Welcome to Chicago’s vibrant Southport Corridor, a dynamic neighborhood nestled in the heart of the Lakeview community. This bustling stretch of Southport Avenue, between Belmont and Irving Park, offers a unique blend of trendy boutiques, delectable dining, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a local seeking something new or a visitor exploring the Windy City, Southport Corridor promises an unforgettable experience. I lived in this area for about a year and loved it. It is a fantastic community and I am so happy I can share it with all of you!
Transportation to Southport
From Chicago Via Public Transportation
Southport is easily reachable via the Brown Line, however, that is the area’s only stop on the L. The easiest way to get there from downtown Chicago is to hop on the brown line at any elevated station in the loop and take a train to Southport. It is about a 30-minute ride.
Southport “L” Station
Again, I might be a bit biased here, but this might be one of my favorite “L” stations.
First off, it always feels like there is a friendly staff member on-site ready to help. And it’s for better or for worse only a brown line stop, making it a little less crowded and very straightforward to navigate.
I do though want to point out here that the brown line does not operate 24/7. Most days there are no trains from 2 am- 4 am. This of course depends on the direction you are traveling and the day. Please check the schedule before you go. Also, note that at night I have found the “L” to offer fewer trains. This means you might be waiting for up to 45 minutes or more instead of that every 15-30 minute schedule.
Via Car
We have lucked out in finding parking spots within the surrounding neighborhoods, however, parking (especially for free!) is a gamble. Most street parking also ends around 6 pm. Also please make sure to check for any Cub home games or Wrigley Field events as parking will be nearly non-existent in these cases unless you are willing to pay an arm and a leg for it!
Shopping
Alice & Wonder is as catchy as its sign! Honestly, their fun sign, which changes pretty frequently has given me all the feels from “Oh my gosh that’s so me!” to out loud laugh-crying! And that’s just from the sidewalk. Inside they have fun merchandise with quirky sayings, home goods, apparel, and of course Chicago items.
Pink Moon Bay Boutique has a nice selection of cozy sweaters and women’s apparel. They also have fashion accessories.
Paper Source is a chain that offers (well) paper goods. From fun and unique journals to stationery and knick-knacks there’s always something unique on their shelves. Honestly, as a writer stationary shops are my jam! And that’s why this one had to make the list.
Baby Dolls Boutique features baby books, baby/children clothing, and jewelry. There is also a Chicago flair with some of the merchandise!
Mini Wonder– This children’s store has this element of sunshine and play! From bright, silly sayings shirts, to unique toys and much more. This place just makes you smile.
Activities in Southport
Watch a movie at The Music Box. They offer indie films and movie events like “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” During the Summer they also feature an outdoor Music Box Garden Movies Series!
If you’re looking for a theater production up north try the Mercury Theater Chicago. They have a variety of shows throughout the year with most tickets starting around $45.
This playground is smack dab at the center of it all, right on the street side by side with shopping and dining. Sheli (Bernard) Community Center (& Park) offers a jungle gym with a slide, swings, and climbing equipment. It also has a Cubs theme!
Just a few blocks over tucked away in the neighborhood is Juniper Playlot. This cute park offers water features during the season and sand. It also has a large spinning playground platform! This is a park where if you go, you should have a backup outfit or even swimwear for younger children.
Dining, Treats & Drinks
On the Corridor
Weekends call for a toast… French Toast! Crosby’s Kitchen has you covered with delicious French Toast that has hints of Vanilla and Cinnamon. Our table also enjoyed the Lake View Omelet and a Fried Egg Sandwich. Most menu items are near or at the $15 mark. This spot only offers a brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday. However, it is open daily for lunch and dinner.
Corridor Brewery & Provisions offers a beautiful backdrop for a meal and/or drink. The building’s brick was one of the restaurant’s features along with silver industrial beer-making supplies. There is also outdoor seating offered during the patio season. Their food menu consists of burgers, sandwiches, and artisan sandwiches. Prices start around $15 a plate.
If brownies or blondies are your thing then you got to check out Brou’ne. This dessert place was the first bakery I’ve been to that focuses mostly on brownies and has so many different types to try. They also sell cookies.
A walk from Southport
If you are looking for the best budget burger in the area for only $6.10 you can get an RHR Burger and fries at Redhot Ranch! Not only did it feel like a steal, but the burger was absolutely delicious! Just remember to bring cash to this cardless place. It is about a 16-minute walk from here to the Southport station.
With a rooftop and outdoor dining, The Piggery offers a downtown party atmosphere up North. The Restaurant opens its kitchen at 11 am on weekdays and 10 am on Saturdays and Sundays for their bunch. The Piggery offers Daily specials including a Taco special on Tuesdays: $5 for 2 Tacos and $6 Margaritas (Original or strawberry!) most menu items begin around that $15 mark and include choices of sandwiches, burgers, and more. This restaurant is about a 24-minute walk from the Southport “L” station.
Walkability
One of the highlights of Southport Corridor is its walkable layout, inviting visitors to explore its streets on foot. The well-maintained sidewalks, vibrant storefronts, and tree-lined avenues contribute to an enjoyable walking experience. In this area, after the snow falls, the sidewalks are usually shoveled right away. It isn’t uncommon to see a snow plow (go-cart?) shoveling the walk areas! The biggest quirk to the area is that only one side of the South Port Brown Line station offers an entrance.
Know Before You Go to Southport
Like most retail shopping-dominated areas, this location doesn’t come alive until the shops do. I always recommend going in the afternoon to make sure you catch the shops during their open hours.
I also recommend checking the Wrigley Field schedule. During game and event days the area is known to get busy. This may affect transportation as well, as parking is nearly impossible to find, and public transportation may become crowded. Please note that buses may detour during events as well.
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