By The Editors By The Editors | October 18, 2024 | Lifestyle, Culture, Guides,
Home to inventive dining destinations, one-of-a-kind shops, lovely tree-lined streets, hot nightlife hubs and some of the city's most scenic outdoor areas, Lincoln Park is a neighborhood like no other. Here's everything you need to know about this popular North Side nook.
WHERE TO EAT
2300 N. Lincoln Park West / Website
Nestled in the historic Belden Stratford building, try classic French fare—from escargots to a signature steak frites— with wines from Bordeaux to the Loire Valley.
2429 N. Lincoln Ave. / Website
James Beard award-winning chef Zach Engel brings his delectable take on Israeli and Middle Eastern cuisine (think three kinds of hummus plus coal-roasted squash, lamb kebabs and lobster) to this cozy spot in Lincoln Park.
See also: The Ultimate Gold Coast Neighborhood Guide
2200 N. Clark St. / Website
Chef Jenner Tomaska has quickly turned Esmé into a Lincoln Park staple. This artful venture reimagines fine dining with an emphasis on community connection. Enjoy a variety of culinary creations, including a Bubble Gum Pop made with fennel curry, squid, hearts of palm and spinach; and the Cloud Maker with chicken, dumplings, truffle, celery root and horseradish.
2024 N. Halsted St. / Website
This long-standing Spanish tapas spot has been a Lincoln Park staple since opening in 1985. Perfect for sharing, plates like paella paired with Spanish wines and local beers make Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! a hit.
2610 N. Cannon Drive / Website
North Pond Cafe's dedication to farmers means fresh ingredients at this cozy spot tucked in the middle of Lincoln Park. Try the spectacular brunch as you watch ducks play in the pond that faces the restaurant.
1729 N. Halsted St. / Website
At this beloved Lincoln Park restaurant—the first from Boka Restaurant Group—chef Lee Wolen creates contemporary American food that spotlights seasonal ingredients and always with plenty of creative twists.
1723 N. Halsted St. / Website
Heralded as one of the country's finest restaurants, this small Michelin three-star modernist beacon switches out its deluxe tasting menu seasonally, and chef Grant Achatz brings his sense of artistry and precision to each plate.
2207 N. Clybourn Ave. / Website
Classic Chicago deep dish pies and a menu packed with savory bites like cheesey garlic bread and the meatball sandwich have cemented Pequod's Pizzeria as one of Lincoln Park's go-to pizza joints.
1954 N. Halsted St. / Website
At this California-influenced, American restaurant from LEYE you'll find a menu focused on locally inspired produce and ingredients. Its wood-fired grill plays an important role in the simply prepared proteins and market vegetables. Artisinal breads and fresh-squeezed juices add to its charm.
340 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Geja's offers an intimate, cavelike setting where candles flicker, the sounds of live classical and Flamenco guitarists fill the air, and meat, seafood and veggies sizzle in bubbling fondue pots.
1800 N. Halsted St. / Website
Lincoln Parks' cozy Willow Room emphasizes a modern American/European fare (including a truly craveable burger) with rich wine and a craft cocktails menu complemented by the restaurant's urban chic, historic landmark space, including a cellar bar for private events.
WHERE TO STAY
1816 N. Clark St. / Website
This eclectic hotel is just steps away from the Lincoln Park Zoo and offers stunning views of the lake. Plus, it's home to two Windy City hot spots: J Parker Rooftop Bar, the perfect place to watch the sunset, and Sushi Suite 202, a low-key sushi speakeasy inside a converted guest room
2230 N. Halsted St. / Website
The perfect locale for a romantic rendezvous, Italian-inspired Villa D'Citta is one of the city's most charming bed and breakfasts nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park. Guests can unwind on the sundeck, stroll through the grotto and bask in the spot's luxe ambiance.
2319 N. Halsted St. / Website
Another boutique stay, Lincoln Park Guest House's chic accommodations and close proximity to a plethora of retail and dining destinations make it a popular alternative to hotels.
WHERE TO RELAX
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2358 N. Lincoln Ave. / Website
The renowned Wisconsin-based lifestyle brand's first Chicago spa location, Kohler Waters Spa provides a serene oasis for urban dwellers with state-of-the-art services and water-led amenities. Signature hydrotherapy treatments like Lavender Rain rejuvenate and re-energize.
1656 N. Wells St. / Website
With customer care and diversity top of mind—and a dedicated patient concierge staff to boot—the experienced estheticians here offer CoolSculpting, microneedling, medical skincare treatments and more in the supremely relaxing, spalike space.
630 W. Webster Ave. / Website
Indulge in a deep tissue massage, an aromatherapy sea salt scrub, a facial or book a couple's treatment at Lincoln Park Massage Spa for your next self-care day. Its serene environment and personalized service will have you glowing.
