Lincoln Square
A walkable neighborhood with European charm, local shops, and one of Chicago's strongest senses of community.
About Lincoln Square
Lincoln Square is one of Chicago's most charming neighborhoods, known for its pedestrian-friendly commercial district, European heritage, and strong sense of community. The neighborhood centers around the intersection of Lincoln, Lawrence, and Western avenues, where you'll find local shops, restaurants, and the historic Davis Theater.
Originally settled by German and Swedish immigrants, Lincoln Square still celebrates this heritage through its architecture, specialty food shops, and annual festivals. Today, it's one of Chicago's most desirable neighborhoods, offering excellent schools and a walkable lifestyle.
I live in Lincoln Square, and I can tell you firsthand—there's a reason people who move here tend to stay. The neighborhood has that perfect balance of city convenience and small-town community feel.
Dining & Entertainment
Notable Restaurants
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The Warbler
Elevated comfort food, seasonal menus & craft cocktails
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Jerry's Sandwiches
Huge creative sandwich menu, craft beers & casual vibe
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San Soo Gab San
Korean BBQ institution, 25+ banchan sides
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Jibek Jolu
Rare Kyrgyz cuisine, yurt-inspired interior
Local Favorites
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Gene's Sausage Shop
German deli, rooftop beer garden, neighborhood institution
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Jimmy's Pizza Cafe
NY-style pizza by the slice, casual neighborhood favorite
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Davis Theater
Historic movie theater, recently renovated
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Old Town School of Folk Music
Live music, classes, community events
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The Book Cellar
Independent bookstore with wine bar
Schools
Lincoln Square is known for its excellent school options, both public and private. The neighborhood feeds into some of Chicago's most sought-after schools.
Public Schools
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Waters Elementary
Neighborhood school with active parent community
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Coonley Elementary
Top-rated, diverse student body, strong academics
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Budlong Elementary
Highly-rated neighborhood school, strong community involvement
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Hawthorne Scholastic Academy
High-performing magnet school (lottery enrollment)
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Amundsen High School
IB World School, strong performing arts program
Private Schools
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Queen of Angels
Catholic elementary, strong community
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St. Matthias
Catholic elementary with long neighborhood history
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Lycée Français de Chicago
French-language international school
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The Family School
Progressive education, project-based learning
Parks & Recreation
Welles Park
Fieldhouse, playground, sports fields, summer concerts, and the annual Apple Fest
Winnemac Park
Large green space, bird sanctuary, nature area, and athletic fields
Welles Park Playground
Recently renovated playground with a summer splash pad
Getting Around
Brown Line
Western & Rockwell stations provide easy access to the Loop (25-30 min)
~25 min to downtown
CTA Bus
Multiple bus lines including #11 Lincoln, #81 Lawrence, #49 Western
Frequent service throughout the day
By Car
Easy access to I-90/94 and Lake Shore Drive. Street parking available.
~20 min to downtown (off-peak)
Interested in Lincoln Square?
I live in this neighborhood and would love to show you around. Let's find your perfect home in Lincoln Square.