Discover the charm of Chicago’s North Shore

With convenient proximity to downtown Chicago and O’Hare International Airport, Chicago’s North Shore communities make the perfect base for travelers. Here, visitors are treated to gorgeous Lake Michigan views, fascinating attractions, exceptional shopping and dining, and storied historical sites in Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Lincolnwood, Northbrook, Prospect Heights, Skokie, Wheeling, Wilmette, and Winnetka. It’s easy to catch a CTA or Metra train directly into Chicago for more exploring.

A bridge and water in Chicago Botanic Garden — Chicago Botanic Garden

Discover North Shore attractions

Go sightseeing along Sheridan Road, which follows the Lake Michigan shoreline. Stop at one of the many lakefront parks and nature centers. Go jogging or biking along trails, take a dip in the lake, or enjoy a picnic lunch. Great places to spend some time include one of Evanston’s five public beaches, the Grosse Point Lighthouse, and the 60-acre Gillson Park in Wilmette, with kayak rentals, tennis courts, and swimming. Or check out Glencoe Beach, with lifeguards, concessions, water sports rentals, and a playground.

While exploring make a stop at Northwestern University, right off Sheridan Road and Clark Street in Evanston. Follow one of the paved paths through the 240-acre campus, which features a blend of modern and historic architecture. Gaze at Chicago’s impressive skyline in the distance. Stroll more beautiful grounds in Glencoe at the Chicago Botanic Garden, featuring 27 lovely gardens, nine islands, train tours, festivals, and seasonal exhibits.

Soak up the area’s culture by visiting two important attractions. The Baha’i House of Worship, the only one in the Western Hemisphere, features an ornate dome with lakefront views in Wilmette. The sacred site known for its beautiful gardens, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is open daily for contemplation. In Skokie, the Illinois Holocaust Museum serves to educate visitors about the Holocaust, as well as other atrocities around the globe. See a German rail car, social justice exhibits, the holographic Survivor Stories Experience and a virtual reality permanent exhibit.

Be entertained by music, comedy, and dance performances at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie and its resident theater companies, Northlight Theatre and Music Theater Works. Or, let the kids have fun with hands-on exhibits and activities at the Kohl Children’s Museum.

People enjoying the Evanston lakefront jogging path — Evanston lakefront jogging path

Spend a day shopping and dining

Chicago’s North Shore is filled with quaint downtown shopping districts in Evanston, Winnetka, and Glencoe. Shop at locally owned businesses, including boutiques featuring clothing, jewelry, accessories, and more. Stop in antique stores and art galleries. And take a break to savor a meal at one of the many excellent area restaurants.

To shop more than 100 popular brands, head to Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie. From Apple to Zara, discover clothing, furniture, jewelry, salons, and more. The shopping center also offers many options for dining, ranging from ramen and steaks to pretzels and cupcakes. Catch a new-release movie at the CMX Luxury Cinema.