Archive of the Category 'Lincoln Park'

Winter Date Ideas in Lincoln Park, Chicago

It’s no secret that the winter months in Chicago can be grey and extremely chilly. Luckily, winter in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood can still offer a magical setting for romantic and memorable dates, even in January and February.

From cozy indoor activities to getting outside and gallivanting in the chilly air, this vibrant area provides plenty of options that can suit any couple’s preferences. Whether you’re planning a first date or looking for a romantic getaway with your spouse, Lincoln Park has something special and exciting to offer. From theaters to outdoor activities, here are some of the best winter date ideas to explore in the neighborhood.

Explore the Conservatory

For those wanting a fun activity to do for date night, the Lincoln Park Conservatory can provide a tropical escape from Chicago’s chilly winter weather. Just steps away from the neighborhood’s eponymous zoo, this lush greenhouse is filled with exotic plants, ferns, and flowers. It’s a serene environment perfect for couples who enjoy nature and want to enjoy some quiet time together. The warm temperatures and greenery contrast with the snowy Chicago landscape, making it a unique and invigorating winter date spot.

Enjoy a Coffee Date

Lincoln Park is home to some of Chicago’s best coffee shops. Spend your afternoon at a cozy cafe like Le Colombe or Olor Coffee Bar, where you can sip on seasonal drinks like mochas or special, seasonal lattes.

One of the neighborhood favorites, Bourgeois Pig, is a perfect escape for you and your lover. It’s located in a gorgeous, two-story brick house, with its upper floors full of cozy armchairs and couches for relaxing. This cafe also has a fireplace that can create a perfect setting for meaningful conversation and unwinding.

Take a Winter Walk Through the Park

Lincoln Park’s sprawling grounds are beautiful even in winter. Bundle up and take a leisurely stroll through Oz Park and relish the snowy landscape and the iconic Wizard of Oz statues placed around the perimeter.

You can also walk around Chicago’s South Pond, right near the zoo, which has a quiet atmosphere and a picturesque backdrop for a romantic walk. Though many residents might be hiding inside, embracing the cold and the beautiful winter scenery can be a perfect setting for a romantic evening.

Dine at a Romantic Restaurant

Lincoln Park boasts a variety of excellent restaurants with warm and inviting ambiance that are excellent for winter dates. Visit Geja’s Cafe for fondue by candlelight, a classic choice for romantic dining. You can also make a reservation at Café Baba-Reeba, which has been serving authentic Spanish tapas since the 80’s. Lincoln Park has plenty of exciting cuisine options for you and your partner to have a romantic night.

Catch a Show at the Theater

For couples who enjoy the arts, Lincoln Park’s theater scene is top-notch. The Steppenwolf Theatre offers an array of performances, from contemporary plays to thought-provoking dramas. Attending a live performance is a fantastic way to share an engaging cultural experience while escaping the cold.

You can also catch a movie at the Landmark Century Centre Cinema, which is an iconic spot for foreign and independent films. Grab a drink at the theater’s full bar and enjoy an evening show that’ll surely enhance your winter.

Visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a great indoor option for couples who enjoy interactive exhibits and learning about the natural world. The butterfly haven is a neighborhood highlight, offering a warm environment filled with colorful butterflies that can distract you from the wintery weather outside. This museum offers a whimsical and memorable experience that can also add a touch of magic to your date.

Indulge in Dessert at a Local Bakery

If you’re partial to sweet treats, Lincoln Park has plenty of bakeries for you and your sweetie to try. Some of the neighborhood’s delightful bakeries are Vanille Patisserie and Sweet Mandy B’s, which are both known for their delectable pastries and desserts.

In Lincoln Park, you can share a slice of cake or a box of macarons with your spouse or partner while you watch the snow fall outside. Heading to a bakery is a simple and easy way to add a comforting element to your winter date night.

If you’re a resident of Lincoln Park, you have consistently watched the neighborhood’s greenery turn into a winter wonderland. Though some people may want to hibernate during these months, there are still countless opportunities for romantic date nights outside of your home. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or cozy indoor activities, this Chicago neighborhood has something to offer every couple. By exploring these winter date ideas, you can create unforgettable memories and embrace the charm of the season together.

Exploring the Lincoln Park Conservatory’s Winter Flower Show

When the cold winds of winter start to move towards Chicago, there’s one place that remains warm, vibrant, and full of life: the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Nestled within the beautiful Lincoln Park neighborhood and adjacent to the iconic Lincoln Park Zoo, this historic greenhouse offers a sanctuary of color and fragrance.

Though the conservatory is spectacular in its own right, winter brings forth one of the city’s most anticipated events: the Winter Flower Show.

