The Waterford, a 25-story high-rise condominium completed in 1974, stands as a prominent fixture along Chicago's Lake Shore Drive. With 252 units, this building offers residents a prime location in the vibrant Buena Park neighborhood. The Waterford's design emphasizes its lakefront setting, providing many units with stunning views of Lake Michigan, the city skyline, and nearby green spaces. Its position just steps from the lake and close to numerous urban amenities makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance of natural beauty and city convenience.
Spacious layouts with breathtaking views
The Waterford offers a range of floor plans to suit various lifestyles, from cozy one-bedrooms to expansive four-bedroom units. One-bedroom apartments, spanning 700 to 1,000 square feet, are priced from $170,000 to $288,000. These units often feature updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances and in-unit laundry, a rarity in many lakefront high-rises.
Two-bedroom units, ranging from 1,138 to 1,525 square feet, are available from $335,000 to $582,600. Many of these homes boast floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan, Montrose Harbor, and the Chicago skyline. Some units have been meticulously renovated with high-end finishes such as marble countertops, custom cabinetry, and spa-like bathrooms.
For those requiring more space, three-bedroom units measure between 1,568 and 1,600 square feet, with prices around $480,000. The largest offerings are the four-bedroom units, approximately 2,900 square feet, with prices in a similar range to the three-bedroom units. These spacious homes often feature wraparound balconies, providing outdoor space to enjoy the spectacular views.
Many units throughout The Waterford have been updated with modern amenities such as smart home features, custom closet systems, and elegant fixtures. Hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and open-concept layouts are common in renovated units, creating a contemporary feel within the classic building.
Monthly HOA fees range from $600 to $1,200, covering a comprehensive list of amenities and services. These include water, insurance, security, doorman, TV/cable, exercise facilities, pool access, exterior maintenance, lawn care, scavenger services, snow removal, and internet. This all-inclusive fee structure allows residents to enjoy a worry-free lifestyle in this lakefront community.
Year-round comfort and convenience
The Waterford offers an array of amenities designed to enhance residents' daily lives. The crown jewel is the indoor rooftop pool, providing year-round swimming with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Adjacent to the pool, residents can unwind in the sauna or work out in the well-equipped fitness center.
For those who enjoy outdoor relaxation, the building features a rooftop sundeck, perfect for soaking up the summer sun or enjoying a good book with a lake view. Social gatherings are made easy with the hospitality room, which includes a full kitchen for hosting events or meetings.
The building's 24-hour door staff ensures security and assists with daily needs, such as package receiving and guest check-ins. A dedicated concierge service is available to help with various requests, from dinner reservations to dry cleaning arrangements.
For residents' convenience, The Waterford provides on-site laundry facilities, though many units have in-unit washers and dryers. Bike storage is available for cycling enthusiasts, and a conference room offers a professional space for work-from-home residents or small business meetings.
The attached heated garage provides secure parking options, with valet service available for added convenience. Guest parking is also offered, a valuable amenity in a neighborhood where street parking can be challenging.
Wi-Fi-equipped co-working spaces cater to the needs of remote workers, while the library offers a quiet retreat for reading or studying. The building's party room, complete with a catering kitchen, is ideal for larger gatherings and celebrations.
These thoughtfully curated amenities, combined with on-site management and maintenance staff, create a comfortable and convenient living environment for The Waterford's residents.
A perfect blend of urban convenience and lakefront serenity
The Waterford's location in Buena Park offers residents the best of Chicago living. This smaller subsection of the larger Uptown area is known for its walkability and access to a diverse array of local restaurants, nightlife, and outdoor activities.
Just steps from the building, residents can access the 18-mile Lakefront Trail, perfect for jogging, cycling, or leisurely walks along Lake Michigan. The nearby Montrose Harbor provides opportunities for boating and fishing, while Montrose Beach offers a sandy retreat for sunbathing and swimming during the warmer months.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course, a challenging 9-hole course with stunning lake views. Tennis courts are also available nearby for those who prefer racquet sports.
