Whether you're a resident or just visiting, Lincoln Park offers a variety of activities that promote a healthy lifestyle.
There are serene green spaces perfect for morning jogs and top-tier wellness centers that offer rejuvenating treatments.
In this article, we will guide you through a curated list of healthy things to do in Lincoln Park, ensuring your time here enriches both your body and mind.
We’ll cover nutritious dining options, physical activities, and relaxation spots.
Prepare to explore the healthiest parts of one of Chicago’s most beloved neighborhoods. Let's begin!
Best (Healthy) Restaurants in Lincoln Park
1. Summer House Santa Monica
Price: $$
Address: 1954 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Summer House Santa Monica is inspired by the endless summer feel of California. The restaurant focuses on simple and fresh ingredients.
It gets a lot of its produce from local farms and uses sustainable products.
The atmosphere is relaxed and styled like California.
Here is what you can expect to find here:
Suggested Items
Starters:
- Warm Edamame: Begin your meal with this simple yet nutritious starter, seasoned with sea salt and lemon, providing a good source of protein and fiber.
Main Course:
- Miso Glazed Salmon: Opt for this heart-healthy choice featuring a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Accompanied by broccoli salad and toasted almonds, it’s not only nutritious but also packed with flavor.
Side:
- Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: Complement your salmon with these deliciously sweet Brussels sprouts, which are high in vitamins C and K.
Beverage:
- Pineapple Kick: A refreshing non-alcoholic drink made with pineapple, orange, and a hint of jalapeno, providing a spicy kick without the alcohol.
2. Left Coast
Price: $$
Address: 2878 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Left Coast draws its inspiration from the health-focused lifestyle of the West Coast, offering a menu that captures the simplicity and focuses on wellness typical of California living.
The dishes are designed to nourish and satisfy, with a careful balance of proteins, greens, and healthy fats.
Featuring smoothies, wraps, and bowls that include superfoods like acai and kale, Left Coast is a popular spot for those who value a clean and wholesome diet.
Here is a glimpse of what you can find here:
Suggested Items
Appetizers:
- Shasta Chop: Opt for this delicious blend of roasted broccoli, pears, squash, and spinach. It's rich in nutrients and dressed with a light curry vinaigrette, making it a flavorful yet healthy choice.
Main Course:
- The Arcadian: This dish features arugula, roasted butternut squash, and apples, providing a good mix of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The lemon vinaigrette adds a zestful taste without excessive calories.
- Cadillac Curry: A hearty serving of brown rice with garnet yams and green beans in a Madras curry sauce. This meal is not only filling but also offers a wealth of nutrients and flavors.
Side:
- Roasted Tomato Soup: Light yet savory, this soup is a comforting addition to your meal, featuring a rich blend of tomatoes, onions, and fennel.
Beverage:
- Going to California Juice: A refreshing blend of kale, spinach, apple, cucumber, and ginger. This drink is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, perfect for boosting your nutrient intake.
3. Blue Door Farm Stand
Price: $$
Address: 2010 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, seasonal food and drink sourced from local farms and farmers' markets, as well as from Blue Door Farm itself, which was once Oprah's Indiana property.
The space is designed to be warm and welcoming, with reclaimed wood, a marble bar, and vintage chandeliers creating a chic yet relaxed setting.
Alongside the café, there's an artisan market offering a curated selection of gifts from craftspeople across the United States, including gourmet foods and handmade gifts.
As to the food itself, the menu of this restaurant is divided into three parts, brunch, lunch, and dinner, so depending on which time of the day you go there, they have a separate menu for each meal.
Here is what it looks like:
Brunch Menu
Suggested Items
Main Course:
- Purple Line Wrap: Includes scrambled eggs, yellow squash, zucchini, red peppers, and havarti in a whole wheat wrap, making it a fulfilling yet balanced option.
Side:
- Sweet Potato Fries: A better alternative to regular fries, offering more vitamins and fiber.
Beverage:
- Fresh Juice: Opt for a fresh juice like orange or carrot for a natural vitamin boost.
Lunch Menu
Suggested Items
Starters:
- Edamame Hummus: A nutritious choice with edamame, tahini, and lemon, served with raw vegetables.
Main Course:
- Lincoln Park Combo: Choose a salad (like the Beet & Farro Salad) and a soup (like the Tomato Basil & Cream) for a nutrient-rich, lower-calorie meal.
