@properties: River North

If River North had a motto, it would be "Build it and they will come." First came the art galleries and restaurants, then hip, urban homebuyers followed. Stretching from the Chicago River to Chicago Avenue, west of the Magnificent Mile, the old loft district has found its groove.

Dozens of residential developments in recent years give buyers a lot of choices, from classic timber lofts and upscale row homes to contemporary high-rises. Development has also pushed west of the Chicago River into an area dubbed River West, which includes a number of new condominium buildings.

Chicago's biggest office building, the Merchandise Mart, anchors the southern edge of the neighborhood along the revitalized Chicago River and the new pedestrian Riverwalk that includes restaurants and park seating along with kayak and boat rentals. Residents have convenient access to several bus lines as well as the CTA Red and Brown lines.

Home to many of Chicago's premier eateries with famed chefs, River North is where you will find the finest steakhouses and just about every type of cuisine. The neighborhood is packed with shopping, entertainment and nightlife, including some of the city's trendiest clubs and favorite hangouts.