A Local’s Guide to Logan Square, Chicago

I grew up in Chicago just about a mile north of Logan Square in Avondale, another part of the city that has changed by the passage of time and the introduction of hipsters.

Logan Square has always been one of my favorite neighborhoods in Chicago, especially if eating or drinking is on the agenda.

This guide gets into all of the best things to do in Logan Square, including the best food and my favorite local hangouts to add to your Chicago itinerary.

Where is Logan Square? 

Logan Square is a neighborhood on the Northwest Side of Chicago. It’s loosely bounded by the Metra on the west, the Chicago River on the east, the Diversey Parkway on the north, and the 606 on the south. 

It’s called “Logan Square” because it’s named after General John A. Logan. He was a political leader and veteran of the Mexican-American and Civil Wars. 

I have to completely annihilate what I read on another blog at this moment. They mentioned hanging out in Humboldt Park as something you can do in Logan Square, but the park itself is in its own neighborhood known as Humboldt Park.

It’s not “Logan Square Park” or one of the best parks in Logan Square or any other ridiculous thing.

The Logan Square and Humboldt Park neighborhoods border one another, but they’re not the same thing. In fact, it’s quite offensive to even suggest they’re the same thing, as the identities of each place are quite different. 

I feel better now.

What is Logan Square in Chicago known for?

Logan Square is known for its scenic boulevard system and diverse food scene. It’s a cultural hub of activity in Chicago with frequent events like live music, street art festivals, and film screenings.

For locals, Logan Square is a gathering place. It’s vibrant and delicious and always promises a good time.

Things to Do in Logan Square

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to Logan Square because it was such a part of my identity growing up in Chicago. That means I’m a pretty good source for the goods, including free things to do in Logan Square.

Note: You’ll likely see Galerie F mentioned in other blogs, but the art hub left Logan Square after 10 years for Chinatown. I like to keep things not only real but updated around here!

Start at the Illinois Centennial Monument.

If you’re smart and took the “L,” you’ll see the Illinois Centennial Monument upon arrival at the Logan Square Blue Line Station. It may feel a little underwhelming when nothing is going on, but this part of the neighborhood comes alive during events in Logan Square.

This is the site of the annual Logan Square Arts Festival, a multi-day celebration of the arts with live music and yummy eats.

The monument itself was placed here to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Illinois’ acceptance into the Union. Get after it, Illinois.

Pop by the Logan Square Comfort Station.

This small building is another Logan Square spot that may look underwhelming when the art isn’t poppin’. When the cultural space is being used effectively, it’s home to live music, film screenings, and art exhibitions by local artists. 

It also boasts some historical significance. The small building was built in the 1920s as a rest stop for public transit riders. There’s only one other comfort station like it on Austin Avenue in Columbus Park. 

Restoration efforts started in 2005 to bring the station back to not only its former glory but to make it relevant for use today. While graffiti is a big issue on Chicago’s historic landmarks, it has made a mark for itself as a gathering place for the city’s artsy set.

Note: If you love supporting the arts, the Hairpin Arts Center is another local exhibit space courtesy of the Logan Square Chamber of Arts.

Snap a photo at the Greetings from Chicago Mural.

This is a quick spot where you can feel like a tourist and likely run into some influencers. I got to watch one with a tripod and all during my last visit. You do you, girl.

The setting is made even better because you can listen to the train go by as you shoot. It all feels very Chicago.

Stroll (or jog) the 606.

The Bloomingdale Trail, or better known as “The 606,” is Chicago’s best urban trail. It’s perfect for active visitors who want to get their steps in and see some of the city’s best neighborhoods while they’re at it. 

For the purposes of this guide, you’ll pass through Logan Square as you walk the former rail line. Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Humboldt Park have access points along the way.

If you love a lengthy walking tour of cities you’re visiting, walk the whole thing. It’s 2.7 miles each way, but easy to break up if you climb down a few times for a drink and a nosh.

You can also just walk around the neighborhood, too. The main street in Logan Square is Milwaukee Avenue. It runs diagonally through the neighborhood. Logan and Kedzie boulevards also provide a ped-friendly experience in Logan Square. 

Grab some treats at the Logan Square Farmers Market.

Visit the Sunday morning Logan Square Farmers Market for a great selection of seasonal produce, baked goodies, and other local treats. If you’re here at any time outside of winter, you’ll find the best shopping in Logan Square along the boulevard.

