The South Loop is a central Chicago neighborhood that sits on Lake Michigan directly south of the Loop.

“We're close to stores, restaurants, and bars, but just far enough from the hustle and bustle of downtown.” —Sam K., resident

“South Loop is a great neighborhood. There are many shops and restaurants, and we're super close to Museum Campus.” —Paige G., resident

The neighborhood includes a large section of Grant Park along the lake.

The South Loop was once home to major train stations, but the decline of train travel led to a period of abandonment in the 1960s and ’70s.

Over the last few decades, though, high rises have risen on once-empty lots.

New townhouses have also been built, and former warehouses and factories have been converted to condos and lofts.

With the influx of new businesses and residents, restaurants and shops have opened in the South Loop.

“There's tons of diversity. And South Loop has little crime, great schools, and great restaurants.” —Mary L., resident

The South Loop may be best known for Museum Campus, a lakefront green space that holds Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium.

“There are so many kids and so many families. It's a beautiful neighborhood with lots of parks and fun activities.” —Mary L., resident

Columbia College Chicago, a private school with 17 buildings in the South Loop, brings 7,500 students into the neighborhood.

“South Loop is definitely a dog neighborhood. There are dog parks everywhere, and almost every building allows pets.” —Mary L., resident

Well-defined bike lanes linking the South Loop to other central Chicago neighborhoods make commuting by bike a real option.

“You can hop on the train and go wherever you want in the city.” —Sam K., resident

When the Bears are in town, the South Loop fills with fans headed to their stadium, named Soldier Field in honor of WWI veterans.

Thursday afternoon on S Wabash Avenue.