Northwest Side, Cook County
Avondale, Chicago
A diverse neighborhood with a growing dining and brewery scene
Avondale is a diverse, evolving neighborhood on Chicago's Northwest Side, known for its growing dining and brewery scene, its industrial heritage, and its convenient location. The neighborhood is adjacent to Logan Square and Wicker Park and is part of the Avondale community area. Avondale combines historic industrial buildings with a vibrant new restaurant and brewery corridor, making it one of the fastest-growing dining destinations in Chicago.
History & Local Character
Avondale was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a residential and industrial neighborhood, with manufacturing and the railroads providing employment. The neighborhood has a diverse population, including Polish, Mexican, and other immigrant communities. In recent years, Avondale has seen significant gentrification, with new restaurants, breweries, and residential development along Milwaukee Avenue and the surrounding streets.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Avondale centers on Milwaukee Avenue, Belmont Avenue, and Diversey Avenue, with restaurants, breweries, and shops. The residential streets feature historic two-flats, bungalows, and apartment buildings. The neighborhood is adjacent to Logan Square, Wicker Park, and Irving Park, and the Kennedy Expressway runs through the area.
Housing & Real Estate
Avondale offers a range of housing, from historic two-flats and bungalows to condos and new construction. Prices have risen with gentrification but remain more moderate than nearby Logan Square and Wicker Park. The market is competitive, and the neighborhood's dining scene and transit access are draws.
Restaurants & Shopping
Avondale has a growing dining and brewery scene along Milwaukee Avenue, with restaurants, bars, breweries, and cafes. The area has become known for its craft breweries and independent restaurants, and the neighborhood offers a range of cuisines. The dining scene continues to expand with new openings.
Schools & Education
Avondale is served by Chicago Public Schools, with several public and charter schools in the area. The quality of schools varies by location. The neighborhood's growing family population has increased demand for school options.
Parks & Recreation
Avondale has several parks, including Avondale Park and the nearby Kosciuszko Park. The neighborhood is near the 606 trail and the parks of the Northwest Side. The area has limited green space within the neighborhood, but the nearby parks and trail provide recreation.
Transportation & Accessibility
Avondale is served by the CTA Blue Line, with stations at Belmont and Logan Square nearby. The Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) runs through the neighborhood. The Milwaukee Avenue corridor is a major bike route. The neighborhood is highly walkable and bike-friendly.
Local Businesses
Avondale supports a growing small business community of restaurants, breweries, cafes, and creative businesses along Milwaukee Avenue and the surrounding streets. The neighborhood's craft brewery scene and dining corridor have made it a popular destination, and the area continues to attract new businesses.
No businesses are listed in Avondale yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Milwaukee Avenue dining and breweries
- Avondale Park
- Kosciuszko Park
- Nearby 606 trail
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Growing dining and brewery scene
- More moderate housing than nearby neighborhoods
- Blue Line transit access
- Diverse, evolving community
Considerations
- Rising housing costs with gentrification
- Some areas have industrial character
- Limited green space within the neighborhood
- Some areas need continued investment
Avondale FAQs
Is Avondale part of the City of Chicago?
Yes. Avondale is a neighborhood and community area within the City of Chicago, located on the Northwest Side. It is not an independent city.
Is Avondale known for breweries?
Yes. Avondale has become known for its craft breweries and dining scene along Milwaukee Avenue, with several breweries and restaurants that have made it a popular destination.
Is Avondale affordable?
Avondale offers more moderate housing than nearby Logan Square and Wicker Park, though prices have risen with gentrification. It remains a relatively affordable option on the Northwest Side.