In the winter months, the party moves indoors to allow locals a chance to socialize and support regional small businesses away from the chill. I think it’s the best farmers market in the city if you want variety. Bring those reusable bags!

READ MORE: Looking for more things to do during Chicago’s winters? Check out this guide.

Bop around Palmer Square Park.

Palmer Square is basically a community within the Logan Square Boulevard National Historic District. The park is a nice if modest spot to relax, especially if you’re looking for things to do with the littles. 

The green space includes a custom-designed playground inspired by The Velveteen Rabbit. Big bunnies, don’t fret. This one isn’t just for kids.

See a candlelight concert at the Stan Mansion.

This one is pretty special to me. We got married at this venue, so if you want to pretend like you were there, you can make it happen with one of their regular events. 

We visited during the winter holidays for their Christmas-themed programming, so it all felt even more magical. They have theme nights throughout the year otherwise featuring ABBA covers, Adele tributes, and more. 

It’s the perfect Logan Square date night or a “treat yourself” sort of evening if you’re rolling solo. 

Fun fact: Love a classic event space? The Logan Auditorium is another option in the neighborhood for regular concerts and special events.

Play some games at the Logan Arcade.

This is an adult arcade where you can go eight rounds in Street Fighter and nearly break your wrist playing The Simpsons. Bart’s skateboard was just not cooperating.

The only bummer is that some of the more intense pinball machines cost a dollar to play. If you’re good, that can result in a few minutes of play, but if you’re an amateur like me, that time will come and go before you’re done with your beer.

There’s an Emporium Arcade Bar location here, too, just in case you’re planning an arcade bar crawl. For a little more variety, Midlane Esports is a gaming lounge with PC games, video game tournaments, and a full food menu. 

Catch a flick at The Logan Theatre.

The Logan Theatre is like stepping back in time. This place offers a classic theater-style experience with both first-run movies and the classics. Indulge in cocktails at the lounge before or after your show while you’re at it.

I’ve only been to this one once because my parents thought it was sketchy when I was growing up, but they were wrong. This place is vintage as heck. Check Logan movie times online before you go.

Rock out at Concord Music Hall.

After the Congress Theater shut down — revitalization efforts have been underway for the last decade — the Concord Music Hall became Logan Square’s live music spot.

I’m not going to pretend I know many of the names on the current lineup, but I’m also not that cool. The focus at this 1,500-person venue is on hip-hop, rap, indie rock, and EDM. Snag a spot on the balcony for the best views unless you’re here to mosh.

Rosa’s Lounge is another option if you’re feeling the blues. This family-run spot has been here since 1984 as a welcoming place to hear live blues and celebrate new blues releases.

Pay your respects at the Robin Williams Mural.

If you’re already at the Concord Music Hall, don’t miss out on the Robin Williams Mural painted on the side exposed to the parking lot. The mural is a collaboration between two artists, New York’s Jerkface and Owen Dippie, an artist from New Zealand. 

Fun fact: Robin Williams was born in Chicago in 1951. He grew up in the area until the family moved to Detroit when he was 12.

The mural depicts the beloved actor and comedian in both black and white and as the Genie, one of his most iconic roles. (I’m sorry, Will Smith. You just can’t compete.)

Hear the funnies at The Lincoln Lodge.

The Lincoln Lodge is a great spot to check out up-and-coming comedians and well-known comics testing out new materials. My good friend Hannibal Burress has been known to make appearances here. 

We’re not actually friends, but he did have my phone number at one time after we met following a comedy show. Oh, you didn’t know I was a big deal?

Friday and Saturday nights are best if you want to check out their signature comedy showcase. Their calendar is full of events throughout the week if you need to be more flexible.

Support local bookshops.

Chicago is a great bookshop town. As expected, you’ll find a few independent sellers in Logan Square ready to sell you classics, new titles, and rare finds.

Open Books is my favorite in terms of mission. They have a few locations around the city, but Open Books Logan Square is the easiest to get to for folks on the North Side.

Any proceeds from book sales at this nonprofit go to support neighborhood literacy programs.

City Lit Books is a local favorite for that cozy bookstore experience. Their friendly staff is ready and waiting to give you the skinny on their favorite reads and recommendations based on titles you’ve already read and loved.

Visit the home of a legend at the Walt Disney Birthplace.

This stop is in Hermosa, but it’s close enough that it’s an easy, quick add-on as you plot out fun things to do in Logan Square. The home is a modest property with signage out front letting you know you’re at the right place.

