Line. The State & Oak bus stop is a six-minute walk via Bus 36.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
Credit: Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
The Embassy Suites by Hilton is a budget-friendly option that sits along the border of Streeterville. Their amenities include pet-friendly rooms, free made-to-order breakfast, an onsite restaurant, and an EV charging station.
It’s located at 511 N Columbus Dr, conveniently near the Navy Pier and The Magnificent Mile. The Columbus & Illinois bus stop takes you to the entrance via Bus 66 and 124. The Grand CTA is a nine-minute walk by train via the Red Line.
Loews Chicago Hotel
Credit: Loews Chicago Hotel
Only steps away from Navy Pier, the Loews Chicago Hotel is a truly unique place to stay in Streeterville. Enjoy picturesque views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from the comfort of your room. They have an outdoor terrace for al fresco dining, an American cuisine restaurant, and a bar lounge onsite.
It’s located at 455 N Park Dr. The Millennium Station is a 10-minute walk via the ME or SSL Line by train. The Columbus & North Water bus stop is only a two-minute walk via Bus 66 and 124.
Find Your Next Apartment Near Streeterville, Chicago’s Lakeside
Looking for apartments to rent near Streeterville, Chicago? At TLC Management Co., we have properties offering near-lakeside luxury living in the city.
Our Gramercy Row Apartments in River North are minutes away from Streeterville and Lake Michigan with top-notch amenities, including:
•Kitchen French doors with a pantry area
•Curved glass block windows in original Art Deco style with high ceilings
•On-site garage parking with assigned lots and a bicycle storage room
•Convenient location steps away from public transit stops, retail stores, and restaurants
Browse our Chicago apartment listings or contact us at info@chicagorentals.com to start touring places today!
