Joe forwarded me this guy's recommendations of Chicago neighborhoods, so I did some follow-up research to figure out just where these places were. The problem seems to be that most maps seem to have just the street names, or just the neighborhood names, but not both. Moreover, different neighborhood guides don't even coincide!
However, I did find a couple helpful resources, though they don't mesh completely: an (almost too small)) online neighborhood map and a neighborhood guide that gives a description (probably not entirely trustworthy, as they seem overly complimentary) of many of the neighborhoods.
Now, the map I like, though it still isn't detailed streetwise, is the Big Stick Chicago Neighborhood Map. The catch is, it's $25. But it looks damn cool!
What I'd really like, though, is a map that includes all street names, neighborhood boundaries, public transporation lines, parks, schools, and major landmarks, preferably in a spiral-bound book. Anyone?
The Big Stick Map... that's the one that caused the stink. Makes for great wall art.
Posted by Brenda J at May 23, 2002 10:08 AM
Unfortunately, Chicago neighborhoods are not official boundaries. Thus your frustration in finding the ultimate resource. In fact, there was a big stink last year when a certain poster artist revised the one-and-only existing Chicago neighborhood map, and changed the boundaries a bit. (People who are on the cusp of a good 'hood and a bad 'hood always want to be able to claim the good one... natch...)
My advice: Get a street guide with block numbers, a CTA map (I'll send you one if you give me your address), the Chicago Reader apartment listings (www.chireader.com), a big cup of coffee and put it all on a big table where you can cross-reference. Even us long-time Chicagoans have to go through that when it's time to find a new place to live... it's the native thing to do.
Let me know if you need more insider advice (Ravenswood dwelling IA/usability/design geek here).
-Brenda
Posted by Brenda J at May 23, 2002 10:07 AM