Lakeview Chicago Archives

Rooftop Amenities at Optima Lakeview: The Sky Deck

Posted on June 21, 2022 by Hunter

Chicago boasts of the best skylines in the country, and there is no better place to revel in the city’s one-of-a-kind architecture than Optima Lakeview’s very own sky deck. And not only does the sky deck provide views of the city from the lakefront to Wrigley Field, but it also allows residents to enjoy the fresh air year-round with access to a range of unique, extensive amenities.

Optima Lakeview’s unparalleled sky deck has a surprise around every corner. From the resort-style pool and spa that stays heated for year-round use to the fire pits featuring lounge seating, residents will be able to go for a swim or relax at any moment. Our design provides plenty of ways for residents to stay physically and mentally healthy and embodies our dedication to creating spaces where residents can be active, inspired and entertained.

Because of the sky deck’s versatility and unique amenities, the space is more than just a hub for wellness and relaxation, it’s also a space for residents to connect with their larger community. The BBQs, outdoor kitchens and theater provide the perfect opportunity for families and friends to convene and enjoy a movie and dinner under the stars. The space also features a glass-enclosed party room where residents have access to an extensive lounge area for entertaining. And, with views spanning the whole city, and Wrigley Field only a half-mile away, the Sky Deck provides the perfect opportunity for Chicago Cubs fans to throw their own viewing party.

Optima Lakeview’s sky deck exemplifies our dedication to inventive, distinctive amenity spaces that leave a lasting impact on our residents. However, the sky deck isn’t the only extraordinary amenity Optima Lakeview affords. Residents can find more than 40,000 square feet of amenity space, including an indoor basketball court, golf simulator, fitness center and more. Stay tuned for more Optima Lakeview spotlights, or learn more here.

Gallagher Way’s Free Summer Programs

Posted on May 18, 2022 by Hunter

Summer in Chicago brings warm weather, vibrant colors and endless activities that stretch from Lake Michigan to the suburbs. Gallagher Way, the outdoor event space adjacent to Wrigley Field and just blocks from Optima Lakeview, offers some of the city’s most unique seasonal activities for people of all ages — all for free! Today, we’re highlighting some of their current and upcoming programs:

Fitness Series

Running from May through the end of September, Gallagher Way’s fitness series is perfect for anyone who loves being active outdoors. And no matter where your passion for fitness lies, there is sure to be a class that sparks your interest.

Every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 a.m, guests are invited to bring their own yoga mats for a one-hour morning yoga session led by Five Keys Yoga. Other classes in the series include Run Club with Movement Gym every Tuesday at 6 p.m. and high-intensity training every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. for those looking to push themselves.

Music Box Theatre Movies

One of Lakeview’s most treasured venues, Music Box Theatre, is partnering with Gallagher Way beginning May 25 to showcase 12 music-themed movies on the venue’s video board. Most Wednesdays starting at 6 p.m., movies range from classics like Dirty Dancing and School of Rock to family flicks like Encanto and Mamma Mia!

Guests are encouraged to bring a snack if they’d like, but for those who forget, Gallagher Way’s on-site concession stand won’t disappoint. And while seating is free, guests can reserve VIP seating for only $30 which includes a beverage, treat from Jeni’s Ice Cream, popcorn from Garrett Popcorn Shop and a souvenir cup.

French Market

Select Thursdays from 4 to 8 p.m. through September, Gallagher Way hosts the European-inspired French Market. More than 20 vendors make up each market, displaying everything from handmade pasta to jams, candles and soaps. The French Market is ideal for a casual night where you can enjoy post-work drinks and warm weather.

Along with the various unique vendors, the French Market is also home to a different performer each week, ranging in genre from Chicago Blues to Latin Jazz. Kids can enjoy the Craft Corner, where they can create a new masterpiece each week!

Dog Day

One of the best perks of summer is being able to spend quality time outside with your furry friend, and Gallagher Way feels the same, which is why they’re hosting Dog Day on May 29 from 12 to 5 p.m. Neighbors are encouraged to bring their dogs down for a day full of treats and games.

Local dog-friendly vendors will be on-site, along with drinks, lawn games and more for dog owners. In addition, the Anti-Cruelty Society will be hosting a supply drive for dogs and cats in need.

Chicago’s summer months are precious, so make the most of them while they’re here! Head to the Gallagher Way website to learn more about these events and other summer 2022 programming here.

