Lincoln Square

Welcome to Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square offers small-town charm within the big city on Chicago's North Side, blending rich German heritage with modern culinary and arts scenes. Originally settled by English and German immigrants in the 1840s, this historic community was known for its commercial agriculture including celery, cucumbers, and flowers. The neighborhood has evolved into a family-friendly area known for its pedestrian-friendly commercial districts and strong community identity.

• Lincoln Square Proper centers around the pedestrian plaza created in 1978 at the intersection of Lawrence, Western, and Lincoln Avenues, with the main commercial strip running along Lincoln Avenue from Leland to Lawrence. The area features unique shops, cozy cafes, and diverse restaurants, with housing that includes vintage apartments, condominiums, and some single-family homes with easy Brown Line access.

• Ravenswood forms a significant portion of the community area and should not be confused with Lincoln Square proper, as they are distinct neighborhoods with their own identities. The area offers a mix of single-family homes, vintage apartments, and small apartment buildings with tree-lined residential streets.

• Bowmanville provides a quieter residential character with single-family homes, small apartment buildings, and condominiums. This neighborhood maintains the area's family-friendly atmosphere while offering more affordable housing options within the community area.

• Budlong Woods was named after the Budlong brothers who established a commercial pickling operation in 1857 near what is today Lincoln Avenue and Berwyn, later opening commercial greenhouses and flower fields to supply Rosehill Cemetery. The area features primarily single-family homes and small apartment buildings with a suburban feel within the urban environment.

• Ravenswood Gardens offers residential living with a mix of housing types including single-family homes, two-flats, and small apartment buildings, providing diverse options for families and young professionals seeking community-oriented living.

Lincoln Square combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering diverse housing from vintage apartments to family homes across its distinct neighborhoods. With excellent public transportation, community events, international cuisine reflecting its immigrant heritage, and pedestrian-friendly commercial areas, the neighborhood attracts families and professionals seeking authentic community life with easy downtown access and strong neighborhood character.