Beverage:
- Water or Iced Herbal Tea: Best for keeping the meal light and hydrating without added sugars.
Dinner Menu
Suggested Items
Starters:
- Edamame Hummus: Again, a great starter choice for its high protein and nutrient content.
Main Course:
- Cauliflower Steak: A plant-based option with arugula, fennel, asparagus, and Mediterranean couscous, providing a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Glazed Salmon: Offers omega-3 fatty acids with a side of spinach rice and lemon butter asparagus, making it a heart-healthy option.
Side:
- Veggie Garbanzo Soup: A light and healthy soup choice to complement the main meal.
Beverage:
- Stick to water or herbal tea to maintain a meal low in calories and sugar.
4. Green Tea Japanese Restaurant
Price: $$
Address: 2206 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Traditional Japanese cuisine is famous for being good for your health, and the Green Tea Japanese Restaurant really shows this off well.
The menu focuses on fresh, top-quality ingredients, with lots of fish, seaweed, and rice dishes that give you essential nutrients without too many calories.
They use cooking methods like steaming and grilling to keep the ingredients' natural goodness so that you receive both the full flavors and health benefits of the meals.
Here is what you can find there:
Suggested Items
Starters:
- Edamame: Begin your meal with this simple yet nutritious starter, steamed soybeans seasoned with salt. It's a great source of protein and fiber.
Main Course:
- Salmon Teriyaki: Opt for this dish featuring grilled salmon with a homemade teriyaki sauce. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and served with rice, salad, and miso soup, providing a balanced meal.
Side:
- Seaweed Salad: Complement your meal with this marinated mixed seaweed salad, which is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
Beverage:
- Hot Green Tea: A healthy beverage choice full of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
5. Vegan Plate
Price: $$
Address: 1550 W Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL 60614
Vegan Plate is a standout spot in Lincoln Park for those following a plant-based diet, or simply looking to add more vegetables to their meals.
The restaurant prides itself on offering dishes that are as creative as they are comforting, using only vegan ingredients.
Their menu spans a range of global cuisines, showcasing how diverse and flavorful vegan eating can be.
Here is what their menu has on offer:
Suggested Items
- Appetizers: Edamame or Seaweed Salad. Both are low in calories and rich in nutrients.
- Main Course: Red, Green or Yellow curry. Opt for brown rice to increase fiber intake.
- Side: Miso Soup. It's light and offers a comforting warmth with nutritional benefits.
- Beverage: Green Tea. It's full of antioxidants and a healthy caffeine alternative.
6. Cafe BabaReeba
Price: $$
Address: 2024 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park is the top choice for Spanish cuisine. It's well-known for its colorful tapas menu that includes lots of healthy choices.
The restaurant focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The dishes bring out the simple yet strong flavors that are a big part of Spanish cooking.
Guests can enjoy a variety of small plates, like grilled vegetables and seafood tapas. Each dish is full of nutrients and has a Mediterranean flair.
The emphasis on sharing plates not only makes eating here a social event but also lets guests try many different healthy options in a lively and fun environment.
You can check out their menu below:
Suggested Items
Starters:
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad: Begin your meal with this salad that features Marcona almonds and Manchego cheese, providing a wholesome combination of greens and healthy fats.
Main Course:
- Farmers Market Vegetable Paella: Opt for this vibrant dish filled with seasonal and local vegetables along with roasted piquillo peppers. It's a fantastic source of fiber and nutrients, making it both filling and nutritious.
Side:
- Moroccan Chickpea Stew: Enhance your meal with this flavorful stew that includes tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Moroccan spices, adding a rich source of protein and fiber.
Beverage:
- Blackberry-Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing choice made with blackberry purée, lavender syrup, and lemonade, offering a delightful drink without alcohol.
Healthy Activities in Lincoln Park
7. Explore the Lincoln Park Zoo
Price: $ (FREE-$15)
Address: 2001 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60614
A visit to the Lincoln Park Zoo is much more than just an opportunity to see animals from around the world.
It's a chance to blend animal watching with fitness through the simple act of walking.
As you stroll through the various habitats, you're not only treated to a visual feast of wildlife diversity but also engaged in moderate physical exercise.
Walking, especially in an enriching environment like the zoo, can substantially benefit your cardiovascular health by improving circulation and heart function.
