Chicago’s North Shore is the perfect base for a trip to Chicago. Bordering the city along the shores of Lake Michigan, the North Shore is equally close to downtown Chicago and O’Hare International Airport. And baseball fans will be glad to hear that Wrigley Field is easily accessible from the North Shore’s Evanston and Skokie hotels via CTA train. But there’s also plenty for visitors to experience right on Chicago’s North Shore. Here’s just a sampling.

Attractions

Wander through more than two dozen beautiful gardens at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. The Botanic Garden hosts events all year round, but two of the most popular include the Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns, held in late October and showcasing hand-carved pumpkins; and Lightscape, which kicks off Thanksgiving weekend and features an illuminated mile-long path that comes to life at night with color and sound.

Also, check out the stunning architecture and lovely gardens dotted with fountains at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette. It’s the oldest surviving Bahá’í temple in the world and the only one in North America. Welcoming people of all faiths, the Bahá’í is open daily for personal prayer.

Take a guided walking tour through the scenic campus of the world-renowned Northwestern University in Evanston. Or catch a Northwestern University Wildcats Big Ten football or basketball game. Northwestern University is located right on Lake Michigan, so be sure to explore the popular Evanston lakefront.

Music, comedy, and dance enthusiasts will want to see a show at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. The Center is also home to the award-winning Northlight Theatre. In the summer, catch a concert at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, where shows featuring big-name entertainers are best enjoyed with a picnic on the lawn. 

Museums

The Illinois Holocaust Museum in Skokie is the third-largest Holocaust museum in the world. Explore interactive exhibits that include the holographic Survivor Stories Experience. From Feb. 9 – Aug. 16, see the blockbuster exhibit Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a comprehensive exploration of Justice Ginsburg’s life. 

Kohl Children’s Museum in Glenview makes learning fun with hands-on exhibits that include a grocery store and veterinarian’s office. Children can also make music, create art, and much more.

In Evanston, the Halim Time and Glass Museum showcases a magnificent collection of 1,100 exquisite timepieces and more than 30 stained glass window masterpieces by renowned artists that include Tiffany.

Shopping

Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie houses more than 140 brand name stores, as well as restaurants and a posh movie theatre. The Glen Town Center, a lifestyle mall in Glenview, features specialty shops and eateries unique to the North Shore. Northbrook Court in Northbrook is currently undergoing a revamp to include new features like a sprawling lawn that will host special events.

Or do some shopping in the charming towns of Evanston, Winnetka, and Glencoe. Spend the day strolling tree-lined streets that are home to one-of-a-kind boutiques and art galleries, along with locally-owned restaurants.

Ready to visit Chicago’s North Shore? Book a room at one of the many area hotels, ranging from a European-style inn to four-star modern lodging. 

Explore this and more at Chicago’s North Shore.