The current owners have been working with the city to protect the site as a home with historical significance, so there could be more happening here in the coming years.

Best Restaurants in Logan Square

Logan Square is one of the most delicious neighborhoods in Chicago. Everything you could have a hankering for is represented here. Buckle in for all of my favorites, as I’ve done a lot of eating (and drinking) here.

(You won’t find the 90 Miles Cuban Cafe on the list, by the way. It’s permanently closed.)

Sample Logan Square coffee.

Gaslight Coffee Roasters is my usual pick in the area when we’re looking for grounds to take home. They give you a free cup of coffee when you do that, too, and I love those freebies.

If you’re waiting in line for treats at the next stop I’ll highlight, some caffeine is necessary. Necessary & Sufficient Coffee and their grab-and-go window comes to the rescue on that front.

I imagine they do a pretty great business here just catering to folks in the Sugar Moon line. Have I been known to grab an old-fashioned donut while waiting for more baked goods? Yes. They’re delicious.

Wait in line for savory treats.

I do not subscribe to the notion that you need a long line for yummy things, but sometimes you need to wait in line for yummy things. Sugar Moon Bakery is one of those times.

The small storefront churns out sweet and savory treats from morning ‘til they sell out, sometimes before their posted closing time. The savory is where it’s at. Sample savory scones, brioche, and focaccia. 

They’re also known for their tahini chocolate chip cookies. They were good, but as I’m not a sweets connoisseur, I have to side with those savory yums.

My mom thinks this place is priced a little too high and I’ll have to agree, especially after living in France, but that doesn’t mean the stuff here isn’t delicious.

READ MORE: Name-dropping France has become a thing I do. Learn about how we made the move happen!

Grab more confections at Katherine Anne Confections.

I spent way too much money here on truffles and jumbo-sized chocolate-covered marshmallows, and yet I have no regrets. If they have the raspberry champagne truffle available when you’re there, just hand over your money.

They also do chocolate tastings here which sounds like a pretty whimsical thing to do when the weather starts to turn. 

Eat a delicious brunch in Logan Square.

This neighborhood is not hurting for brunch options. Here are my favorites in and around Logan Square:

• Loaf Lounge: This one is in Avondale, but I have to give it a shoutout because the co-owner here was a consultant on The Bear and made the chocolate cake featured in the first season. Try the breakfast sandwiches while you’re at it.
• Lula Cafe: I lived in San Diego for seven years but this place still serves up one of the best breakfast burritos I’ve ever had. It certainly made the exodus from America’s Finest City a little easier to handle. 
• Stay Cafe: I’m not a huge fan of places that charge extra for sides — like, a sandwich should come with a side, people — but this spot is worth a pop-in for Banana Foster French Toast and coffee cocktails.
• The Whale: This is your luxe option, complete with a gambling-themed setting. They do dinner here, too, but then you’ll miss out on their blueberry skillet and mimosa towers. Reservations are a must if you attempt this one on weekends. 

Try the neighborhood’s best Latin food.

There is just too much good eating in Logan Square for me not to present it to you in genres. If you’re a fellow taco fiend, here’s where you need to go:

• Cafe Con Leche: This was my favorite spot growing up for their chilaquiles, but adult me is definitely more appreciative of the fusion of flavors here. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Lonesome Rose: This place is so good I found myself there twice in 48 hours. Choose from tacos, burritos, bowls, and more, or just share a platter of their Truck Stop Nachos. For cocktails, visit Golden Teardrops, their basement bar.
• Mi Tocaya Antojería: This gem on Logan Square Boulevard is always slammed, but you’ll get it when you taste their carnitas. They’re also integral to the success of the Todos Ponen Project, a local effort to feed Chicago families.

Eat at the best pizzerias in Logan Square.

No, you won’t find Pequod’s in Logan Square. That’s definitely my favorite pizzeria in Chicago because it’s just the best.

Paulie Gee’s, a chain with locations on the East Coast and Chicago’s Wicker Park, serves up award-winning Detroit-style and thin-crust pies that have fed me multiple times. That’s saying something, considering you already know my preference.

Get there early so you can try the U.S. Pizza Cup Winner, a thicker pie with pepperoni cups, dollops of ricotta, and hot honey. It’s absurdly good.

