Bucktown
Back in the day, this little section of the city was just fields of goats, giving it the unique name of Bucktown. Afterwards, it became a neighborhood of the industrial revolution, housing immigrants for the river-side factories nearby. Now, it still is alive with families, galleries, and restaurants to enjoy!
Trees line streets of colonial two-flats, neo-victorian turrets, and worker’s cottages. Nestled in old storefronts there are local entrepreneurs making their mark on the community and restaurants that are low-key Michelin rated!
Just minutes away from Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Lincoln park, this neighborhood is central to all the fun. But chances are, you will probably just stay within Bucktown, because it just feels like home.
So, don’t look baaaack. Here is a fun guide to Bucktown- without the goats!
Food
- Club Lucky
This diner serves up Italian food in a 1950s setting, complete with jukebox. - Le Bouchon
Transport yourself to Paris at this quaint French bistro- a neighborhood favorite. - Quesadilla la Riena
You don’t need to be a vegan to appreciate this unique hispanic cuisine! - Brasil Legal Cafe
This storefront cafeteria-style Brazilian spot also offers authentic market goods. - Irazu
Spice it up with some traditional Costa Rican food at this long-standing Chicago spot.
Shopping
- Virtu
Get the best gift for that person who has everything at this hyper-local store. - Born with Soul
This urban fashion store has all the kicks and threads you’d ever want! - Moth
Treat yourself or someone else with unique housewares and tchotchkes. - Eskell
Part apothecary, part design shop. This store has wonders on every shelf. - Challenger Comics
Helpful clerks can help you pick out your new favorite superhero.
Music
- The Hideout
This old bar has seen much of Chicago, but it still is one of its most famous stages. - Concord Music Hall
Historic venue that hosts a lot of acts, so the scene is always diverse. - Bucktown Music
Whether it’s voice, string, or horns- there are classes for the whole family! - Liar’s Club
From Metal to Americana, this bar has a community and a vibe like no other. - Evolution Music
Selling, Repairing or buying gear? This instrument shop is for you!
Things to Do
- Whirlyball
A LaCross between basketball and bumper cars, this event is always a blast! - Logan Arcade
Play your old arcade favorites or discover some new ones at this funky barcade! - The Pottery Studio
Learn all about clay from some of the best potters in Chicago! - Map Room
This map-themed bar has an extensive beer list from around the world (of course)! - Sideshow Gallery
This oddities store has some weird wares an a slew of fun events!
Art/Culture
- Trap Door Theatre
This off-off-off Broadway theatre is housed in an old garage. - Firecat Projects
Check out some fun and inventive contemporary art at this gallery! - Chicago Actor’s Studio
Take classes and get classical training in acting! - Easel Art Studio
This art school for kids encourages the process of art, not the final product. - Color Wheel Studio
Offering art classes for all, brush up on your talent or learn something new!
Schools
Transportation
- Blue Line- Western, Damen
Goes to UIC/O’Hare Airport - Western Ave. Bus #49
- Damen Ave. Bus #50
Goes to UIC - Ashland Ave. Bus #9
Goes to UIC - Armitage Ave. Bus #73
Goes to DePaul - North Ave. Bus #72
- Metra- Clybourn- UP-NW
Chicago to Harvard/McHenry
Explore Bucktown
