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The Brainerd community is much like the areas which surround it. In spite of tough times, the area is still holding its head high and trying to make improvements. Similar to neighboring Burnside, Brainerd is a South Side neighborhood that most certainly has a bright future. The low house prices have given many residents the opportunity to become homeowners. I wouldn’t say Brainerd has a lot to offer visitors, but I certainly do hope the community can bounce back after its run of bad luck.

The biggest source of problems in the area is the economy. The community has been hit hard by recent job loss, which has affected it as a whole. There is a deep sense of pride here, which is noticeable within the community. Largely populated by African Americans, it is primarily a residential area that is really quite safe.

All in all, Brainerd consists of a strong community. Its proximity to downtown makes it convenient for commuters and there are many transportation options here. In spite of some tough times in the past, the area is slowly making a comeback and could see a bright future ahead. I really like the charm of the area, although I rarely have a reason to visit.

If you’re in search of a community that takes neighborhood watch seriously, Garfield Ridge is the place for you. This South Side neighborhood is found just west of the Midway area, which makes it convenient for commuting into and out of the suburbs. The area is noted for its safety, which is enforced by members of the community that have created a patrol to ensure the streets stay safe at night. Historically referred to as the Clearing neighborhood, this was originally the site of a railroad-clearing yard.

Today, Garfield Ridge is mostly residential and has nice homes with prices on the rise. There has been lots of new construction, which is nice for residents. If you’re thinking of visiting the area, there really isn’t much to see. Not great for singles, students, and certainly not the place for hipsters, Garfield Ridge is most definitely the place for families.

The area kind of has more of a suburban feel than anything else, which is why I can’t imagine calling it home. I do appreciate its appeal to families. With a degree of safety that other areas simply can’t compete with, Garfield Ridge is convenient and a great place to settle down.

Mount Greenwood, which is neighbored by the charming Beverly neighborhood, is also known as a largely Irish area. Filled with Irish pubs and a jovial community, there is a lot to love about Mount Greenwood. Although it does have a strong residential feeling, it’s not just for locals. If you decide to visit Mount Greenwood, you’ll find a welcoming community that is happy to share their slice of paradise with you.

Lots of homes in the area are noted Frank Lloyd Wright homes, which are certainly worth touring. Mount Greenwood is also home to a large cemetery, which is also its namesake. Overall, I’d consider Mount Greenwood largely residential, very safe, and a nice escape from the skyscrapers and noise of downtown. Perfect for families, you can find plenty of areas to enjoy if you make this charming neighborhood your home.

The community feeling of Mount Greenwood certainly sets it apart from other Chicago neighborhoods. It’s always been one of my favorite areas and friends that live here certainly rave about it. It you’re a Sox fan, this is a great place to be. All in all, this is a great spot in Chicago that is not typical of other areas.

Burnside is a South Side neighborhood that has undergone many problems in recent years. Although there are attempts at new construction, which gives me hope for the future of the neighborhood, it still is a less than safe area. Affordable home prices attract many new residents, but the slightly high crime rate is enough to keep me away. The future of Burnside could be bright, but it will take quite a bit of effort for it to make a complete turnaround.

I really don’t have much to say about the area—I don’t hate it, but I also wouldn’t put it high on my list of places to visit. I am impressed with the attempts at improvements in the area and I think it will pay off eventually. The ultra-low house prices you’ll find here now might be a good investment if the improvements do take effect. It’s just not enough to encourage me to call it home.

Burnside, like many areas nearby, has seen better days in the past. The question is—are there better days ahead? I think so, but there’s no telling how long it will take to make the changes necessary to turn this neighborhood around.

Montclaire is a West Side neighborhood that is known as more of a family area. Filled with some impressive homes, there isn’t much to do here. If you’re house hunting, you may end up here, but I don’t ever have much reason to visit Montclaire. Even though it’s not my cup of tea, that doesn’t deter me from appreciating the neighborhood for its many attributes, not the least of which is how quiet it is here.

It is a very safe area with a strong community focus, which is noticeable in the various measures taken to keep residents safe. The homes are reasonably prices, but not the cheapest in the city, but residents here usually come to stay for many years. Montclaire is often associated with Galewood, which is similarly quiet and residential. The younger crowd would probably want to avoid Montclaire, but families just might fall in love with the neighborhood.

Transportation is pretty convenient here too, which is a plus for commuters. You can grab CTA trains on the blue line or the Metra commuter train with ease. There is even some shopping here, which makes it a pretty well rounded residential setting.

Ashburn is a neighborhood on the western side of the South Side. Although a bit out of reach for city-lovers and those in need of a faster paced lifestyle, this is an idyllic setting for families. If you’re not quite ready to become a suburbanite, you can get the security and tranquility of the suburbs right here. The affordable home prices make it an easy place to call home even on a tight budget.

