Your perfect weekend: Logan Square

9am: Intelligentsia and Bang Bang Pie Shop

Begin early with a heart-starting cup of coffee from Intelligentsia (2642 N Milwaukee Ave; 773-945-1690, intelligentsiacoffee.com), then head to Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits off the California Blue Line for to-die-for fluffy biscuits at one of the picnic tables.

1pm: Parson's Chicken & Fish

Take a walk and hit the patio at Parson’s Chicken & Fish for a Negroni Slushy and fried chicken. After a round of ping-pong, hop on a Divvy bike just outside to cycle back into the center of the ’hood. 

5pm: Emporium Logan Square, The Whistler, Revolution Brewing

A quintessential night in Logan Square includes pinball and snacks from the indoor food truck at Emporium Logan Square, followed by an elaborate cocktail on the Whistler’s patio (2421 N Milwaukee Ave; 773-227-3530, whistlerchicago.com). For an experience that’s a little more laid-back, head next door to Revolution Brewing (2323 N Milwaukee Ave; 773-227-2739, revbrew.com) for some local beers. 

11am: Logan Square Farmers Market

Recover with some shopping (produce, flowers and even hot sandwiches) at the Logan Square Farmers Market. 

1pm: Logan Theatre 

Catch a flick at the Logan Theatre. The cozy indie theater has a full bar, too, if you need a little hair of the dog.

4:30pm Fleur and Shop 1021

Hit Fleur for plants, or get great gift ideas at Shop 1021 (2650 N Milwaukee; 773-235-1021, shop1021.com).

5pm: Palmer Square Park 

Toss a Frisbee or lounge in the grass at Palmer Square Park (2200 N Kedzie Ave) to end the day in one of the city’s coolest places.

The next time you’re considering maxing out your credit card for a trip to some far-flung land, take a look at what’s around you. We did, and we discovered this city is home to some truly memorable staycations.