A Cozy Escape from the Cold

The Winter Flower Show at the Lincoln Park Conservatory is a perfect seasonal escape for residents looking to experience the beauty of nature during the chillier months. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by an explosion of color, fragrant petals, and wall-to-wall lush greenery. With Chicago’s winters often feeling endless, the Conservatory can become a magical place to forget about the snow and harsh weather. 

What makes this event so special is how it transforms the conservatory into a dazzling display of winter flowers. The show typically runs from late November through mid-January, offering a few weeks to take in the stunning arrangements and bask in the warmth of the tropical environment. It’s like stepping into a little oasis in the middle of winter.

Floral Displays to Delight the Senses

The theme of the Winter Flower Show changes every year, so there’s always something new to discover. This year’s theme is “Champagne Toast,” an alcohol-free display featuring a mix of classic winter blooms, such as poinsettia varieties, including “Autumn Leaves,” “Jubilee Pink,” “Ice Crystal,” and “Maren.” The show is designed to offer a colorful feast for the eyes, with flowers arranged in unique patterns and eye-catching designs.

The Winter Flower Show’s array of poinsettias emanates shades of pink, apricot, and gold, evoking the upcoming warmer months. In addition to poinsettias, visitors will find a variety of other flowering plants that thrive indoors during the colder months, such as amaryllis, begonias, and orchids.

The Lincoln Park Conservatory also takes pride in showcasing plants that typically wouldn’t be seen together in nature, giving visitors the chance to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the plant world. The displays often feature tropical plants, cacti, and succulents, creating an interesting contrast to the wintery surroundings outside.

The Conservatory’s Historic Charm

The Lincoln Park Conservatory, built between 1890 and 1895, is an architectural gem. It consists of four display rooms: the Palm House, the Fern Room, the Orchid House, and the Show House. Each room has a unique atmosphere, climate, and arrangement. 

The Palm House, with its towering glass ceilings and tropical plants, is particularly striking. Here, you’ll find towering palms, lush ferns, and colorful blooms that originate far outside the chilly Midwest. The Orchid House is equally enchanting, with delicate orchids of every color imaginable, from soft pastels to vibrant purples and yellows.

The Winter Flower Show is Fun for All Ages

One of the great things about the Winter Flower Show is that it’s a family-friendly event that visitors of all ages can enjoy. Your kids will love exploring the vibrant displays and the colorful flowers, which are often a source of intrigue and delight. If your children wind up uninterested in the floor show, there are plenty of other rooms with exotic and unusual plants to peruse. 

For those who enjoy photography, the Winter Flower Show offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images. The bright colors, intricate arrangements, and dramatic lighting make it a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a young novice, this floor show is an excellent spot to take some impressive images. 

A Winter Tradition

Over the years, the Winter Flower Show has become a beloved tradition for many Chicagoans. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, whether you’re visiting solo, with family, or with friends. For many, it’s an annual outing that brings joy during the colder months, offering a glimpse of nature’s bold beauty when everything outside is monochrome or covered in snow. 

In addition to the flower show itself, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is located in one of the most picturesque areas of the city, Lincoln Park. After you’ve explored the Conservatory’s dazzling displays, you can take a stroll through the neighborhood, which offers a variety of splendid restaurants, bars, and parks.  

Plan Your Visit to The Lincoln Park Conservatory’s Winter Flower Show

The Winter Flower Show at the Lincoln Park Conservatory is free to attend, making it an accessible and affordable way to enjoy a dash of winter beauty. While the event is free, donations are always appreciated and help support the ongoing care and preservation of the Conservatory’s exhibits.

To make the most of your visit, check the Conservatory’s website for the specific dates and times of the Winter Flower Show, with the final show occurring on January 5th. The show is open the same hours as the conservatory, which is Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. If you’re a permanent resident or traveling from out of town, stop by to see the Winter Flower Show and experience a wonderful, vibrant escape from the Chicago snow.  

Festive Family Activities in Lincoln Park for the Holiday Season

Though Chicago can get unbearably freezing, the holiday season in Chicago is a magical time. Lincoln Park, one of the city’s vibrant northside neighborhoods, is the perfect spot to celebrate holiday cheer with family and friends. 

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of fun, festive activities to enjoy in this charming area. From light displays to magical markets, here are a few holiday activities for families in and around Lincoln Park that will make this season unforgettable.

ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo

One of Chicago’s favorite holiday traditions, ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo transforms the eponymous zoo into a sparkling winter wonderland. Every year, this event features over two million lights that adorn the zoo’s grounds, creating a dazzling spectacle for visitors of all ages. Families can wander through the zoo and take in the light displays, enjoy live music, and visit Santa Claus in his North Pole-themed workshop. 

Kids can experience the animated light shows, and there’s even an opportunity to hop on a magical carousel ride. Best of all, ZooLights is free on select Mondays, making it an ideal outing for families on a budget. 

