EVANSTON ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Evanston Attractions
Evanston is home to a number of great attractions, including Northwestern University, public beaches and parks on Lake Michigan, popular music venue Evanston SPACE, unique shopping opportunities, and various museums, including the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian and the American Toby Jug Museum.
Listed below are the most popular attractions and things to do in Evanston, Illinois.
Northwestern University
PRIVATE RESEARCH UNIVERSITY
Northwestern University is a private research university known for its rigorous academic programs, especially in the fields of law, journalism, and business. Northwestern has a beautiful campus and is home to a variety of student organizations and activities.
link
call
directions
Block Museum of Art
ART MUSEUM
The Block Museum of Art is a public art museum that is open to all and free of charge on the Northwestern University campus. The museum serves as a excellent teaching and learning resource, offering a global exhibition program that spans time periods and cultures.
link
call
directions
Evanston SPACE
MUSIC VENUE
Evanston SPACE is a renowned music venue that hosts a wide array of concerts across various genres. Its intimate setting and diverse musical offerings create unforgettable experiences for music lovers and provides a unique platform for artists to connect with their audiences.
link
call
directions
Sketchbook Brewing Company
MICROBREWERY
Sketchbook Brewing Company is a microbrewery with a fierce devotion to handcrafting their beers to create a unique and diverse selection that caters to a variety of tastes. With a belief that beer is an art you can drink, Sketchbook offers a wide range of historical and adventurous beer styles. They are a community-focused establishment providing a cozy and friendly taproom for enjoying a pint or a flight of beers.
link
call
directions
Grosse Point Lighthouse
HISTORIC SITE
Grosse Point Lighthouse is a historic landmark standing as a testament to the area's rich maritime heritage. The lighthouse offers visitors breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and a glimpse into the region's past. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top for panoramic views of the lakefront and the bustling city skyline.
call
directions
Lighthouse Beach
LAKE MICHIGAN
Lighthouse Beach is a public swimming beach offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. The beach is a beloved locale, by both locals and tourists, for experiencing stunning sunrises over Lake Michigan. Amenities include a picnic shelter and playground.
link
call
directions
Arrington Lagoon at Dawes Park
SCENIC LANDMARK
Arrington Lagoon at Dawes Park is a scenic pond with lush greenery, walking paths, beautiful fountains, and a picnic shelter with indoor and outdoor seating. The pond is home to ducks and geese and serves as an ice-skating rink in winter. The park hosts various events like artisan fairs and music festivals, making it a popular spot for relaxation and photography.
link
call
directions
Dawes Park
LAKESIDE PARK
Dawes Park is a picturesque lakeside park featuring lush greenery and scenic views of Lake Michigan. Ammenities include a running trail, benches, picnic areas, a boat launch, and a pier for leisurely strolls along the lake. The park is home to Arlington Lagoon, which serves as a hub for various activities throughout the year, including ice skating during the winter. Popular for picnics, family gatherings, and civic events.
link
call
directions
Clark Street Beach
LAKE MICHIGAN
Clark Street Beach is a lakeside park offering a large sandy beach for visitors to relax, sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Michigan. The beach features ample parking, and newer facilities with restrooms and changing areas. The beach is also accessible for people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this beautiful attraction.
link
call
directions
Lee Street Beach
LAKE MICHIGAN
Lee Street Beach is a charming lakeside park offering a picturesque setting for picnics, sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the sandy shore. The beach features a long strip of sand extending north and a wider sandy area at the south end, perfect for light beach sports, including volleyball and frisbee. Due to the ample space for recreational activities along with the tranquil environment, it's a popular choice among Evanston residents.
link
call
directions
Lock Chicago Escape Rooms
TEAM BUILDING
Lock Chicago Escape Rooms offers an immersive and innovative escape room experience perfect for groups of friends, families, and corporate team-building events. It features three unique themed rooms, with each room challenging players to use creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills within a 60-minute time frame, providing a thrilling and engaging adventure for all ages.
link
call
directions
FRÍO Gelato
ICE CREAM SHOP
Frio Gelato brings the rich tradition of Argentine gelato to the U.S., offering a delightful array of flavors made from all-natural ingredients. They prides themselves on being nut-free and gluten-free, using hormone-free milk and avoiding artificial flavorings. Their commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a great spot for those seeking a taste of Argentina.
link
call
directions
The Evans at Canal Shores
GOLF COURSE
The Evans at Canal Shores is a historic and charming golf course that winds through urban and suburban neighborhoods along the North Shore branch of the Chicago River, offering unique views of the Bahá’í House of Worship and the Chicago “L” and Metra train tracks. As a not-for-profit facility, it relies on private donations and volunteer efforts to maintain its operations, making it an affordable and accessible golfing destination for all.
