DISCOVER CHICAGO FROM LINCOLN PARK: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CITY ADVENTURE WITHOUT A CAR
Lincoln Park isn’t just a neighborhood — it’s one of Chicago’s most vibrant, scenic, and walkable communities. Nestled along the lakefront, this historic area offers the perfect base for exploring top attractions like Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, and the Field Museum — all without needing a car. Whether you’re visiting, hosting out-of-towners, or just taking a well-earned break from your renovation project, here’s how to explore the best of the city from Lincoln Park
WHY START FROM LINCOLN PARK?
Lincoln Park is home to the Lincoln Park Zoo (free admission year-round)
North Avenue Beach for lakefront views and summer sun
Lincoln Park Conservatory and Nature Boardwalk for a peaceful stroll
Armitage Avenue for boutique shopping and local charm
Top restaurants like Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!, Alinea, and RJ Grunts
Located just north of downtown, Lincoln Park offers easy access to public transit, bike trails, and scooter-friendly streets.
CTA ROUTES FROM LINCOLN PARK TO CHICAGO’S TOP SPOTS
To Shedd Aquarium
Train: Red Line from Fullerton to Roosevelt, then a 10-minute walk
Bus: #151 from Stockton & Webster to Adams & Wabash, then #146 to Museum Campus
Estimated time: 35–45 minutes
To Navy Pier
Train + Bus: Red Line to Grand, walk to Grand & State, take #29 to Navy Pier
Bus Only: #151 to Michigan & Pearson, walk to Chicago & Michigan, then #66 to Navy Pier
Estimated time: 30–33 minutes
To Field Museum
Train: Red Line to Roosevelt, then walk 10 minutes east
Bus: #151 to Michigan & Roosevelt, transfer to #146 to Museum Campus
Estimated time: 25–40 minutes
ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO GET AROUND
Divvy Bike Share
Stations throughout Lincoln Park
Day Pass: $18.10 for unlimited 3-hour classic bike rides
Electric pedal-assist bikes: $1 unlock fee + $0.44 per minute
Electric Scooters (Divvy, Lime, Spin, Link)
Unlock fee: ~$1
Per-minute charge: ~$0.39–$0.49
Some services allow text-to-unlock options for those without smartphones
Not allowed on the Lakefront Trail
Water Taxi (Seasonal)
Operates between Navy Pier and Museum Campus
A relaxing and scenic way to explore Chicago by water
WHERE TO EAT BEFORE OR AFTER YOUR ADVENTURE
RJ Grunts — a Lincoln Park classic for burgers and shakes
Blue Door Farm Stand — seasonal ingredients in a rustic-chic setting
Avli Taverna — cozy modern Greek dining
Annette’s Italian Ice — a neighborhood favorite for sweet treats
PLANNING A DAY FOR FRIENDS OR FAMILY? HERE’S HOW TO MAKE IT AFFORDABLE
Divvy Tips
Classic bikes can be rented from kiosks using a credit or debit card
“Ride Together” feature allows one app user to unlock a second bike
Electric bikes require unlocking via the app and include additional per-minute fees
Scooter Workarounds
Lime and Spin support SMS-based rentals for users without smartphones
Typically, one scooter per account is allowed — plan accordingly
WE LIVE HERE. WE BUILD HERE.
At Bofran Builders, we’re proud to call Lincoln Park home. Whether we’re restoring historic homes or building from the ground up, we believe in keeping our community connected — not just with quality craftsmanship, but with knowledge and local insight.
If you’re exploring Chicago or planning a home upgrade nearby, give us a call. We’re local. We care. And we know how to build — from basements to rooftops.
Want more local tips from a Lincoln Park-based contractor who knows Chicago inside and out? Follow our blog or get in touch.
