In every great city, there are neighborhoods that feel like crossroads—places where the past, present, and possible all converge. For me, River North is exactly that: a neighborhood of texture and tempo, of architecture and artistry, of elegance and ease. It's not just a backdrop for luxury living—it’s a living story, composed of moments, corners, and quiet revelations.
River North has always spoken to me. It’s layered, unexpected, and endlessly interesting. The kind of neighborhood where you can walk from a cathedral to a gallery to a dog park and pass all types of residential dwellings on the way. I know every corner of it. And I love every corner of it.
Not One Neighborhood—But Three
Most people don’t realize River North is made up of three distinct areas, each with its own flavor:
- The Cathedral District is north of Ontario, south of Delaware Place, east of LaSalle, and west of Michigan Avenue, and is home to the towering high-rises many people picture when they think of downtown luxury. It’s named, fittingly, for the spiritual landmarks at its heart—Holy Name Cathedral, the Episcopal church, and the beautiful synagogue on Delaware. For anyone drawn to architecture, it’s a stunner.
- The Gallery District, centered around Franklin and Superior Streets, bounded by Wells Street, Chicago Avenue, Orleans, and Huron Street, has an entirely different feel. Think brick-and-timber lofts, a few design-forward high-rises like Contemporaine, and a creative spirit that lingers in the air. You feel the history, but you also feel the evolution.
- Kingsbury Park—centered around North Kingsbury Street —is a neighborhood within a neighborhood. Sometimes called the “River Gold Coast,” it’s tucked away and tree-lined, with some of the city’s most beautiful and surprising homes. From stately rowhouses and spacious townhomes to top-tier condos, it’s luxurious without being showy.
A Place Where Every Life Stage Fits
What makes River North so special is how much it contains in a relatively small footprint. You want a high-rise? You’ve got it. A brick and timber or concrete loft? Check. A townhome with a private courtyard and elevator? Absolutely. And 10,000 square foot single-family homes nestled in the heart of it all. That mix is rare in Chicago—and almost unheard-of downtown.
It’s why so many families are planting roots here. Erie Park, with its adult green space, a beloved dog park, and a huge children’s playground with summertime water features, is a magnet for parents. There are six daycares within blocks. And from the Ronsley’s Brick and timber lofts to the dramatic elegance with city views of 400 Huron, I’ve helped many families find homes that don’t just meet their needs—they feel like an upgrade to their whole lifestyle.
Easy to Live. Easy to Love.
River North is one of the most connected neighborhoods in the city. Two train lines within walking distance. Multiple bus routes. Easy access to expressways. Quick trips to the Loop, the lake, and anywhere else your life takes you. It’s also brimming with endless restaurants, design shops, art galleries, cultural gems, global brands and unexpected moments of quiet beauty.
And yes, some are concerned about the Bally’s casino coming to the other side of the river. I remind people of what happened with Wolf Point—early anxiety was followed by a resurgence in value and demand. I believe the same will happen here. This is not a riverboat casino—it’s a world-class development and it will bring more energy, not less, to the neighborhood.
Why Now
River North is that rare place where you can find a bit of everything—style, soul, ease, elegance—and still feel like you’re part of a real neighborhood. It’s cosmopolitan and comfortable. Dynamic and deeply livable. Over the years, River North has revealed itself to me as a way of life. And that’s what Happily Ever Always™ is all about.