Bucktown, along with its sister community Wicker Park, ranks high on the list popular Chicago neighborhoods. Its proximity to downtown makes it an attractive spot for homebuyers looking to commute to the Loop, but beyond the convenience factor, Bucktown is thriving with activity day and night. 

During the day, people come and go from the neighborhood boutiques, yoga studios, and parks. By night, streets light up and music pours out from the neighborhood’s trendy restaurants and bars. Plus, the neighborhood ups its cool factor by featuring a blend of classic Chicago and contemporary style architecture. Whatever your tastes in housing or entertainment, chances are you’ll find it in Bucktown.

If you want to catch the neighborhood highlights, here are 11 spots to add to your Bucktown bucket list.

The Food

Chicago has a big reputation when it comes to food. Residents of any neighborhood will have at least one or two local spots to rave about, and Bucktown is no exception. Eat like a Bucktown regular at these three staple restaurants.

The Bristol

The Bristol is a must-try spot for anyone looking to nurture their foodie tendencies. This American restaurant prides itself on hand-crafting its food (including the pasta) and cocktails with fresh ingredients. Come for dinner or brunch and expect the food on your plate to look every bit as beautiful as it tastes.

Irazu

Irazu has the distinction of being one of the city’s go-to Costa Rican restaurants. This casual, dine-in spot has been making traditional Costa Rican dishes since 1990. If you want to check out this Bucktown favorite, come prepared. Irazu is cash-only and BYOB. 

Margie’s Candies

Located on the very edge of the neighborhood, Margie’s is one of the best places in Chicago for a sweet treat. The old-style ice cream joint still makes its sweet treats—ice cream and candy—by hand. Step beneath the nostalgic red-and-white striped awning to order a classic sundae or an extra thick milkshake.

The Drinks

Bucktown, like any neighborhood known for its nightlife, has its fair share of bars. Duck into any neighborhood watering hole to find refreshing drinks and a lively crowd. If you’re looking for places that stand out, these two Bucktown bars are high on the list.

Gallery Cabaret

Gallery Cabaret is an unassuming neighborhood spot that doubles as a bar and a live music venue. On any given night your drinks are likely to be accompanied by some kind of performance. Gallery Cabaret does open mic nights, live jazz, poetry, blues, comedy, and bingo. Plus, the bar promises no cover—an increasing rarity.

The Map Room

For folks who want to focus on the drink menu, there’s no better spot than the Map Room. This travel-themed corner bar has an extensive, globetrotting beer list that can make even the most accomplished craft beer drinker’s head spin. Plus, the bar serves coffee, making it a cozy spot to duck into on a snowy day.

The Entertainment

Whether you’re looking for a place to people watch or an evening out, Bucktown has a variety of entertainment options. 

The 606

The 606 elevated trail runs along the southern border of Bucktown. Climb the stairs at a couple of different access points—the main Bucktown access point is at N. Damen Avenue—to stroll along this scenic path. Watch for bikers, joggers, rollerbladers, and people with dogs while you enjoy the elevated view of the neighborhood.

Whirlyball Chicago

Bucktown is also home to Whirlyball Chicago, the perfect place to indulge in bar bites and friendly competition. An amalgamation of lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and bumper cars, Whirlyball Chicago lets you spend an afternoon trying to score points by scooping up a wiffle ball and out maneuvering the other team. 

Trap Door Theater

No Chicago bucket list would be complete without some live theater performance, and The Trap Door Theater is one of the top attractions in Bucktown. This theater company specializes in bringing obscure works to the stage. No matter what you see at the Trap Door, expect it to be unique.

The Shopping

Bucktown is a big retail center. You can find a ton of big chains in the neighborhood, like Best Buy, Kohl’s, Home Depot, Home Goods, and Target. But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t independent gems worth exploring. Anyone who loves discovering a one-of-kind shopping experience will dig these Bucktown shops.

BFF Bikes

This bike shop caters to women cyclists, offering high-end bikes, apparel, bike meet-ups, and a women’s racing team. The store also does bike repair if you bust a tire on The 606.

Pistil & Vine

Pistil & Vine is a custom floral design shop that makes greenery into artwork. Stepping inside this shop is a lush, fragrant experience.

Moth

Moth features an eclectic blend of items from Japan, Finland, and Scandinavia. Find clothing, accessories, art, and home goods at this Bucktown boutique.