Furthermore, the serene and natural settings can uplift your mood and reduce stress levels, thanks to the calming effects of being close to nature and animals.
Thus, a few hours at the zoo offers a holistic health experience—boosting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
8. Indoor Golfing at Five Iron Golf
Price: $$$ ($36-$50)
Address: 1000 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Golfing at Five Iron Golf presents an engaging way to stay active, designed to be accessible for players of all ages and skill levels.
Indoor golf requires more physical activity than you might expect. The game involves considerable movement, bending to position your ball or retrieve it from the hole, and the swinging action when hitting the ball.
These activities collectively contribute to enhancing your hand-eye coordination, promoting balance and flexibility, and keeping your muscles engaged.
Despite its relatively low impact, indoor golf is an effective way to maintain physical activity in a fun, competitive, yet relaxed environment, making it an excellent choice for families looking to combine fitness with leisure.
9. Play Whirlyball
Price: $$$$$ ($100+)
Address: 1825 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Whirlyball is a unique blend of sports including lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and an element of bumper cars.
This game is particularly effective for larger groups or corporate events as it encourages teamwork and communication while also being intensely fun and physically demanding.
Players use hand-held scoops to pass and catch a whiffle ball which they aim to throw into a goal, all while driving bumper cars.
The physical engagement comes from the need to maneuver the bumper car, the quick reflexes required to catch and throw the ball, and the strategic planning that physical movement demands.
Whirlyball not only tests your physical dexterity but also enhances your spatial awareness and strategic thinking skills.
It's a high-energy game that boosts both physical and mental fitness, making it ideal for team-building and promoting healthy, active fun among participants.
10. Cycling in Oz Park
Price: $ (FREE-$15)
Address: 2021 N Burling St, Chicago, IL 60614
Oz Park, known for its expansive green spaces and peaceful environment, is a haven for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The park's setup is ideal for cycling, offering wide, well-maintained paths that meander through scenic areas, providing a safe and enjoyable route for riders of all skill levels.
Cycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise regardless if its summer or winter, you can be sure to get your heart pumping with cycling.
Additionally, the versatility of Oz Park makes it a superb location for more than just biking; it's also great for walking, picnicking, and engaging in casual sports like frisbee or soccer.
These activities are not only physically rewarding but also mentally refreshing due to the tranquil setting and the opportunity to enjoy nature and open space in an urban environment.
This mix of physical and leisure activities makes Oz Park a valuable spot for those seeking a balanced, active lifestyle in a more laid-back setting.
11. Hang Out at North Avenue Beach
Price: $ (FREE-$15)
Address: Illinois 60614, United States
North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago’s most dynamic spots, bustling with activities tailored for health and leisure.
The beach offers a lot of physical activities, including swimming and volleyball.
Swimming is a fantastic full-body workout that enhances muscle strength and cardiovascular stamina without stressing the joints, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Volleyball, on the other hand, provides a way to develop hand-eye coordination, agility, and social interactions, fostering teamwork and communication.
Besides these activities, the beach also features scenic jogging and biking paths that are lined with stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
Whether you're looking for an intense workout or a gentle stroll, these paths cater to all intensities of exercise, making the beach a versatile location for both rigorous physical training and relaxing, scenic walks.
12. Play Games at Game Night Out
Price: $$$$ ($50-$100)
Address: 2828 N Clark St Unit 401, Chicago, IL 60657
Game Night Out Chicago is all about unplugging, reconnecting, laughing, and playing. It's an opportunity to enjoy a night out with friends, family, or colleagues in a lively and engaging environment.
You can expect to enjoy a host of activities designed to make your evening memorable and fun. Here's what you can expect:
- Host-Guided Party Games: The experience is fully guided by live hosts who will lead you through a series of all-original party games. This means you can focus on having fun without worrying about the rules or setup.
- Team Competitions: You'll compete in teams, which is perfect for group bonding and adds a competitive edge to the night. The games are designed to test your quick thinking and teamwork skills.
- Variety of Games: Expect a lineup of unique challenges, puzzles, races, and more. The specific games are kept as a surprise to ensure that the experience is fresh and exciting every time.
- Private and Comfortable Spaces: The venue provides private rooms that feel like a friend's home, complete with comfortable seating and plenty of counter space for any snacks or drinks you might bring along.
