Author- PGY2 Alex Kahnweiler
Wicker Park, located just northwest of downtown, really came to be in the 1870s after the Great Chicago Fire. Today, Wicker Park is a mix of old and new, as seen in the buildings, shops, homes and people.
One of my favorite things about this area is that there is never a shortage of things to do. Tons of restaurants, patios, and a good handful of 4 am bars are here for when we really want to get weird. I like to think that part of this community is rooted in beer…one of the streets is referred to as “Beer Baron’s Row”, in the 19th century, many Chicago brew masters built homes on the same street in Wicker Park.
Another thing that we love about living here is the 606. This is a converted train track that spans 2.7 miles, connecting Bucktown (the neighborhood just north of Wicker Park) to other neighborhoods, such as Logan Square and Humboldt park. On any given day, you can see people walking, running, biking, commuting and relaxing. People of all ages use it as a meeting point/hang out spot as well. We live a 5 minute walk from an entrance and love going for leisure strolls. There are also usually tons of dogs so if you are into that type of thing that is a good bonus.
This area is also great because I am within walking distance to nearly every necessity. While I find it easier to drive to the grocery store because I am lazy and don’t like carrying my groceries, I could walk to an array of different stores. The same goes for pretty much anything else that life requires, Wicker Park has it all: post office, the coolest Walgreens you will ever go in, liquor stores, restaurants, barbers. You name it, it’s here.
Located at 6 Corners (made up by the intersection of Damen, North and Milwaukee) the Robey is the one of the biggest building in miles. It was recently converted into a hotel and includes a rooftop bar that gives amazing views of the whole city. It is also located right next to the Damen Blue Line stop; this area affords great access to public transportation and is also has many streets with designated bike lanes.
#TheACMCDifference
For me, the #TheACMCDifference is the people. I am continually amazed at how smart, kind, supportive, hardworking and fun the residents and attendings are. The high acuity, high volume setting, coupled with ample social events, has created a culture of support and camaraderie that I feel is unmatched by other programs
Alexander.kahnweiler@aah.org
ACMC Emergency Medicine 