Logan Square is a one-of-a-kind neighborhood that you can really only find in Chicago. This long-time Latino community has seen an influx of new residents that’s rapidly changed the landscape of the neighborhood. Today, the area is home to old-school panaderias, hip late-night bars, trendy restaurants, a cool music scene, and so much more.
Here are just a few things to do, eat, and see in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood.
Start your day in Logan Square’s namesake park, near the intersection of Logan, Milwaukee, and Kedzie. The small green space, a popular hangout for locals, is home to the striking Illinois Centennial Monument.
You also happen to be surrounded by excellent brunch options: wood-fired bagel spot Reno, farm-to-table pioneer Lula Cafe, cozy Same Day Cafe, boozy brunch specialists Park & Field, or acclaimed Longman & Eagle. And if you’re looking for a caffeine fix, there’s no shortage of local coffee shops (Passion House and New Wave Coffee are both nearby).
While you’re in the area, stop by the Logan Square Farmers Market (each Sunday from May through October) or check the event calendar at Comfort Station, a historic building that offers free concerts, movie screenings, and more just across from the monument.
In the summer, grab a Divvy bike rental or take a long stroll heading south down Kedzie. The scenic boulevard is lined with green spaces and stunning historic homes. It’ll lead you straight to Palmer Square, where you’ll find residents lounging in the grass with a frozen treat from Miko’s Italian Ice.
Stop for an afternoon cocktail break at one of the many excellent bars in the area. Parson’s Chicken and Fish is known for their spacious outdoor space where you can enjoy negroni slushies and ping pong. You can also grab a seat on the patio at The Moonlighter or cozy up by the fire at Scofflaw.
Looking for taprooms? Check out our guide to craft breweries in Logan Square.
Next, continue south onto Humboldt Boulevard and The 606, an abandoned railway that’s been transformed into an elevated trail lined with parks, public art, and seating areas. It spans almost three miles and multiple neighborhoods, so take your time exploring.
In the colder months, skip the walk and see what’s playing at The Logan Theatre. The vintage movie house plays old favorites and new releases, with a cozy bar in the lobby. It also hosts open mic comedy, movie trivia nights, and the longest running underground film fest in the world.
Hungry? You’ve got a huge array of options for dinner. Enjoy modern Italian in cozy digs at Osteria Langhe, indulge in Alpine favorites at Table, Donkey and Stick, eat tacos on a rooftop at Lonesome Rose, order Asian-inspired beer and kimchi pancakes at Bixi Beer, and enjoy Cuban fare and BYO mojitos at 90 Miles Cuban Cafe, and don’t skip the chocolate cake at Dos Urban Cantina.
It’s not a day in Logan Square without a night out. Milwaukee Avenue is a local favorite for nightlife. Where else can you visit a small-batch distillery, a local brewery, and a retro cocktail bar all in the same block?
Play some tunes on the jukebox at late-night spot The Owl, sip mezcal at ultra-hip Estereo, visit a German beer hall at The Radler, play old-school games at Emporium, play pool at Cole’s Bar, or dance the night away at Slippery Slope. Or make your own bar crawl and visit them all.
You could also spend the night watching a show at one of the neighborhood’s unique venues. Most venues are currently closed due to COVID-19, but many are offering online shows and performances. Family-owned Rosa’s Lounge is a favorite for Chicago blues, and The Whistler is a hybrid cocktail bar/intimate music venue. You can also see what’s playing at the Logan Auditorium or Concord Music Hall.
Explore more in Logan Square.