Want to try the rest? Here are a few more worthwhile pizzerias in the area:

• Bungalow by Middle Brow: The pizza here is great with unexpected ingredients that sound like they strolled over from one of the neighborhood’s fresh markets. If you’re basic, their take on a cheese pizza. They call it the best in the city.
• Pizza Lobo: If you have a hankering for NY-style pies and another cameo eatery from The Bear, Pizza Lobo Logan Square is the best option. Large pies come by the slice or as full pies. Add garlic knots to really get the party started.
• Reno: This is a great takeout option if you want to take the show on the road. “The show” refers to their wood-fired pizzas, but they also do wood-fired bagels in the morning. 

Pair your Taco Bell with a cocktail.

Logan Square is home to one of the city’s Taco Bell Cantinas. If you think you’re too cool for this, you are wrong. No one is too cool for the Taco Bell Cantina. Expect the usuals on the menu with a few surprises that are a little more upscale.

I said what I said.

Have a casual lunch in Logan Square.

I’m not even close to done yet with the eating. If you’re seeking a delightful midday meal, check out these options:

• Friendship Chinese Restaurant: I can’t count how many times I’ve been here. It was my childhood favorite Chinese spot. It’s still good as an adult, by the way, which I can’t say about the parmesan chicken sandwich at Burger King.
• Lardon: These are some fancy sandwiches, and they’ll cost you. Did I regret any bites I had here? No. Everything was delicious. They also have a variety of cured meats and cheeses for charcuterie platters inspired by the eatery.
• Parson’s Chicken and Fish: This one is a go-to for terrific lady time, casual gatherings, or solo hankerings for fried chicken and fish. Their happy hour deals are great and often include cheap shots of Malort if you’re ready for that.

Catch the game at Logan Square sports bars.

I don’t often find myself in sports bars because I’m a fair-weather fan to the max. When Chicago teams are doing well, though, I like having options that serve up solid ambiance and good friends. 

The Moonlighter is my favorite in these parts. I got myself a vegan burger there like a boss. We sat inside because it was winter in Chicago, but they do have outdoor heating seating if that’s your thing.

I hear Park & Field is another good option come game day, but I haven’t tried this one. I like the looks of their giant patio space, complete with DIY s’mores.

Taste-test Logan Square’s Indian food.

As I was going through my notes about everywhere we’ve eaten in Logan Square, I found a string of Indian restaurants that deserved their own little shoutout. Here’s where we’ve been:

• Namaste Chicago: You’ll find Indian and Nepalese dishes at this neighborhood favorite. I can never deny myself paneer, so can vouch for the deliciousness of their paneer tikka masala. I’ll even forgive the bell peppers.
• The Spice Room: It took us a few years to find a competitor for the mango chicken at our favorite spot in San Diego — that’s India Palace — but the version here is pretty spot-on. Their Gobi Manchurian was fantastic, too.
• Superkhana International: The price point is high for Indian food, but that’s what you get with modern takes. (It’s hard to look past $8 for baby sauces that include ketchup.) I can’t deny I don’t think about their grilled peaches and paneer.

Get a little fancy at these Logan Square eateries.

I like to keep things regular around here, but sometimes I like to be extra. Here are a few fancier Logan Square restaurants if you’re planning a special occasion:

• Andros Taverna: The patio at this vibey Mediterranean eatery rocks, but it’s the food that will get me back here. Start with their dolmades if you love stuffed grape leaves. They’ll get you speaking Greek in no time.
• Daisies: The 25% surcharge is off-putting, but they’re forgiven once plates of pasta start hitting the table. I can’t deny myself gnocchi whenever it’s available, but they often have pierogi on the menu if you want to honor my Polish heritage.
• Giant: I’d rather not think about how much we spent at this place on our first trip there. I’d much rather think about their jalapeno cheddar biscuits and tempura trout roe, one of the best single bites in the city.
• Table, Donkey and Stick: It’s a little bit wine bar if wine bars served Alpine fare. That means crusty bread, potato latkes, and pan-roasted fish. The space is warm and comfy and perfect for Chicago winter evenings.

Leave room for dessert at Pretty Cool Ice Cream.

I’ve been to Pretty Cool Ice Cream four times now. Have I joined the loyalty program? No. I always tell myself I will next time, and then I don’t. It’s something I’ll have to live with.

Their flavors change all the time, so just grab one that speaks to you and make it happen. My favorite so far has been their creamsicle variety. Brian likes to house their ice cream sandwiches without apology.

