Logan Square

Some of Chicago’s most beautiful, historic boulevards meander through Logan Square, a community bound to the beauty of its past. Today, it is an ethically and income-diverse neighborhood with affordable housing and a sociable atmosphere.

Bounded on the east by the Chicago River and bisected diagonally by Milwaukee Avenue, Logan Square, along with neighbor Humboldt Park, is home to a Chicago’s largest convergence of Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central and South American immigrants, as well as a sizable Mexican-American contingent, creating a rich, cultural presence. An influx of young artists and professionals who have been priced-out of nearby Bucktown and Wicker Park are contributing to the gentrification of the neighborhood.

Public Amenities, Services and Civic Organizations

The Logan Square Neighborhood Association reflects the commitment residents have to the community and helping it to grow and prosper. The Historic Mansion Housewalk is held each September and gives a glimpse into the area’s lustrous past. Festivals include the Taste of Logan Square, Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival and yes, Baconfest Chicago. July 4th brings the best unofficial, amateur fireworks displays in town ¾ find a rooftop deck and settle in for a raucous night! Logan Square offers a branch of the Chicago Public Library and boasts the Illinois Centennial Memorial Column in its namesake square. Parks and tot-lots include nearby Humboldt Park, featuring lush gardens and an historic boathouse and music court and Palmer Square Park. The Logan Square Farmer’s Market runs Sundays, June thru October.

Housing Stock

A post-WW1 housing boom in the area resulted in an abundance of Victorian greystones, larger apartment buildings and rows of mansions. The neighborhood lost much of its luster over the long years but is in the process of revitalizing. Though larger homes that reflect Logan Square’s rich history may top the $1M mark, there are many bargains still to be had in the region. Investment properties are available in the form of multi-family dwellings and open lots at a wide variety of price points. Two to four–flat walk-ups are a good option for the individual who seeks income property and can be found in the mid $100,000s on up to $600,000. Smaller bungalows start in the high $200s. Many new condo and townhome developments offer 2-bed units in the high $200s to mid $300s. Vintage rehab condos are also available.

Transportation

Plentiful street parking is a unique feature to Logan Square, despite its many large courtyard apartment buildings. Two CTA Blue Line stops service the area at Logan and California. The Blue Line heads directly to O’Hare International Airport in about 20 minutes. CTA bus routes transect all the main thoroughfares, including Milwaukee, Fullerton and California Avenues. Easy access to the Kennedy Expressway is available on Western Avenue at Elston.

Shopping, Dining, Nightlife

Going out in Logan Square typically means bar-hopping and/or dining. And there are great entertainment venues within reach. Catch live music or maybe a comedy concert at the Congress Theater or a cultural event at the Logan Square Auditorium, which draws both rock bands and Latino events. Bowl a few frames at the Fireside Bowl or spend a late night at the Euro-disco, Jedynka. Shopping for a dinner party? Look no further than Provenance Food & Wine . Whether you seek authentic Cuban or South American cuisine or a trendy gastro-pub, Logan Square has it all. 90 Miles Cuban Cafe will satisfy your craving for fried plantains, while neighborhood favorite, Lula Café has a great menu for vegetarians and the health-conscious. Newcomer Revolution Brewing Company is adding some cache to the neighborhood fare.

A night out can begin or end right off the Western CTA Blue Line stop at the Green Eye Lounge. The quirky and popular, Hotti Biscotti, hosts an open-mic and boasts the best drink and food specials in town.

Logan Square also contains one of my favorite dog daycare facilities in the city, Active Dog Daycare and Boarding!

Schools

Public elementary schools (Pre-K thru 8) include Charles Darwin and Richard Yates. St. Sylvester’s and St John Berchman’s offer schooling in the Catholic tradition. Jehovah Lutheran School is also nearby on Belden Avenue. Kelvyn Park High School, Roberto Clemente and Lane Tech all offer Grades 9-12.