Two Chicago neighborhoods, Hyde Park and Avondale, have been listed among the "coolest" neighborhoods worldwide. Hyde Park, situated near the University of Chicago, is ranked 19th in Time Out's "40 Coolest neighborhoods in the world" for 2023, according to NBC Chicago. Avondale was noted as the 16th coolest neighborhood globally by Time Out in 2022.
According to Time Out, Hyde Park secured this prestige largely due to its small-town spirit blended with multiple metropolitan amenities. The neighborhood is home to top-tier restaurants, architectural landmarks like the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Frederick C. Robie House, 551 acres of parkland in Jackson Park, and the vast Museum of Science and Industry.
Avondale's international acclaim is a result of its diversity, rich dining scene, and a mix of old and contemporary features. Time Out emphasized Avondale's Milwaukee Avenue for its Mexican cuisine, chic bars and coffee shops, and variety of small businesses, as detailed by WGN-TV. Notable historical architecture such the St. Hyacinth Basilica can also be found here.
Other Chicago neighborhoods have previously gained recognition. Andersonville was featured in 2021, as well as Pilsen, Uptown, and West Loop in recent years, per NBC Chicago. This continuous recognition of Chicago neighborhoods demonstrates it's capacity to cultivate and maintain vibrant, diverse communities. The rankings by Time Out are based on diverse criteria including culture, nightlife, community and social ventures, as well as access to green space.
