10 Things to Do in Lakeview


If you have yet to visit Lakeview, this list will reveal countless opportunities to shop, eat, explore and more.

  1. Enjoy a night out in the Belmont Theater District. Chicago’s largest theater district is in Lakeview. Whether you’re a long-time thespian or just looking for a special night out, Lakeview is a great place to enjoy Chicago theater. Check out shows at Athenaeum Theatre, Mercury Theater Chicago and Theater Wit.
  2. Geek out on music. Lakeview is home to Schubas Tavern, Chicago Music Exchange and Mystery Street Recording Company, each of which brings unique opportunities for visitors to enjoy and contribute to Chicago’s legendary music scene.
  3. Check out the Lakeview Low-Line and take a self-guided art walk of Lakeview’s murals. Currently under construction, the Lakeview Low-Line re-envisions the half-mile space beneath the CTA elevated tracks to create a pathway from Southport to Paulina that hosts rotating art exhibitions. Traverse from there to enjoy other hidden murals and gems in the heart of Lakeview. Find details at LakeviewChamber.com/Art.
  4. Visit Low-Line Market in the summer and fall. From June to October, you’ll find this weekly farmers market under the Southport Brown Line Station. According to the market website, it was formed “with the goal of creating an experience where neighbors can meet and gather while having greater access to a collection of high-quality produce, proteins, flowers and artisanal foods from local farms and vendors.”
  5. Travel back in time at some of Lakeview’s timeless landmarks. Lakeview’s prime location made it a desirable place to settle back in the 1800s. Today, exploring the neighborhood reveals landmarks and tributes to its rich history. Step into the past by visiting Dinkel’s Bakery, Paulina Meat Market, or Music Box Theatre, establishments in the neighborhood for over 60 years.
  6. Shop along the Southport Corridor. Spend an afternoon discovering local boutiques nestled alongside many of your favorite big brands in the Southport Corridor. Some must-visit locations are Krista K Boutique, Johnny Was, M2 Boutique, The Denim Lounge for Men, and Uncle Dan’s.
  7. Experience a main street feel near the Paulina Station. Enjoy a craft beer from Bitter Pops, Italian food at Frasca’s Pizzeria and trendy styles at women’s clothing boutique, Bazar. Don’t forget to schedule a dance lesson with Arthur Murray Lakeview or check out the unique kids toys at Building Blocks Toy Store.
  8. Pick up home goods in the Lincoln Hub. No more unfinished projects or makeshift fixes around the house; visit Wrightwood Furniture, Brown Elephant, Home Carpet One, and Waxman Candles for all your home needs.
  9. Relax and reset. After your busy day of exploring all that Lakeview has to offer, unwind at your choice of Lakeview establishments created to help you feel at home: Suvarna Chiropractic, HuxHemp, Discover CBD, Community Chiropractic, The Peace School, or StretchLab Lakeview.
  10. Give back to the community by supporting local non-profits. Give back to the community by supporting local non-profits. Help Lakeview continue to thrive by volunteering or donating directly to Lakeview Pantry and National Runaway Safeline, two key nonprofits in the area.