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Gold Coast - Chicago Hotels .com

Gold Coast - The rich and affluent coast

Gold Coast is placed between North Avenue and Oak Street along Lake Shore Drive. Known as the area of the rich and affluent, Gold Coast is home to some of the most desirable waterfront property in the Midwest. The neighborhood is culturally rich and is home to some of the finest shopping, restaurants and nightlife.

The area is also home to attractions like Lake Shore Park (312-742-7891) and Oak Street Beach (312-742-5121). At this popular beach destination, you can find health buffs jogging, swimming and exercising right across from The Drake Hotel, one of the area's best known hotels.

Those who care for their beauty and fitness can enjoy Gold Coast for its top of the line spas and salons. Amongst the prominent ones is Maxine (312-751-1511) where you can have a blow dry and color for $30 and at Urban Oasis (312-587-3500), located at 12 W. Maple St., you can try out various massages and acupuncture therapy.

Gold Coast also hosts popular annual events. On August 18 and 19, Chicago Air and Water Show (312-744-3370) draws a large crowd from the Midwest. The Chicago International Film Festival (312-425-9400) is another annual event that you do not want to miss if you are there in October. The festival showcases more than 100 movies that include film premieres, local and international movies.

Art collectors should stop by Colletti Gallery (312-664-6767) on 67 E. Oak St. They carry vintage posters that you may want to add to your collection. The place also sells antique furniture, ceramics and paintings.  If case you forgot to pack your swimming gear, go down to Londo Mondo, at 1100 N. Dearborn St. (312-751-2794). This shop carries the largest collection of designer swimwear in the city. The have-to-haves include Becca swimwear, Da-Nang sportswear, and K2 inline skates. 

The neighborhood offers diversified fine dining options. If you wish to impress your date go to Le Colonial (312-255-0088) where the French ambiance is captivating. For a Tex Mex experience, dine at Blue Agave (312-335-8900) that serves strong tequilas and has lively interior decor. If your adventurous palate wants something different, go next door to the Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House (312-640-0999), at 1024 N Rush St., for some delicious frog legs.

The neighborhood offers nice nightlife options. The Pump Room (312-266-0360) and Le Passage (312-255-0022) have a dress code and a well-heeled crowd. Signature Lounge at the 96th (312-787-9596) and The Zebra Lounge (312-642-5140) are also swanky spots that are worth a hop. If you are looking for a karaoke place go over to Melvin B's located on 1114 N State Street (312-751-9897) where the ambience is casual and you can play juke box music.

Hotel options include The Drake Hotel, The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago and the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, which built in the shape of a ship. The Sofitel has an awesome façade and offers very modern comforts, and is best suited for a business or a short stay.