Chicago’s Lincoln Park & Its Spring Offerings

Posted on April 18, 2022 by Hunter

Just two blocks east of Optima Lakeview lives Chicago’s largest recreational area, Lincoln Park. Throughout the year, the beloved park is host to a plethora of unique events and activities, but Spring is one of the best seasons to witness the more than three square miles of greenery come alive and enjoy all of its enchanting affordances. Here are our favorite activities we believe you should take advantage of this season:

While the park is widely known for being home to the cherished Lincoln Park Zoo, Conservatory, Chicago History Museum, countless other treasures line the seven-mile stretch of greenery. As the weather gets warmer, one of the best ways to experience Lincoln Park is by taking a stroll through one of its various paths.

One of the most familiar, the Lincoln Park Trail, is perfect for those interested in observing some of the park’s most iconic monuments, sculptures and murals. The five-mile stretch offers views of Self Portrait, Chevron, the You Know What You Should Do mural and the Alexander Hamilton Monument.

The park is also home to great eateries and restaurants that provide amazing views of the vast greenery and not-so-distant skyline. The Patio at Cafe Brauer, North Pond and Bacino’s Italian Grill each bring their unique flavors to the park, promising visitors unforgettable eats and refreshing atmospheres.

Another easy stop for food and entertainment is at Lincoln Park’s Theater on the Lake. Found at the end of Fullerton Avenue on Lakefront Trail, Theater on the Lake is one of the steadfast champions of Chicago’s off-Loop theater community. With special events and shows happening throughout the season into the summer, it’s one of the greatest treasures in the park.

Along with being home to the Waveland Tennis Court, Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course, Lincoln Park Archery Range and countless other recreational activities, the park hosts various free and unique excursions. From yoga to farmer’s markets, Lincoln Park provides visitors with a handful of unique events throughout the Spring, all of which can be found on their website here.

Exploring Lakeview’s Theatre District

Posted on December 13, 2021 by Hunter

Lakeview’s deep appreciation for the arts and support for its thriving creative community are just some of the many reasons we love the neighborhood. In anticipation of Optima Lakeview’s upcoming opening, we’re taking a walk through one of the community’s most vibrant sectors, the Belmont Theater District.

Star-studded Location

A collaboration between the Lakeview and Lakeview East Chambers of Commerce in partnership with local theaters and businesses, the Belmont Theater District functions as a critical supporter of the immense talent that calls the Lakeview community home.

Located in the heart of Lakeview, the theater district pulses with lively energy through more than 20 theaters that line the streets surrounding Belmont Avenue. Its prime location is within walking distance to hundreds of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to spend quality time with friends, family and everyone in between. The historic venues, some of which are nearly a century old, all bring their own unique contributions to the theater district.

Standout Performances

With more than 100 live shows every week, visitors can find everything from world-class performances to hole-in-the-wall comedy shows. In the midst of this abundance and variety, the Belmont Theater District — the largest theater district in Chicago — is home to a few showstopping venues and performances that stand out from the rest.

The Blue Man Group performing at the Briar Street Theater. — The Blue Man Group performing at the Briar Street Theater

One of the neighborhood’s most beloved venues, the Briar Street Theater has provided a constant source of entertainment since its opening in 1985. The renowned theater has hosted several famous guests, including Sada Thompson and Dorothy Loudon, and displays artwork created by Van Gogh and Picasso. Since 1997, it has been the home to the iconic Blue Man Group act, which continues to delight audiences of all ages with its stage productions that incorporate many kinds of music and art, both popular and obscure.

The Music Box Theater found on North Southport Avenue has been standing for nearly a century, making it one of the oldest theaters in the neighborhood. The venue originally opened as a single-screen theater playing everything from independent films to Spanish and Arabic language films. Today, the ornately-designed theater operates as an art-house and revival cinema and is recognized as the largest full-time operating film theater in Chicago.

The interior of the Mercury Theater, Courtesy of the Mercury Theater

Other iconic venues in the community include The Playground Theater, which showcases the Chicago-born art form of improvisation, and Mercury Theater, where melodramatic musicals and plays ranging from Sister Act to Clue are enjoyed by all.

With a shared appreciation for the arts and community, we couldn’t be more excited to become an official member of the Lakeview community and can’t wait to explore more of the charismatic neighborhood.

Public Art in Chicago’s Lakeview Neighborhood

Posted on November 19, 2021 by Hunter

As we continue to explore the dimensions of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood that make it so unique and dynamic, we’re showcasing one of the community’s most significant ongoing projects, a thoughtful offering of public art to the city, the Lakeview Public Art Program.

