Irving Park Welcome to Irving Park, an eclectic Chicago community area that is home to even more unique micro-neighborhoods! Located on the Northwest Side of the city and bordered by the Chicago River on the right, Irving Park is home to a rich mix of architectural styles, sub-cultures, and cuisines. Farmed by European immigrants over a century ago and later established as a suburban settlement, the community has gone through several changes and continues to transform itself to this day. Architecture buffs can enjoy strolls among historic districts where various types of houses are on display, such as bungalows, farmhouses, Queen Anne, Victorian, and Italianate homes. Residents who love exercising have plenty of facilities to choose from, although they can also enjoy the fresh air at one of many neighborhood parks. Those who enjoy thrifting and hunting for vintage finds have four discount stores to frequent and several local shops to support as well. Finally, foodies can grab quick bites to eat, have a drink with friends after work, or challenge their taste buds at any number of exotic restaurants. Thanks to great public transportation (3 CTA Blue Line stops buses), it is more than easy to explore other parts of the city, or head to the suburbs and beyond via the Kennedy Expressway nearby. Things to Do Recreation: McFetridge Sports Center, DMSFit, Irving Park YMCA, Arabesque Dance Fitness Studio, and many neighborhood parks Horner, Independence, Mayfair, California, Kilbourn, Kolmar Playlot, Keeler Gardens, Merchant Park Community Garden Architecture: Villa Historic District The Steven A. Race Mansion Culture: Irving Park Historical Society, Irish American Heritage Center, Latvian Folk Art Museum, Windy City Playhouse (performing arts) Shopping: Bob's Blues Jazz Market, The Music Store, Bloodshot Records, Bonnie Flower Shop, Lincoln Antique Mall, Brew Grow (hydroponics), Capone's Liquor Food, and several discount stores (Uniq