Tour the best breweries in Logan Square.

I really like doing my research when it comes to beer, so I have a better-than-usual grasp on where you should grab a pour in Logan Square. Here are a few favorites:

• Hopewell Brewing Company: They describe their offerings as a “pretty decent beer selection,” and I’ll do them one better. They have a great, diverse list of pours no matter your palate.
• Life on Marz Community Club: This one is right on the edge of Bucktown, but I’ll allow it for its proximity to Margie’s Candies. If you’re not feeling beer, they serve up a Malort spritzer, too. Don’t knock it ’til you try it.
• Pilot Project Brewing: This incubator is a great spot to try fun, at times experimental pours from local brewers. They had a pickle beer on our visit, which I actually enjoyed. Give me all the pickles!
• Revolution Brewing: Revolution is the largest independently run brewery in Illinois, so it’s worth a stop to pay homage to one of the big players in town. We’ve even been to a wedding here in case you’re looking for a venue.
• Solemn Oath Brewery: Sip on spiced browns among the hard rock vibes at this spot near Palmer Square. There’s another location in Naperville, but you’re not here for all that.

Sip on gin at Scofflaw.

If you don’t like gin — that’s me! — they have a full menu of cocktails like the Fast Talker with tequila and orange wine. They have a food menu, too, but I’d suggest you start with Giant next door if you’re hungry.

Maplewood Brewery and Distillery is another great option with fun cocktails and beer for the uninitiated. If you’re here for beer and in need of more options than what I already gave you, I liked this one a lot more than Ravinia Brewing down the street.

Grab a nightcap at more Logan Square bars.

You have so many options for a fun evening in Logan Square. Here are a few more of my favorites:

• Billy Sunday: This award-winning cocktail bar serves up the bespoke variety, so put your party pants on before you go. The menu changes seasonally, so if you’re here in the fall, expect a fun take on apple cider.
• The Pink Squirrel: This dive bar turns into a Christmas-themed pub over the holidays, which is exactly what we were after when the snow started to fall. The rest of the year it’s an homage to Midwest cocktail culture.
• Mother’s Ruin: This one is in Avondale, but it’s close enough to the border of Logan Square. Their French onion grilled cheese and Brussels sprouts all enjoyed time in my belly. Oh, you’re here for the cocktails? Those are great, too.

See if there’s a room at the inn at Longman & Eagle.

I’ve only been here to eat since I’ve either lived here or stayed with family and friends, but Longman & Eagle has six rooms available for overnight stays.

It is, by the way, a yummy place to eat. If you’re a meat eater, the croque madame is where it’s at. Strawberry jam makes it sweet and savory, just like me. I don’t know what that means.

Is Logan Square safe?

Logan Square is a safe neighborhood with crime rates less than the Chicago average. It is still a big city though, so the best practice is to be aware of your belongings, especially after dark.

I’d say it’s certainly arrived as one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods, too. It’s well-situated for easy access to the expressways and public transportation, which makes this one popular with young families and renters.

Where to Stay in Logan Square

I generally stay with friends and family when I’m back in Chicago, but they don’t have enough room for you all.

You won’t find many traditional hotels in Logan Square proper that I’d want you to stay at, but there are apartment-style accommodations. Check out the map below for those:

There is so much to do in Logan Square.

Beautiful, tree-lined boulevards along with ample options for restaurants and entertainment make Logan Square an excellent area to spend time.

Plan a visit for popular Logan Square events like the Logan Square Arts Festival or eat your way through pizzerias, cafes, and foodie meccas along Logan Square Boulevard. Feel like a kid again at the Logan Arcade.

I will never tire of visiting Logan Square, and it’s a neighborhood on my short list if we find ourselves living in Chicago again.

Interested in exploring more Midwestern travel? Check out the posts below:

• Visit Iowa State’s Real Field of Dreams
• Let’s Get Underrated: Visit Bay City, MI
• How to Plan a Trip to Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley
• A Detailed Guide to Cleveland Eats & Attractions
• Take a Boat Ride Around the Apostle Islands

I’m not done yet! Here are a few more for Midwestern visits:

• How to Plan Your Weekend in Cedar Rapids
• Summers in Door County Are the Best!
• Is New Glarus Beer Worth the Effort?
• A Guide to the Best Things to Do in New Glarus
• Things to See on Trips to Theodore Roosevelt

Want to see more?