Both a neighbourhood and a park, this northern Chicago area has gorgeous scenery, residential streets lined with stately homes and extensive shopping and dining.

Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s oldest and most affluent neighbourhoods. It is also the name of the large park running along the area’s eastern border. Come here to relax and enjoy the park’s amenities or shop, dine and sightsee on the city streets.

West of the park grounds, the Lincoln Park neighbourhood is a beautiful area with elegant brick row houses and historic landmarks. Gaze up at old mansions along quiet residential streets. Step inside the churches and cathedrals, including several created to serve the early Polish immigrant population, such as St. Josaphat’s Church. The Episcopal Church of Our Saviour decorates the skyline.

In the evening, see contemporary performances at the Victory Gardens Theatre. Shop and dine along Lincoln Park’s main business streets and near DePaul University, where one-of-a-kind stores, restaurants and bars provide unique experiences.

Walk across the graceful pedestrian bridge, completed in 1940, known as the Passerelle, to enter the massive green garden spaces of Lincoln Park. Stroll through the park’s more than 1,200 acres (480 hectares) of lawns and gardens. The Lincoln Park Zoo has no entry fee and is open year-round, making it a good stop even on a wintry, windy day. Step inside the Lincoln Park Conservatory, where palms, orchids, ferns and other exotic plants create a lush setting throughout the year. The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool offers a hidden garden in a prairie setting. Watch hundreds of large and small boats motor out of the protected Diversey Harbour.

Wander east to the shoreline and walk along the lakefront trail to enjoy views of Lake Michigan in front of Chicago’s impressive skyline. North Avenue Beach is great in summer for swimming. In winter, look for interesting patterns in the ice on the lake. On your way to the Chicago History Museum at the very south end of the park find the 12-foot (3.6-metre) tall Standing Lincoln by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The 16th president was honored in 1887 with this sculpture in his namesake Lincoln Park.