Welcome to Lincoln Square
Located on Chicago's north side, Lincoln Square is a charming neighborhood known for its vibrant community, strong German heritage, and bustling commercial district.
The neighborhood is centered around the historic commercial district along Lincoln Avenue, which is lined with an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
This pedestrian-friendly stretch is a family favorite and you’ll find locally owned shops, a beautiful fountain, public art, and many restaurants, including euro pubs and cafes.
The stretch is also home to the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, and the area’s German heritage is celebrated with annual parades and festivals, including an Oktoberfest celebration that draws huge crowds. Other nations, cultures, and traditions are well represented, too, with globally infused dining options, grocers, bakers, and shops.
For more than a century, locals have caught a film at the Davis theater, the longest continually operating theater in the city. Folk music takes center stage at the Old Town School of Folk Music, a landmark institution that teaches classes to beginners and brings exceptional live music to Lincoln Square.
The gazebo at centrally located Welles is an iconic feature of the community and is near the Chicago Public Library's local branch. The park also has an indoor pool and horseshoe pits.
Lincoln Square also boasts several other beautiful parks and public spaces, including River Park and Winnemac Park. River Park includes a water playground, pool, and canoe launch, while Winnemac's open spaces include a lovely prairie garden.
The CTA Brown Line has several stops in Lincoln Square, and it's also close to the Metra.
Lincoln Square Real Estate
From vintage apartments to single-family homes to renovated condos, charming Lincoln Square is a popular neighborhood for househunters looking for a mix of urban amenities with an old-world, suburban feel.
Lincoln Square is a primarily residential neighborhood, with a mix of single-family homes, two-flats, and multi-unit buildings. The area is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and classic architecture, including many vintage brick buildings and historic homes.
There are also several new construction developments in the area, including luxury apartments and condos.
What to Do in Lincoln Square
- Explore the Square - Take a stroll along Lincoln Avenue and explore the neighborhood's vibrant commercial district, which is filled with an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Be sure to check out the iconic Old Town School of Folk Music, which has been a cultural institution in the neighborhood for over 60 years.
- Catch a movie - Enjoy a classic movie-going experience at the Davis Theater, a historic movie theater that has been a fixture in the neighborhood since 1918. The theater has undergone extensive renovations in recent years and now features luxury seating, a full bar, and a lounge area.
- Visit the farmers market - Head to the Lincoln Square Farmers Market, which takes place every Thursday from May to October. The market features local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from over 30 vendors.
- Go shopping - Lincoln Square is home to a variety of independent boutiques and specialty shops, including Timeless Toys, Merz Apothecary, and Book Cellar. You're sure to find unique gifts and treasures at these one-of-a-kind stores.
- Take a cooking class - Learn to cook like a pro at The Chopping Block, a gourmet cooking school that offers classes and workshops for chefs of all skill levels. From knife skills to pastry-making, there's a class for everyone.
- Grab a drink - Check out the neighborhood's bustling bar scene, which includes popular spots like Huettenbar, The Daily, and Gideon Welles. You'll find a wide selection of craft beer, cocktails, and wine to enjoy.
- Visit a park - Take a break from the city and enjoy the outdoors at one of Lincoln Square's beautiful parks, like Welles Park or Winnemac Park. Both parks offer plenty of space for picnics, sports, and outdoor recreation.