For me, this isn’t a place I’d look to call home and it’s probably not so great for visitors. That’s probably why it’s so perfect for families. There will be little to disturb the quality of life here, mostly because there is no cause for non-residents to visit. The neighborhood’s biggest growth spurt came in the mid-20th Century and most of the community seems content to keep it that way. The many charming homes and tree-lined streets give Ashburn a small-town feeling.

This is a truly great area. Perfect for families, retirees, and professionals that prefer a quieter neighborhood, Ashburn is a safe and secluded part of the city. If you’re looking for excitement, you won’t find it here. Safety, tranquility, and affordability—that’s what you’ll find in Ashburn.

Beverly is a real breath of fresh air. Located on the southwestern tip of the South Side, Beverly is a true residential area that as much to offer. Largely an Irish settlement originally, today its community includes a balance of African Americans, Irish Catholics, and a few other ethnicities. One of the biggest draws in the area is the Beverly Arts Center, which gives the community a creative spin you won’t find elsewhere. I really love this neighborhood.

One drawback of Beverly is the fact that it’s a little out of the way—or a lot out of the way if you prefer public transportation. If you don’t mind a bit of a trip, I think it’s worth it. The overall feeling of the neighborhood is friendly, energetic, and safe. It’s a great place for families, but is also well suited for young professionals, singles, and visitors.

There are a few pubs and eateries in the mix, making it a fun place to hang out and giving residents plenty to do. The prices here are pretty affordable, both in homes and apartments, and it’s a unique setting. Even though it’s a little out of reach, I’d list Beverly as one of my favorites in the city.

The South Side neighborhood of Woodlawn has made noticeable improvements in recent years, but it’s not quite there yet. Although it’s not as bad as Englewood (which is the worst of the worst in Chicago), it’s still not great. I don’t feel particularly safe in Woodlawn, but I also don’t feel as threatened as I would in Englewood. In spite of its checkered past, which includes being home to one of Chicago’s worst gangs, Woodlawn keeps trying to get better and is having some degree of success.

In that way, I have respect for the community leaders and residents of Woodlawn for refusing to give in to its past and continuing to strive for better. A focus on education is helping to improve schools slowly but surely, so I think the future of Woodlawn will certainly be better. Would I visit Woodlawn? Probably not because there really isn’t much going on for non-residents, but I do think there is a world of potential here.

I see Woodlawn as a neighborhood full of determination. Its spirit is undeniable, which is why I think it will eventually rise above its negative reputation and prove itself to be an important Chicago community. It just may take some time to get there.

Englewood is one of the Chicago neighborhoods that I actually feel sorry for. It could be great—someday—just not today or in the near future. It would take a major overhaul to remove the innate criminal element and general bad energy you feel throughout the area. Found on the South Side, it is the neighborhood that gives the South Side a bad reputation. Don’t be fooled—the entire South Side isn’t bad, just Englewood.

Is there hope for Englewood? Sure, there’s always hope. But, if you made the mistake of moving there or going there at night, there wouldn’t be much hope for you. All I can really say about Englewood is stay away. Sure, it’s cheap. But that’s only because there’s a good chance you’ll have some contact with crime while living there. Is the low rent really worth risking your life? I think not. I’ll take higher rent and a feeling of security any day.

I honestly wouldn’t even recommend visiting Englewood. There are some good things about the neighborhood, but they are hard to appreciate while there. Until some major changes come, I will avoid Englewood like the plague. Sorry to say it, but Englewood is just not worth the risk.

Although technically a part of the massive Austin neighborhood, Galewood is an entity all its own. Found in the city’s northwestern section, Galewood is a residential area and is home to several schools. The rich family feeling of the area is balanced by the presence of students attending Concordia University, Dominican University, Triton College, and Wright Junior College. Not necessarily the place for hipsters or the younger crowd, Galewood is a quiet locale well suited for families or retirees.

I rarely have occasion to visit Galewood, but when I do I enjoy the overall feeling of tranquility throughout the neighborhood. It has many impressive homes, many of which are representative of some of my favorite architectural styles. There really isn’t much for visitors here, which is how Galewood has maintained such a quiet family feeling throughout its history.

If you’re looking for a place to settle down, you can find stunning houses at reasonable rates. If you’re looking for something exciting to do, don’t bother coming here. Its overall look represents Chicago well, so it does appeal to natives that are ready to enjoy a quieter way of life. I’d say Galewood is certainly a Chicago staple, but there isn’t much going on for visitors.

Hyde Park, which is perhaps most noted as being the former of President Barack Obama, has seen its share of famous people through the years. Don’t let that overshadow the plethora of other things this South Side neighborhood has going for it. Even though it seems like a lot of locals have a pre-conceived assumption that all South Side neighborhoods are bad news, Hyde Park is certainly a favorite of mine. Aside from its numerous activities, the rich ethnic energy of the neighborhood is easy to appreciate.

