We define Chicago’s “near west” neighborhoods to include West Loop, Fulton River District and River West. You’ll find all of your major apartment options in those neighborhoods on our at-a-glance list of downtown apartments.
Our goal is to help you find the apartment that best fits your needs. Renters simply have so many differing priorities – and budget constraints – that singling out an overall best building would be a pointless exercise. We’ll identify the buildings that rank highest on each of these criteria:
Location
Views
Grocery shopping convenience
Public transit access
Close to parks, beach
Proximity to the expressway grid
Walking distance to the Loop
Most dining, nightlife nearby
Shopping
Building features
Affordability
Amenities package
Boutique ambiance
Pet-friendly
Apartment features
Apartment finishes
Private outdoor space
Studio / convertible floor plan
One-bedroom floor plan
Two-bedroom floor plan
Three-bedroom floor plan
We begin with the first item on our list, views, and note that a number of the buildings in the near west neighborhoods enjoy great views of the downtown skyline. If views are one of your top priorities, you won’t lack for good choices.
Five buildings in the Fulton River District have great views: Alta, Echelon, K2, Left Bank and Trio.
Left Bank’s best views will be obstructed by two large office towers that are being developed south and east of the building. Trio’s views are limited by the building’s 20-story height.
We think K2 and Echelon are the top choices in this category.
Chime in with a comment if you disagree with our selections.
You’ll find links to our objective, visually-rich apartment reviews of near west buildings, and links to near real-time availability checks for most of the buildings, at our downtown apartments at-a-glance list, and some tips and advice at our Guide to renting in Chicago’s near west neighborhoods.
Next topic: Most convenient grocery shopping.
Note: K2 and Echelon are both YoChicago advertisers.