Things To Do In Evanston, IL
Located just north of Chicago, Evanston is a dynamic lakeside city that blends academic energy, historic charm, and natural beauty. Home to the renowned Northwestern University, Evanston offers a unique mix of cultural attractions, stunning lakefront views, and a vibrant food and arts scene. With walkable neighborhoods, indie shops, and a strong community vibe, it’s a welcoming place for students, families, and visitors alike. Whether you’re catching a sunset at the lake, exploring local galleries, or enjoying a cozy café downtown, Evanston is a lively and inspiring destination that captures the best of urban and suburban life.
Halim Time & Glass Museum
1560 Oak Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
This museum showcases an extensive collection of over 1,100 timepieces and 80 stained glass windows. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to American stained glass masters and global clockmakers. The museum also features a café and offers guided tours, providing a comprehensive experience of art and horology.
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
3001 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201
Dedicated to the history, culture, and art of Native American peoples, this museum offers exhibits covering regions from the Arctic to the Southeast. With a collection exceeding 10,000 artifacts, including clothing, tools, and art, the museum provides educational programs and interactive displays suitable for all ages.
Evanston SPACE
1245 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202
Renowned for its intimate ambiance and exceptional acoustics, this live music venue hosts a diverse array of artists across genres like jazz, folk, rock, and blues. With a capacity of around 250, SPACE offers an up-close experience with performers. The adjoining Union Pizzeria allows guests to enjoy gourmet pizzas and drinks before or after shows, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.
Evanston History Center at the Charles G. Dawes House
225 Greenwood St, Evanston, IL 60201
Housed in the 1894 mansion of former Vice President Charles G. Dawes, this center offers a glimpse into Evanston’s rich history. The Chateauesque-style home, a National Historic Landmark, features period furnishings, art, and exhibits detailing the city’s development. Guided tours provide insights into Dawes’ life and the architectural significance of the residence.
Evanston SPACE
1245 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202
Renowned for its intimate ambiance and exceptional acoustics, this live music venue hosts a diverse array of artists across genres like jazz, folk, rock, and blues. With a capacity of around 250, SPACE offers an up-close experience with performers. The adjoining Union Pizzeria allows guests to enjoy gourmet pizzas and drinks before or after shows, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.
Shakespeare Garden
Evanston, IL 60208, United States
Designed in 1915 by landscape architect Jens Jensen, this charming English-style garden spans 70 by 120 feet. It features more than 50 plant varieties mentioned in Shakespeare’s works or common in Tudor England. The garden’s serene pathways, bordered by hawthorn trees and boxwood hedges, lead visitors past a central fountain and a stone bench, making it an ideal spot for contemplation and literary inspiration.
Ladd Arboretum
2024 McCormick Blvd, Evanston, IL 60201
Spanning 23 acres along the North Shore Channel, this arboretum features collections organized by plant families, including birch, maple, and oak. Visitors can explore themed gardens such as the Meadow Garden, Cherry Tree Walk, and the International Friendship Garden. The on-site Evanston Ecology Center offers educational exhibits and programs, making it a valuable resource for nature enthusiasts and families.
Grosse Point Lighthouse
2601 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL 60201
Constructed in 1873 to guide mariners and prevent shipwrecks along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this historic lighthouse stands 113 feet tall. Designated a National Historic Landmark, it offers seasonal guided tours that include a climb to the top, rewarding visitors with panoramic lake views. The surrounding parkland features lush gardens and a maritime exhibit, providing a comprehensive historical experience.
Block Museum of Art
40 Arts Circle Dr, Evanston, IL 60208
Located on Northwestern University’s campus, this free-admission museum presents a rotating selection of contemporary and historical art exhibitions. Its collection includes prints, photography, and sculptures, with a focus on fostering dialogue around visual culture. The museum also hosts film screenings, lectures, and workshops, enriching the cultural landscape of the community.
Frances Willard House Museum
1730 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
This historic house was the longtime residence of Frances Willard, a prominent social reformer and women’s suffrage advocate. Preserved as a museum, it offers guided tours that delve into Willard’s life, the temperance movement, and the broader context of women’s rights in the 19th century. The home retains original furnishings, artifacts, and documents, providing an authentic glimpse into the past.