One of the biggest points of interest in Hyde Park is the University of Chicago. The presence of a large school brings an influx of younger residents and excitement. Hyde Park is also where you’ll find the Museum of Science and Industry and the famous Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House. If you’re looking for culture, you will find it here!

After suffering a big decline in the mid-20th Century, Hyde Park has recovered nicely. Tons of restaurants, entertainment venues, and landmarks make Hyde Park a great place for visitors to Chicago and residents alike. Great for families, students, singles, and couples, this former suburb has a strong urban vibe and endless prominent cultural areas.

The Cragin neighborhood, which is often referred to as Belmont Cragin, is found on the northwest side just outside Belmont Central. Like its many neighboring communities, Cragin is a mostly residential area that doesn’t have much appeal for visitors. It’s not a place a visit often unless I’m going to see a friend that lives there. The main points of interest in Cragin are the several parks found here, which include Cragin Park, Blackhawk Park, and Riis Park.

The parks make Cragin a great place for families, dog-lovers, and anyone that likes being able to enjoy the outdoors. Residentially, it’s a great place to live, but not so much of a place for visitors. There really aren’t any restaurants worth mentioning and not much to do in the way of entertainment. It is a charming area and one with several great schools, making it perfect for families or couples that are ready to start a family.

The architecture of Cragin is my favorite part of the neighborhood. When I do have occasion to visit the area, I like to check out the unique homes. If you’re looking for a quiet area that is affordable, Cragin is worth a look, otherwise there’s just not much to see here.

The Back of the Yards neighborhood earned its name because it was home to the Union Stock Yards, which made the city the meatpacking capital of the world. Dubbed the “hog butcher to the world” by poet Carl Sandburg, Back of the Yards has evolved into quite a vibrant area since its meatpacking days ended many years ago. Located on the South Side, this largely Hispanic area has a family-oriented energy and has undergone quite a lot of urban renewal.

The area has become known for its retail businesses, many of which are found along Ashland Avenue/47th Street. Commuters will appreciate easy access to I-90/94. For Chicagoans, there isn’t much reason to visit the Back of the Yards. It is a mostly residential area and, although it has come a long way, I don’t see much to rave about here. I wouldn’t say I hate the area, but it is a bit forgettable in the grand scheme of things.

I admire the Back of the Yards for the strides the area has made in turning around its once-dwindling economy, but it’s not enough to make it a place I frequently visit. It’s a nice area for families in search of an ethnically diverse place to call home, but there really isn’t much else of note in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.

Originally a largely Polish community, Belmont Central has become known for its ethnic diversity. Its location on the city’s northwest side puts it a little out of reach for many city-dwellers, but if you’re in search of an affordable residential area, this is one worth considering. Locals won’t find much of interest here unless you’re looking for a place to settle down. Belmont Central isn’t so much a place for visitors, but is more of an area to escape from the big city.

My favorite thing about the neighborhood is the fact that it is filled with charming homes, many of which are unique and historic. The affordable home prices make it a popular choice for young families, couples, and anyone on a tight budget in search of a quiet area. Not much of note in the way of entertainment, dining, or shopping, Belmont Central is a place to go when house hunting away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

For me, there isn’t much that makes me want to visit Belmont Central. I’m not in search of a place to settle down and there isn’t much else here. It’s a nice area, but not much of note for anyone that likes being close to the action.

Canaryville, which is found just outside the Back of the Yards neighborhood, is a largely Irish area. Not known as being the most welcoming of all areas, most locals know it’s best to avoid Canaryville. The boundaries of Canaryville are Canal, Halsted, 39th, and 49th. A small neighborhood, there really isn’t much to see in Canaryville and I have never enjoyed visiting the area (especially since I'm not a Sox fan).

The biggest thing I notice when in Canaryville is the feeling of being an outsider. The predominantly Irish population doesn’t seem interested in having visitors, giving the area the feeling of eras of the past. Territorialism is one of the many things that make me not want to go back to the area. Really, there just isn’t much to take note of here other than the hostile energy you’re overwhelmed with as soon as you set foot in the area.

Other than corner stores and rather boring restaurants, Canaryville doesn’t have a lot to offer. If you’re Irish and looking for a place to live, you might be welcome here—otherwise, I’d stay away. Visitors beware; Canaryville residents probably don’t want you there. I don’t plan to visit the area again unless there are significant changes, which I don’t see as a possibility.

If you don’t mind traveling to the far Northwest Side, there is plenty to see in Dunning. A larger neighborhood, which encompasses Belmont Heights, Irving Woods, Schorsch Village, and The Villa, Dunning is mostly a residential area that has undergone much growth. Historically the area has been a Polish and Italian community, but the presence of Wright College has created an influx of younger residents and has added a much-needed dose of diversity.

