Things to do in Lincoln Park Chicago

By Dom Bewley
lincoln park chicago

Dear reader! Do you like presidents? Do you like parks? Do you like doing fun things in a specific location? Well, you're in luck! Because Lincoln Park might just be the perfect place for you! There's so much to do in the area, you may never want to leave. So, whether you're a Chi-Town resident, or visiting from further afield, you might be wondering why you should visit Lincoln Park? We hear you, we see you, and we've got you covered. Read on, and discover our guide for all the things you can do in Lincoln Park, Chicago!

Featuring:

  • A trip to the zoo
  • Tasty bites
  • Get horticultural
  • Go for a ride
  • Feel historical
  • and more!
Image of Animal, Mammal, Tiger, Wildlife,

Lincoln Park Zoo

Let's kick off this Lincoln Park funfest with a bit of animal action. Head to Lincoln Park Zoo if you want to hang out with sea lions, primates, and big cats too. They have a bunch of specific areas for you to explore, each with their own theme and group of animals to see. And, if that wasn't enough, there's also a host of rides and activities you can enjoy after you're all animal'd out. Join the Lionel Train Adventure to see more of the surrounding woodland, and join a cruise of the South Lake Lagoon and enjoy the ride! Perfect for big and little kids alike.

Get some delicious food

No matter what you're in the mood for, Lincoln Park's got your hunger under control. Grab some authentic Greek at AVLI Taverna, get classy with Alinea's tasting menu, or get some good old-fashioned deep dish pizza at Pequod's. In the market for some tasty beer to wash it all down? Head to Goose Island's Brew House. This world-renowned craft beer is Chicago born and bred, beginning back in 1988 at this very place.

Image of Grass, Plant, Tree, Bench, Conifer, Garden, Nature, Outdoors, Office Building, Fir, Lawn,

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Want a little nature in your life? Take a walk to the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Not only will you find exotic species of flora from across the globe, but every plant and tree grown in the park starts here. Be sure to visit the four display houses, each showcasing different breeds of beautiful flowers and greenery. So, if you're visiting Chicago, it's definitely one of the best things to do in Lincoln Park!

Bike ride

Need to get the blood pumping? Why not ride your bike around Lincoln Park? If you don't have yours with you, rent one! It's a great way to get about and explore every nook and cranny of this massive green space. Better yet, bring some picnic supplies with you, find the perfect spot and set up your own snack bar. Nothing quite beats lounging on the grass and enjoying a delicious snack!

Image of Lighting, Stage, Concert, Crowd, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, Male, Man, Urban,

Second City Hilarity

Need a bit of a pick-me-up? Well, they say laughter is the best medicine. Put that theory to the test at Second City. The home of sketch and improv comedy, every night, you'll discover a hilarious act or two performing on stage. But don't take our word for it. Comedy greats like Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Steve Carrell cut their teeth on Second City's stage. Why not discover comedy's next big thing today?

Chicago History Museum

Want to learn a little more about Chicago's history? You'll want to stop by the Chicago History Museum! Learn how the city grew from a humble town to the metropolis it is today. Discover the events that shaped it, like the Great Fire of 1871. And find out more about our favorite president, and the namesake of the very park, Abraham Lincoln. Nourish that withered pea you call a brain with some succulent knowledge and information.

Image of City, Cityscape, Urban, Person,

Hit the beach

If the weather is fine and the clouds are away, why not go to the beach, even just for a day? Just a stone's throw from Lincoln Park is North Avenue Beach, one of the city's most popular spots come summertime. Find a stretch of sand, lay down a towel, and get your tan on. Or, go take a dip in the ocean. Just remember to pack some sunblock. Chicago already has enough lobster.

Go see Lincoln

And why you're there, why not go and see the man himself? Head to the Lincoln Monument and go tip your hat to one of the greats. There, you'll find the Standing Lincoln sculpture, a beautiful crafting of Abraham Lincoln, standing before his presidential chair. Standing at a whopping 12ft tall, and designed by Irish sculptor Saint-Gaudens, it's a must-visit in Lincoln Park. Connected to the statue are delightful gardens, so feel free to walk around and take it all in.