The neighborhood boasts several parks, including Buena Circle Park, which features a playground and is popular among local families. The Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, affectionately known as "The Magic Hedge," is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Dining options in the area cater to various tastes and budgets. The Bar on Buena is a neighborhood favorite for craft beers and casual fare, while Siam Noodle & Rice Restaurant offers authentic Thai cuisine. For those who enjoy cooking at home, there are several grocery options within walking distance, including a Jewel-Osco and an ALDI.
Entertainment is never far, with the historic Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, located just a short distance away. The vibrant Boystown neighborhood, known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere and lively nightlife, is also easily accessible.
For everyday needs, residents can find a Target and several fitness centers, including Quads Gym and CrossTown Fitness, within walking distance. The area's diverse mix of local businesses, from boutique shops to cozy cafes, adds to the neighborhood's charm and convenience.
Buena Park's community spirit is evident in its regular events, such as summer block parties and seasonal celebrations, fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents. This blend of natural beauty, urban amenities, and community engagement makes the neighborhood around The Waterford an ideal place to call home.
Effortless connectivity to the city and beyond
The Waterford's location offers residents excellent transportation options, making it easy to navigate the city and beyond. For those who rely on public transit, the building is ideally situated near several bus stops and train stations.
Just steps from the front door, residents can catch the Inner Lake Shore/Michigan Express and Sheridan/LaSalle Express buses at the Marine Drive & Gordon Terrace stop. These routes provide quick access to downtown Chicago and other key areas of the city. A short five-minute walk brings commuters to the Clarendon & Belle Plaine stop, where they can board the Clarendon/LaSalle Express and Clarendon/Michigan Express buses.
For rail travel, the Sheridan Station on the CTA Red Line is about a 10-minute walk from The Waterford. This line offers convenient access to downtown, the Loop, and other major Chicago neighborhoods. For those willing to drive or take a short bus ride, the Belmont Station, serving the Brown, Purple, and Red Lines, is about a five-minute drive away, providing even more transit options.
Cyclists will appreciate the building's proximity to the Lakefront Trail, a scenic route that connects to many parts of the city. The area's high bike score reflects the numerous bike-friendly streets and dedicated bike lanes in the neighborhood.
For those who prefer to drive, The Waterford offers valet parking in its attached heated garage, a valuable amenity in a neighborhood where parking can be challenging. The building's location provides easy access to Lake Shore Drive, facilitating quick trips to downtown Chicago or north to Evanston and beyond.
Air travelers will find The Waterford conveniently located between Chicago's two major airports. Chicago O'Hare International Airport is about a 25-minute drive, while Chicago Midway International Airport can be reached in approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
The combination of nearby public transit options, bike-friendly infrastructure, and easy access to major roadways makes The Waterford an excellent choice for those who value connectivity and ease of movement throughout the city.
Association fees include water, insurance, security, doorman, tv/cable, exercise facilities, pool, exterior maintenance, lawn care, scavenger, snow removal, internet
Sam Rokoff Association, Phone Number (773) 929-2270
Collateral AnalyticsCollateral Analytics
Collateral Analytics AVMs (Automated Valuation Model) employ a number of statistical approaches combined with neighborhood-specific comparable selection guarantees the most up-to-date and precise valuations.
Black Knight®Black Knight
Black Knight’s AVM (Automated Valuation Model) is a state-of-the-art online residential property valuation tool that provides a quick and accurate estimate of the value of almost any home in the U.S.
First AmericanFirst American
First American Data & Analytics’ next-generation AVM combines unrivaled data assets with a blended ensemble of valuation models to produce highly accurate, reliable valuations you can trust.
Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
4/ 10
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
91/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
76/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
77/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Buena Circle Park
10 min walk
Playground
Clarendon Park
10 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Dog Park
Gill (Joseph) Park
10 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Pool
Cricket Hill
12 min walk
Football
Soccer
Multi-Purpose Field
Ann Sather Garden
13 min walk
Picnic Area
Trails
Montrose Harbor
14 min walk
Kelly Park
15 min walk
Trails
Playground
Waveland Park
15 min walk
Belmont Harbor
15 min walk
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