Overall, Game Night Out Chicago offers a fun approach to health by providing a playful and engaging environment that supports both mental and physical well-being.
Best Shopping Experiences in Lincoln Park
13. Apple Store Lincoln Park
Address: 801 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
This flagship Apple Store is more than just a place to buy the latest gadgets. It is a gateway to enhancing personal health and fitness through technology.
Apple's range of products, including the Apple Watch, offers extensive health monitoring features, from tracking heart rates and daily activity to measuring blood oxygen levels and sleep patterns.
The store provides a hands-on experience where customers can learn how these devices can be integrated into their daily lives to help maintain and monitor health metrics actively.
14. Lululemon
Address: 944 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Known for its high-quality athletic wear, Lululemon makes clothes that are not only stylish but also specifically designed to support active living.
The store in Lincoln Park features a wide range of yoga pants, running gear, and workout accessories that are perfect for those who prioritize comfort and performance while exercising.
The durable and technologically advanced fabrics used in their clothing offer flexibility and moisture management, encouraging wearers to lead a more active, health-oriented lifestyle.
15. Fleet Feet Old Town
Address: 1706 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614
Just a short distance from the heart of Lincoln Park, Fleet Feet Old Town specializes in running shoes and gear, with a focus on ensuring the perfect fit through their personalized fitting process.
This approach can significantly impact a runner's health, as proper gear reduces the risk of injury and improves performance.
The store also often hosts community running events, fostering a sense of community and motivation among runners of all levels.
16. The Spice House
Address: 1512 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
The Spice House in Lincoln Park offers many high-quality spices that can transform a simple meal into a nutrient-rich, flavorful experience.
Integrating a variety of spices into one's diet is not only beneficial for enhancing taste without extra calories, but certain spices also offer health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and improved metabolic health.
The knowledgeable staff can guide customers on how to use these spices to enrich their diet healthily and deliciously.
17. River Point Center
Address: 1730 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
River Point Center serves as a comprehensive shopping and entertainment hub in Lincoln Park.
This center combines retail, dining, and leisure spaces, providing a one-stop destination for residents and visitors.
The variety of shops and restaurants allows for a balanced lifestyle of enjoyment and convenience, catering to all needs from casual shopping to dining out with friends or family.
18. State and Liberty
Address: 840 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Specializing in athletic fit suits for men, State and Liberty offers options that are ideal for those who find traditional suits too restrictive.
The clothing line is designed to provide comfort without sacrificing style, perfect for the modern man who values both performance and appearance.
Additionally, this store is located on a street known for its excellent shopping options, adding to the appeal of visiting this area.
Fitness and Gyms in Lincoln Park Chicago
19. Equinox Lincoln Park
Address: 1750 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Equinox is a luxury fitness club that exemplifies a high standard of living.
The sophisticated environment combined with state-of-the-art facilities provides an inspiring setting for physical activity.
Here is what you can expect to find here:
- A full-service gym with state-of-the-art equipment.
- A range of group fitness classes including Yoga, Pilates, and Cycling.
- Luxurious amenities like a steam room, spa, and juice bar.
- Personal training and holistic health coaching services.
For visitors, Equinox offers a chance to maintain their fitness routine while away from home, ensuring they stay energized and balanced during their travels.
It's also a great place to mingle with locals who prioritize health and wellness.
If for whatever reason Equinox doesn’t feel like the right fit, check out Fit Results at either Logan Square or South Loop.
20. CorePower Yoga
Address: 959 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
CorePower Yoga stands out due to its innovative approach to yoga.
Each class is designed to challenge both the body and mind, making it a valuable stop for visitors looking to refresh and recharge. Here is what they offer:
- A variety of yoga classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Special programs like Yoga Teacher Training.
- A focus on high-intensity workouts combined with the mindfulness of yoga.
- Community events and workshops.
The classes can range from relaxing to physically demanding, providing options for all fitness levels.
For visitors like you, participating in a yoga session here can be a grounding experience, helping to center themselves amid the excitement of travel.
If you prefer to do your workouts indoors and on your own, make sure to check out our guide to home workouts.
Massage and Wellness in Lincoln Park
21. Lincoln Park Massage Spa
Address: 630 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Located in the heart of Lincoln Park, this spa is a sanctuary for those looking to unwind and relax.
The calm, welcoming atmosphere immediately sets a tone of tranquility, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here is what you can expect to find here:
- A variety of massage therapies including Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Sports Massages.
