Area code 312 is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan for the city of Chicago, including downtown, the Chicago Loop, and its immediate environs. The numbering plan area is completely surrounded by area code 773, which serves the rest of Chicago. Both area codes form an overlay complex with area code 872. 312 is an enclave area code, and is roughly bounded by North Avenue on the north, Western Avenue on the west, and 35th Street on the south, with Lake Michigan to the east. In terms of geographic area covered, 312 is one of the smallest area codes in the nation, encompassing only a few square miles.