Logan Square has undergone a dramatic transformation since the turn of the 21st century, revitalizing itself after years of neglect. In fact, the city was named one of 2013’s Ten Hottest Cities by AOL Real Estate. With a unique artistic vibe and easy access via the city’s Blue Line “L” train, the neighborhood offers a wealth of indoor and outdoor activities.
Outdoor Activities
- The Logan Square Farmer’s Market is held every Sunday from late spring until late summer and offers up locally grown produce and meats. Booths also include delicacies from local bakers and restaurants, and the boulevard setting of the market makes for a peaceful Sunday picnic atmosphere. The Comfort Station, just east of the actual Logan Square, holds a free International Film Series in its small park every Wednesday night at dusk through the warmer months.
Nightlife
- Logan Square has a very active nightlife scene. Enjoy free live music and specialty cocktails at the Whistler, which has a small back patio for those who want a quieter evening. Revolution Brewery has become a local staple, known for its own craft beers and large bar and restaurant space on Milwaukee Avenue. The brewery also has a tasting room at its Kedzie Brewery facility. For a true Chicago musical experience, visit Rosa’s Lounge in southwestern Logan Square. Opened in 1982, the bar showcases local blues talent that will transport you to another era of the city.
Landmarks
- The Illinois Centennial Monument is a columnar monument celebrating Illinois’ centennial and was designed by Henry Bacon, designer of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Dominating the neighborhood, it sits in the center of the grassy Logan Square, which is itself part of a National Historic District and the Park Boulevard System, which includes the large, open boulevards of nearby Palmer’s Square. Margie’s Candies, at the corner of Western and Armitage, has been in operation since 1921. The Hairpin Lofts are in a renovated flat-iron building built in 1930 that overlooks the six-corner intersection of Milwaukee, Diversey and Kimball.
The Arts
- In addition to the historic Congress Theater, showcasing live music, and the Logan Theater, which offers second-run movies, Logan Square is also home to a very local arts scene. The Elastic Arts Foundation helps local artists develop and display their creations at its Logan Square facility. Works include art exhibitions, theater pieces, literary readings and film screenings. Galerie F is an open-door gallery space showcasing print and street art, including gig and art posters, promoting the work of local artists. The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival features live music, visual artists, pop-up galleries and local food vendors on Milwaukee Avenue.
