Old Town's rich history and fine amenities make this one of Chicago's most interesting and easy neighborhoods to explore. Home to the city's large German immigrant population in the late 1800's and early 1900's, and later the heart of Chicago's hippie community during the turbulent 1960's and 70's, the area is now one of the most fashionable and sought-after residential areas in the city.

Old Town's proximity to the Loop, Lincoln Park and the lakefront make this a desirable neighborhood for locals. Additionally, Old Town boasts a vibrant commercial district along Wells Street, with an outstanding mix of restaurants, pubs, boutiques and theater. Old Town is also home to two outstanding outdoor art fairs. The Old Town Art Fair (located on the quaint streets of the historic residential district of Old Town, also call the Old Town Triangle district) and the Wells Street Art Festival (located on Wells Street), both draw large crowds and take place on the second weekend in June.

Old Town can be reached by taking the CTA Red Line (subway) north from the downtown Loop area, getting off at the Clark/Division stop. After exiting the subway, walk west two blocks to Wells Street, then north on Wells. Another option is the CTA Brown Line. Get on a Brown Line elevated train anywhere in the Loop, and get off at Sedgwick. A cab or ride share is also a great alternative.

Given the proximity of Old Town to Chicago's Gold Coast, you may want to combine this tour with the Gold Coast Tour.

(Approximate distance of Old Town walking tour: 1.75 miles.)