
Lincoln Square
A vibrant hub blending upscale shopping, diverse dining, and entertainment, connected by convenient skybridges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

Lincoln Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub blending upscale shopping, diverse dining, and entertainment, connected by convenient skybridges.
"Love this spot! Its a little upscale. Lots of good food, art, shopping, nice open spaces, clean, convenient parking."

🎯 Validate Parking
Always ask for parking validation to enjoy free parking at Lincoln Square.
🎬 Cinema Seat Safety
Be cautious of phones slipping into seat mechanisms in the reclining cinema seats.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charming Neighborhood Vibe
Chicago
Experience a small-town feel with German influences, unique architecture, and artisanal shops.

Upscale Shopping & Dining
Bellevue
Explore a variety of shops, including Nordstrom Rack, and enjoy diverse dining options with skybridge connections.

Entertainment Hub
Bellevue
Catch a movie in the reclining seats or enjoy live performances at this vibrant entertainment venue.

Art and Architecture
Chicago
Discover Louis Sullivan's last commission, the facade of the Krause Music Store.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Lincoln Square
Cinema Seat Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Validate Parking
Always ask for parking validation to enjoy free parking at Lincoln Square.
🎬 Cinema Seat Safety
Be cautious of phones slipping into seat mechanisms in the reclining cinema seats.
🛍️ Diverse Shopping
Explore unique boutiques and well-known stores like Nordstrom Rack.
🍽️ Dining Variety
From casual bites to upscale meals, find diverse culinary options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Validate Parking
Always ask for parking validation to enjoy free parking at Lincoln Square.
🎬 Cinema Seat Safety
Be cautious of phones slipping into seat mechanisms in the reclining cinema seats.
🛍️ Diverse Shopping
Explore unique boutiques and well-known stores like Nordstrom Rack.
🍽️ Dining Variety
From casual bites to upscale meals, find diverse culinary options.
🌉 Skybridge Convenience
Utilize the skybridges for easy, weather-free access between buildings.
📸 Festive Photo Ops
Enjoy seasonal decorations and events, perfect for memorable photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lincoln Square is generally well-regarded for its upscale atmosphere, convenient skybridge connections, and diverse shopping and dining options, particularly in Bellevue. The cinema's reclining seats are a highlight, though some find the in-seat dining overpriced and the directions within the complex can be confusing. Parking is often a positive point, being free with validation.
"Nordstrom Rack is a wonderful place to shop; other stores primarily offer leisure items or food."
Kelly Lee
"One of the best places I spent most of my day at. Great place to gather for coffee of small bites. I highly recommend Cantina Monarca, The W, or Paddy Coneys!! Lots of fun things to do! Best quick shop I’ve done in years!!!"
FINGER FOOD
"Skybridges connect everything which is nice.
The 21 plus for adults because of alcohol movie theater was also pretty nice. Though the reclining seats do have the disadvantage for those wearing dress slacks of being a risk for phones in pockets falling out and being eaten by the seats Make sure you check underneath the area between the seats if that happens to your phone. I had to lift the bottom cushion up and search on the sticky floor with my hand to find it thankfully I had a friend there with me who had a different phone to use as flashlight and also to call my phone so we kept looking in the right spot.
PS remember to ask for your parking to be validated so you can park in Lincoln square instead of across the street at Bellevue Mall."
Michael Evans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lincoln Square in Chicago is accessible via public transportation, including CTA buses and the Brown Line 'L' train. Many visitors also drive, with parking available.
Lincoln Square in Bellevue is easily navigable, especially with its connecting skybridges that link various buildings and amenities, allowing you to avoid the street.
Parking is generally available and often free at Lincoln Square, especially if you get it validated. However, some reviews mention that directions within the parking garages can be confusing.
Depending on your starting point in the city, walking to Lincoln Square might be feasible. It's a central location in both Chicago and Bellevue, making it a destination for many.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can typically drop off and pick up passengers at designated points within or near Lincoln Square. Check the specific app for optimal locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lincoln Square itself is a public area with shops and restaurants, so no general entry tickets are required. However, specific venues like the movie theater or ticketed events will require admission.
Parking at Lincoln Square is often free, especially if you get your parking validated. Without validation, there may be hourly rates or daily fees.
Operating hours vary by venue within Lincoln Square. Shops and restaurants typically follow standard business hours, while the cinema has its own showtimes. It's best to check the specific hours for the venue you plan to visit.
Lincoln Square hosts various events throughout the year, such as seasonal festivals like the Apple Fest in Chicago. Keep an eye on local listings for upcoming events.
Yes, movie tickets for the Lincoln Square cinema can typically be purchased online through the theater's website or ticketing platforms.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Lincoln Square offers a diverse range of shops, from popular retailers like Nordstrom Rack to unique boutiques, pharmacies, and bookstores.
You'll find a variety of dining experiences, including cafes, restaurants with international cuisine, and places offering small bites or gourmet foods.
The cinema is known for its comfortable reclining seats, which many visitors enjoy. However, some find the in-seat dining to be overpriced and over-seasoned.
Yes, Lincoln Square features architectural highlights and public art, such as the historic facade of the Krause Music Store in Chicago.
Lincoln Square can be family-friendly, especially in Chicago with its charming neighborhood feel and seasonal events. The Bellevue location offers entertainment options, but the cinema's adult focus might be a consideration.
📸 📸 Photography
The charming streets of Lincoln Square in Chicago, especially during fall, offer picturesque scenes. The unique architecture and festive decorations also make for great photo opportunities.
Generally, you can take photos inside shops for personal use, but it's always polite to ask for permission, especially if you're taking many pictures or using flash.
There are usually no broad restrictions on personal photography in public areas of Lincoln Square. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of buildings.
Yes, Lincoln Square often gets decorated for holidays, offering festive backdrops for photos, especially during events like Snowflake Lane.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lincoln Square, Chicago
The area truly shines with its small-town atmosphere, making it feel like a movie set or a scene from 'Gilmore Girls.' Seasonal events, like the annual Apple Fest, add to its appeal, offering a taste of local culture and seasonal treats. It's a neighborhood that encourages leisurely strolls, discovery, and a genuine connection with its community-focused businesses.
Lincoln Square, Bellevue: Shopping and Entertainment
The entertainment aspect is highlighted by its cinema, which features luxurious reclining seats, a significant draw for moviegoers. While the seating is a plus, some reviews caution about the potential for items to slip into seat crevices and the cost and seasoning of in-seat dining. Despite these minor drawbacks, Lincoln Square offers a sophisticated urban experience with ample amenities and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for gatherings and leisure activities.
The Cinema Experience at Lincoln Square
However, the experience comes with a few caveats. Several reviews mention the risk of phones or other small items falling into the gaps between the seat cushions, requiring some effort to retrieve them. Additionally, the in-seat dining option is noted for being significantly more expensive than the movie tickets themselves, with some patrons finding the food to be over-seasoned or drenched in sauce. For those prioritizing comfort and a relaxed movie-watching environment, the reclining seats are a major draw, but it's advisable to be mindful of personal belongings and consider dining outside the theater for better value and taste.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit