Dunning

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.

This is MY quiet, tree-lined street, MY "hood" so I'm a bit reluctant to tell everyone about it! It's VERY off the beaten path and isn't trendy or sophisticated. It's not the "in" place to hang. There isn’t row after row of chic boutiques to shop at or posh restaurants to eat in. But.... I have my cake and am eatin' it too because within about 30-45 minutes, via the CTA or by car, I can be in the Loop taking advantage of my majorly fabulous city and get my fix of all the happnin', trendy, noisy, culture and sophistication I want and need! What this street does have are the friendliest neighbors and unique brick homes (built around the teens and early 1920's by the Schorsch brothers - hence the name of the street and the neighborhood) that look like they're straight out of a storybook. And within walking distance you'll find a big-beautiful park (Shabbona), a great place that delivers old-style, thin-crust pizza (Frank's), a very cool Czech cafe (Cafe Prague), plus the requisite Walgreen's, 7/11 and CVS. I love MY street and hope you'll visit MY neighborhood one day!