Image of Sign, Symbol, Outdoors,

Stroll through Oz Park

No, you're not in Kansas anymore. Or, maybe you never were. Anyway, if you're a fan of the weird and wonderful Wizard of Oz, you owe it to yourself to take a stroll through Oz Park. As you may have guessed, it's themed around the book and film of the same name. You'll see statues of all the main cast, including Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion. There's plenty for kids to do too, including day camps, tennis and basketball courts, and a big garden called Dorothy's Playground.

Green City Market

And finally, let's end this list of things to do in Lincoln Park, Chicago with some food. Glorious food. Do you like your food fresh and your produce local? Then go check out Green City Market! It's a market dedicated to sustainable farming, and ensures all food is sourced from environmentally-conscious farmers. Visitors will be welcomed by a host of stalls selling everything from fruit and vegetables, to premade meals you can tuck into in the park. There's also a big focus on education, so you can learn about sustainable farming and where to buy groceries.

And that's our list of the best things to do in Lincoln Park, Chicago! Are you visiting Chicago from out of state, or across the pond? You might want to read our guide to getting around the city. Coming by yourself? We've got you covered. And if you're thinking about heading to Chinatown, you absolutely should! Here's everything you need to know for your visit.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Male lion at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago
Blog

Lincoln Park Zoo vs. Brookfield Zoo Comparison of Chicago Zoos

Love animals? Well, of course you do! After all, you’re not some sort of monster, right? Right? Why else would you have landed up on a blog comparing two of Chicago’s best animal attractions? Unless, of course, you’re planning some sort of Madagascar-style breakout. In which case, there’s nothing to see here. Move along, you’ve come to the wrong place. For the rest of you – lovers of adorable aardvarks, cute crocs and bewitching bears – we have exactly what you’re looking for. Take a walk on the wild side with us as we take a look at what to expect from Chicago’s Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoos… Lincoln Park Zoo Name. This one’s fairly self-explanatory: it’s named after the President-referencing Chicago park in which it’s located, a huge tract of parkland on the shores of Lake Michigan that’s also home to a nature museum, a history museum and a conservatory. Age. Lincoln Park Zoo was established in 1868, making it one of the oldest zoos in North America. What to expect at Lincoln Park Zoo. At the risk of stating the obvious, Lincoln Park Zoo is perhaps best known for its animals. Many animals. Big animals. Little animals. Hairy animals. Scaly animals. Animals of all stripes, in other words. We’re talking over 1,000 critters across 200 species, including critically endangered eastern black rhinoceroses, dangerously cute American black bears, lovable two-tailed sloths, ultra-rare Jamaican iguanas, and a chimp named Optimus Prime, to name just a few. Lincoln Park zoo is also an accredited arboretum, boasting 850 plant species, including the only perennial herbaceous hibiscus collection in the United States. There are multiple exhibits to explore and regular activities like penguin-feeding, polar bear care and giraffe training. Best of all, it's free. That’s right: entry to Lincoln Park Zoo costs nothing. It’s free, it’s gratis, and it won’t cost you a dime! Getting in. Opening hours are generally 10AM-5PM with late opening until 7PM on weekends. The zoo is open 365 days a year and… entry is always freeee! More info here. Vital Statistics Size. A relatively diminutive 35 acres. Number of animals. Around 