Holiday Shopping on Armitage

If you’re looking for unique gifts for the family, head over to Lincoln Park’s charming shopping districts. Armitage Avenue is lined with boutique stores that offer everything from locally made artisan goods to chic fashion and home decor. 

Well-known stores like Lush, Aesop, and Bonobos line the bustling avenue, as do local businesses with many gifts perfect for your loved ones. Many shops decorate their windows with festive adornments, adding to the holiday ambiance. You might also find stores with special holiday offers, making it a win-win for both your family and your wallet.

Holiday Lights Trolley Tour

For a unique way to see the north side, consider hopping on the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour. This guided tour takes you through the neighborhood’s most beautifully decorated streets, as well as the Magnificent Mile and Millenium Park. The trolley is fully decked out in holiday decorations, and you’ll enjoy the lights in warmth and comfort while learning fun facts about Chicago’s history and holiday traditions. Kids will love the festive music and the chance to look at the beautiful décor that adorns the city streets during wintertime.

Christkindlmarket

Another family-friendly event in the Lincoln Park area is the Christkindlmarket at the Daley Plaza, just a short distance away. While not directly in Lincoln Park, it’s easily accessible by public transit and offers a German-inspired holiday market with festive food, holiday crafts, and live entertainment.

The outdoor market features over 20 vendors, traditional German holiday ornaments, wooden toys, and other unique gifts, making it an excellent spot for families to pick out something special. For younger visitors, activities like S’more-making stations, cookie decorating, and visits with Santa are ready for the masses. The market’s charming atmosphere makes it a go-to destination for those interested in holiday cheer.

Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park

A couple of miles south of Lincoln Park lies Maggie Daley Park, which transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. This iconic space offers families a magical ice-skating experience with the Skating Ribbon, which winds through Chicago’s downtown landscape.

With its crisscross path and views of the city skyline, skating at Maggie Daley Park will feel like a joyful adventure for both you and your kids. The rink is surrounded by beautiful holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for a family outing. Whether you’re gliding along with your little ones or enjoying the thrill of a faster-paced skate, Maggie Daley Park is a must-visit destination for families and friends looking to make lasting memories during the holidays.

The holiday season on Chicago’s northside may be chilly, but it’s also filled with charm, joy, and outstanding family-friendly fun. Whether you are ice skating in the park, marveling at the lights at Lincoln Park Zoo, or shopping for unique gifts along Armitage, there’s no shortage of ways to make holiday memories with your loved ones. The neighborhood’s festive spirit, historic traditions, and holiday activities make Lincoln Park an exemplary place to embrace the season’s magic.

Local Guide to Summer Street Festivals in Lakeview & Wrigleyville

Summer in Chicago is synonymous with street festivals, and the neighborhoods of Lakeview and Wrigleyville are among the most vibrant hotspots for these community celebrations. These festivals offer an eclectic array of music, food, arts, and local culture, drawing both residents and visitors to revel in the summer sun. Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, here’s a comprehensive guide to making the most of the summer street festivals in these lively Chicago neighborhoods.

Lakeview & Wrigleyville Festivals

Southport Art Festival

One of Lakeview’s hidden gems, the Southport Art Festival takes place in late July along the bustling Southport Avenue. This two-day event showcases over 75 artists’ creativity in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and jewelry. The festival’s intimate setting allows visitors to interact directly with the artists, gaining insight into their inspirations and techniques. 

The festival doesn’t just display visual art; this event has plenty of live music performances, interactive experiences, and kid-friendly activities that make it a family-friendly outing. Local eateries and food trucks offer a diverse selection of street foods, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

Though September may be the end of summer, it’s often just as hot as June and July are. To celebrate summer’s lengthy run in the midwest is the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts. This early September festival transforms Broadway Street into an open-air gallery that showcases the works of over 150 juried artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media pieces. It’s a haven for art enthusiasts looking to purchase original artwork or simply appreciate the creative talents on display. 

Outside of visual arts, the festival also includes live music, performance art, and family-friendly activities that add to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. Food lovers will delight in the diverse culinary offerings, from standard street food to gourmet desserts.

Chicago Pride Fest

Of course, a northside Chicago summer would not be complete without Boystown’s Pride Fest. The Lakeview neighborhood is home to Chicago’s robust LGBTQ+ nightlife, and the Chicago Pride Fest is a celebratory reflection of this resilient community.

Held in mid-June, the festival champions diversity, inclusivity, and equality through local and national LGBTQ+ performers. This event features three stages of live entertainment, with performances by famous musicians, drag queens, and high-energy DJs. The Pride Fest also includes a wide variety of food and drink options, as well as vendor booths offering everything from community resources to pride-affiliated merch. The festival serves as a precursor to the iconic Chicago Pride Parade, which takes place the following weekend.

