North Center

The neighborhood known as North Center refers to a neighborhood in the North Side of Chicago, Illinois. Boundaries of North Center are Addison on the south, Montrose on the north, the Chicago River on the west and Ravenswood (1800 W) on the east.^[2] North Center has grown since the 1870s when the area was only accessible by the Chicago River and Little Fort Road (now known as Lincoln Avenue). North Center is considered a vibrant neighborhood with an eclectic mix of retailers, restaurants, live music, live theater, and service-oriented businesses. It is also home to some of the best public schools in the City of Chicago. Lane Tech High School, a top ranked well-rounded and diverse high school in the state; as well as Coonley & Bell Elementary. North Center was voted one of Chicago's best neighborhoods by the Chicago Magazine in 2014.^[3]

North Center’s history is deeply rooted in European cultural influences, from German, Polish, Czech, Romanian, Serbian, Greek, Croatian, French making the majority and that history can be seen in the architectural charm of the homes and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Also during this time, the Selig Polyscope Company produced some of America's earliest motion pictures and was based in Chicago. Along Byron Street near Oakley Ave and Western Ave, historic production buildings of the company are still standing and being used as residences and retail businesses. The neighborhood continues to grow and become more culturally diverse. The neighborhood includes bowling alleys, three city parks - including an indoor ice arena, a nearby library, a nearby movie theater complex, and North Center Town Square. The North Center Chamber of Commerce hosts many free family and community events throughout the year. North Center Town Square is also home to a Farmer's Market on Saturdays from June to October.