I live in a highrise, so to take my dog Phoebe out, I have to get fully dressed and ride the elevator down 16 floors. My neighborhood, Streeterville, is one of the most densely populated in the city, full of hotels, hospitals, universities and apartment buildings. But our morning walk is surprisingly serene—abounding with nature and gorgeous views. We only have to cross one street on this 1.2 mile walk, thanks to the best shortcut in Chicago. Come with Phoebe and me and let us tour you around our ‘hood. I love starting the day this way.
It all begins in the elevator (keep scrolling)…
Every walk begins with a trip in the elevator. 
The Freedom Boat Club, should we join? 
Phoebe needs time to greet her friends. 
This shortcut under Lake Shore Drive makes Navy Pier easy to reach. 
Under the new bike path. 
View of Navy Pier through the trees 
Chicago is full of Pride this month. 
The view of Lake Shore East from Polk Park including the impressive new St. Regis hotel and condo skyscraper. 
So many pretty places to sit in Polk Park. 
Sculpture at Polk Park at the base of Navy Pier 
View toward the Hancock Building 
Hidden nature trails wind through the park. 
Later in the day this place will be crawling with tourists, but at 7am, it’s all ours. 
Dock, ferry and my building in the background 
Once DuSable Park is developed it will be gorgeous. 
Is the last line “let 20 in wind” or “let go in wind”? I’m perplexed. 
Back to the Ogden Slip. Isn’t the Innisfree a beautiful boat? 
Pinched won’t open for a while, but once it does it will be packed. 
Winter’s Jazz Club is back with live shows! 
Robert’s Pizza is a huge hit in the neighborhood. 
Maybe they should give me a free pizza, hmm?
I don’t always feel like taking this walk, but I’m always so happy once I’m on my way. Thanks for taking the trip with us, and enjoy these bright summer mornings in your own neighborhood! Here are some video snippets showing 1) the expansive view of Polk Bros Park, 2) a hidden garden path, and 3) the kinda creepy shortcut under Lake Shore Drive.
Style Challengers 