Wrigleyville Summerfest

Held in late July, Wrigleyville Summerfest is a two-day celebration next door to the iconic Wrigley Field. This festival is perfect for families, featuring a dedicated kid’s zone with activities like face painting, carnival games, and inflatables. 

For adults, the festival offers a beer garden with a wide selection of craft beers and live music performances from local bands. The food vendors set up an eclectic mix of cuisines, ensuring something to satisfy every palate. The neighborhood’s friendly community and sports-loving atmosphere are on full display, making it a welcoming event for locals and visitors.

Tips for Navigating the Festivals

So you want to have fun in the sun this summer, but constant festival attendance can be laborious and exhausting in the sweltering heat. To mitigate any disastrous festival-related outcome, here are some of the best tips for attending these exciting outdoor events. 

Plan Ahead

Each festival has its own schedule of events, so check the official websites for performance times, vendor lists, and any special activities. Arriving early can help you secure a good spot for popular performances and avoid long lines at food stalls.

Planning also means bringing necessities like a water canteen, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Setting yourself up for success by carrying your essentials will help keep you from getting too exhausted or ill from the Chicago heat. 

Use Public Transportation

Parking can be a challenge during festival season, so public transportation is your best bet. The CTA Red and Brown Lines provide convenient access to both Lakeview and Wrigleyville, and several bus routes run through the neighborhoods. You can always plan ahead by checking a CTA tracker online or texting the CTA number for route information found at all Chicago bus stops. 

Stay Hydrated 

Summer festivals mean spending a lot of time outdoors, so ensure you drink plenty of water to offset the sweltering heat. If you didn’t bring a water canteen, make sure to prioritize purchasing plastic water bottles once you enter the event. Having water on hand will not only help you withstand the lengthy walking and standing hours but can also help a friend or two from getting dehydrated.  

Bring Cash

Though many of Chicago’s street festivals will have ATMs available, they usually have pesky fees before you withdraw money. To avoid extra commotion and spending, pack your wallet with cash before leaving your home. 

While many vendors accept credit and debit cards, having cash on hand can be quicker and more accessible, especially for smaller purchases and tipping festival staff. 

Embrace the Local Culture

Take the time to explore the neighborhoods beyond the festival grounds. Both Lakeview and Wrigleyville boast a variety of local shops, restaurants, and bars that offer a taste of Chicago’s vibrant community life. These northside neighborhoods are also known for their exceptional street art, which can be found on local residential buildings, railways, and abandoned lots around the area. 

Summer street festivals in Lakeview and Wrigleyville are more than just events; they’re an immersive experience that showcases the best of Chicago’s amiable and creative Midwest culture. With this guide at your disposal, you’re undoubtedly ready to take these summer festivals by storm and enjoy the beautiful outdoors for the upcoming months. 

Historic Architecture in Lincoln Park: Unique & Landmark Buildings

Lincoln Park is home to the city’s iconic zoo, as well as a cornerstone for fine dining, entertainment, and nightlife. However, many residents of the area might not know about its historic nature and architecture, which has lasted hundreds of years. 

Though the Chicago Fire destroyed many buildings in 1871, some parts of Lincoln Park have remained untouched. Here are some of this northside neighborhood’s most unique and essential architecture and structures. 

Elks National Memorial

In the heart of Lincoln Park, there’s a significant structure that has stood since the early 1920s. The Elks National Memorial is a dome-like monument constructed to honor the bravery of soldiers who died in World War I. 

The Elks War Relief Commission was responsible for finding the site and overseeing the monument’s construction. They chose the Lincoln Park area for its centralized location and its closeness to Lake Michigan. The commission wanted to make a structure that was so breathtakingly beautiful that those passing by would have to stop and admire it. The memorial was finalized in 1926 when it was officially dedicated to those who had perished in World War I. 

Today, the structure still stands on Lakeview Avenue between Wrightwood and Diversey.   

Biograph Theater 

The Biograph Theater, converted recently into a live-production venue, is a historic landmark for deadly reasons. It’s most famous for the John Dillinger incident, where the notorious gangster was shot outside the premises by FBI agents. Since the shooting, it has become an essential landmark in the Lincoln Park Neighborhood. 

Built in 1914, the Biograph Theater was designed in the style of other 20th-century movie theaters of the time. It has a storefront-width lobby, an indented entrance, and an extensive canopy marquee. The theater was known in its early days as a hangout spot for gangsters and residents alike and continued to be a premier place for midnight showings. 

Today, the Biograph, known as Victory Gardens, is less of a venue for recent movies and more of a spot for live theater productions. 

Francis J Dewis House 

Francis Joseph Dewis was a prominent figure in Chicago in the late 1800s. He was an established brewer, as part of the Busch Brewing Company, and quickly rose the ranks to become a certified millionaire. His mansion, with notable European architecture, is now a historic landmark that still resides in Lincoln Park. 

