Lincoln Square
Lincoln Square exudes charm. It has a small town aura, even though it is nestled between the bustling north and northwest sides of the city. Small shops line Lincoln Avenue, surrounding a public square flurrying with activity, while one of Chicago’s oldest train lines rumbles above AND on the ground!
Residential streets are filled with the beautiful architecture of classic two-flats and historic single family homes. Neighbors stroll along riverside trails, eat al fresco in cafes, and thoroughly enjoy their community.
Lincoln Square was once home to German celery farmers, but with the construction of the Ravenswood “L”, it became an accessible and almost suburban place to call home. Current days, it is still a wonderful area to live in with a strong community-minded population and so many things to do!
See below for a Lincoln Square shortlist!
Food
- Jerry’s Sandwiches
This casual restaurant has craft beers and lovely constructed sandwiches! - Cobblestone
An eclectic European cuisine with an American twist and a special focus on ciders. - Bistro Campagne
One of Chicago’s best french restaurants, the patio is absolutely romantic. - Caro Mio Italian Ristorante
Delicious food, always byob, and will never charge a corking fee. What’s not to love? - Lincoln Square Taproom
Proudly serves hyper-local Chicago brews in the heart of the square.
Shopping
- Enjoy: An Urban General Store
A gift shop offering hyper-localized wares for every Chicagoan! - Quake Collectibles
Toys from new to used, common to rare, She-Ra to Spiderman! - Ruff Haus
This boutique pet shop has fun treats and toys for your furry friends. - Merz Apothecary
This historic landmark is a Midwest mecca for people seeking unique and natural European products. - Gene’s Sausage Shop
Produce, sausages, wine and specialties are sold at this unique market.
Music
- Montrose Saloon
Live music every night can be found at this bar complete with beer garden. - Martyrs’
This long standing venue has so many different acts, it’s hard to pin down its niche. - Old Town School of Folk Music
Serious talent graces the boards of this historic stage! - Hidden Cove
A low-key karaoke bar that’s straight out of the 1960s, decor and all. - Laurie’s Planet of Sound
This funky record shop has vinyl, CDs, Tapes, and more!
Things to Do
- The Chopping Block
Learn how to cook or get a bit of extra finesse in the kitchen! - Horner Park
One of the North side’s largest parks, take advantage of the North Branch trail. - Lincoln Square Pottery Studio
Make your mom a vase or yourself a new sculpture! - Davis Theatre
Part revival theatre, part indie, this vintage cinema is an event. - Lincoln Square Farmers Market
Purchase quality food from local farmers underneath the El!
Art/Culture
- Bughouse Theatre
This meeting space offers improv, small theatre, local musicians and more. - Lillstreet
Ceramics, screen printing, metal smithing and everything else you can think of. - National Cambodian Heritage Museum
A museum honoring the rich history of Cambodia. - Dank Haus
Celebrating German-American heritage, this venue has many fun events. - The Cornservatory
This small, but not forgotten, improv club has been around since 1999.
Transportation
- Brown Line- Western, Rockwell
- Western Ave. Bus #49
- Damen Ave. Bus #50
- Montrose Ave. Bus #78
- Lawrence Ave. Bus #81
- Metra- UP-N- Ravenswood
Chicago to Kenosha- Directly to Northwestern University
Explore Lincoln Square
