There is so much to do in Lincoln Park, one of Chicago’s busiest and most beloved cities.
One of the most beloved cities in Chicago thanks to its wide variety of things to do and its cosmopolitan charm.
Lincoln Park is one of those communities that has a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you’re a diehard foodie, a music lover, a history buff, or a fashionista, you’re guaranteed to find something to keep you busy any day of the week.
There is so much to do in Lincoln Park, one of Chicago’s busiest and most beloved cities named after the area's largest park. It’s bursting with charm and teeming with cute boutiques, old bookstores, and an endless selection of restaurants ranging from Michelin-starred eateries to sweet bakeries and everything in between.
It’s great for families, professionals, and college students getting their feet wet since Lincoln Park is also home to DePaul University.
In the past, Lincoln Park’s demographic tended toward a younger crowd since many residents were students at DePaul or breaking into the creative field. However, over the years, Lincoln Park has evolved into a place for young professionals and people to settle down.
The age range still skews toward the younger side of things, but many families now call this affluent neighborhood home. Considering the town’s reputable schools, beaches, parks, and ongoing events, it’s not surprising that more people are discovering the wonders of life in Lincoln Park.
Why not combine a night of dining and spectacle with an evening spent at Theater on the Lake? This luxurious historic building offers one of the only lakefront venues in Chicago. Along with great food and show-stopping performances, guests are privy to Lake Michigan's stunning views and the city’s glittering skyline.
Alinea is one of those restaurants that you must visit at least once if you’re living in or visiting Lincoln Park. It’s the only restaurant in Chicago that has retained its legendary three-star Michelin status. Not only is it considered one of the best places to eat in the city, but it is also ranked among the top 50 restaurants in the world. It’s regarded as a complete experience to eat here and dine on its elegant and extremely creative dishes.
While Alinea might offer one of the most refined and revolutionary four-hour meals you’ve ever had, the famous The Wiener's Circle hotdog stand is on the opposite end of the spectrum. They sell various reasonably-priced hotdogs, often named with a satirical or political edge, but what it’s most known for is its environment.
The Wiener's Circle has cultivated an environment of hostile verbal abuse between employees and customers, which it’s actually famous for. Often, the stand stays open as late as 5:00 AM to accommodate a drunk and rowdy crowd, and the staff—many of whom have worked there for a decade or more—are tipped well for being rude.
It’s certainly unorthodox, but it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. The stand has also appeared on multiple television shows.
Lincoln Park is one of the premier shopping destinations in Chicago. Whether you’re after clothes, furniture, gifts, or whatever else your heart desires, you’re likely to find what you want along the intersection of Diversey and Clark Street.
This crossing is one of the most densely-populated areas in the city as pedestrians come from all over to shop the range of chain stores and independently-owned boutiques. There are also many restaurants in the area if you’re looking to make a full day of it.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a 35-acre zoo and one of the top attractions in Chicago for both tourists and locals alike—you’d be remiss to skip out on a chance to visit it. It’s one of the oldest zoos in the country and one of the few with free admission.
With an astounding 1,100 animals and more than 200 species, the zoo hosts dozens of exhibits, including lions, polar bears, gorillas, reptiles, primates, and much more.
Another excellent place to make a day trip, especially with the family, is the Chicago History Museum. Founded in 1856 to study this great city’s history, the museum has evolved over the years into a cultural touchstone. Aside from changing exhibits, there are classes, resources, education programs, tours, and much more.
As we’ve mentioned, Lincoln Park is a hotspot for creatives. It has a buzzy music and theatre scene, which is why Lincoln Hall is such a popular place for people to attend concerts. Aside from being a mid-size musical venue, it also features an add-on bar and restaurant.
During the holidays, families love to attend ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Celebrate the joyful season with dazzling light displays, ice sculptures, live music, and holiday snacks.
But before that, you’ll want to take your kids trick-or-treating on Clark Street during the annual Spooktacular festival. Participants are encouraged to dress up in costume to enter the costume contest and be blown away by street magicians, stilt-walkers, and jugglers.
The main academic draw to the area is DePaul University, which has one of its main campuses in Lincoln Park.
Residents in Lincoln Park are served by Chicago Public Schools. However, Lincoln Park High School is the neighborhood’s only secondary institution and is ranked among the top public academic institutions in the city.
Other primary schools and magnet schools located in the community include:
A few of the private schools serving Lincoln Park residents are Saint Clement School, Saint James Lutheran School, and Francis W. Parker School.
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