Welcome to Lincoln Park
A lively blend of activities and a diverse population puts this fashionable, historic neighborhood among the most desirable in Chicago
Home to one of the nation’s most enthralling urban parks — from which the neighborhood gets its name — Lincoln Park is a bustling residential community replete with stately historic homes and picturesque harbor views. The neighborhood is a harmonious mix of thriving nightlife and ceaseless daytime adventure, all catered towards a hip and affluent population.
Lincoln Park is bordered by the neighborhoods of Old Town, Bucktown, and Wrigley Park, along with the lush 1,280 acres of its namesake park on its easternmost edge. Pressed against Lake Michigan’s shores and ideally situated 15 minutes from Downtown Chicago, Lincoln Park has long been a popular destination for urbanites hoping to settle down.
Striking brownstones harbor affordable apartments and condos within their vintage walls, right next door to totally revamped historic houses whose frameworks date into the late 19th century. Swanky high-rises boast stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan, while the abundance of single-family and multi-family homes allows the neighborhood to meet a variety of housing needs.
What to Love
- One of the nation’s most enviable parks in your own backyard
- Astonishing array of epic eats, boutiques, and venues
- A richness in art and culture emphasized by museums and galleries
Local Lifestyle
The arbored streets and historic architecture of Lincoln Park convey an effortless sense of class and sophistication. Highly walkable, many residents find they don’t have to go far to find incredible entertainment — whether that’s a stroll through the massive Lincoln Park Zoo or a casual dinner at a buzzy jazz lounge. The population is an invigorating cornucopia of local college kids, families, and young professionals, serving as the kind of neighborhood where everyone feels welcome.
Dining, Entertainment, Shopping
Eclectic is one of the first words that come to mind when describing the commercial scene of Lincoln Park. Retail enthusiasts can rejoice at the fascinating finds of upscale boutiques like Art Effect, which specializes in highly curated gifts and women’s fashion. At Monica + Andy, new mothers find their niche with designer baby clothes, a cookie bar, and even mother-baby bonding classes.
Many of the shops, restaurants, and galleries are centralized along the stretches of North Lincoln Avenue, North Clark Street, and Halstead Street. However, top-tier eats and shopping can be found sprinkled throughout the entire neighborhood, including spots like the iconic Pequod’s Pizza. A testament to the excellence of a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, the menu at Pequod’s is bursting with award-winning renditions of the city’s classic slice.
For something a little more international, there’s Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba, known as Chicago’s original tapas bar. The restaurant has been serving up authentic Spanish cuisine since its opening in 1985, and diners go crazy over the specialty paella paired with house-made sangria.
Things to Do
A huge draw to Lincoln Park is, of course, the park itself. Among the park’s most recognized attractions, the Lincoln Park Zoo stands out due in part to its long-standing history — established in 1868 — and its 49 sprawling acres of exhibits. Nearly 200 species of animals have taken up residence at the zoo, and visitors have the chance to enjoy special interactions through immersive experiences. The Lincoln Park Conservatory is another frequented destination at the park, and within its balmy greenhouses await a kaleidoscope of tropical plants and ancient trees amidst dozens of unique gardens.
Nearby, the lesser-known Oz Park is a favorite with families and locals, who fall in love with the community garden, ample playgrounds for the kids, and charming Wizard of Oz theme. Indoor activities are plentiful in Lincoln Park as well, and the neighborhood’s reputation as a music hotspot is solidified by the presence of landmark venues such as Park West. Notable performers at Park West have included artists ranging from Whitney Houston and Prince to Adele and Elton John.
Schools
Lincoln Park is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, K-8, highly rated public elementary school
- Alcott Elementary School, PK & K-8, well-rated public elementary school
- Lincoln Park High School, 9-12, highly rated public magnet school among the top in the Chicago Area