When it comes to finding the perfect apartment in Chicago, outdoor amenity space has become an increasingly critical feature for renters. Whether it’s a tranquil area for relaxation or a lively space for social gatherings, outdoor amenities significantly enhance the appeal of a property. For residents navigating the hustle and bustle of the Windy City, these spaces offer a much-needed reprieve from urban life.

This blog explores some of the best apartment buildings in Chicago that feature exceptional outdoor amenities. From sprawling rooftop decks to beautifully landscaped courtyards, these buildings redefine urban living with their attention to outdoor luxury and function.

Why Outdoor Amenity Space Matters in Apartment Living

Before we go into the list, it’s worth understanding why outdoor amenity space has become such a sought-after feature:

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Outdoor spaces serve as a retreat where residents can unwind and recharge. Having access to open-air amenities fosters relaxation and overall well-being.
• Convenient Socializing: Outdoor amenities like BBQ areas, lounge spaces, and rooftop decks offer a perfect backdrop for connecting and socializing with neighbors and friends.
• Fitness and Recreation: Buildings with jogging paths, outdoor yoga areas, or general green spaces provide opportunities to incorporate physical activity without leaving the property.
• Post-Pandemic Priorities: The pandemic highlighted the importance of fresh air and open space, making outdoor amenities a top consideration for prospective renters in today’s market.

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the Chicago apartment buildings that stand out for their exceptional outdoor amenity spaces.

NEMA

NEMA Chicago is one of the city’s most coveted residential buildings, and it’s easy to see why. More than just a place to live, it offers an unparalleled lifestyle powered by cutting-edge technology only a modern development can deliver. From the moment you arrive, the elevated experience is evident—touchless access is seamlessly enabled through an RFID fob, keycard, or mobile app.

The building’s smart elevators effortlessly navigate 76 stories, home to 800 apartments ranging from studios to spacious three-bedroom units. Apartment sizes vary between 400 and 1,800 square feet, but every unit is designed to impress. Features include floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping city views, high ceilings, hardwood floors, stone countertops in modern kitchens, walk-in closets, and advanced smart-home technology with Lutron Caseta lighting systems and ecobee3 thermostats.

Beyond the luxury apartments, NEMA offers an exceptional array of amenities that outshine any neighboring building. Residents enjoy indoor and outdoor facilities such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, sauna, pool, playground, basketball and racquetball courts, bicycle storage, a media center, lounge, business center, pet washing station, laundry facilities, and community-wide Wi-Fi.

NEMA Chicago redefines urban living, combining sophisticated design with thoughtfully integrated technology to create a place where every detail enhances your lifestyle.

Flora

Flora offers more than just stunning outdoor amenities—it redefines modern condo living. This 34-story tower boasts 368 meticulously designed units that go beyond the basics. While granite countertops and floor-to-ceiling windows come standard, Flora raises the bar with rich hardwood floors, spacious walk-in closets rivaling the size of small bedrooms, and chef-worthy stainless steel appliances.

What truly sets Flora apart is its exceptional blend of convenience and luxury. Residents can enjoy breathtaking west-facing views from both private balconies and thoughtfully designed communal spaces. Amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a relaxing spa, a sparkling pool, and an expansive rooftop terrace perfect for entertaining. The building also features a clubhouse and lounge, with an on-site restaurant offering dining options starting in 2025. At Flora, every detail is crafted to elevate the high-rise living experience.

1000M

1000M is a premier apartment complex located in the Historic Michigan Boulevard District on Michigan Avenue in Chicago’s Loop. Designed by renowned architects Helmut Jahn and Kara Mann, this stunning 73-story, 832-foot tower at 1000 South Michigan Avenue redefines luxury living.

Residents at 1000M enjoy access to over 80,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor amenities—more than any other residential building in Chicago. Highlights include the crown jewel of the tower: a breathtaking 73rd-floor rooftop observation deck, offering unparalleled views of the city skyline, Lake Michigan, and Grant Park. Additional amenities include a year-round Wintergarden, a heated swimming pool, a two-story, state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center, private event spaces, social lounges, co-working areas, and more.

Choose from a variety of layouts, including studio, one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, ranging from 481 to 3,156 square feet. Each unit features the exclusive 1000M Premium Finish Package with elegant Caesarstone countertops, premium plank flooring, and sleek cabinet-front appliances. Renters also gain access to a host of community features, such as a sundeck, cabanas, a basketball court, a dog park, a business center, and a hot tub.

At 1000M, luxury and convenience come together to create an unmatched living experience in the heart of Chicago.

Foundry

Discover the perfect blend of luxury and urban convenience at Foundry, a stunning 27-story residential tower that debuted in 2023. This contemporary high-rise features 327 meticulously designed one- and two-bedroom apartments in the heart of Chicago. Each home is crafted with modern living in mind, showcasing luxury vinyl plank flooring, soaring ceilings, kitchen islands, walk-in closets, built-in desks for remote work, private balconies, and in-unit washers and dryers.

Foundry offers more than just exceptional apartments—it delivers a complete lifestyle experience. With on-site management ensuring seamless operations, residents can enjoy thoughtfully curated shared spaces both indoors and out. Start your day with a coffee from the full-service lobby bar, get productive in the dedicated co-working area with a cozy library, or wind down with the state-of-the-art golf simulator, multiple lounge areas, or the inviting media and party rooms. Essentials like a fitness center, swimming pool, bicycle storage, and more complete the package, making Foundry the ultimate destination for Chicago’s modern urban dweller.

500 N. Lake Shore Drive

Elevate your lifestyle at 500 N. Lake Shore Drive, a LEED Gold Certified building that redefines modern urban living. Featuring a rooftop pool, private cabanas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a 24/7 attended lobby, this residence seamlessly blends luxury, convenience, and sustainability.

The thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom units are complemented by an impressive suite of amenities. Residents enjoy valet dry cleaning by Tide Cleaners, eco-friendly car wash services, and cutting-edge tech features like electric vehicle charging stations, on-site Zipcar access, and an Amazon Hub package locker system. Practical perks such as on-site and bike storage, preferred-rate parking, and a touchless elevator system ensure every detail enhances comfort and convenience.

Perfectly positioned along the lakefront, this exceptional address is steps from the serene green spaces of the 1.7-acre Bennett Park. It also offers effortless access to Chicago’s most iconic destinations, including Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile, renowned for its world-class shopping and dining.

Discover elevated city living at 500 N. Lake Shore Drive—where sophistication meets convenience.