Lincoln Park

Why we love it

This picturesque neighborhood is a nature lover’s dream — manicured gardens, a hidden lily pond, a historic indoor botanical garden, and tons of lakefront green space with sweeping city views. It also happens to be home to one of the country’s oldest free zoos and an acclaimed dining scene that includes one of the best restaurants on the planet.

Explore like a local

• Find a moment of zen at the tranquil Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool.
• Sip on cocktails at the all-seasons J. Parker rooftop, with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
• Listen to Chicago-style blues at legendary Kingston Mines, where you’ll find live music till 4 a.m. every night of the week.

Insider tips

Explore nature lovers parade 
What really sets Lincoln Park apart is the area’s namesake park, a lushly landscaped green space stretches along seven miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline.

A few must-see attractions in and near the park include:

• A portion of the Lakefront Trail, an 18-mile waterfront pedestrian path
• The free Lincoln Park Conservatory, a historic greenhouse filled with plant life
• The sandy North Avenue Beach, one of the city’s most popular beaches
• The family-friendly Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, home to a butterfly haven
• The Chicago History Museum, with fascinating, interactive exhibits

Wander a historic zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is an essential stop when you’re in the neighborhood. The historic zoo is one of the oldest in North America, and one of the country’s last remaining free zoos.

Roam the scenic lakefront grounds, admire state-of-the-art habitats (like the massive lion enclosure), and step inside historic animal houses. Check the calendar for popular annual events, like the beloved ZooLights each holiday season.

Enjoy top shopping and dining
Lincoln Park is also a shopper’s paradise. The charming retail district around Armitage and Halsted is where you’ll find tons of beautiful boutiques lined up in historic row homes. Women-owned Art Effect is a great local option for souvenir shopping. 

Eateries in Lincoln Park are just as enticing, from the waterfront views of The Lakefront Restaurant and bustling energy of Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, to notoriously romantic fondue haven Geja’s Cafe and Michelin-starred Boka. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, reserve a table at ultra-acclaimed Alinea. It’s often named one of the best restaurants in the world, thanks to its avant-garde tasting menus and interactive presentation.

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