Uptown

Uptown sits along Chicagos North Side lakefront just a few miles north of downtown, mixing historic entertainment venues with laid-back residential blocks and easy access to the lakefront trail, Montrose Beach, and Montrose Harbor. The neighborhood is best known for its vibrant nightlife and music scene around Broadway and Lawrence, where landmarks like the Aragon Ballroom, Riviera Theatre, the Green Mill, and the Uptown Theatre draw big crowds and make on-street spaces around Uptown Square, Lawrence Avenue, and Broadway some of the toughest spots to find a space, especially in the evenings and on weekends.

Traffic can be busy near the theaters, beaches, and harbor, and street parking is a patchwork of meters, residential permit zones, and time limits, so it is important to read every sign and check the latest city rules before you leave your car. You will find a mix of surface lots and garages within walking distance of major venues and the lakefront, and booking parking in advance helps you skip circling the block, lock in a spot near your destination, and enjoy smoother parking in Uptown with less stress. Always confirm current regulations and pricing with official and up-to-date sources when planning your visit so your trip to Uptown stays focused on the neighborhoods restaurants, music, and lakefront instead of on your car.