Bucktown is an increasingly popular neighborhood for Chicagoans to reside — and to shop, dine, and explore.
Nestled between Wicker Park and Logan Square neighborhoods, Bucktown has its own established vibe with a variety of things to do and experience. The paramount street in Bucktown is Damen Avenue, where several shops and restaurants are centralized. Given the amount of attractions and businesses in the neighborhood, you could easily spend an entire day (and night) along Damen Avenue. Bookmark this list now for your next visit to Bucktown.
Here are 10+ things to do along Damen Avenue…
Stan’s Donuts
Start your morning with Stan’s. Whether you choose a standard glaze or specialty concoction, Stan’s donuts are beloved in Chicago — served best with La Colombe coffee. (Stan’s Donuts, 1560 N. Damen Avenue)
The Dailey Method
Work up a sweat at The Dailey Method, a barre studio located on Damen. The class focuses on building a strong, lean, sculpted body, and even works to improve and align posture. (The Dailey Method, 1714 N. Damen Avenue)
Pistil & Vine
Stop and smell the roses — literally. Pistil & Vine is a top Chicago florist, with a boutique storefront located on Damen. All arrangements are truly custom, sourcing flowers in a variety of colors and textures. (Pistil & Vine, 1924 N. Damen Avenue)
YellowKorner Gallery
Pop into an art gallery, YellowKorner, and browse a range of professional photography on display and for sale. The gallery focuses on architecture, nature, and fashion, with pieces starting around $100 into a few thousand dollars. (YellowKorner, 1721 N. Damen Avenue)
Diptyque
Diptyque is a luxury candle and fragrance brand, with a beautiful boutique located on Damen. Based in Paris, Diptyque is known for high quality and iconic scents, perfect for a housewarming gift or personal indulgence. (Diptyque, 1645 N. Damen Avenue)
Goddess & Grocer
Refuel at Goddess and Grocer, a local favorite for fresh and delicious eats, from breakfast to dessert. Stop in for salads, sandwiches, soups and more, available to grab-and-go or to enjoy on the 2nd story rooftop. (Goddess and Grocer, 1649 N. Damen Avenue)
606 Trail
Hit the 606 Trail, a new 2.7-mile-long elevated path dedicated for biking, running and strolling. Set above city streets, the 606 offers green space and links four diverse city neighborhoods, with access points to six different parks. (The 606, access at Damen & Churchill)
Mindy’s
Indulge your sweet tooth at Hot Chocolate, a restaurant and dessert bar serving American fare, cocktails, sweets, ice cream and, of course: hot chocolate. (Hot Chocolate, 1747 N. Damen Avenue)
Zazazoo Salon
Pamper yourself with a manicure or pedicure at Zazazoo, a top-rated nail salon in Chicago. The interior is bright and modern, offering BYOB and an impressive array of polish colors. (Zazazoo Nail Salon, 1842 N. Damen Avenue)
“Love” Street Art
Snap a photo in front of the “Love” street mural, located at 1873 N. Damen. Created by artist Matthew Hoffman, the backdrop has been a popular location for Instagram pictures among Chicago bloggers (like Jennifer Lake, seen above), plus locals and visitors. (Love Wall, 1873 N. Damen Avenue)
1952 1/2 Liquorette
Step inside 1952 1/2 Liquorette and you’ll find Southern-inspired bourbon drinks and cocktails in chic digs. Sip craft creations like a Negroni, Old Fashioned or Southern whiskey sour. (1952 1/2 Liquorette, 1952 N. Damen Avenue)
Coast
Coast offers a contemporary and lively setting to enjoy fresh, quality sushi and Japanese dishes. Both sushi connoisseurs and novices alike will find the menu appealing — plus, the spot is BYOB. (Coast, 2045 N. Damen Avenue)
Want even more? For late night fun, head around the corner to Lottie’s Pub (since 1934) and local favorite Piece Pizza.