Because the Lakeview creative community has a long history of celebrating art and culture, even the most casual stroll through the neighborhood reveals an abundance of public art installations. And thanks to the Lakeview Public Art Program, the neighborhood is growing its collection of murals and sculptures, while hosting cultural events and other artistic happenings that support emerging artists.

The Lakeview Public Art Program is run by the Lakeview Public Art Committee, a diverse group of volunteers responsible for finding forward-thinking, culturally-aware artists. Working in collaboration with Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce and Special Service Area (SSA) 27, the Committee supports and advances the non-profit Friends of Lakeview, an organization dedicated to improving and enhancing public streets and spaces, creating memorable experiences, and promoting the neighborhood.

Many of the artists whose work has been commissioned by the Lakeview Public Art Committee are Chicago natives themselves, like Anthony Lewellen; you can see his mural titled Lake View in the geographical heart of the neighborhood, at the corner of 3241 N. Lincoln Ave. For this mural, the artist took inspiration from memories of growing up in Lakeview. This 4,000 square foot wall painting displays a girl holding binoculars looking at Lake Michigan with the rest of Chicago behind her. The girl personifies the neighborhood itself, as she looks toward a horizon of opportunity.

A mural painted on a the side of a brick building depicts a woman gazing onto Lake Michigan with the skyline of Chicago behind her. — Lake View, Anthony Lewellen, Courtesy of Lakeview Public Art Program

Another mural commissioned by the Committee is Felix Maldonado’s Bears on Parade, which can be seen at 3409 N. Ashland Ave. Maldonado drew inspiration from the fact that in the 18th century, this area of Lakeview was once inhabited by the Miami, Ottawa and Winnebago Native American tribes. Featuring a group of bears and cubs walking through a blue forest, this mural celebrates the neighborhood’s culture and history while also subtly referencing the city’s favorite sports teams.

With Optima’s commitment to thought-provoking, inspiring art in and around our properties, we are proud to join the Lakeview neighborhood, and celebrate its commitment to public art and talented artists.

Optima Communities: Revisiting Lakeview

Posted on October 18, 2021October 18, 2021 by Hunter

As our newest development, Optima Lakeview, nears completion, we are diving back into this beloved neighborhood. Here are just a few things that make Lakeview special to us at Optima and to the residents who call the neighborhood home.

Festivities Year-round

No matter the season, festivals and markets fill Lakeview’s social calendar, providing locals with numerous opportunities to connect and celebrate. A neighborhood favorite, Restaurant Week kicks things off each spring with a handful of specials on local menus, allowing foodies to explore Lakeview one dish at a time. Fitness fanatics will enjoy the Lincoln Hub Workout Series hosted in South Lakeview Park during the summertime. Halsted Street is filled with pride in June to celebrate Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community.

Lakeview’s Festival of the Arts spotlights local artists, musicians and restaurants in the autumn months annually. In October, families take part in Trick or Treat Southport, with Halloween-themed activities for all ages. To close the year, festive lights, photos with Santa and more can be found at Lakeview’s Holiday Stroll.

Hidden Gems

Lakeview has plenty of shops, restaurants, museums and theatres to satisfy all interests. However, there are a few neighborhood staples that not many know about. Located just off of Diversey, Clark and Broadway, Landmark Century Centre Cinema is a favorite for film buffs and is complete with a Spanish Baroque façade designed by the prominent architecture firm Levy & Klein. On Lakeview’s South Side, Wrightwood 659, designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Tadao Ando, presents visitors with thought-provoking exhibitions of international art and architecture not found anywhere else. The museum’s current exhibition, Romanticism to Ruin, includes reconstructions of two lost works from Louis H. Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright.

Near the exhibition space sits a neighborhood favorite for food, Del Seoul. The local restaurant fuses traditional American, Korean and Mexican food into a tasty menu unique to the city. One of Lakeview’s more well-known hidden gems is Northalsted Market Days. The annual tradition takes place on Halsted Street for six blocks, making it the largest outdoor street festival in the Midwest. During the two-day festival that takes place in August, tourists and locals celebrate the community and enjoy local vendors, food, arts, crafts and music.

An Abundance of Green Space

Neighboring Lincoln Park offers virtually endless pastimes for everyone to enjoy. The Lincoln Park Zoo and landmark Lincoln Park Conservatory offer free admission and are filled with animals and lush greenery to enjoy throughout the year. Located just below the Zoo, dozens of sustainable local vendors sell fresh produce at the Green City Market from May through November, named one of the best markets in the nation.

