Living in the Medical District
Medical District apartments for rent come in all shapes and sizes. Small studios are perfect for university students looking for something a step up from a dorm. These come with kitchens that have all of the time-saving appliances like a dishwasher and microwave. They also provide a cozy space to set up your desk, and if your apartment is located on a higher floor, you’ll even have a nice view of the city to admire as you study or relax.
Larger one and two bedroom apartments are also available. These often have compact dining areas and spacious living rooms, and select units offer balconies. They also boast plenty of closet space, which is especially ideal for those who plan on taking advantage of some of Chicago’s fine shopping locales.
The Food Scene in the Medical District
The dining scene is small but strong in the Medical District. Chicago’s quaint Little Italy falls within this area. Taylor Street, the heart of Little Italy, is up-and-coming with tons of shops and restaurants. Mario’s Italian Lemonade is a local favorite, but you won’t live here long before declaring your favorite family-owned Italian joint. Don’t miss Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap, a traditional neighborhood gem that just happens to have won a James Beard Award. Greektown is just north of this neighborhood so you better brush up your gyro game. (May we recommend Greek Islands?) And as mentioned, the ultimate dining destination that is the West Loop is only blocks away.
Shopping
Apartments for rent in the Medical District have a quiet residential vibe, but offer all of the places you would go to run necessary day-to-day errands. A Target, Mariano’s, and Jewel aren’t far for all your grocery shopping needs. You’ll get a kick out of the view at Target: Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in North America, is visible from the lobby. Shopping and sightseeing—talk about multitasking.
Fun Fact
The world’s very first blood bank was established at Cook County Hospital in the Chicago Medical District. The success of the blood bank inspired similar initiatives around the world, ultimately saving countless lives and laying the foundation for modern blood banking practices.
Landmarks
Sports fans can peruse the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, or challenge a local to a game of bocce ball on one of the neighborhood’s charming courts. But if we’re talking about sports, we can’t forget to mention the Medical District’s proximity to the United Center. Get rowdy with the Bulls and Blackhawks fans all season long or just pay homage to the Michael Jordan statue outside. Concert goers take note: the United Center isn’t just for sports. It’s where the biggest musicians perform from U2 to Rihanna to Adele.
By the way, there’s also a different kind of sport played in this neighborhood—it’s a serious city-wide competition to find the best…wait for it…bacon. Baconfest Chicago is held annually at the UIC Forum and awards chefs for “achievement in the bacon arts.” Save the date!
Public Transit in the Medical District
Living in a Medical District rental means you are close to convenient public transportation options as well as easy access to 90/94 to the north and east. The CTA’s Blue and Pink Lines cut through this neighborhood and can take you right into the city. From the Clark/Lake or State/Lake stops, you’re within walking distance from theaters, shopping, dining, the Chicago River, and Millennium Park. Or you can transfer to the popular Red Line, which takes you north to Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville, and more.