link
call
directions
Burnham Shores Park
LAKESIDE PARK
Burnham Shores Park is a scenic public space located along Lake Michigan, offering the perfect environment for outdoor recreation and nature preservation. The park features open green spaces, walking paths, and picturesque views of the lake, making it a great place for picnics, leisurely strolls, and community gatherings. Close to other Evanston attractions, including Lee Street Beach and the Evanston History Center.
link
call
directions
Dave's Down To Earth Rock Shop
SHOP & MUSEUM
Dave’s Down to Earth Rock Shop is a unique establishment that combines a jewelry store, museum, and shop that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Earth’s natural wonders. The shop features a stunning collection of rocks, minerals, gemstones, and fossils, and the museum displays fossils from every geological time period, including a complete cave bear skeleton from France and small dinosaurs from China.
link
call
directions
Squeezebox Books & Music
RECORD SHOP
Squeezebox Books & Music is a charming boutique-style store that specializes in used books and music, featuring a curated selection of uncommon books and vinyl records ranging from vintage children’s books to rare LPs, making each visit a unique experience. The cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff provides a welcoming space for book and music enthusiasts to browse, buy, and trade their favorite items.
call
directions
Vintage Vinyl
RECORD SHOP
Vintage Vinyl specializes in rare and collectible vinyl records, offering a vast selection of classic albums, limited edition releases, and hard-to-find gems from various genres. The nostalgic atmosphere and knowledgeable staff creates a haven for both serious collectors and casual listeners. The store caters to a global clientele with a mail-order service, ensuring that vinyl aficionados can find their desired records regardless of location.
link
call
directions
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS
The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is dedicated to preserving and sharing the histories, cultures, traditions, and arts of Indigenous peoples from the United States and Canada. The museum houses over 10,000 artifacts and serves as an educational resource and cultural center, promoting a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples through exhibits, programs, and events.
link
call
directions
Halim Time & Glass Museum
TIME PIECES & STAINED GLASS
The Halim Time & Glass Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of over 1,100 historic timepieces and nearly 100 stained glass windows. The museum spans five floors and showcases a diverse array of clocks, watches, and stained glass art from around the world. The museum is a must-see attraction for those interested in the intricate artistry of timekeeping and stained glass.
link
call
directions
American Toby Jug Museum
TOBY & CHARACTER JUGS
The American Toby Jug Museum boasts the world’s largest collection of Toby and Character jugs, with over 8,000 pieces displayed in ninety-seven cabinets. The museum traces the evolution of these unique ceramic jugs from the mid-18th century to the present day, including rare antique Toby Jugs, a comprehensive collection of Royal Doulton Character Jugs, and the world’s largest and smallest Toby Jugs.
link
call
directions
Merrick Rose Garden
PUBLIC PARK
The Merrick Rose Garden is a picturesque public park featuring hundreds of exquisite rose bushes, with over 200 varieties including tea, floribunda, rugosa, and miniature roses. The centerpiece is the historic Fountain Square Centennial Fountain, providing a tranquil focal point. Amenities include updated lighting and irrigation systems, making it a serene and well-maintained spot for visitors to enjoy the beauty of its diverse rose collection.
link
call
directions
Frances Willard House Museum
WOMANS CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION
The Frances Willard House Museum is a historic Gothic Revival home built in 1865, which belonged to Frances Willard, a prominent 19th-century reformer and women’s rights advocate. The house has been preserved with its original furnishings and personal belongings, offering a glimpse into Willard’s life and work. The home also serves as the headquarters of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union.
link
call
directions
AMC Evanston 12
MOVIE THEATER
The theater features amenities such as reserved seating, RealD 3D, and wheelchair accessibility. It also provides a dine-in option with recliners, Dolby Cinema, and IMAX for an enhanced viewing experience. With online ticketing and preferred parking, AMC Evanston 12 ensures convenience and comfort for all moviegoers.
link
call
directions
Trader Joes
GROCERY STORE
Trader Joe’s in Evanston is a beloved neighborhood grocery store known for its unique and high-quality products. The store offers a wide range of items, including fresh produce, dairy, meats, and an impressive selection of cheeses, as well as specialty items like Mandarin Orange Chicken and Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate, and a great selection of fresh flowers.
link
call
directions
Evanston Dog Beach
PUBLIC BEACH
Evanston Dog Beach offers dogs and their owners a scenic off-leash destination on the shore of Lake Michigan where dogs can swim, run, and socialize. The beach requires a valid dog beach pass for entry, ensuring a safe and controlled environment for all visitors. The Evanston Parks & Recreation Department manages the beach, providing amenities like drinking fountains for both people and dogs.
link
call
directions
Menu
article
info
arrow_circle_up