Dewis’s house was built in 1896 by Adolph Cudell and Arthur Hercz. They modeled the mansion off of Baroque European architecture, with two exterior pillars in the shape of human figures holding up the building. After Dewis passed away, the home was owned by various Chicago socialites and artists, including Chuck Renslow and famed dancer Dom Orejudos. For its opulent and rich design, the mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s. 

The mansion resides right off of Lake Michigan, on the quiet and quaint Wrightwood Avenue. Just walking west of Lakeview Avenue, you’ll be able to find this colossal building in all of its glory. 

Lincoln Park Conservatory 

Though many visitors and residents are familiar with the Lincoln Park Zoo, its adjacent attractions don’t get the same recognition. The Lincoln Park Conservatory is just as special and historic. With its serene interior and luscious greenery, it’ll easily transport you to a subtropical landscape. 

The conservatory, constructed between 1890 and 1895, is an updated 19th-century greenhouse. It was designed by acclaimed architect Joseph Lyman Silsbee using brand-new iron and glass building technology. 

With the certainty of industrialization, many cities, including Chicago, wanted to bring nature to their urban landscape. This need for foliage pushed the Lincoln Park Conservatory into a showhouse with various subsections, including orchid, palm, and fern rooms. 

Today, the conservatory is as lush and inviting as ever. It’s open between ten in the morning and five at night every day except Monday and Tuesday. If you ever catch yourself near the zoo, stop by the conservatory for a scenic getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

Family-Friendly Activities in Lincoln Park Chicago: Fun for All Ages

There are plenty of fun-filled adventures to take your children on in Chicago. Whether you’re taking a trip to Navy Pier or relaxing along the lake, there are infinite spaces in the city for both adults and kids to enjoy. Here are some of the best spots for family-friendly activities on the north side. 

Lincoln Park Zoo 

What would a list about Lincoln Park be without the illustrious Lincoln Park Zoo? Located just north of Armitage and west of the lakefront, this massive zoo has mammals, reptiles, and insects from all over the world. The zoo also has programming designed for kids, ensuring they have tailored learning and exploration experiences. 

Inside the park, you’ll find the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo area, which is filled with interactive exhibits and play spaces. The zoo includes an impressive treehouse for kids to explore and the Wild Sapling Play Forest for climbing and crawling through. 

Alongside the playground, there’s Lincoln Park’s notable Farm-in-a-Zoo attraction. This area allows for hands-on learning excursions for both kids and adults, showcasing real farm animals and everyday tasks farmers do to keep their companions strong and healthy. It’s a fantastic introduction for children excited to interact with cows, chickens, and goats in a safe, controlled environment. 

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 

One of the most family-friendly museums in the city, the Peggy Notebaert Museum has been a cornerstone in the Lincoln Park neighborhood for over 100 years. 

There are many exhibits to peruse, but the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is the most iconic. This 2,700-square-foot greenhouse hosts over 1,000 butterflies of 40 different species that glide through the space freely and majestically. Kids and parents can see these insects up close and personal, providing an unforgettable and educational encounter for any age. The greenhouse also contains immaculate birds from the southern hemisphere and tropical flora unlike anywhere in the midwest. 

For the family’s youngest members, the museum has a specifically designed play area for toddlers and young children. This playground recreates outdoor habitats indoors, with life-size bird nests and beaver logs for kids to climb and relax in. There are over 25 activities in this play area, too, including unique touchable, interactive games that teach children about our various ecosystems. 

North Avenue Beach 

Before the autumn weather gets too cold, take your children to the lakefront for quality outdoor time. Though many beaches in Chicago exist, the beach on North Avenue has some of the best amenities for family-oriented adventures. 

While swimming and making sandcastles are expected at the lakefront, you’ll also be able to rent kayaks and paddleboards for optimal fun on the water. Lakeshore Bike N’ Tune is also nearby, providing bike rentals and same-day purchases if you need a more stimulating group activity. 

Are your kids into team sports? There are beachfront volleyball nets and equipment rentals, with courts operating for $10 an hour. Even though the summer weather is coming to an end, there’s still plenty to do on the North Avenue shoreline this fall. 

Lincoln Park Conservatory

If your kids have gone through all the Lincoln Park Zoo exhibits and aren’t tired yet, you can walk just a few hundred feet north until you reach the iconic Lincoln Park Conservatory. Located adjacent to the zoo, this conservatory is perfect for kids of all ages and sizes. 

For over 100 years, this humungous greenhouse has hosted thousands of tropical and subtropical plant species from around the globe. Take a stroll through the orchid room and watch your kids admire all the colorful, exuberant flowers on display. 

