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Andersonville

Overview

This North Side neighborhood is anchored by its strong Swedish roots, which are evident in the traditional Swedish bakeries and shops that punctuate this multi-block stretch of Clark Street. But modern Andersonville is as diverse as the rest of the city of Chicago, and over the last decade has been populated with upstart boutiques, fitness clubs, specialty stores, and an ever-growing number of restaurants, both ethnic and modern. Close to the downtown lakefront, Andersonville has gone through a lot of changes since those immigrant Swedish farmers began to move north in the 1850s. Today, it remains one of the most concentrated areas of Swedish culture in the United States, and is home to a diverse assortment of residents and businesses, including one of Chicago’s largest gay and lesbian communities, a collection of Middle Eastern restaurants and bakeries and a thriving Hispanic commercial area. The area draws many students, as Roger’s Park is home to Loyola University’s Lake Shore campus and Northwestern University isn’t far north. Alternative theater, health food restaurants and a revival cinema add an edge to the neighborhood.

Shopping

Modern entities (Starbucks) reside next to old-style hardware stores and eclectic gift shops, here. Antique and interior design supply stores also dot the main strip here, as do boutique jewelry shops. This is a residential neighborhood, so you can find real-life services here, from dog grooming to dry cleaning.

Dining/Nightlife

Known for traditional Swedish fare and a wealth of bakeries and markets, Andersonville is quickly becoming home to a much more diverse restaurant scene. New Modern American and Italian offerings are making the neighborhood a culinary destination for more than the cinnamon rolls at Ann Sather's, as are high-end culinary supply shops.

Culture & Attractions

The Swedish American Museum preserves the Swedish-American heritage of Chicago, and has expanded to fill three floors. There are some permanent exhibits, galleries for other temporary shows, a Children’s Museum of Immigration, museum store and Swedish library.