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For many, Lincoln Park is Chicago’s “it” neighborhood. It’s the kind of place that checks every box: tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, excellent schools, and a true community feel. With its unbeatable location along the lake stretching west and countless cultural attractions, Lincoln Park captures an idyllic version of city living with a side of green space. Whether you’re raising a family, building a career, or enjoying your golden years, Lincoln Park is a neighborhood that welcomes everyone (and makes it hard to ever leave).
Lincoln Park blends charming residential streets with beloved local spots for dining, entertainment, and outdoor adventure. The neighborhood’s namesake park stretches nearly 1,200 acres along Lake Michigan, earning it the title of Chicago’s largest public park. Within the park is the Lincoln Park Zoo, a world-renowned sanctuary for animals and wildlife education. A family favorite, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last remaining free zoos in the country.
Lincoln Park is also home to DePaul University, a private university that has a strong reputation as one of the largest private institutions in the United States. You’ll often find DePaul students relaxing on the picturesque quad, taking study breaks in the park, and cheering on the Blue Devils in basketball and other sports.
Getting around is easy, thanks to strong public transit connections. The Red, Brown, and Purple CTA lines run through the neighborhood, and several major bus routes (like the 22, 36, 73, and 156, to name just a few) make commuting a breeze. Prefer the Metra? The nearby Clybourn stop serves both the UP-N and UP-NW lines, offering a convenient alternative for trips downtown or out of the city.
Lincoln Park’s dining scene is home to a wide array of cuisines, suiting every palette (and budget). From iconic local favorites to hidden gems, the options here reflect the neighborhood’s diversity and charm. A few highlights:
+ Athenian Room: An unassuming Greek spot with a cult following. Locals rave about the gyros, and it’s the kind of place you find once and never stop going back to.
+ Armitage Alehouse: Iconic for a reason, Armitage Alehouse is cozy, classy, and always packed. Whether you’re on a date or celebrating a promotion, this English-inspired alehouse (known for pot pies and burgers) is a must-visit. Reservations are hard to get, so plan ahead!
+ Wheat’s End – A gluten-free haven that’s won national awards. Whether you’re grabbing a ready-to-eat sandwich or stocking your fridge with groceries, everything here is 100% gluten-free and 100% delicious. Pro tip: Don’t plan to hang around. Wheat’s End only offers carry out and delivery.
+ Allende: Authentic Mexican food served with heart. Famous for steak burritos, generous portions, and a welcoming team. Late-night hours make it perfect for a midnight taco run.
With the massive Lincoln Park as its namesake and backdrop, it’s no surprise that green space is everywhere in this neighborhood. But beyond the main park, there are plenty of well-loved neighborhood treasures too:
+ Lincoln Park (the actual park): Nearly 1,200 acres of activities, scenery, and discovery. It’s home to the zoo, the conservatory, Theatre on the Lake, North Pond, beaches, sports fields, an archery range, and statues of Grant and Lincoln himself. A living, breathing museum of Chicago’s past and present.
+ Oz Park: A whimsical space themed around The Wizard of Oz. With statues of Dorothy, Toto, the Scarecrow, and more hidden throughout, it’s a family favorite. Features playgrounds, community gardens, tennis courts, and ball fields.
+ Jonquil Park: Just steps from the Fullerton CTA station, Jonquil Park is a beloved Lincoln Park gem—especially among local families. With a sprawling playground, athletic courts and fields, and peaceful walking paths, it’s a go-to spot for both play and relaxation. Cross Street Broker Joy Curtin, who grew up enjoying the park herself, recommends it to any Chicagoan seeking a laid-back day outdoors.
There are a few Lincoln Park spots that we cannot recommend enough. Whether you’re planning a day trip or considering a move to the neighborhood, be sure not to miss these must-visits.
+ The Lincoln Park Zoo: Free to the public, the Lincoln Park Zoo is home to some of the world’s most beloved species. Fun and educational for all ages, the sprawling zoo campus also offers educational programming, seasonal public events, and even private bookings (they do weddings!)
+ Galit : Alinea gets all the Lincoln Park Michelin hype, but Galit is the Michelin star that is not to be missed. Specializing in Middle Eastern food, this spot is absolutely worth the splurge. Pro tip: go in pairs of two and do the tasting menu. Each duo picks their own dishes from each course, which means more variety as you share across the table.
+ North Avenue Beach: Lake Michigan might not be an ocean, but here, it sure feels like one. With soft white sand, breezy concession stands serving up ice cream, and endless games of beach volleyball, it’s easy to imagine you’re on the West Coast. A true summertime staple, North Ave. Beach is where Chicagoans soak up every sunny moment.
+ The Red Lion Pub: This must-visit brings classic English pub charm stateside. Think: a cozy atmosphere, fish and chips done right, and a Guinness poured to perfection. It’s also a popular spot on many of the city’s walking ghost tours, so keep your eye out for the Lavender Woman, a spirit who is said to inhabit the second floor.
Signage for the Lincoln Park Zoo (left) and a statue of Tin Man at Oz Park (right)
Lincoln Park is home to some incredible community events. Local favorites include:
+ Green City Market (Lincoln Park) – Held during warm months, this farmers’ market brings together dozens of local vendors and farmers from across the Midwest. Come for the produce, stay for the people-watching and community building.
+ Lincoln Park Greek Fest: A weekend filled with Greek heritage, open to all! Explore Greek culture by way of music, dancing, cuisine, and community.
+ ZooLights: Each winter, the Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland during ZooLights, drawing visitors from across Chicagoland. Hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the grounds, with dazzling displays and choreographed light shows set to music. It’s a magical, must-see tradition that brightens even the coldest Chicago nights.
If you’re searching for a neighborhood that blends charm, community, and convenience, Lincoln Park checks every box. With its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and unbeatable lakefront access, it’s no wonder so many fall in love with this iconic neighborhood.
Get in touch with one of our expert Chicago real estate agents to discover your own slice of Lincoln Park.
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