Wilmette IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wilmette, Illinois.
1. Baha'i House of Worship
SPIRITUAL WONDER OF ILLINOIS
The Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette is a magnificent landmark recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois, attracting approximately 300,000 visitors annually. This impressive place of worship is open to all people regardless of faith, embodying the Baháʼí principle of unity and importance of all religions. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, and learn about the Baháʼí faith in this serene lakefront setting.
2. Gillson Park and Lakefront
LAKEFRONT RECREATION PARADISE
Gillson Park offers 60 acres of beautiful lakefront property in Wilmette, perfect for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. The park provides ideal spaces for picnics, bicycling, volleyball, soccer, tennis, and many other activities along Lake Michigan's shoreline. With its sandy beaches and green spaces, Gillson Park serves as a premier outdoor destination for both locals and tourists year-round.
3. Elmwood Dunes Preserve
NATURAL LAKEFRONT SANCTUARY
Elmwood Dunes Preserve is a tranquil sanctuary in Wilmette for those seeking a quiet space to enjoy nature and learn about the local ecosystem. It serves as a model for lakefront community best practices by restoring Wilmette's last natural bluff and dune ecosystem, protecting endangered species, and providing habitat for migratory birds. The preserve offers valuable educational opportunities for local schools while preserving Wilmette's natural history in this living laboratory environment.
4. Wilmette Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Wilmette Theatre, established in 1913, stands as a historic entertainment cornerstone in the Village Center of Wilmette. This charming venue screens movies and hosts numerous live events including musical performances, comedy shows, and private parties. The theatre contributes significantly to the cultural fabric of Wilmette, bringing diverse entertainment options to residents and visitors alike.
5. Wilmette Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Wilmette Historical Museum is dedicated to encouraging appreciation of Wilmette's rich past through engaging exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can explore the community's history, from its earliest settlers to its development as a premier North Shore suburb. The museum provides insightful context to Wilmette's architectural heritage, cultural evolution, and notable historical events that shaped this lakefront community.
6. French Market
WEEKLY OUTDOOR MARKETPLACE
The Wilmette French Market operates every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm just east of the Wilmette Metra Station, offering visitors a delightful shopping experience. Vendors showcase fresh produce, artisanal foods, handcrafted goods, and unique products in this European-inspired outdoor marketplace. The market has become a community gathering spot that highlights local businesses while providing residents and visitors with quality goods in a vibrant atmosphere.
7. Plaza del Lago
HISTORIC LAKESIDE SHOPPING CENTER
Plaza del Lago holds the distinction of being the North Shore's oldest shopping center, elegantly positioned along Lake Michigan in Wilmette. This architecturally beautiful complex offers visitors a diverse array of boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops in a charming setting. The plaza combines historical significance with modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a refined shopping experience with lakefront views.
8. Keay Nature Center
EDUCATIONAL OUTDOOR SPACE
The Keay Nature Center in Wilmette provides visitors with an immersive natural environment perfect for educational exploration and outdoor activities. The center features walking trails, native plant displays, and wildlife observation areas designed to connect people with the local ecosystem. Through various programs and self-guided experiences, visitors can learn about environmental conservation while enjoying the peaceful natural setting.
9. North Shore Channel Trail
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE
The North Shore Channel Trail offers cyclists and pedestrians a well-maintained path along the channel that runs through Wilmette and neighboring communities. This straight, scenic trail is particularly popular when combined with the lakefront routes, creating excellent roundtrip journey options for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors appreciate the pretty views, consistent maintenance, and accessibility of this trail system throughout all seasons.
10. Skokie Lagoon
TRANQUIL WATER RECREATION
Skokie Lagoon nature preserve extends across Glencoe and Winnetka, Illinois, just outside Wilmette, offering visitors serene water views and outdoor recreation opportunities. The lagoons are encircled by trails from the North Branch Trail System, providing cyclists and hikers with tranquil and picturesque routes. This natural area serves as both a wildlife habitat and a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and bird watching throughout the year.
11. The Chalet
PREMIER GARDEN CENTER
The Chalet, located in Wilmette's Skokie Boulevard Corridor, stands as one of the North Shore's premier nursery and garden centers. Visitors can explore extensive collections of plants, garden supplies, home decor, and seasonal items displayed in beautifully arranged settings. The center offers expert gardening advice, workshops, and inspiration for transforming outdoor spaces, making it a destination for both serious gardeners and casual browsers.
12. Village Center
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Wilmette's revitalized Village Center features an eclectic collection of outstanding restaurants that have transformed downtown into a go-to dining destination. The district captures a quaint small-town atmosphere while offering visitors opportunities to shop for gifts, apparel, and home goods in unique boutiques. With its tree-lined cobblestone streets and antique lighting system first installed in 1925, the Village Center provides a charming glimpse into both Wilmette's past and present.
13. 4th & Linden
CHARMING NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPPING
The 4th & Linden district in Wilmette offers visitors a neighborhood retail experience with local charm and character. This shopping area features independent businesses, cafes, and specialty stores in a walkable setting near the Linden CTA and Metra stations. Visitors appreciate the authentic community feel of this retail district that showcases Wilmette's commitment to supporting small businesses while providing unique shopping options.
14. Ridge Road Corridor
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
The Ridge Road Corridor in Wilmette presents shoppers with a diverse collection of businesses along one of the community's historic thoroughfares. Visitors can explore specialty shops, service establishments, and dining options in buildings that often showcase architectural character and historical significance. The corridor represents another facet of Wilmette's commitment to blending commercial vitality with preservation of community character and walkable neighborhoods.
15. Outdoor Amphitheater
LAKEFRONT PERFORMANCE VENUE
Wilmette's outdoor amphitheater provides an enchanting venue for live shows and concerts against the backdrop of Lake Michigan. This performance space hosts a variety of entertainment throughout the warm seasons, from musical performances to community gatherings and special events. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences in the open air while appreciating the natural beauty of Wilmette's lakefront setting.