The Gold Coast got its start in the late 1800s as the Astor Street District, an area known for its affluent status. The prestige and reputation that the Gold Coast has endured over the last century remains today.

Along almost every boulevard of the Gold Coast, upscale boutiques and shops have opened. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Bloomingdales, Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang and Rolex are just a few of the dozens of boutiques and stores that have locations in the neighborhood. The Magnificent Mile is the shopping hub of Chicago.

In addition to the abundance of shops, cultural attractions are also a draw for inhabitants and visitors to the neighborhood. Some attractions located in the Gold Coast include the Museum of Contemporary Art, Newberry Library.