Green City Market
Chicago's premier farmers market, offering fresh local produce, artisan foods, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Green City Market
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chicago's premier farmers market, offering fresh local produce, artisan foods, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
"Discover unparalleled freshness and unique varieties of produce you won't find in grocery stores.
"🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection
Get there right at opening to snag the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out.
💰 Bring Cash & Reusable Bags
While some vendors accept cards, cash is often quicker. Reusable bags are a must for your haul! :moneybag: :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seasonal Produce
Throughout the market
Discover vibrant, locally grown fruits and vegetables with unparalleled freshness and flavor.

Artisan Breads & Baked Goods
Various bakery stalls
Indulge in delicious sourdough, pastries, donuts, and more from talented local bakers.

Specialty Food Stalls
Various food vendors
From gourmet cheeses and meats to unique pantry items and prepared foods, explore a diverse culinary landscape.

Chef BBQ Event
Lincoln Park (special event)
An annual celebration featuring unlimited food and drinks from over 100 top Chicago restaurants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Your Vendors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection
Get there right at opening to snag the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out.
💰 Bring Cash & Reusable Bags
While some vendors accept cards, cash is often quicker. Reusable bags are a must for your haul! :moneybag: :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Navigate the Single Path
The market's layout is designed for a single path, making it easy to see all vendors. :walking:
❓ Ask About Sourcing
Don't hesitate to ask vendors about where their products come from. :question:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection
Get there right at opening to snag the freshest produce and popular items before they sell out.
💰 Bring Cash & Reusable Bags
While some vendors accept cards, cash is often quicker. Reusable bags are a must for your haul! :moneybag: :shopping_bags:
🚶♀️ Navigate the Single Path
The market's layout is designed for a single path, making it easy to see all vendors. :walking:
❓ Ask About Sourcing
Don't hesitate to ask vendors about where their products come from. :question:
📅 Check Seasonal Schedules
Markets run May-October, with specific dates for Lincoln Park and West Loop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Green City Market for its wide variety of fresh, flavorful produce and high-quality artisan goods, often highlighting unique items not found in grocery stores. While some appreciate the market's organization and atmosphere, a few reviewers question the 'farmer's market' designation due to some vendors acting as wholesalers rather than direct producers.
"Wonderful market. Big variety of vendors. Must be largest in Chicago. An hour of poking around uncovered delicious selection of Augusta, tomatoes, fennel, beets, mushrooms, with flavors and varieties that I don’t find in the local grocery stores. Can’t wait for dinner tonight."
Bill Kaufmann
"Slither through here just about every weekend. Local bread artisans are top notch, produce is fresh. Definitely visit here while it's still in season"
A Red Dragon
"I've been going to farmer markets and markets around the world The one in Chicago and Lincoln Park in other parts get somebody explain it to me how you call them a farmer market when none of the vendors grow anything that they sell They buy the wholesale and then resell it nothing is fresh that was picked a day ago from the farm and brought in to the market. I did purchase few things several times and none of his fresh and tasteless It is a joke but it's something to do on the weekend when there's nothing else to do They should call it some thing else It is definitely not a farmer market!!!"
Earthbound Adventures
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lincoln Park location is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the Fullerton or Diversey Brown Line 'L' stations. Parking can be challenging, so consider rideshare or public transit.
Street parking is available but can be competitive, especially on market days. Some paid parking garages are also in the vicinity. Many visitors opt for public transport or biking to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Green City Market also operates a location in the West Loop at 900 W Monroe St, typically on Saturdays.
Hours vary by location and season. The Lincoln Park market is generally open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The West Loop market is usually open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Always check their official schedule.
The market is generally accessible, with paved paths. However, it can get crowded, so navigating with strollers or wheelchairs might require patience during peak hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Green City Market is free. You only pay for the items you purchase from vendors.
Yes, the Green City Market Chef BBQ is a ticketed event. Tickets typically include unlimited food and drinks from participating restaurants. Discount codes are sometimes available.
The market season typically runs from May through October, with some early openings in April for the Lincoln Park location.
Generally, pets are not allowed in the market area to ensure food safety and a pleasant experience for all visitors. Please check the market's specific policy. :dog:
Many vendors accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or if a vendor's card reader is down. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide array of vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal breads, baked goods, dairy products, meats, flowers, pantry items, and prepared foods.
While many vendors are direct producers, some Reddit users have noted that not all items are grown by the seller, with some acting as wholesalers. It's recommended to inquire directly with vendors about their sourcing.
It's an annual fundraising event where over 100 of Chicago's top restaurants offer unlimited food and drinks, celebrating local cuisine and supporting the market.
Yes, many vendors offer organic produce, grass-fed meats, gluten-free baked goods, and other specialty items to cater to various dietary needs.
Absolutely! You can find ready-to-eat options like pastries, donuts, sandwiches, crepes, and coffee, perfect for a market breakfast or snack.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can purchase ingredients for a delicious meal, or grab ready-to-eat items like pastries, donuts, sandwiches, and coffee.
Yes, you'll find a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods that cater to vegan and vegetarian diets. Many vendors can accommodate specific requests.
The produce is generally praised for its freshness, flavor, and variety, often surpassing what's available in typical grocery stores.
Yes, the market offers a selection of locally sourced meats, artisanal cheeses, and dairy products from various vendors.
The emphasis is on local, seasonal ingredients, offering unique flavors and varieties that highlight the best of Illinois agriculture.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture colorful displays of fresh produce, vibrant floral arrangements, bustling vendor stalls, and happy shoppers enjoying the market atmosphere.
It's generally appreciated to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific products, especially if they are busy.
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination for photos. Mid-morning can provide more activity and vibrant scenes.
Focus on the abundance of colorful produce, unique artisanal goods, and the lively interactions between vendors and customers for compelling shots.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in public market spaces due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks for little ones, or plan to purchase some delicious ready-to-eat items like pastries or fresh fruit. Many vendors offer kid-friendly options. Consider visiting on a weekday morning if possible to avoid the largest weekend crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone. :child:
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of buying prepared foods, consider purchasing ingredients like fresh vegetables, bread, and cheese to assemble your own picnic or meal. This can be significantly cheaper than dining out and allows you to enjoy the market's fresh offerings. Remember to bring your own reusable bags to save on potential bag fees. :moneywithwings:
🧑🍳 Foodies & Culinary Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to attend the annual Chef BBQ for an ultimate culinary experience, or simply enjoy sampling various prepared foods available at the market. The market is a fantastic place to discover new ingredients and flavors that can elevate your home cooking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Green City Market Philosophy
Visitors often rave about the unparalleled freshness and unique varieties of produce they find, which are rarely available in conventional supermarkets. From heirloom tomatoes to specialty mushrooms, the market offers a true taste of the season. The market also actively promotes healthy eating and education, often featuring cooking demonstrations and information about sustainable farming practices.
Beyond the produce, Green City Market fosters a vibrant atmosphere. It's a place where you can connect with the people who grow your food, learn about their methods, and feel good about your purchasing decisions. The market's dedication to its mission makes it a beloved institution in Chicago's food scene.
Navigating the Market: Tips from Locals
While the market is generally well-organized with a single path for easy browsing, it can get quite busy. Bringing reusable bags is essential for carrying your haul, and having cash on hand can speed up transactions, though many vendors do accept cards. Don't hesitate to engage with the vendors; they are often passionate about their products and happy to share information about their farms and how to best use their ingredients.
It's worth noting that while many vendors are direct producers, some Reddit users have pointed out that not all items are grown by the seller, with some acting as wholesalers. If supporting direct-from-farm producers is a priority, it's always a good idea to ask vendors about their sourcing. This approach ensures you're making informed choices and truly supporting local agriculture.
The Annual Chef BBQ: A Culinary Highlight
Tickets to the Chef BBQ typically grant unlimited access to food and beverages from every participating vendor. This makes it an incredible value for food enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse flavors of Chicago's dining scene. Past events have featured renowned chefs and restaurants, making it a must-attend for foodies.
The Chef BBQ not only provides a delicious experience but also directly supports Green City Market's mission. The funds raised help the market continue its work in providing access to fresh, healthy food and supporting local farmers. It's a celebration of Chicago's vibrant food culture and a testament to the market's importance in the community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit