Chicago is a great city for pedestrians. Last spring, Walk Score ranked it as the sixth most walkable city in the country. But while Chicago's a great town for people who prefer shoe leather to tire rubber, not all of the neighborhoods here are created equally.
Recently, Walk Score released a new batch of data that shows the 10 most walkable neighborhoods in the city. Not surprisingly, West Loop, Near North Side and East Village all tied for the top spot on the list. Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, Noble Square and the Loop also made the top 10.
Walk Score analyzes walkability based on proximity to amenities and pedestrian friendliness. Most activities in Chicago don't require a car, and most of the things you need are right around the corner. You can walk to grab groceries or have dinner with friends pretty easily here. And if your definition of "amenities" is deep-dish pizza and local craft beer, then you'll still be alright.
The top neighborhoods claim their spots with high walk scores based on closeness to a bevy of trendy restaurants, bars and grocery stores, as well as proximity to work. Wicker Park clocks in at number 4 on the list, in part because of its plentiful brunch spots, plethora of shopping and bountiful weekly farmers' market.
The South Loop (number 10) is the only neighborhood on the list that's south of the downtown area, and Wicker Park is the westernmost neighborhood on the list.