Alta Vista Terrace District

The Alta Vista Terrace District consists of forty row houses arranged symmetrically along a single block in Chicago's Wrigleyville area. The red brick structures display varied rooflines and colors, creating a cohesive yet diverse streetscape.

Developer Samuel Eberly Gross constructed this residential area in 1904, drawing inspiration from London row houses he observed during travels in Europe. The project marked the beginning of systematic architectural protection efforts for historic neighborhoods in Chicago.

The name refers to the elevated view from this location. Today, the orderly arrangement of row houses creates a distinctive pattern that shapes how people experience walking through the neighborhood.

The district sits between Grace Street and Byron Street along West 1050 and has a quiet, pedestrian-centered character. The narrow lots mean the streetscape is tight, and the best views come from walking slowly and observing details up close.

Each house mirrors its diagonal counterpart across the street, an unusual planning decision that gives the entire block an almost mathematical balance. This mirrored layout is rarer than simple symmetrical rows found elsewhere.

Location: Chicago

GPS coordinates: 41.95181,-87.65654

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02