“Shopping spree anyone?” someone shouts. That is what East Armitage Avenue is known for today. It is a local favorite destination for shopping. East Armitage Avenue is also great for gift hunting or grabbing a coffee. Getting lunch with a friend is great here. You can even get a new pair of prescription glasses.
East Armitage Avenue is located at 2000 North in the Chicago address system. This puts it two and one-half miles north of Madison Street. The street stretches east and west through Chicago and its western suburbs.
Imagine stepping onto East Armitage Avenue. You are immediately greeted by a vibrant scene. Chic boutiques stand next to well-known retailers. Second Time Around is in the trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood. It sits amongst Chicago’s chicest boutiques. You can find high-end designer labels here.
The North Side ‘L’ began operation in 1900. This spurred development in the western part of the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Back then this section of Armitage Avenue was named Center Street.
Today the commercial strip continues to thrive. The area’s residential side streets boast some of the highest property values in the city.
Looking for menswear? Head to Tie Bar. It is the go-to spot for men’s accessories and clothes. Art Effect is steps away from the Armitage CTA brown line. It is an amazing boutique and gift shop. Pogo Boutique is a luxury sneaker store. It caters to female trendsetters. But it sells male and unisex shoes as well.
East Armitage Avenue has a rich history. The easternmost part of the street became part of Chicago in 1837. It was the northernmost extent of the city at that time. The area east of Sedgwick Avenue was added in 1851. The segment east of Western Avenue was annexed in 1863.
The street might be named for A. Armitage. He was an early Chicago mason. Or perhaps for Thomas Armitage. He was the founder of the American Bible Union. The name Armitage Avenue is attested from as early as 1868.
Ready to explore? The Armitage stop on the CTA’s Brown Line is just a few blocks away. Metered street parking is available if you prefer to drive. Either way you are sure to find something of interest on East Armitage Avenue.