For a fun-filled family day, take a trip to Lincoln Park.
Below are some of our favorite places in this great north-side Chicago neighborhood.
Sweet Mandy B’s
Pop into Sweet Mandy B’s for an afternoon treat! Cindy Levine‘s adorable sweets shop is one of the most delicious old-fashioned comfort shops in Chicago. Well-known for its homemade cupcakes and thick, creamy frosting, Sweet Mandy B’s also serves snickerdoodle cookies, banana pudding cups, macaroons and mini-cheesecakes. 773-244-1174, 1208 W. Webster Ave.
Lincoln Park Zoo
No summer outing in Lincoln Park would be complete without a stop at the Lincoln Park Zoo. It’s one of the nation’s oldest zoos, housing 1,200 animals on 35 acres of land. Best of all, it’s free! Take a stroll in one of the many gardens, grab a lemonade at Park Place Café and see animals from around the world. And don’t forget about the Lincoln Park Conservatory. 312-742-2000, 2200 N. Cannon Drive
R.J. Grunts
After spending the afternoon at the zoo, stop by R.J. Grunts, a 60s-themed restaurant so close to the zoo, you can still hear the lions roaring! Famous for its enormous salad bar, Grunts’ menu is simple American food—burgers, salad, wraps, wings and ribs. If you still have room, end your summer outing with a warm chocolate chip cookie smothered in ice cream and hot fudge. 773-929-5363, 2056 N. Lincoln Park West
Monica + Andy
Find soft, durable kids clothing that is still super stylish at this Lincoln Park boutique. 2038 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-697-7968
Boka
Not only is the food delicious, but Boka made our list of the most gorgeous restaurants in Chicago. 1729 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 312-337-6070
Editor’s note: Looking for a cooler option or an escape from the midday sun? Try the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. It’s located directly north of Lincoln Park Zoo, offers excellent family programming and cool exhibits, like “Monsters on Bikes.”
