Of all of Chicago’s architectural treasures (Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe, and Rem Koolhaas all have left an indelible mark on the city), there is nothing like the elegance and coziness of one of its historic rowhomes. 

A classic brick façade welcomes you into this 19th-century archetype, located in the residential and collegiate Near West Side neighborhood. Breeze through the extra-tall front door, where the light and 12-foot ceilings will envelop you in calm. We love the ornate fireplaces throughout (there is even one in a bedroom). A landscaped micro-yard is the perfect space to meditate or have a sunset cocktail, while a meal on the charming patio makes you feel like you’re truly in the heart of this storied city (which you are). 

Tall and narrow it may be, this historic vacation rental in Chicago maximizes every inch, with plenty of spaces to stretch out or cozy up.

This vacation rental in Chicago is a multiple-level space with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. It has private entrances, including a private alley entrance with a two-car garage. You can also use the large walk-in closets throughout for meditation, fitness, or yoga.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Essentials, Air Conditioning/Heating, Free Parking on Premises, Wifi, Kitchen, Desk/Workspace, Washer/Dryer, TV, Iron, Hair Dryer, Shampoo, Smoke Alarm, First Aid Kit, Fire Extinguisher, Carbon Monoxide Alarm

AROUND

Mostly residential, the Near West Side is home to Maxwell Street, the birthplace of Chicago Blues. Culinary roots also run deep here: it’s where the Polish sausage sandwich was invented, and it’s home to two culinary and cultural enclaves: Little Italy and Greektown. Restaurant Row, in nearby West Loop, is a Michelin-starred playground. 

On Sundays, check out the New Maxwell Street Market, an iconic outdoor market that was started in the 1870s, with its live music, locally made wares, and street food. Hull House museum, founded by Jane Addams, is a former immigrant settlement and cultural institution nearby. The National Museum of Mexican Art can be found in the Pilsen neighborhood (appropriately, a port of entry for many Chicago immigrants from Mexico - and all over the world), and has a renowned collection of contemporary Chicago art, Latino folk art, and artifacts.

Chicago is also known for inventing the skyscraper. An excellent way to envelop yourself in its buildings' history and sights is by booking an architecture tour - there are even some that take you by riverboat. 

If you’d like to head out for a drink and feel like a local, the owner recommends Goose Island Taproom, The Empty Bottle, and the Violet Hour. Or visit the 103rd floor of the former Sears Tower – on a clear day, the views stretch to Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

LOCATION

Chicago, Illinois, USA. Nearest airport: O’Hare International Airport (20 minutes)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May to June and September to early October.