The Ultimate Guide to Moving Into the Loop

August 3, 2017

Brought to you by Chicago’s Best Loop Movers

The literal heart of Chicago, the Loop is at the center of the action downtown. It’s always busy, always moving fast, and always filled with the commerce, culture, and entertainment that makes the city distinct. When you live in the Loop, you’ll be next door to some of the biggest businesses in the city (in every sense), and you’ll only have to walk out your front door to find a world class restaurant, bar, show or park–or get on the train that will take you where you need to go. As your go-to Loop movers, we’ll help you navigate the bustle and get your stuff settled, so you can immerse yourself in this fast-paced neighborhood you now call home.

A little more than 20,000 people live in The Loop, with an equal split of women and men. Loop residents have a median age in their mid-30s, and a median annual income of over $100k. Many people in the area live as singles or with roommates, but a sizable percentage of residents are families with children.

The Loop has been a hub for Chicago transportation since the city began growing in the early 19th century. It was originally surrounded by railroad stations, at a time when these were key to successful commerce, and the area became populous and diverse as the century went on. The Loop was devastated by the Chicago Fire of 1871, but rebuilt as a district of skyscrapers and cutting edge urban planning in the decades that followed. Its commercial and business hubs expanded in the 20th century, leaving the The Loop the center of action that it is today.

Now you’ve got the gist, here are some highlights—and basics—we found to help you start your best Loop life.

Things to Do in the Loop

• Millennium Park: Huge green spaces, amphitheater, free events, and much more.
• Crown Fountain: Interactive water feature for all.
• Chicago Art Institute: World-class exhibits.
• Chicago Cultural Center: Free exhibits and events.
• Harold Washington Library: Chicago’s flagship public library. Community events for all ages.
• Theater District: The latest big shows.
• Willis Tower: Second tallest building in the US.

Best Restaurants in the Loop

• Pizza Delivery: Lou Malnati’s. A Chicago staple.
  805 S State St. | (312) 786-1000
• Italian: Trattoria no. 10. Great pre-show option.
  10 N Dearborn St #1. | (312) 984-1718
• German: The Berghff. Almost unchanged since 1898.
  17 W Adams St. | (312) 427-3170
• French: Everest. Classy prix fixe at the top of the Chicago Stock Exchange.
  440 S LaSalle St. | (312) 663-8920
• American: The Dearborn. Brand new twists on Midwestern classics.
  145 N Dearborn St. | (312) 384-1242
• Global: The Marq. Highly-rated seasonal menu.
  60 W Adams St.  | (312) 600-4434
• Patio: The Gage. Modern comfort food with views of Millennium Park.
  24 S Michigan Ave. | (312) 372-4243
• Steakhouse: Remington’s. Classic menu, modern decor.
  20 N Michigan Ave. | (312) 782-6000

Best Bars in the Loop

• Wine: Townhouse Wine Bar. Creative food pairings.

  111 S Wacker Dr. | (312) 726-3676
• Cocktails: Cindy’s Rooftop. Central Chicago views.
  12 S Michigan Ave. | (312) 792-3502
• Beer: Miller’s Tavern. Classic pub grub.
  134 S Wabash Ave. |  (312) 263-4988
• Irish: Emerald Loop Bar & Grill. Comfortable space with filling food.
  216 N Wabash Ave. | (312) 263-0200
• Hangout: 2Twenty2 Tavern. Upscale bar games and lounge space.
  222 S Wabash Ave. | (312) 878-9994
• Dive: Sky-Ride Cocktail Lounge. Neighborhood haunt in the midst of the city.
  105 W Van Buren St. | (312) 939-3340
• Partying: Brando’s Speakeasy. Dancing and karaoke.
   343 S Dearborn St. | (773) 216-3213

Grocery Stores in the Loop

• Jewel Osco:  Open until midnight.
  370 N Desplaines St. | (312) 243-2710
• Mariano’s: Fresh and prepared foods.
  333 E Benton Pl. | (312) 228-1349
• North Loop Market: A quick place to stop.
  300 N State St. | (312) 291-9329

Coffee Shops in the Loop

• Starbucks: Several.
  1430 W Taylor St. | (312) 492-7370
• Goddess and the Baker: Full meals and indulgent desserts.
  33 S Wabash Ave. |  (312) 877-5176
• Caffe RoM: Classic Italian style. Sandwiches and gelato.
  71 S Franklin St. | (312) 379-0291

Pet Parks near the Loop

• Lake Shore East Dog Park Features K9 grass.
  450 E Benton Pl. | Daily 6am-11pm

Gyms near the Loop

• LA Fitness: Equipment, classes, gyms and pool.
  55 E Randolph St. | (312) 281-0113
• FFC Union Station: Equipment, classes and pool.
  444 W Jackson Blvd. | (312) 627-0444
• Lakeshore Sport & Fitness Illinois Center: Gym amenities, plus climbing wall
  211 N Stetson Ave.  |  (312) 856-1111

The Loop Local Post Office and Delivery

• United States Postal Service
  5 S Wabash Ave. | M-F 12pm-5pm
• United States Postal Service
  211 S Clark St. | M-F 7am-6pm
• UPS Store
  Several. See website for locations and hours. 

Dry Cleaners in the Loop

• Randolph Cleaners

  100 W Randolph St. #209 | M-F 7:30am-5:30pm
• Downtown Cleaners

  214 W Washington St. | M-F 7:15am-6:30pm, Sat 9am-4pm
• Grant Park Cleaners
  310 S Michigan Ave. |  M-F 7am-6:30pm, Sat 8:30am-2:30pm

Parking in the Loop

• Visit the City of Chicago site for permit information

This has been a tiny sampling of the great things you’ll experience at your new  Loop home. As a seasoned Loop moving company, we’ve learned all about the staples and cool places in the area. We’re happy to share more!

As you’re planning your big move, cross one major thing off your to-do list, and book Loop movers who’ll a take load of stress off your mind. Call us at New City Moving, and we’ll help you move safely, smoothly, and on-schedule, so you can settle right in and start living your greatest Loop life.

Learn More About Moving in Chicago

• The Ultimate Guide to Moving Into Ukrainian Village
• The Ultimate Guide to Moving Into University Village
• The Ultimate Guide to Moving Into Uptown
• The Ultimate Guide to Moving Into West Loop
• The Ultimate Guide to Moving Into West Town

Page Updated on November 16, 2018