Often called the "Gateway to Chicago" because of its historical importance to travelers and immigrant passage to the U.S., or a city within a city because of its self-sufficient, small-town environment, Jefferson Park is a neighborhood with rich cultural history and attractive residential property. Homebuyers will find a good assortment of real estate in Jefferson Park that covers every style of living, from contemporary condominiums to early Victorian houses. The area is surrounded by suburban, country club golf courses and thick forest preserves, so Jefferson Park residents are not for want of open space and lush greenery. Many of the homes in this neck of the woods have private yards and the small neighborhood parks provide even more room to stretch the legs and get a breath of fresh air. Entertainment in Jefferson Park comes in the form of community festivals, local theater, and knocking the pins down at the bowling alley. After working up an appetite, set out for any one of Jefferson Park's dozens of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, delis, pizzerias and takeouts.