Your guide to Logan Square with kids

Logan Square is low-key, artsy and diverse with plenty of cute cafes and independent stores within easy walking distance, making it a great neighborhood for a day of family exploring. This charming neighborhood is on the northwest side of Chicago, centered around the public square at the three-way intersection of Logan Boulevard, Milwaukee Avenue and Kedzie Avenue. 

City Lit Books

2523 N. Kedzie Ave

Getting kids to appreciate the written word is so important, and this independent bookstore is definitely a place that makes that a priority. Celebrate good books with storytime 10:30-11:30 a.m. every Saturday, which includes read-alongs and sing-alongs and often author visits. Free parking in back.

Palmer Square Park

2200 N. Kedzie Ave.

Seven acres of green space in the middle of the boulevard create a peaceful park to play and people watch. Inspired by The Velveteen Rabbit, sculptures shaped like bunnies and tree stumps are perfect for young kids to climb or play pretend with. There’s a tree swing and plenty of open space to kick a ball, read a book or just soak up the sunshine.

Logan Square Farmers Market

Logan Boulevard, east of Milwaukee on the Square

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays May 13-Oct. 28

A weekly, open-air community market that has won many accolades, the Logan Square Farmers Market is a great place to get fresh produce, hear performances by local musicians and even do some yoga.

El Cid 

2645 N. Kedzie Ave.

The outdoor patio is the perfect place to sip margaritas or mojitos and munch chips and salsa, and it’s not often that you’ll meet a kid who doesn’t like a quesadilla. El Cid is a good neighborhood Mexican restaurant that is sure to fill the bellies of the whole family.

*play

3109 W. Logan Blvd.

This adorable local toy store is packed with imaginative, educational and nostalgic toys, plus great gift ideas for Chicago-loving little ones, like Chicago children’s books and Barack Obama dolls. I thought the Chewbeads baby teething jewelry was super insightful. My daughter and her friend got a big kick out of the Madhatter dough and old-time toys like latch kits. Maia Martine, Play salesperson, recommends SpinAgain and NogginStik for little babies, Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls books and handmade bows and arrows for older children.

Revolution Brewery

2323 N. Milwaukee

Brews and babies might not have been two things you instantly put together, but they combine well, especially for Sunday brunch. This local brewpub serves buttery biscuits and gravy, Breakfastman burgers, chilaquiles and smoky tomato bacon omelets. Tap into one of their popular brews (I can’t wait for my favorite Rosa Hibiscus Ale to become available) or try a tasty beermosa.

All Star Press

2725 N. Milwaukee

An art gallery with a sports theme, All Star Press, is just the ticket if you have older kids who are sports fans.

Lula Café

2537 N. Kedzie Ave.

This delightful, buzzing café started serving farm-to-table cuisine before it became uber popular. Almost anything you try on the seasonal, locally sourced menu is sure to please. I like their savory Sunchoke Dip, topped with pumpkin seeds, pecorino, walnuts and mushrooms. An early brunch is your best bet with little diners in tow. 

New Wave Coffee House

3103 W. Logan Blvd.

This independent coffee shop serves drinks brewed with Metropolis beans and sandwiches, has a colorful, artistic vibe and plenty of seating outside.