Buena Park, Chicago is a hidden gem in the Windy City. Although it’s a smaller Chicago borough, it brings the same magic as other larger neighborhoods nearby. From close lakeside living to convenient public transportation, learn why locals love living here and what makes this area so special.
Where is Buena Park in Chicago?
Buena Park, Chicago is a borough located Uptown. It’s adjacent to Lake Michigan on Chicago’s North Side and nestled between Wrigleyville and Montrose Park.
Buena Park, Chicago: Top Highlights of This Popular Borough
Buena Park is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Chicago for many reasons. Here are the top highlights it offers residents and visitors:
Proximity to Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
As an Uptown borough, Buena Park has plenty of CTA stations within close walking distance to make getting around Chicago a breeze. Popular public transit stations include Ravenswood and Sheridan.
Unique Uptown Location
Since Buena Park is located between Uptown and Lake Michigan, it offers a unique coastal and metropolitan living experience. It’s close to Lake Shore Drive, which connects to Chicago’s lakeside beaches. You can wind down from the bustling city and soak in the sun within a five-minute drive.
The north side of Buena Park nestles up to Lakeview. Residents of Buena Park are neighbors to the vibrant North Halsted and Wrigleyville.
Small Town Charm
Because Buena Park isn’t a large borough, it brings small town living in the big city. It’s not as densely populated as other Chicago neighborhoods, with around 54,000 residents. It also has tree-lined canopy streets, single-family houses, and parks, which are all walkable.
Notable Schools
Buena Park is a family-friendly neighborhood due to its notable schools. The Walt Disney Magnet School and Joseph Brennemann Public Elementary School are highly rated as one of Chicago’s premier public educational institutions. The Lycée Français de Chicago School is also nearby and recognized for its dual-language learning program in French and English.
5 Fun Things to Do in Buena Park, Chicago
Looking for fun things to do in Chicago’s Buena Park? Here are the five must-see attractions.
1. Stroll Through & Around Montrose Beach
Although Montrose Beach is technically in Lincoln Park, it’s only a five-minute drive from Buena Park and is the largest public beach in Chicago. It’s a dog-friendly lakeside beach with many recreational activities and events to attend.
You can rent volleyball equipment, kayaks, kiteboards, and paddleboards. Onsite amenities include food concession stands and designated grill areas. The Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is nearby with over 300 bird species and 150 yards of natural shrubs and trees at The Magic Hedge.
Montrose Beach also hosts popular events, like the annual Chicago Kids and Kites Festival. The City of Chicago provides free kite kits for families to build and decorate their kites with live DJ music and face painting.
You can access multiple train stations nearby, including:
•Wilson via the Red or Purple Line
•Argyle via the Red Line
•Sheridan via the Red Line
•Bryn Mawr via the Red Line
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you can take advantage of Buena Park’s proximity to Lake Shore Drive.
2. Take a Free Walking Tour of the Hutchinson Street Historic District
The Hutchinson Street Historic District is a Chicago historical landmark. You can register for a free walking tour by Buena Park Neighbors, guiding you along two blocks of historical prairie-style architecture. Learn the local history between 1890 and 1920 and enjoy sightseeing the uniquely designed residences of Chicago’s notable architect, George W. Maher.
3. Eat Al Fresco at Bar on Buena
The Bar on Buena isn’t your ordinary beer and whiskey bar. They’re a Mexican-American fine pub with locally sourced ingredients and daily specials. They also have a dog-friendly patio during the warmer seasons.
Enjoy delicious fusion cuisine like:
•$2 a la carte tacos
•Seasonal cocktails like rhubarb and lavender gin
•Vast whiskey menu, including Canadian, English, and Irish whiskey
•Mocktails, including passion fruit margaritas with CBD and THC
The nearest CTA station is Sheridan via the Red Line, an eight-minute walk.
4. Enjoy a Jazz Show at Green Mill Cocktail Lounge’s Historical Venue
Did you know legendary jazz musicians like Billie Holiday regularly performed at the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge? Enjoy daily jazz nights at this historical music venue right here in the Buena Park neighborhood of Chicago. During warmer seasons, they offer outdoor patio seating and live shows. No dress code is required!
There are multiple train stations within a five-minute walk, including:
•Argyle via the Red Line
•Wilson via the Red or Purple Line (the closest option—two minutes away)
•Ravenswood via Union Pacific-North (UP-N)
•Montrose via the Brown Line
•Bryn Mawr via the Red Line
5. Enjoy Vegan Cuisine at Loving Heart Vegan Cafe
Whether you’re a vegan or not, the Loving Heart Vegan Cafe offers tasty casual dining with an all-organic menu. Their most popular plant-based meals include Korean BBQ wraps with cashew-based sauce, burgers, fruit and protein smoothies, and whole cakes for dessert.
The nearest CTA station is Wilson via the Red or Purple Line, a 10-minute walk away.
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•Renovated apartments with walk-in closets and organizer shelving
•In-building retail stores, business center, and 24/7 gym
•Bus stop at the entrance
•Walking distance to Lake Michigan
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