Welcome to Bucktown and Wicker Park, a neighborhood at the North West of Chicago… The name Bucktown comes from the term “bucks” that means male goats. They were the ones present here on the once open fields during the Eighteenth century.

To arrive there from the Loop (downtown of Chicago) take the Blue Line subway to North. Damen is the station to drop off if you want to visit Bucktown.

The eclectic mix of old and new or classic and hip are everywhere like in this shoes shop with an old sign.

Historic buildings are now residence of artists, fashion designers and students.

North Milwaukee Ave has the best shops and it’s the livelier street.

The vintage shops are one more reason to visit. But at Damen Ave  you will also find from boutiques of new designers to big brands.

Do you remember the record store from the movie “High Fidelity” with John Cusack? Well, it’s inspired by the record stores of Bucktown. The movie is a homage to the indie Chicago and it’s community. My favorite record store is Reckless Records (1532 N Milwaukee Ave). The Championship Vinyl – the store of the movie – is now an empty place on the same block as Reckless.

The windows are always charming like this one that announces the Fall with trees and red leaves.

Graffitis are not so common in Chicago but here you can find some interesting street art.

Wicker Park – at the center  of this picture – is also a cool place to visit and to relax after walking around. But be aware: at 6pm there is traffic jam and the trains are full.

MORE:

Debonair Social Club: 1575 N Milwaukee Ave. The trendiest nights with a fashion crowd are there.

Plan B: 1635 N Milwaukee Ave. An option for those who want to avoid the gay neighborhood of Boystown.

The Flatiron Arts Building: 1579, N Milwaukee Ave with N Damen. Galleries and some artist’s studios.

Photos: Hermano Silva