Illinois Neighborhood Named One of the Coolest in the World

Forget airport security, long flights, and jet lag; one of the coolest neighborhoods in the entire world is just a few hours from Rockford.

Avondale’s Global Ranking

The Avondale neighborhood in Chicago just copped the #5 spot on Time Out's annual list of 39 coolest neighborhoods on the planet, and it's the highest-ranked American neighborhood on the list. You're reading that right, higher than neighborhoods in New York, Miami, Austin, and San Francisco.

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What Makes Avondale Unique

So if you're wondering what makes Avondale so special, here's why. Time Out says it's a mix of old and new. The neighborhood features Polish and Latino roots, red-brick warehouses, smokestacks, as well as hip wine bars, wellness studios, record shops, music venues, and even a retro bowling alley, all mixed, making Avondale "unmistakably Chicago."

A Perfect Day in Avondale

If you are trying to make a day of heading to the Avondale neighborhood, do this according to Time Out:

• Get coffee at Magnifico Coffee Roasters
• Eat pastries from Loaf Lounge
• Look for music at Bric-a-Brac Records
• Try some steamed buns at Joong Boo Market
• Finish with drinks at Central Park Bar and dance the night away at Podlasie Club

READ MORE: TripAdvisor Names Illinois Hot Spot a Top 2025 Destination

Why Rockford Travelers Should Visit

This is all less than two hours from us in Rockford. It's a great reminder to us that not only does Chicago and Illinois keep up with the rest of the world, but sometimes we lead it.