Visitors to Dunning might be inclined to come here for one of the many restaurants, parks, golf courses, or other points of interest. Merrimac Park, Shabonna Park, and the Galos Caves are perhaps the most noted outdoor areas found here, attracting quite a few visitors. Also of note are the many eateries, which include the famous Eli’s Cheesecake Factory. Dunning also has shopping and many nice homes or apartments.

Its far removed location makes it an unlikely trip for me, but there is still plenty to see and do in Dunning. If you appreciate the outdoors, this neighborhood feels like quite an escape from the city. True urbanites wouldn’t want to call Dunning home, but it’s a nice option when you’ve grown tired of the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Originally called Kelvyn Grove, Hermosa is known as the boyhood home of Walt Disney. Aside from this claim to fame, this Northwest neighborhood has a few other things of interest. It was originally a Swedish settlement, but has evolved to include various ethnic backgrounds. The area is primarily residential, like most neighborhoods around here, so there isn’t much appeal for visitors.

If you do happen to drive through Hermosa, you’ll notice several parks, a few restaurants, and a couple of entertainment venues. Mostly local haunts, I wouldn’t say there is anything that exciting about the neighborhood. If you’re a huge Disney fan, you can drive past his boyhood home on N Tripp Avenue. The neighboring areas are notoriously diverse, so it may be worth the trip if you’d like to visit ethnic shops and restaurants in the area.

All in all, Hermosa isn’t a bad area, but it’s nothing to get excited about either. Like the other neighborhoods nearby, it feels a little out of the way for my liking, but I can’t say it’s out of the realm of possibilities for me to visit the area once in a while. Hermosa has a few interesting places to visit and it’s a pretty quiet residential area.

Known largely for the park of the same name, Humboldt Park boasts one of the city’s largest outdoor areas. The 200-plus acre Humboldt Park includes beach access, swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball park, playgrounds, bike paths, walking paths, ice-skating, picnic areas, and pretty much anything else you can imagine. Enjoying the outdoors in this neighborhood is pretty effortless, but there are a few other things about Humboldt Park worth mentioning.

Humboldt Park is also noted for its ethnic diversity, which includes a great balance of many cultures. Full of charming older brick homes, courtyard apartment buildings, and a general feeling of community, this is a good choice for families in search of lower-cost homes and plenty of activities. There is still much work being done to continuously improve Humboldt Park, which gives the impression of a bright future for this working-class neighborhood.

Culturally, one of the most important activities in Humboldt Park is the Puerto Rican Peoples Parade and Fiesta Boricua (Puerto Rican Pride festival), which occur annually in June. With a showing of over 150,000 people every year, it is one of the city’s most noted festivals. Visiting Humboldt Park puts you in touch with some of the best parkland in the city, although its west side locale makes it a little out of reach for many locals.

The Irving Park neighborhood is located on the city’s Northwest side. Its boundaries are Montrose Avenue, Irving Park Road, and the Chicago River. The community is inclusive of the smaller neighborhoods of Old Irving Park, The Triangle, The Villa, Independence Park, Mayfair, Addison Park, and West Walker. Although somewhat far removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown, it is close to some of my favorite parts of the city and my home neighborhood of Roscoe Village.

The history of Irving Park is probably the first thing that stands out to me. Noted by many for its historic homes, I love strolling the streets of Irving Park to admire its architecture. As a lover of bungalow-style houses and all things historic, I have a soft spot for Irving Park, even though many locals aren’t that fond of the area. If you’re interested in Chicago for skyscrapers and urban energy, Irving Park isn’t for you. If you’re like me and you are no longer enamored with the downtown area, you can probably find a few things to enjoy here.

The area also has loads of transportation, which makes it easy to come here for the day or commute in/out if you make this your home. The cost of living is relatively low and there are a few noteworthy restaurants in the area. Overall, if you love historic homes and quiet charm, Irving Park is worth a visit.

The former home of Sears headquarters, the Lawndale neighborhood saw a lot of growth in the early 1900s. In the years since many of the industries departed, the area has struggled to recover economically. The growth throughout the 1990s and in recent years has breathed new life into this once-desolate area. Its West Side location makes Lawndale a popular family area, but there are a few other things of note here.

Locals flock to the neighborhood in the summer for what is arguably the best farmer’s market in the city. The Lawndale Chicago Farmers Market is found on South Homan and runs from June to October. Within the Lawndale neighborhood are the smaller communities of Homan Square and K-Town, so named for the many north-south streets that begin with “K”. The area has seen its share of ups and downs in the past, but today it is the midst of revitalization and has much potential for the future.

Aside from the Farmers Market, Lawndale has a few eateries, theaters, and some shopping. Nothing to write home about, this is a pretty quiet neighborhood with a diverse culture. Lawndale is set to keep growing into the future, so I’m curious to see what its future holds.