Things To Do
in Evanston
Evanston sits on the shores of Lake Michigan just north of Chicago and offers a lively mix of college-town energy and refined lakefront living. It is home to Northwestern University, which infuses the area with cultural events, architecture, and a youthful atmosphere. The downtown core features a walkable mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, while the lakefront and parks provide scenic outdoor spaces.
Easy access to Chicago via the L and Metra makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown Evanston, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the early 20th century buildings. Stop by the Evanston History Center to learn about the city’s rich past and its role in the development of the region. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at one of the local cafes as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch at a charming bistro, head over to the Frances Willard House Museum to delve deeper into the life of this remarkable woman and her impact on the women's suffrage movement. Spend some time walking through the adjacent parks, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscaping and perhaps catch a local event. As the afternoon wanes, visit the nearby shops for unique local crafts and souvenirs.
Dine at a delightful restaurant along Chicago Avenue, where you can savor local cuisine and perhaps try a craft beer from one of the nearby breweries. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the shores of Lake Michigan, enjoying the breathtaking views and the calming sounds of the waves. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local theater for a live performance or a movie.
Start your day at Clark Street Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan or simply relax on the sandy shore. Bring a picnic breakfast to savor while taking in the stunning views of the water and the Chicago skyline in the distance. Engage in some beach volleyball or rent a kayak for an exciting morning adventure on the lake.
After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at a beachfront café, where you can delight in fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or participating in organized water sports, such as paddleboarding or windsurfing, with equipment available for rent nearby. Take a break under the shade of a beach umbrella, allowing the gentle lake breeze to refresh you.
As the sun sets, attend a local beach bonfire event, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow beachgoers. Once the bonfire winds down, head to a nearby restaurant for a casual dinner featuring classic American fare. Finish the evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the lake at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $3-6 |
| 🚌1-month public transit pass | $75-100 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,800-2,400 |
| 🛒Groceries for 1 month | $300-500 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong lakefront access and scenic outdoor spaces
- Walkable downtown with diverse dining and easy access to Chicago
- Vibrant university culture with events and museums
- Solid public transit options (CTA and Metra) for day trips
- Costs can be higher than some suburbs, especially housing
- Winter weather can be harsh and snow-related disruptions are possible
- Parking can be challenging in busy downtown areas
Places to Visit in Evanston
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic and Collegiate architecture framed by the nearby lake and green spaces, offering strong campus-photo opportunities.
Iconic lakefront piers and shoreline with skyline views, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
A central plaza with seasonal greenery, sculptures, and city life—great for candid street photography.
Scenic lakeside paths along the water with views of the Chicago skyline on clear days.
Food in Evanston
Evanston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, buttery crust with a hearty filling and chunky tomato sauce; widely available at local pizzerias and familiar Chicago staples.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced beef on a role with giardiniera or peppers; a classic Chicago staple you can find across Evanston eateries.
All-beef frankfurter with toppings like mustard, onions, relish, pickles, and celery salt; a quick, affordable option at casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, dairy, and prepared foods from local farmers and vendors; a good place to sample regional products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, friendly greetings and holding doors for others are common. Queuing for services is standard; avoid cutting in line.
Tipping is expected for most service-based industries, including restaurants, bars, and rideshares.
Casual Midwest courtesy is valued; loud public behavior is discouraged in residential areas and quiet streets.
Safety
Tipping in Evanston
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, Typical restaurant tipping is 15-20% of the pre-tax total. For bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% is common. Taxis and rideshares usually expect 10-15% unless the fare is metered with a tip built in.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy. Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common in restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days emerge after late-winter chill; showers are common. Great for outdoor strolls and early blooms in parks.
Warm to hot with humidity; frequent lake breezes. Ideal for lakefront activities, outdoor dining, and sunset photography.
Cooler temperatures with colorful foliage. Pleasant for walking tours and campus photography.
Cold with snow possible; icy conditions can affect outdoor plans. Layer up for lakefront views and seasonal urban scenes.
Evanston at Night
Hiking in Evanston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of trails and natural areas ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
Extensive multi-use trail system with accessible segments for day hikes and longer treks not far from Evanston.
Airports
How to reach Evanston by plane.
Major Chicago-area hub about 15-20 miles from Evanston; accessible by car, taxi, rideshare, and train connections via the CTA or Metra. A convenient gateway for international and domestic travel.
Alternative Chicago airport offering domestic and some international flights; typically a shorter drive from the city center but farther from Evanston than ORD in most routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student and faculty presence shaping the local culture, dining, and events.
Residential neighborhood appeal with access to parks, lakeside spaces, and community activities.
A diverse community with a range of cuisines, shops, and cultural events reflected in the local scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in the Chicago region; Northwestern University’s teams and local recreational leagues attract many fans.
College football presence with local fandom and tailgating culture around university events.
Popular in rec leagues and local clubs; opportunities for pickup games and organized leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Evanston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Evanston eateries offer vegetarian options on menus or can accommodate requests. Look for plant-based dishes, avoid meat broths when needed, and ask for customization at casual spots.