If strolling through exotic landscapes isn’t stimulating enough for your youngins, there’s a playscape located just outside the conservatory. This play space includes slides, swings, and climbable, rocky formations intended to inspire connection with nature. 

Chicago’s northside is home to unlimited adventures for kids and their parents. With Lincoln Park’s inimitable zoo and sprawling lakefront, it’s almost impossible to run out of family-friendly activities that’ll satisfy everyone. 

The Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Lakeview, Chicago

Most neighborhoods in Chicago are full of greenery, but Lakeview stands out as one of the premier areas for outdoor space and scenic foliage. Lakeview, evidently situated right by the lake, has ample trails, walkways, and parks for families and their furry companions to enjoy. If you’re trying to relish the outdoors these next few sunny months, here are some of the best spots to visit. 

Lakefront Trail 

The lakefront trail may be the most obvious answer, but its beauty makes it the top-tier spot for open-air fun. The path runs from the southside all the way to Evanston, complimenting the immense beauty of Chicago’s Lake Michigan. A specific, scenic area between Fullerton and Irving Park in Lakeview has plenty to offer its residents; from large public parks to tennis courts, this northside pathway provides all kinds of recreation. 

The outdoor tennis courts off Waveland Avenue are great for casual play or competitive singles matches. It lands right between Waveland and Irving Park Avenue on the bike path, surrounded by a large softball field and acres of greenery. If tennis isn’t your thing, a picnic in the adjacent parks is also perfect for needed vitamin D exposure. 

North Pond

A little south of Diversey Avenue lies North Pond, a public nature area home to native plants and aquatic life. The perimeter of the North Pond spans 13 walkable acres, with beautiful winding pathways and greenery to walk through on any warm day or night. 

Converted from a dumping ground, the North Pond is special for its biodiversity and migratory bird sightseeing. This Chicago body of water is home to various amphibians, fish, reptiles, and insects, as well as multiple species of geese, ducks, and herons. 

Getting to the North Pond from Lakeview is relatively easy. If you don’t have access to a car, a few different bus routes will lead you to this natural sanctuary. The Stockton and Clark buses running north and south take you right next to the pond, as well as the Fullerton and Diversey buses that run east and west. 

Belmont Harbor 

Heading north on the lakefront trail from the North Pond, you’ll find yourself next to one of Chicago’s largest and most historic harbors. Belmont Harbor, which started being constructed in the early 1900s, is a bustling area filled with tourists, locals, and boaters. 

An AIDS memorial, which doubles as a sculpture garden, adorns the lakefront south of Belmont Harbor. The park spans 2.5 acres, with countless sculptures to represent those living with HIV or who’ve passed from its complications. The memorial’s crowning glory is a 30-foot-tall green man designed by iconic gay artist and activist Keith Harring. The construction of the garden is also a memorium for the Belmont Rocks, a popular meeting place for LGBTQ+ Chicagoans before its demolition in 2003. 

Oz Park

Directly south of Lakeview is one of the northside’s most notable outdoor spaces, Oz Park. Known for its eponymous statues of Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow, it’s a wildly unique park with incredible summertime amenities.    

Many visit the park for its tennis courts and baseball field, but it’s also a popular meetup spot for dog owners and their pets, students between class periods, and group outdoor exercising.  There’s also a distinctive jungle gym and playground at the park’s center, perfect for adventurous kids from toddlers to elementary school ages.  

Northside neighborhoods have ample green spaces, but living in Lakeview makes those areas way more accessible. If you must leave your air-conditioned apartment this summer, these four spots are crucial for outdoor relaxation or entertainment.

The Lincoln Park Conservatory: A Place of Beauty and Tranquility in the Heart of Chicago

If you’ve explored a nature exhibition in Chicago, you’ve probably wandered over to the Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the largest plant conservatories in the United States. Though it’s spectacular due to its vastness, another public attraction in Lincoln Park is just as exciting. 

The Northside neighborhood, Lincoln Park, holds a breathtaking conservatory adjacent to its eponymous zoo. This conservatory is home to hundreds of plant species and has been a cornerstone of the community for over 100 years. If you’re planning to visit the neighborhood, here’s some historical and essential knowledge about Chicago’s lesser-known nature preserve. 

The Origin Story 

The Lincoln Park Conservatory started construction in the late 19th century. Between 1890 and 1894, the conservatory was under different construction phases, finally being completed by the end of 1895. 

Joseph Lyman Silsbee is responsible for designing the structure. Silsbee was a famous architect who worked closely with Frank Lloyd Wright and operated throughout the midwest and east coast states. He collaborated with local architect M.E. Bell, who was most known for building United States government buildings like post offices and courthouses. 

