portage park
A s the city’s streetcar line was extended in the early 20th century, residents discovered Portage Park, a small enclave on the city’s Northwest Side.
The neighborhood was a breath of fresh air for residents escaping crowded city tenements. Today, residents still enjoy the respite the neighborhood offers, along with its beautiful parks and access to public transit. Homes are at the heart of this community, which is part of Chicago’s historic Bungalow Belt. The majority of homes are classic bungalows or single-family homes, with a few condominium buildings. Portage Park’s namesake park is the largest on the city’s Northwest Side. A community gem since 1913, the park has trails, playgrounds, wide-open spaces, and a pool used in the 1970s for U.S. Olympic Team time trials.
Along Irving Park Road there is an eclectic mix of eateries including traditional steakhouses, classic diners, and casual coffee shops. There are also bars ranging from trendy cider houses and breweries to small dives and karaoke hotspots. Shopping is abundant in the Six Corners area with a resurgence of new shops. Portage Park is accessible by the CTA Blue Line’s Montrose Station and Metra’s Milwaukee District North stop just west of the expressway.
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