Lincoln Park

Located just 2 miles north of Downtown along Lake Michigan you will find 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.

What really sets Lincoln Park apart is the area’s namesake park. That’s where you’ll find lushly landscaped grounds, the Lakefront walking and biking trails, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, North Avenue Beach, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago History Museum, Nature Boardwalk, Farm in the Zoo, Theater on the Lake — there’s enough here to spend an entire day (or weekend, or week) exploring.

Lincoln Park is also a shopper’s paradise. The charming area around Armitage and Halsted is where you’ll find tons of beautiful boutiques lined up in historic row homes. Create a custom leather bag at Laudi Vidni, great soaps at Lush & Kiehl’s find unique decor at Art Effects, or stock up on locally made snacks at Foxtrot Market.

Eateries in Lincoln Park are just as enticing, from the bustling energy 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.

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.