Blue waves that stretch to the horizon. Long sandy beaches with palm tree shade. Waterfront condos as far as the eye can see… Envisioning Hawaii or somewhere in the Caribbean? Well, we’re not talking about a tropical island you’d find halfway across the globe. Nope. Think a little closer to home-that’s right, it’s all right here in our very own Midwestern metropolis of Chicago, Illinois.
With its miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, dozens of public beaches and yes, even palm trees imported for the summer, Chicago is as much a vacation paradise as any faraway destination with oceanside resorts. And, for those who crave sand, surf and sun, perhaps the best way to live it every day is in one of Chicago’s amazing lakefront condos.
The residential high-rises in Streeterville and Gold Coast have the closest proximity to Oak Street Beach-considered by many to be Chicago’s most exotic-feeling locale. Tall palms transplanted from Florida sway in the refreshing lake breeze and sunbathers lounging on chairs and beach towels bask in the warm sunshine. Sandal-clad patrons enjoy frosty beverages and a nosh at Oak Street Beachstro, where all the dining is al fresco and live musicians play fun tunes that everybody knows.
Across Lake Shore Drive, which separates the beach from Chicago’s lakefront condos, is a string of sought-after accommodations that include European-style vintage residences and modern architectural towers with spectacular views. Many of these properties are full-service condominiums or apartments with luxury amenities and even their own rooftop pools. Some of the perks of living at these lakefront Chicago condos include valet parking, 24-hour doormen, on-site dry cleaners, state-of-the-art exercise facilities, party rooms and communal (and sometimes private) gardens, terraces and roof decks.
On hot summer days, Chicago’s lakefront abounds with activity-both on land and in the water. People of all ages can be seen splashing in the waves, having picnics on the beach, building sandcastles, playing volleyball, tossing Frisbees and strolling along the water’s edge. Out in the lake Jetskis and speed boats race around while kayakers and paddle boarders battle the surf. Sailboats and tour cruises voyage out into the deep blue as banner-hauling planes and high-flying kites circle above.
Imagine having all of that outside your front door. A virtual tropical retreat within steps of your Chicago abode. Only one type of Windy City real estate puts you in the midst of this truly vacation-like setting… the Chicago lakefront condo, unlike anywhere else in the world.