1,100 animals representing 200 species. Number of exhibits. There are around 15 exhibits, including an Arctic tundra for the polar bears, a macaque forest, a seal pool, a reptile enclosure and a petting zoo. Places to eat and drink. Four. Annual visitors. Around 3.4 million. Why Choose Lincoln Park Zoo? It's centrally located, just 20 minutes north of downtown. Its relatively small size means you can combine a trip here with other nearby attractions – among them the beautiful Lincoln Park Conservatory and North Avenue Beach. Penguin feeding! Giraffe training! Cute miniature train! Endangered species carousel! It’s one of few places on the planet you can encounter critically endangered eastern black rhinoceroses and the stately Jamaican iguana, believed to be extinct in the wild. Did we mention it’s FREE? Brookfield Zoo Name. Brookfield Zoo Chicago (to give it its full Sunday name) is also known as the Chicago Zoological Park. Or just plain Brookfield Zoo to its friends. Age. Brookfield Zoo is officially a nonagenarian: it first opened its gates on July 1, 1934. What to expect at Brookfield Zoo. One thing’s for sure: you’ll do a lot more walking at Brookfield, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. Located out in the ‘burbs west of the city, this huge expanse of parkland is home to thousands of animals, from cute and cuddly koalas to showboating frilled lizards, Andean cock-of-the-rocks, and colorful butterflies. Say g’day to wombats, kangas, kookaburras and other Antipodean animals in the Australia zone, get up close to endangered black rhinos at the pachyderm exhibit and ogle Day-Glo pythons and poison frogs in the reptile enclosure. The zoo also has several fairground-style rides including a Ferris wheel, a hand-carved menagerie carousel, and virtual reality wildlife experiences. You can also rest weary legs aboard the motor safari and enjoy various up close encounters with animals (playtime with the macaws, shark-feeding and so on). Extra charges apply for all rides and animal encounters. Getting in. The zoo is open 9.3AM to 6PM daily. You can buy tickets for general admission, plus parking, special events and rides, here. Vital Statistics Size. At a whopping 235 acres, it’s somewhat larger than Lincoln Park Zoo.  Number of animals. Unsurprisingly, a space this size also houses more critters. About three times the number, in fact, at 3,500 animals and more than 500 species.  Number of exhibits. Eighteen zones, including wolves in the woods, a seasonal butterfly enclosure, a rainforest where clouded leopards are stars of the show, and a penguin pool. Places to eat and drink. Twelve: everything from burgers and tacos to gourmet popcorn and snow cones. Annual visitors. Around 2.2 million. Why Choose Brookfield Zoo? Despite its suburban location, Brookfield Zoo is a fairly easy 20-30-minute drive from downtown Chicago. With more than 3,500 critters to meet, plus rides, add-on experiences and more, there’s plenty to keep kids and grown-ups entertained here for a whole day – or longer! Cute koalas! Beautiful butterflies! Immersive virtual reality wildlife experiences! A Ferris wheel! Multiple restaurants and snack bars mean even the most bear-like appetites can be satisfied with ease. Save on Chicago Tours, Activities and Attractions Did you know you can save up to 50% on dozens of bucket-list Chicago tours, activities and attractions with a pass from Go City? Well, now you do! Choose from an Explorer or All-Inclusive pass depending on your sightseeing style and unlock access to the 360 Chicago observation deck, Navy Pier Ferris wheel and rides, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum and many more. Find out more about the Explorer and All-Inclusive options and bag your Go Chicago pass here!
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Brunch
Blog

