Secrets of Chicago

Secrets of Chicago

When it comes to the Windy City, Chicago offers many different popular attractions and locations that are well known. However, there are many hidden treasures that help make purchasing Chicago real estate extra special knowing that these gems are around.

While every city has its own secrets, there is something rather eclectic and wonderful about the little treasures that Chicago has all around the city. From homes that became famous thanks to being featured on popular sit-coms to hidden café and bars that you’ll find tucked away in different locations, Chicago has plenty to offer the visitor and resident on their travels.

Family Matters

Located in Lincoln Park at 1516 West Wrightwood Ave. is the famous Winslow house featured in the sit-com “Family Matters” for many years. The front of the house was shown every week on national TV during the long run of “Family Matters”. However, do not expect to see Urkel getting thrown out of the house by Carl Winslow.

Speakeasy

It is located in Pickwick Place Alley at 22 East Jackson Blvd, this one of the more storied locations in the city itself thanks to its unique history over the past century. The building itself started as an inn before becoming a café, speakeasy during the Prohibition days and a steakhouse. It is the smallest building in the Loop in Downtown Chicago.

Wicker Park Lawn Cannon

A cannon sits on the front lawn of 1558 North Hoyne Ave and has been there since 1934. The cannon originally stood at the Navy Pier during the First World War before being moved to its current location which was owned by the American Legion until 1973. The cannon however has stayed on the property.

Secret Table Tennis Club

While several cities have famous Chinatown sections, the one in Chicago may be unique for its back alley Table Tennis Club. If you are a good enough ping pong player and establish your credentials in other parts of the city, you’ll be invited to play at the secret Chinese Table Tennis Club if you really want to improve your game. It’s address is 215 W 23rd St where there is nothing more than a shuttered storefront, with brown paper covering up the windows. Look to the left and a narrow passageway will lead to the back of the building and you will find a door slightly open.

World’s Fair Ticket Booth

In 1893, the World’s Fair was held in Chicago and almost all the buildings and monuments that were created for the event have long since vanished. However, the rather innocuous ticket booth has managed to survive and is located at 313 North Forest Avenue in Oak Park. You can see the ticket booth which was originally designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in all its glory.

For those who are interested in purchasing a home in Chicago, it really pays to know the hidden treasures and small gems that are tucked away in the city. It makes investing in Chicago real estate all the more pleasurable knowing that these places are still around.  Do you have a Chicago secret that you would like to share?