Advice from Lee Ann, a DePaul Parent: Tips for Exploring Lincoln Park and Chicago

Lee Ann and Mike, a middled aged couple, sitting on a big inflatable DePaul-themed chair. They're beaming at the camera in their DePaul blues.

The Blue Demon community goes well beyond just the students on campus. It includes faculty, staff, alumni, and, of course, parents! Today, we’re hearing from Lee Ann, a proud Blue Demon parent, about her favorite spots around Lincoln Park and Chicago. So next time you, your student, or your parents are in town for a visit, check out these iconic spots!

When my daughter chose DePaul, I was thrilled—not just about the university, but also the incredible neighborhood and city she’d call home. DePaul is located in Lincoln Park, a charming area I like to think of as a mini-Chicago. It’s a walking, biking, tree-lined community along Lake Michigan that invites exploration all year long. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or helping your student settle in, here are some of my favorite tips for enjoying Lincoln Park and beyond.

An elevated photograph of the interior of the Bourgeois Pig, an early 20th century literature themed coffee shop. Wood paneling, a grand fire place, stuffy armchairs, and a portrait of Abraham Lincoln set a comfy, antiquarian tone.

Hidden Gems: Sip, Lounge, and Discover

Start with a visit to the Bourgeois Pig Café on Fullerton Avenue. It feels like you’ve stepped into an old library, perfect for grabbing a coffee or tea while catching up with your student. And here’s a fun secret—if you head upstairs, you’ll find Gatsby Chicago, a speakeasy. Be sure to ask for the daily secret password to get in! It’s such a fun little adventure.

A Twist on Chicago Pizza

Sure, Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, but have you ever tried a pizza pot pie? Yes, you read that right! At Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder, you can dine in or grab a frozen one to take home. And trust me, you have to order the Mediterranean bread—it’s incredible. This has become one of our favorite traditions whenever we’re in town.

A Pizza Pot Pie - a Chicago staple, a bowl of pizza dough with an enormous, melty pot of Cheese in the center.

Laughs and Sushi in One Night

If you’re looking for some fun after dinner, head to Batsu Live, a Japanese game show that’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. It’s interactive and so much fun to watch with a crowd. Plus, it’s right across from The Second City, so you could easily make a whole night of it. We like to pair it with sushi and sake at Kamehachi Sushi nearby.

Hop on the Train to Explore Downtown

One of the best things about DePaul’s location is how easy it is to get around Chicago. We took the Red Line “L” train downtown to the Chicago stop, and it was so simple. From there, it’s just a short walk to Water Tower Place, which has all kinds of shopping. My favorite find? Muah Cotton Candy—they make the most amazing, artistic cotton candy creations. It’s a sweet treat and such a fun experience.

A Muah Cotton Candy clerk with a giant unicorn bust made of cotton candy.

The welcome sign at the Lincoln Park zoo--white brick in front of a small garden of native plants, on the brick says, in gold, Lincoln Park Zoo

Family-Friendly Fun at Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park is home to Lincoln Park Zoo, where you can add a competitive twist with a scavenger hunt from ScavengerHunt.com. It’s a great way to explore the zoo and have some family fun—especially if you’re visiting during move-in or family weekends.

Being a DePaul parent isn’t just about supporting your student—it’s about discovering a whole new world of experiences in one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Lincoln Park has something for everyone, and I hope these tips help you fall in love with it just like I have.