Background

Alta Vista Terrace Historic District: A Slice of London in Chicago

Discover a hidden gem in Chicago's Wrigleyville: a charming block of early 20th-century row houses inspired by London architecture in a historic landmark district.

4.7

Experience the charm of London row houses in Chicago's Wrigleyville at the Alta Vista Terrace Historic District. This unique block features 40 meticulously designed homes built in the early 1900s, showcasing a variety of architectural styles and a mirrored design across the street.

A brief summary to Alta Vista Terrace Historic District

  • N Alta Vista Terrace, Chicago, Wrigleyville, Illinois, 60613, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during the late afternoon for the best natural light, perfect for capturing the architectural details in photographs.
  • Take your time to stroll along both sides of the street, noting the mirrored designs and unique details of each home.
  • Check out the back of the west row to see how each house has been individually expanded over time.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Wrigley Field, walk north on N Clark St for approximately 0.3 miles. Turn right onto W Grace St, then left onto N Alta Vista Terrace. The historic district will be on your left. The walk is about 10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Chicago, take the Red Line 'L' train to the Addison station. Walk east on Addison St towards N Clark St. Turn right onto N Clark St, then right onto W Grace St. Turn left onto N Alta Vista Terrace. The historic district will be on your left. CTA train fare is $2.50.

  • Driving

    From Lake Shore Drive, exit at Belmont Ave and head west. Turn right onto N Broadway, then left onto W Grace St. Turn right onto N Alta Vista Terrace. The historic district will be on your left. Note that parking in the area can be limited. Street parking is available, but be sure to check parking restrictions. Parking garages are available in the Wrigleyville area, with hourly rates typically ranging from $10-$20.

Unlock the Best of Alta Vista Terrace Historic District

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Alta Vista Terrace Historic District

Step back in time as you explore the Alta Vista Terrace Historic District, a designated Chicago Landmark since 1971. This one-block street, located in the Lake View community, showcases a unique architectural vision brought to life by developer Samuel Eberly Gross in 1904. Inspired by London row houses, Gross created a harmonious streetscape with 40 small, single-family homes, each mirroring its diagonally opposite neighbor. The architecture is a delightful mix of styles, featuring Doric and Ionic pilasters, Gothic arches, Palladian windows, and decorative woodwork. The homes, primarily two-story Roman brick structures with some three-story graystones in the center, create a cohesive yet diverse visual experience. Known as "A Street of Forty Doors," Alta Vista Terrace offers a distinctly human scale and a sense of unity rarely found elsewhere in the city. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined street, and admire the intricate details of each home. Notice how the designs subtly echo each other, creating a sense of rhythm and balance. The residents take great pride in maintaining the historical integrity of their homes, adding to the area's unique charm. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Alta Vista Terrace provides a captivating glimpse into Chicago's past.

Popular Experiences near Alta Vista Terrace Historic District

Popular Hotels near Alta Vista Terrace Historic District

Select Currency