PORTAGE PARK
Thousands of European immigrant families settled in Chicago's far Northwest side's Portage Park neighborhood in the early twentieth century. Today, the neighborhood is home to one of the city's largest Polish communities. Aside from its historic significance, the neighborhood is home to charming shops, family-run restaurants, and a variety of entertainment options. Here's Culture Trip's guide to Portage Park in Chicago.
Commute Times
The Loop by train, by car
Merchandise Mart by train, by car
Union Station by train, by car
Millennium Park by train, by car
45m
26m
42m
21m
48m
23m
43m
26m
Boundaries
East to West - Irving Park to Dunning and the suburb of Harwood Heights
North to South - Jefferson Park and Forest Glen to Belmont-Cragin
Nearby Neighborhoods - Dunning, Old Irving Park, and Albany Park
Closed Prices:
$65,000 to $765,000
Median Sale Price:
$375,000
Average $ per sq ft:
$243
Association Fee Ranges:
$0 to $394/mo, $0
Square Footage:
415 to 4231 Sq. Ft.
Type:
Attached Home (Condo, Townhouse, Loft, etc.), Single-Family Home
Year Built:
Current Prices:
$114,900 to $635,000
Quick Facts
Bedrooms:
Bathrooms:
0 to 7 Bedrooms
1 to 5 Bathrooms
1896 to 2022
THE NEIGHBORS
When streetcar lines were extended into Portage Park, many Polish immigrants moved here from the city's tenements.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A residential area with many blue collar families.
A relatively quiet lifestyle without losing access to the Loop.
The history of Polish immigrants in Portage Park is still an important part of the community's culture. The Polish American Association, Polish businesses, the Polish Army Veterans Association, and a park named after the country's famous composer, Frederic Chopin, are all based here. You'll probably notice right away that this Northwest Side neighborhood attracts homeowners seeking a relatively quiet lifestyle while still having easy access to the Loop.
THE LIFESTYLE
The entire neighborhood is infused with a wealth of little shops and specialty stores.
There is no better way to discover what Portage Park has to offer than to dine at one of the many restaurants, bar and grills, pizzerias, bakeries, and delis.
UNEXPECTED APPEAL
While it lacks nightlife, there's still no shortage of entertainment for locals.
Step back in time at The Portage Theater, where locals flock to see international, independent, and classic films. Keep an eye on their calendar for upcoming live music performances. If you're looking for a bar, Irving Park Road is lined with a variety of them. Slip into a small dive or grab the mic and start belting out your favorite karaoke song — it's all here on this strip.
THE MARKET
A modern spin on Portage Park's traditional real estate style.
Beautifully landscaped vintage courtyard condominiums with charming touches like exterior stone ornamentation and tiled roofs are available as attached housing options. While many older structures have been renovated to retain their original charm, new condos and newer model single- and multi-family homes can be found on residential streets.
YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH
With the notable parkland network.
Led by the community's coveted namesake Portage Park's expansive grounds and Olympic-sized swimming pool.
TRANSPORTATION
The Blue Line provides public transportation to the Portage Park neighborhood. The Montrose station is on the northeastern edge of Portage Park in the Kennedy Expressway median, and the Irving Park station is on the southeaster edge of Portage Park in the Kennedy Expressway median as well. The Mayfair station on the Milwaukee District / North Line is located just west of the Kennedy Expressway.
ANNUAL FESTIVAL
Portage Park Elementary’s Festival Of The Arts
With the return of its popular arts festival, a Far Northwest Side performing arts elementary school is celebrating student artwork all week.
The annual Arts Festival at Portage Park Elementary, 5330 W. Berteau Avenue has reopened after being closed for two years due to the pandemic.
The school, which offers classes in drama, music, dance, and visual arts, usually hosts the festival at the end of each academic year to showcase work from students of all grade levels.