Saatva Neighborhood Spotlight: Chicago’s Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park in Chicago is a desirable and expensive neighborhood with a rich history. It offers historic row houses, a free zoo, a lush park, and excellent dining and shopping options. The Saatva Viewing Room is a new store in the area, and there are also other popular shops and restaurants to explore.

Like many of the country’s greatest neighborhoods, Lincoln Park has a storied history of immigrant communities, destructive fires, and eventual renewal. With views of Lake Michigan and the Willis Tower, today, it’s amongst the “Windy City’s” most desirable neighborhoods—and the most pricey.

It’s home to historic row houses, one of the country’s oldest free zoos, a lush park, and some of the city’s best dining and shopping, including our newest Saatva Viewing Room.

Here’s a list of the best places to eat, shop, and explore in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Where to shop

Saatva Viewing Room

A sensory-immersive experience with white-glove service and the latest and greatest technology—what more could you want when shopping for a mattress? Our latest store is sleek and self-guided, so customers can take their time to find the perfect bed for them. Then, once they’ve made their pick, it can be delivered anywhere in the country.

saatva viewing room in lincoln park, chicago

Saatva Chicago: 1534 North Halsted St

Art Effect

A Lincoln Park go-to for nearly 30 years, Art Effect carries an ever-changing variety of eclectic items. It has everything you need to stock a home, from goat milk soaps to gold picture frames. Its Chicago-themed gifts, from mugs to magnets, also make great gifts.

art effect in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Art Effect

Art Effect: 934 W. Armitage Ave

Dave’s Records

This beloved neighborhood record store is for vinyl lovers only. Dave and his team are passionate about records and carry over 40,000 titles in this small shop. So, whether you’re looking for the latest Harry Styles or REO Speedwagon, you can find it here.

dave's records in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Dave’s Records

Dave’s Records: 2604 N Clark St

Laudi Vidni

Individual spelled backward, Laudi Vidni makes it all about you. Here, they design custom, one-of-a-kind bags to suit your style and shape. From crossbody to clutch, it’s hand-made and ethically sourced.

laudi vidni in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Laudi Vidni

Laudi Vidni: 1007 W Armitage Ave

Elizabeth Grace

Inside this stunning brownstone is an equally stunning stationery store. A popular spot for brides and new business owners to select invitations and paper, Elizabeth Grace also sells quirky cards and locally-made jewelry.

elizabeth grace in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Elizabeth Grace

Elizabeth Grace: 2438 N Clark St

Where to eat

Piccolo Sogno

This Lincoln Park favorite is a love letter to rustic Italian food and wine. When the weather’s right, grab a table on its outdoor patio and choose from over 400 wine labels to pair with the standout wild boar ragu pappardelle or the four cheese ravioli.

piccolo sogno in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Piccolo Sogno

Piccolo Sogno: 464 N Halsted St

Alinea

Chicago’s only three-Michelin star restaurant, it’s the meal of a lifetime. The multi-course tasting menu is ever-changing and delightfully creative, paired with impeccable service that comes at a high price. It’s the perfect special occasion spot; just be sure to book weeks in advance.

alinea in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Alinea

Alinea: 1723 N Halsted St

Pequod’s Pizza

When in Chicago, deep dish pizza is a must. A Lincoln Park institution, they’ve been slinging some of the best pies in the country since 1992. Pequod’s crispy crust is their claim to fame, but their gooey cheese and top-notch toppings are just as drool-worthy.

pequod's pizza in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Pequod’s Pizza

Pequod’s Pizza: 2207 N Clybourn Ave

Cafe Selmarie

Opened in 1983, it’s a quaint comfort food cafe for those cold Chicago days. Homemade mac ‘n cheese, tomato bisque, and the neighborhood’s best cakes and pies are on offer. Swing by and grab a slice of the signature Sache Torte and an espresso.

selmarie cafe in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Selmarie Cafe

Cafe Selmarie: 4729 N Lincoln Ave

Jerry’s Sandwiches

Named after Jerry Garcia, there’s a laundry list of sandwiches and burgers to choose from, including a flavor-packed root beer ham sandwich with pickles, pimento cheese, and fried onions. Or opt for a vegetarian sando with avocado, poblano peppers, and fresh mozzarella. The options are limitless.

jerry's sandwiches in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Jerry’s Sandwiches

Jerry’s Sandwiches: 4739 N Lincoln Ave

Where else to spend time

Lincoln Park Zoo

In 1868, New York’s Central Park gifted Lincoln Park four swans and thus, the park was born. Today, it’s one of the country’s best free zoos and a cultural landmark in Chicago. It’s easy to spend a whole day here with nearly 200 species to see, from lions to penguins.

lincoln park zoo in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Christopher Bijalba / Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo: 2001 N Clark St

Lincoln Park

Chicago’s largest park has a free zoo, a conservatory, public beaches and a few museums spread out over 1,200 acres. Come here for a jog, a picnic, or a stroll while taking in views of the Chicago skyline.

Lincoln Park: 500-5700 N Lake Shore Drive

lincoln park in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Lincoln Park Conservancy

Kingston Mines

This legendary blues club has been welcoming musicians to Lincoln Park since 1968. There’s a $20 cover charge, but it’s well worth it with live bands playing until 4 a.m. Word to the wise, leave the heels at home; you’ll want to get up and dance.

kingston mines in lincoln park, chicago
Photo via Kingston Mines

Kingston Mines: 2548 N Halsted St

Check out our additional travel guides for advice on how to spend the day near our other Viewing Rooms:

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