Near West Side, Chicago, IL, USA

Near West Side is a community area on the West Side of Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, United States. The Near West Side of Chicago is primarily a residential area and is bordered by the Chicago River to the east. The neighborhood is home to the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), a public research university founded in 1913 and the largest higher education institution in the Chicago metropolitan area. Malcolm X College and Chicago-Kent College of Law are also located in the area. Chicago Union Station and major highways such as Interstates 90 and 290 serve the neighborhood.

The Near West Side includes the West Loop, once a heavily industrial area and now one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Today, the West Loop is known for its bars, restaurants, live music venues, and popular tourist attractions. The area is also home to the global headquarters of McDonald’s, located at 110 North Carpenter Street. Northwest of the Loop lies the Fulton River District, while the Fulton Market District is located north of the West Loop. Fulton Market, once a warehouse district, has transformed into a hotspot for restaurants, bars, music venues, and boutiques. Other neighborhoods within the Near West Side include Little Italy, Greektown, University Village, Illinois Medical District, and South Water Market, each contributing to the area’s cultural and economic diversity.

The United Center, the largest indoor arena in the United States, is also located in the Near West Side at 1901 West Madison Street. Opened on August 18, 1994, the arena is home to the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) and hosts major concerts and events throughout the year. There are also several historical landmarks in the Near West Side worth exploring, including the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church and the historic Union Park Hotel.