Move to one of the hippest places in the nation

One of Chicago’s most interesting and celebrated neighborhoods is Wicker Park, located near the Loop, just south of Bucktown. Much of the area is a Chicago Landmark District since it includes the architecturally significant Holy Trinity Cathedral on Leavitt and the Flatiron Arts Building on Milwaukee Avenue.

Rich in heritage, the cultural community is home to the Polish Museum of America and the Ukrainian National Museum. It’s also bursting with entertainment, eateries and activities. Here, residents enjoy art galleries, theaters, music venues, a farmers’ market, ChillFest, Wicker Park Fest, and plenty of dive bars such as Gold Star, Phyllis’ Musical Inn, and Rainbo Club.

Perhaps that’s why singer Liz Phair and former guitarist of The Smashing Pumpkins James have lived in the hood as well as members of Wilco, Urge Overkill, Veruca Salt, Eleventh Dream Day, Naked Raygun, Joan of Arc, and The Jesus Lizard. No wonder “Forbes” magazine called it Wicker Park the fourth “hippest hipster neighborhood in the country” in 2012.

However, long before the area was officially trendy, writer Nelson Algren called Wicker Park home from 1959 to 1975. He even wrote an essay entitled “Chicago: City on the Make.” More recently, actors Josh Hartnett, Rose Bryne and Diane Kruger starred in “Wicker Park” in 2004. Although set in the Chicago neighborhood, the film was actually shot in Canada. But 2000’s “High Fidelity” starring John Cusack did include scenes shot on location in the neighborhood.

Back in the day one could find housing deals in Wicker Park but since its gentrification, purchasing a single-family dwelling may prove pricey. Still, there are plenty of apartments, lofts and condo conversions to choose from. And once you find your dream home, you can make your move with Golan’s Moving and Storage. Since 1990, the trusted Chicago moving company has been helping people relocate. That’s their job. Being hip is up to you.