The two architects were commissioned to transform an old Lincoln Park greenhouse into a new, luxurious conservatory with an “exotic” aesthetic and presence. The original design included three main plant sections: palm, fernery, and orchid. The water lilies and other aquatic plants that were once indoors were replanted in the pond out front, creating an upgraded outdoor display for the improved greenhouse. 

Inside the Conservatory  

The Lincoln Park Conservatory’s indoor layout is almost identical to when the establishment first opened its doors. The windowed front doors open into a vestibule connected to four separate display halls. Each hall represents a different plant and ecosystem, revealing the diverse tropical foliage unfamiliar to most midwestern residents. 

Some rooms have over 100 years old plants, like the palm display’s 50-foot rubber leaf tree, which lives in the conservatory’s Palm House. The Palm House is one of the biggest attractions of the Lincoln Park Conservatory and houses some of the most visually unusual plants in the city. The Dwarf Sugar, Bottle, Fiji Fan, and Everglade palms are all located here, presenting luscious green hues which instantly transport you to the farthest tropical islands. 

The Fernery is another popular destination in the Lincoln Park Conservatory, showcasing ferns of various forest floors worldwide. Though most of the plants located here are ferns, one of the most ancient plants resides here, too: the cycad. 

Cycads are stubby, ancient plants with wooded trunks and feather-like leaves that bloom out from their center. Though they look similar to both ferns and palms, they are not closely related to either species. They are one of the most ancient plant species that humans are aware of, with fossils indicating that they existed over 300 million years ago. 

Planning Your Day at the Garden  

Getting to and exploring the Lincoln Park Conservatory is relatively easy and accessible to all residents and visitors. Though the garden is closed on Monday and Tuesday, it is open throughout the rest of the week from 10 AM to 3 PM. 

The Lincoln Park Conservatory operates like any other Chicago Park District area, meaning the attraction is free to the public. The greenhouse is at 2391 Stockton Drive, with a main bus route connecting the downtown area to Lincoln Park and other Northside neighborhoods. The Clark bus also brings passengers close to the conservatory if the Stockton Bus is too inaccessible. 

Lincoln Park’s premier greenhouse is a tranquil and lush destination that will easily transport any visitor to an otherworldly landscape. If you have a weekday off or want to show your kids something new and educational on the weekends, this local conservatory is the ideal spot to explore.

Our Favorite Upcoming Fall/Winter Events at the Lincoln Park Zoo

If you live in Chicago, you have likely visited the Lincoln Park Zoo. It’s one of the largest zoos in the country, filled with exotic creatures, a farm animal petting zoo, and thrilling attractions. Though visiting a zoo can seem like an experience suited for warmer weather, the Lincoln Park Zoo has many fun events to attend during the fall and winter. Here are some of the best things to do this coming November and December. 

ZooLights

The most visited attraction at the Lincoln Park Zoo is the iconic ZooLights. One of the park’s longest-running events, the wintertime lights extravaganza encompasses millions of LED lights to make magical holiday displays. Though many might be familiar with the event, the zoo is instituting a couple of new features to rejuvenate its usual displays.

Starting November 19th, there will be a new light show at the park, as well as a 20-foot-tall decorated tree outside of the Pepper Wildlife Family Center. Guests can walk around the illuminated park and enjoy snacks and beverages along the way. Tickets will start at $5 for general admission, with free ZooLight days on Mondays throughout mid-November and December. 

ZooLA

ZooLA is the Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual live auction that generates funds for the park’s animal care and general infrastructure. The Women’s Board of the zoo hosts the auction, a group that continuously raises money for the park’s conservation and educational efforts. The board was founded in 1976 and comprised of Chicago’s premier political and business leaders. 

The event always comes with delicious food, quality hors d’oeuvres, and elevated cocktails. Attendees can bid on extensive auction packages, including naming exotic animals in the zoo, yacht cruises, and lavish dinners. Premium ticket packages range from $1,000 per person to $5,000.   

ZooLA will start November 10th, serving food at 5:30 pm and the auction officially beginning at 7 pm.

BrewLights

While the Lincoln Park Zoo is the go-to destination for families, the zoo often provides events specifically tailored to adults. This year, the zoo is putting on the eighth annual BrewLights, presented by Louis Glunz Beer and the Auxiliary Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo. 

On December 1st, guests can enjoy BrewLights alongside the bright LED displays of ZooLights. Attendees can stroll around the park while tasting various beers and beverages. There will be photo opportunities with Santa, carousel rides, snack stands, and more. All tickets sold for BrewLights will go to the Zoo’s Auxiliary Board, which helps to keep the zoo free of admission year-round. 

Adults Night Out: Holidaze 

When November fades into Christmas, more holiday events spring up for adults to enjoy. The Lincoln Park Zoo has a second, 18+ event perfect for Christmas lovers. On December 15th, the zoo will turn into Chicago’s unconventional nightclub, with music, cocktail bars, and decorative lighting. 

