BASICS:

A world of 19th-Century churches and 21st-Century high-rises, Chicago's newly dubbed "Cathedral District" may be the most fashionable residential area in the downtown area today. Cathedral District is immediately west of the Magnificent Mile. It is named for two cathedrals: the Roman Catholic (Holy Name) and Episcopal (St. James) cathedrals. Chicago's Cathedral District is a relatively small area, comprised of approximately 12 square blocks.

HOUSING:

Housing in the Cathedral district is now dominated by large condominium structures. One of the new structures in this district, 55 E. Erie, is the second tallest all residential building in the Western Hemisphere. There are still some of the great historic mansions in the area.

LOCATION:

The Cathedral District is defined by Michigan Avenue to the east, LaSalle Street to the west, Ontario Street on the south and Delaware on the north.

HISTORY:

From a pioneer outpost to a premier residential, commercial and cultural center, the area surrounding St. James, Holy Name Cathedral and Fourth Presbyterian Church has both reflected and shaped the history and spiritual life of Chicago.

Even before the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, these religious institutions served the faithful. In the years after the fire, the district around them emerged as the center of elite residences built for prominent families such as the Leiters, McCormick's and Ryerson's, as well as Chicago's first mayor, William Butler Ogden.

Two of these historic structures, the homes of banker Samuel Nickerson and railway magnate, Ransom R. Cable, are now Chicago landmarks.

In 1988, honoring the spiritual traditions of unity and diversity that helped shape Chicago, the city moved to create a Cathedral District. During the past five years, the area has experienced tremendous growth while transforming the Cathedral District area into a true neighborhood. New residential developments, businesses, retailers and religious intuitions define the vitality of the community.

DINING

Many great restaurants are within walking distance from this area. Many of Chicago's well known `Chef driven' restaurants have located near this area and have acquired national attention.

EVENTS

The Children's Art Fair is held every August in Chicago's Cathedral District. Over 500 pieces of children's art, grades K-12, representing children's artwork throughout the city is displayed. Art aficionados from the Art Institute of Chicago and Loyola University Museum of Art judge the contest. It's a fun day for all the family, with dance and musical entertainment, face painting, balloon making, and art demonstrations as we celebrate the unique talent of our youth.

ZIP CODE

The primary zip code for Chicago's Cathedral district neighborhodd is 60610