Residents will find a number of accessible outdoor recreational activities just steps from Optima Lakeview. A short stroll down Lakeshore Drive West leads to a driving range, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and several beaches and restaurants near the lake. Kayakers and rowers have easy access to Diversey Harbor and South Lagoon, granting the perfect spot to spend a warm day. Tennis and golf lovers can conveniently walk to the renowned Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course and various tennis courts that neighbor Optima Lakeview and are all open to the public.

The opening of Optima Lakeview is fast approaching and we look forward to sharing more about this state-of-the-art development as it becomes part of the Lakeview community!

The Lakeview Creative Community

Posted on February 22, 2021 by Nancy

One of the many reasons we love Lakeview — one of our newest Optima communities with the construction of Optima Lakeview — is its thriving, engaging art scene. From giant murals to local programs, there’s something for everyone in the Lakeview creative community.

Year Round by Mauricio Ramirez at 3406 N. Ashland Ave. Photo courtesy of Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

Public Art

Like many other Chicago neighborhoods, Lakeview’s streets are adorned with eclectic and energized murals and public art. Each piece has its own unique personality, many designed and executed by local artists. Guided by the 2011 Lakeview Area Master Plan, the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce, Special Service Area (SSA) 27 and Friends of Lakeview championed the installations to reflect the spirit of Lakeview and brighten up pedestrian routes. Contributing artists include JC Rivera, Louise “Ouizi” Jones, Lauren Asta, Antonio Beniquez, Anthony Lewellen, Mauricio Ramirez, Chad Kouri and more. We love how the colorful artwork creates such a vibrant, welcoming feel to the neighborhood.

This Is Lakeview by Lauran Asta at 3411 N. Paulina St. Photo courtesy of Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

In a typical year, you can find art from more than 150 artists at this annual event and Lakeview tradition. The summer festival also features music performances and fare from local restaurants. In 2020, the festival was moved online and turned into a virtual showcase, which you can still check out. It’s a great way to discover your next favorite local artist and business owner.

Art Classes

If you’re feeling inspired to pick up a new hobby, Lakeview has plenty of ways to learn how to expand your own creativity. Park West Ceramics offers classes and workshops for those who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. For little artists, Kidcreate Studio offers classes, camps and art-themed parties for ages 18 months to 12 years. And for a fun night out (or in), Bottle & Bottega offers a classic sip-and-paint class, with at-home kits and virtual options.

Whether you’re an admirer of the arts or a budding artist, Lakeview is a unique contributor to Chicago’s expensive network of artists, photographers, sculptors and creative visionaries.

Optima Lakeview in the News

Posted on January 19, 2021 by Nancy

Since announcing our plans for Optima Lakeview in 2020, the new development has been surrounded by media buzz. We’re excited to be a part of the Lakeview community and are thrilled to see those in our community are equally as excited, too. Here’s what they’ve had to say so far:

Announcing Optima Lakeview

When the development was first announced, publications such as REJournals, RE Business Online, Connect Media, Multi-Housing News and hyperlocal publication Block Club Chicago all chimed in to share in the good news. REJournals discussed Optima Lakeview’s competitive marketplace edge, saying:

“Optima paid special attention to work-from-home needs, designing floor plans with an average of 1,053 square feet, significantly larger than what’s currently available in the market, to accommodate dedicated space for a home office. In addition, Optima Lakeview features two conference spaces and a business center, as well as several indoor and outdoor seating areas and multiple technology providers from which residents can choose.”

Construction Begins

When construction began in mid-October, BisNow was on the scene, reporting the groundbreaking news. They interviewed Optima Co-Founder and CEO David Hovey Sr., to get the scoop on how the building will contribute to the existing community. Hovey shared with BisNow:

“With Optima Lakeview, we’ve incorporated design cues from the surrounding area’s architecture while still staying true to the modern design aesthetic Optima is known for, resulting in a forward-looking building grounded in Chicago sensibility. Both inside and out, Optima Lakeview is very much about drawing people in and helping them stay connected — either with the surrounding community or within the building itself.”

Doubling Down on Retail

Despite the challenges of 2020 and COVID-19, we remained firm in our approach to retail space at Optima Lakeview. BisNow touched base with our team to discuss the plan for Optima Lakeview’s 14K SF of retail space and Optima Vice President Mark Segal shared our optimism that brick-and-mortar retail remains stronger than ever. Read the full feature here.

Stay tuned for more updates and media coverage as we continue progress on Optima Lakeview!

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Tag: Lakeview Chicago