Adults Night Out will have a live DJ for guests to enjoy, educational animal chats, and plenty of bars to keep people satiated and having fun. Guests can walk around the park and peruse the wild animals while sipping on delicious holiday ciders, brews, hard seltzers, and wine. A resident artist will make ice sculptures to emphasize the wintertime theme. 

Early bird tickets are already available at $15 per individual, with all the proceeds going directly to the zoo’s upkeep. When early bird tickets sell out, general admission will start at $40 per person.

There’s always something going on at the Lincoln Park Zoo, and 2022 is no exception. This November and December, there are boundless events for the whole family and parents and adults who need a child-free evening. If you live in Chicago or are visiting out of town, make sure to stop by the city’s most attended park this winter.    

Best Activities Around Chicago in Fall 2023

Though summer is a beloved period for Chicagoans, fall can be just as exciting. As the leaves change and the cooler weather sets in, autumnal activities like visiting pumpkin patches or going apple picking rise in popularity. While not every city resident has time to drive an hour away to visit an orchard, some great fall activities are happening inside city limits this year. 

Navy Pier’s Pier Pumpkin Lights  

Navy Pier is almost as iconic as the city itself. With its Ferris wheel and lakeside boardwalk, it’s a quintessential stop for any Chicago visitor. For the third year, Navy Pier will host its Pier Pumpkin Lights event.

Starting October 1st, Pier Pumpkin Lights will be in full effect. The spooky installation includes jack-o-lantern towers, festive light displays, and Halloween-inspired statues. The visual experience spans the entirety of the 50-acre peer, starting from the entrance all the way to the Ferris wheel. Though there aren’t concrete details about this year’s event yet, one can expect various Halloween installations with gargoyles, pumpkins, and graveyard scenes. 

Pier Pumpkin Lights lasts the entirety of October, with haunted pop-up events occurring every Saturday of the month. 

The Field Museum     

The Field Museum of National History is one of the largest history museums in the world. Located right off of Lake Shore Drive, its gargantuan pillars and Greek-inspired architecture is just a preview of the marvels the museum holds inside. Lucky for Illinois residents, the museum has plenty of free days for kids and adults to enjoy this fall. 

For October, there are eight different days that’ll be free to the public. Upcoming exhibits include Native Voices, an exhibition documenting Native American and indigenous peoples’ history through art, music, and poetry. Another new exhibit is Wild Colors, a collection of the Field Museum’s colorful artifacts documenting the color spectrum in nature. Of course, the prized possession is the T-Rex Sue, whose bones are prominently displayed at the museum’s entrance. 

Check out the Field Museum’s website for all their upcoming free days. 

Lincoln Park Zoo 

Roaming around the zoo is a beautiful summer afternoon activity. But Lincoln Park Zoo is also a great place to explore during the fall. With countless autumnal events, this Chicago zoo will be the place to visit this October. 

Before the Christmas lights are strung up around the zoo’s perimeter, Lincoln Park Zoo will host numerous fall events for families to enjoy. Starting at the end of September, every weekend up to December will have the zoo’s well-known fall fest. Activities include pumpkin picking, a harvest maze, children’s slides, rides, and free musical entertainment. Other upcoming events include Spooky Zoo, Haunted History Tours, and a spooky adult’s night before Halloween. 

Museum of Science and Industry

Another renowned museum hosting free days this fall is the Museum of Science and Industry. Located in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, the museum showcases man’s innovations and inventions throughout the years. 

The museum holds some of humankind’s most marvelous creations, like the U-505 submarine and the Pioneer Zephyr, the first diesel-electric hybrid train. Comprehensive exhibits like the Baby Chick Hatchery showcases life’s evolutionary process, documenting the life cycle from egg to adult. There are also incredible photography exhibits, like the Extreme Ice display, which features one photographer chasing the disappearing ice caps. 

Look at the Museum of Science and Industry website for all free dates between October and November. 

Chicago Ghost Tours with Nightly Spirits

There are many thrilling ghost tours in the city of Chicago. One of the premier tours is the Chicago Ghost Tours by Nightly Spirits, which brings guests to haunted hangouts of the city’s iconic gangsters and robbers. 

Take a trip through prohibition-era America, where you’ll find spooky pubs and restaurants with rumored ghostly tales of the past. Alongside a history tour, the experience doubles as a pub crawl, taste-testing drinks and spirits from each bar you encounter. The tour begins in Lincoln Park’s historic Red Lion Pub, which is consistently regarded as a ghost domain since its inception.

Though many might be sad that summer has come to a close, Chicago thankfully has plenty of fall activities for families to attend. Whether you’re a spooky aficionado or a local historian, these events are perfect for autumnal-style fun.