1205 W. Webster Ave., Ste. 1 / Website
CryoBar's Lincoln Park location offers services like whole body cryotherapy, which reduces inflammation, compression therapy, cryoskin body contouring and more to revitalize and recharge.
2121 N. Clybourn Ave. / Website
From salt stone massages and age defense facials to beauty treatments like lash application and spray tans, Spavia is a the all-in-one stop for for a beauty boost in Lincoln Park.
WHERE TO SHOP
934 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Art Effect has become a staple in the community since opening in 1984. With chic apparel, brilliant gifts, a range of home goods and so much more, it's easy to get lost in the eclectic Lincoln Park shop.
2780 N. Lincoln Ave. / Website
This glorified toy store is not just for kids. Designer selects like the collectible Bearbrick figures, whimsical prints and posters, and Rotofugi's signature blind boxes containing a surprise collection of toys make this one-of-a-kind store and gallery a local favorite.
951 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Lincoln park is home to one of two Mugsy stores in the country (the second is in Austin), so luckily, gents can shop the Chicago-based brand's stylish—and comfortable—selection of jeans and more whenever a wardrobe refresh is in order.
2471 N. Clark St. / Website
Opened in 1986, Steve Quick Jeweler is a treasure trove of beautiful creations such as engagement rings, necklaces, rings and more crafted with jewels sourced from across the globe.
824 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
From Marc Fisher and Jeffrey Campbell to UGG, Lori's Shoes has it all. The brand's Lincoln Park location (it's first of three) is a one-stop-shop for shoes for any occasion.
1616 N. Wells St. / Website
The Second City has grown to become the world’s premier comedy venue, theater and school of improvisation, dishing all kinds of laughter from performers such as Dan Aykroyd, Steve Carell, John Belushi, Billy Murray and Jane Lynch, to name a few. The company offers different shows, including The Best of The Second City, which features some of the troupe’s best sketches and songs.
322 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Park West is one of Lincoln Park's hottest event and concert venues, hosting acts across genres from contemporary rock and pop to jazz, blues, country and more. Past performers have included Sean Kingston, Remi Wolf, Jesse McCartney and Trixie Mattel.
2548 N. Halsted St. / Website
Since 1968, Kingston Mines has been one of Chicago's most prestigious blues clubs. Artists including Magic Slim, Koko Taylor, Sugar Blue and Billy Branch have all taken the stage here.
2610 N. Halsted St. / Website
The Wild Hare & Singing Armadillo Frog Sanctuary is Lincoln Park's hub for live reggae. Grab your friends, a drink and hit the dance floor in one of the venue's three spaces, The Front Bar, Music Room and The Lounge Room.
2683 N. Halsted St. / Website
This local haunt is a favorite among Lincoln Park's music lovers and is home to Chicago’s only all-live music jukebox. Each day of the week offers a different music experience from a live band to a DJ, so check the calendar to keep up with aliveOne's latest happenings.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
1601 N. Clark St. / Website
This museum is devoted to the rich multicultural history of Chicago and Illinois. Galleries are devoted to the life and work of Abraham Lincoln, local authors, journalists, fashion designers and the architects who rebuilt the city after the 1871 Great Chicago Fire.
2001 N. Clark St. / Website
The legendary Chicago landmark is an inviting destination for a memorable experience of both learning and fun. The popular escape feels like worlds away from the bustle of the city. Be sure not to miss the iconic Lincoln Park Zoolights during the holidays.
1650 N. Halsted St. / Website
Steppenwolf Theatre Company was formed in the basement of a Highland Park church in the mid- ’70s. Today, the not-for-profit company, which recently underwent a $73 million campus expansion, produces nearly 700 performances each year across three stages and maintains an award-winning reputation backed up by 12 Tony Awards as well as honors from the National Medal of Arts.
2430 N. Cannon Drive / Website
Explore the wonders of nature with the whole family at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum through exhibits like The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, which houses more than 1,000 butterflies, and the Deb Lahey Nature Trails.
659 W. Wrightwood Ave. / Website
What was once a 1920s apartment building is now Wrightwood 659, a gallery designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando that's filled with works that celebrate art and architecture.
2391 N. Stockton Drive / Website
Lincoln Park Conservatory was the first park conservancy established in Chicago, and today it's a hub for nature lovers where thousands of exotic plants grow. Taking a trip here feels like stepping out of the city and into nature.
HIDDEN GEMS
2010 N. Halsted St. / Website
Locals love this American eatery for its seasonal plates like sesame chicken salad, cornmeal dusted fried chicken sliders and brunch bites and craft cocktails—all served in the spot's modern farmhouse-inspired space.
125 W. Fullerton Parkway / Website
Lincoln Park's Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is one of the neighborhood's most serene escapes. Envisioned by architect Alfred Caldwell, the hidden garden is designed to resemble a peaceful river flowing through a Midwestern prairie.
Check out our Ultimate Chicago Neighborhood Guide here.
Photography by: Photo by Benjamin Rascoe/Unsplash