Portage Park, Chicago
Located on the northwest side of Chicago, Portage Park gives an amazing glimpse into the past and future of Chicago. It is a historic neighborhood with several 20th-century buildings that are still in use to this day – many of which are houses. The neighborhood offers easy access to beautiful parks, accessible public transportation, bustling shopping and dining districts, and some of the friendliest people in the state.
Real estate in Portage Park
Portage Park is a huge draw for those looking to live in single-family homes in Northwest Chicago. Many of the houses here were built during the 1900s. The Portage Park Bungalow Historic District, in particular, has several classic brick bungalows. You will also see other classy styles around the neighborhood such as Victorian and Tudor-style houses with coveted features like attics and fireplaces.
If you are looking for something more recent, there are also several newer homes around. Mixed in with the turn-of-the-century houses are Contemporary and Modern-style homes with beautiful landscaping. Both old and new apartments can also be found nestled in between. A number of residents can be seen living in condos with upscale amenities in the Six Corners area as well.
Schools in Portage Park
Most residents of Portage Park get their education from Chicago Public Schools. With more than 360,000 students enrolled, it is the third largest school district in the country. This school district is known for its selective enrollment in high schools like Lindblom Math & Science Academy and Roberto Clemente Community Academy. There are also more accessible options like Lincoln Park High School and Von Steuben Metropolitan Science Center. They even have specialized schools such as the Lenart Regional Gifted Center and the Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville.
Places to go in Portage Park
Portage Theatre – Built in 1920, the Portage Theater is one of the oldest movie houses in Chicago. This 1300-plus seater theater has remained a popular fixture in the neighborhood over the years, still attracting many to this day. Here, people can watch both silent and sound films, as well as catch exciting live events like concerts and plays.
Chopin Park – Named after Frédéric Chopin, Poland’s most famous pianist and composer, this 9.28-acre park is testament to the large Polish community that makeup Portage Park. It is the perfect place to spend with the family, having beautiful open fields that make the perfect spot for a picnic, scenic trails that make for great walks, and sports facilities like basketball and tennis courts.
Transportation in Portage Park
Residents of Portage Park enjoy great walkability with pedestrian-friendly roads and clean sidewalks. Bike lanes on the streets and numerous bike racks distributed around the neighborhood also provide bikers with convenient ways to get around town. In fact, you can even bike to Downtown Chicago by riding along Milwaukee Avenue.
For drivers, I-90 West provides a straightforward 10.5-mile route to and from Downtown Chicago. Alternatively, you could take I-290 West and take right to North Central Avenue to get to Portage Park 12.9 miles away.
To get to Portage Park by train, you can take the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line and get off at Montrose Station. Afterwards, walk one mile along West Monrose Avenue then turn left to North Long Avenue to get to the neighborhood.CTA also provides multiple bus routes to service the area. Among the easiest you can ride are #78 Montrose Avenue, #85 Central Avenue, and #56 Milwaukee Avenue.