- Specialized treatments like Prenatal Massages for expectant mothers.
- Couples Massages for a shared relaxation experience.
- Wellness enhancements such as Aromatherapy and Sea Salt Scrubs.
A visit here can help reduce stress, soothe tired muscles, and enhance overall mental and physical well-being, which is ideal for tourists who have been on their feet all day exploring the city.
22. Restore Hyper Wellness
Address: 2473 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Restore Hyper Wellness is a modern wellness hub known for offering cutting-edge services that promote health and recovery. Their services include:
- Innovative wellness services such as Cryotherapy, IV Drip Therapy, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.
- Infrared Sauna sessions for detoxification.
- NAD+ Therapy for cellular health and energy.
- Cryoskin treatments for body contouring and skin tightening.
What makes this place ideal for tourists is its focus on quick and effective wellness solutions that can help combat travel fatigue, boost energy levels, and support overall health.
Visiting Restore can be particularly appealing after long day of walking and sightseeing, providing a boost to continue exploring with renewed vigor.
23. Kohler Waters Spa
Address: 2358 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Kohler Waters Spa is a place of indulgence and relaxation, making it a must-visit for those looking to treat themselves. The services they offer are the following:
- A range of hydrotherapy treatments utilizing the therapeutic properties of water.
- Massage therapies, facial treatments, and body wraps.
- A thermal suite with a sauna, steam room, and plunge pool.
- Eyelash Services
- Nail Treatments
The spa's expertise in hydrotherapy offers a unique and luxurious experience that can help soothe and rejuvenate weary travelers.
The elegant and serene environment enhances the spa experience, allowing visitors to detach from the outside world and immerse themselves in complete relaxation.
Healthy Day Itinerary in Lincoln Park
Here's a custom itinerary for a day in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Feel free to adjust it according to your interests and schedule.
8:00 AM - Breakfast at Left Coast
- Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at Left Coast. Enjoy their ‘Surfside Breakfast Sandwich’ or choose from a variety of smoothies and acai bowls for a fresh and energizing morning meal.
9:30 AM - Walk and Explore Lincoln Park Zoo
- After breakfast, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Lincoln Park Zoo. Spend a couple of hours strolling through the exhibits, which is not only a good way to get some morning exercise but also an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and wildlife.
01:00 PM - Lunch at Summer House Santa Monica
- Head to Summer House Santa Monica for a lunch that feels like a getaway. Opt for light and healthy options like their wood-grilled fish tacos or their vibrant salads.
2:30 PM - Shopping at The Spice House
- Take a short drive to The Spice House in Old Town. Explore their vast selection of spices and herbs which can inspire healthy cooking at home. It’s a great way to integrate health into your kitchen.
4:00 PM - Relaxation and Wellness at Kohler Waters Spa
- After lunch and a bit of shopping, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Kohler Waters Spa. Book a massage or a rejuvenating spa treatment to unwind and recharge.
6:30 PM - Dinner at Cafe Baba Reeba
- Have your last meal of the day at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, where you can indulge in a variety of healthy Spanish tapas and paellas that emphasize fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, perfect for a fulfilling meal that won’t leave you feeling overloaded.
9:00 PM: Game Night Out
- If you’re still up for some fun, finish your day with an engaging activity at Game Night Out. Dive into 2 hours of fun interactive games that’s sure to provide mental stimulation and some light physical activity.
Note:
- Travel Tips: Consider renting a bike for the day from one of the many Divvy bike-share stations around Lincoln Park to make traveling between spots quicker and more enjoyable.
- Weather Consideration: Check the weather forecast in advance as some activities are outdoors.
Conclusion
As you can see, Lincoln Park is not just a scenic spot in Chicago, it's also a center for healthy living and wellness.
The neighborhood is full of activities that help both your physical health and mental relaxation, offering lots of ways to improve your lifestyle while enjoying the city's beauty.
Whether you're eating healthy meals, relaxing in peaceful spa settings, or staying active in the green spaces, Lincoln Park offers a complete approach to health that's tough to find anywhere else.
So why wait? Plan your visit to Lincoln Park today and see for yourself how easy and enjoyable it is to keep up a healthy lifestyle!
And yes, if you’re curious to explore more of Chicago, be sure to check out our guide on South Loop, River North, and Logan Square.
