Chicago’s Gold Coast is one of the most vibrant and engaging neighborhoods in the city. It is an ideal place to begin exploring some of Chicago’s most amazing views. Start at the corner of Rush and Pearson. That is where you will find The Clare, the Gold Coast’s only LifeCare community.

Before visiting some of Chicago’s best views, stop for a bite to eat. Step outside the entrance of The Clare and stroll a couple of blocks east to Michigan Avenue. Along the Magnificent Mile you will find a tempting selection of rooftop restaurants and bars that offer spectacular views of the city’s skyline, parks, Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Now that you are nourished, take in the views from Chicago’s tallest skyscrapers ­— the 94-story, 360 CHICAGO and the 103-story Skydeck (Willis Tower). Your perspective of Chicago need not be limited to looking out over the city.

The City’s Riverwalk is an easy way to see Chicago’s finest architecture and is a route often taken by The Clare’s resident-led walking groups. Buildings tower far above you on either side, and there are plenty of places to sit down and take in the scenery. If you would rather take a river tour, the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady is just the ticket.

Truly unique views can be seen from April through November when Chicago’s moveable bridges rise and lower along the Chicago River so people can bring their high-masted boats to Lake Michigan. From street level, people stop to take pictures and watch in awe as they see firsthand what an amazing architectural fête it truly is.

It is no secret that the flagship parks of downtown Chicago — Grant and Millennium — are home to some stunning views of the skyline. For a unique downtown perspective, however, visit the Lurie Garden. Tucked into the southern end of Millennium Park, the garden’s wildflowers and grasses make an appealing foreground for the city skyline.

Just a short ride south of these downtown parks, you can bring your bike and ride or take a stroll along the lakefront by the Adler Planetarium. It is a great way to view the city. The Adler Planetarium museum sits just north of Northerly Island in a spot that juts out into the lake east of The Loop. Northerly Island offers a view of the city that is typically only seen by water.

Chicago’s charm goes beyond skyscrapers, museums and restaurants. What truly elevates the city is the lake it is built on. Along its shores, you will find 26 miles of scenic Lake Michigan waterfront offering spectacular city views. Oak Street Beach, North Avenue Beach and Ohio Street Beach are all a comfortable distance from The Clare. Viewing the city from atop the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier is a treat to behold. And if you love boats and boating, be sure to visit Monroe Harbor in the heart of downtown. It provides a central focal point of the lakefront. And as a walker, runner or bike rider, you will not want to miss the great variety of incredible city views along the Chicago Lakefront Trail.

No matter where you are in the city, you can take in the best views of Chicago from any number of breathtaking vantage points. That includes the magnificent views at The Clare while dining at The Abbey on 53, high above the city, or taking in the scenery from a luxury apartment home. Whether you are retiring in Chicago or are still working, it is never too early to start thinking about independent senior living at a community that has reinvented the way your next chapter in life can be enjoyed. Stop by and visit The Clare. You are sure to admire the views.

Come visit The Clare today and get a glimpse of Chicago from our perspective. Residents enjoy these beautiful views every day from their apartments or from various prime locations throughout the community. Call (312) 313-2421 or click here to schedule a tour.