neighborhood
Lincoln Park
Why we love it
This picturesque neighborhood is a nature lover’s dream — manicured gardens, a hidden lily pond, a historic indoor botanical garden, and tons of lakefront green space with sweeping city views. It also happens to be home to one of the country’s oldest free zoos and an acclaimed dining scene that includes one of the best restaurants on the planet.
Explore like a local
- Find a moment of zen at the tranquil Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool.
- Sip on cocktails at the all-seasons J. Parker rooftop, with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
- Listen to Chicago-style blues at legendary Kingston Mines, where you’ll find live music till 4 a.m. every night of the week.
Insider tips
What really sets Lincoln Park apart is the area’s namesake park. That’s where you’ll find lushly landscaped grounds, the Lakefront Trail, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, North Avenue Beach, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago History Museum — there’s enough here to spend an entire day (or weekend, or week) exploring.
Lincoln Park is also a shopper’s paradise. The charming area around Armitage and Halsted is where you’ll find tons of beautiful boutiques lined up in historic row homes. Create a custom leather bag at Laudi Vidni, find unique decor at Art Effects, or stock up on locally made snacks at Foxtrot Market.
Eateries in Lincoln Park are just as enticing, from the waterfront views of The Lakefront Restaurant and bustling energy of Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, to notoriously romantic fondue haven Geja’s Cafe and Michelin-starred Boka. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, reserve a table at ultra-acclaimed Alinea. It’s often named one of the best restaurants in the world, thanks to its avant-garde tasting menus and interactive presentation.
Chicago Greeter: free guided tours
Taste, shop and explore the neighborhoods with a friendly local as your guide. Explore rich histories, diverse cultural traditions and hidden treasures. See sides of the city you may not have adventured out to on your own, and take away a truly authentic Chicago experience. Greeter visits are customized based on your choice of neighborhoods, language and interests.
Request a tour with a Chicago GreeterBlog, Neighborhoods
24 hours in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood
Home to Chicago’s largest public park, the Lincoln Park neighborhood offers locals and visitors alike a multitude of activities, culture, dining, and shopping no matter…