Vibrant River North

River North - the name says it all - the vibrant, social scene and warehouse district that clings to the north shore of the Chicago river. Here the city dines out, socializes its masses, works hard and hosts the steady flow tourists in its snappy and ever-current boutique hotels. Restaurants spill onto the streets, turning every evening into a festival of light and celebration. 

Office buildings, old and new, make this trendy, fast paced neighborhood a destination for progressive tech companies and law firms alike. TheMart, a massive single-zip-code building, anchors the neighborhood history while Wolf Point commands the latest and hottest new construction for both residential and commercial real estate.

River North was rebuilt after the devastating and redefining Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The area filled with municipal buildings, worker housing, warehouses and shipping facilities to serve the Port of Chicago. However, from 1920s through 1960s, the port relocated, the economy staggered and River North lost its industrial purpose. "It became a sleazy red light district," said Benet Haller, urban design and planning director for the City of Chicago.

In 1964 Marina City condominium towers opened at 300 N. State St. on the river started the rebirth and in 1974, Albert Friedman, chief executive of Friedman Properties Ltd., started to buy, restore and build commercial property in the southeast sector.

"I couldn't find tenants," Friedman recalled. "It was skid row.” Looking at the neighborhood now, one would never suspect the depravity of 4 decades past. River North has anchored recreation for the Loop and drawn tourists from near and far. It’s a beacon of activity and it feeds the growing frenzy to be associated with the Chicago River. Come step into the vibe.