Mother’s Day in Chicago: 10 perfect ways to celebrate

Chicago does Mother’s Day beautifully: celebrate with river cruises, sky-high views, flower-filled conservatories, spa bliss, brunch with a skyline backdrop and more!
Blog

Chicago Planetarium Tickets & Tips for Visiting

For those who love all things cosmic, Chicago's Adler Planetarium located on the Museum Campus off of Lake Shore Drive and just south of downtown Chicago, is a must-see attraction - a fascinating planetarium dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics. Founded, in 1930, their mission was then, and still is, to inspire guests of all ages to explore and gain a greater understanding of the Universe. The Adler Planetarium will take you on a trip beyond our galaxy and across the Milky Way, and you won’t even have to suit up if you don’t want. Check out our helpful guide for visiting during your trip to Chicago, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for Chicago Planetarium Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – Adler Planetarium admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 3. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Admission includes access to all of the exhibitions, one standard theater show, and admission to the Atwood Sphere Experience. Tips for Visiting Chicago's Adler Planetarium If you can avoid it, don’t drive to the Adler. The transit system comes right to the front entrance for easy access. The nearest train station to the campus is the Roosevelt Metra Station. Spend some time enjoying the Museum Campus. The location of the Planetarium is on a peninsula in the harbor along lake shore and from this location you will have the best view Chicago’s skyline. Dress comfortably. If you are planning a winter visit remember to dress warmly—Chicago has cold winters. The building was very hot during my visit so opt for layers. There were plenty of lockers available, but no coat check. Adler After Dark is restricted to those over the age of 21 years. This is for patrons looking to enjoy special musical guests and drinks every third Thursday of the month. If you’re planning to go, leave the kiddies with a sitter! Best Times to Visit The Adler is best enjoyed during the summer. If you’re looking to observe the night sky as you only can from the Adler, come during the special evening hours when available. What You Should Bring Carry some cash on hand. Cash always comes in handy at the museum. Whether you need a locker, or just want a quick snack from the vending machine, try to bring along a few quarters when you come. Don’t forget your camera. Okay, you can leave the camera at home, but definitely bring along your smartphone if you do. Whichever you bring, make sure it’s powered up and ready to shoot. There are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the museum. You can even take a photo with the American flag on the moon replica. Visit with friends or family. This is a place to be experienced with others, especially younger people, and those with an interest in the universe. Bring along a friend, or two to enjoy the experience and learn about the history of space exploration. The historical items, like the restored Gemini 12 spacecraft and their accompanying stories, are priceless. What to Do There The Chicago Planetarium houses 3 full size theaters, and 2 full size planetariums. In addition, the Adler is home to an extensive space science exhibition, and an important collection of antique scientific instruments. The Adler is also home to the Doane Observatory which is one of a very few research-active observatories open to the public. The Doane enables Adler guests to see planets, stars, and galaxies up-close against the beautiful lakeside setting of Lake Michigan. We highly suggest you take the time to peruse all of the exhibits, as you will surely leave with a deepened understanding of the planets, our sun and all things space science. Here are a few of our favorites... Mission Moon This exhibit invites you to experience space through the eyes of NASA’s Captain James A. Lovell, Jr. and his family. Theirs is a story of twists, turns, setbacks, and yes success. Find out just how Captain Lovell became a national hero, and how the United States became the first nation to put a Man on the Moon. Our Solar System Here you can get interactive, touching a piece of the Moon, the planet Mars, and even a distant asteroid. There is a Crater Maker so that you can make your own crater, and there is even an actual piece of meteorite from the meteor that crashed to Earth in Arizona years ago. Community Design Labs This exhibit is great for the children. Here they can design an experiment, testing materials to find just the right ones. There are endless possibilities for the imagination to test out. You’ll find 600 ounces of marshmallows, 10,000 popsicle sticks, 12,000 yards of duct tape and over 120 ounces of shaving cream. You’re invited to become a part of the future as you think about science in new ways. The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time A journey where you can transport yourself throughout the cosmos and universe observing the formation of the galaxies, planets, and all the atoms in your body. Other Exhibits include.. Planet Explorers Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass Clark Family Welcome Gallery Astronomy in Culture Nearby Attractions The Adler is located on the Museum Campus, Chicago’s 57 acre park that sits along Lake Michigan. The area is picturesque and very pedestrian-friendly, featuring landscaped greenery along walkways and jogging paths. You will find a number of the city’s most popular attractions. Such as... The Shedd Aquarium, one of the best aquariums in the western hemisphere. The Field Museum, home to SUE, the world’s largest and most complete T Rex ever found. Places to Eat Nearby You may want to opt for eating at the museum just for the view. Café Galileo offers a laid-back lunch and they have the best view of the Chicago skyline. They provide prepared options from soup, to sandwiches, to salads, beverages and desserts. There’s a kid’s menu and all of the prices are pretty reasonable considering you’re in Chicago! Other nearby options include: Del Campo’s Tacos on 12st beach and Eleven City Diner, an American Delicatessen. Both are located within a mile of the museum. Need to Know Hours Summer: Daily, 9:30 am-6:00 pm Winter: Daily, 9:30 am-4:00 pm Closings: Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, On rare occasions this attraction closes early due to private functions. Please visit www.adlerplanetarium.org for a full list of hours and show times. Directions & Address 1300 South Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60605 Driving: From the city, north of the Museum: Take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) south past Grant Park. Continue south until the 18th street exit. Turn left on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Continue right onto Solidarity Drive to Adler Planetarium. From the city, south of the Museum: Take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) north. Continue on Lake Shore Drive until the 18th street exit. Turn right on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Continue right onto Solidarity Drive to Adler Planetarium. Public Transportation: By Bus: CTA bus #146 stops along Michigan Avenue north of the river and on State Street south of the river and will drop you off in front of Adler Planetarium. By subway: CTA Orange, Red, or Green line. Exit the train at the Roosevelt stop. Then take CTA bus #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express, which will drop you off in front of Adler Planetarium. Save on Tickets with a Go Chicago Card Remember, the Go Chicago® Card is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Adler Planetarium tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.