Posted on August 15, 2025
Settled in Chicago's North Shore, the city of Evanston, IL represents the vibrancy and hospitality which welcomes its guests year-round. Extensive local beauty from the beaches and lakefront to the parks and architecture makes every sight a mural. Furthermore, the liveliness of Evanston's art scene is undeniable with Northwestern University acting as a host to the liberal arts. The culinary arts are continually pushed by local restaurants, breweries, and distilleries, making every visit a new experience to be enjoyed. Come with us as we explore some of what makes Evanston, Illinois a great weekend getaway!
2601 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 328-6961 | Website
Situated along the northern beaches of Evanston, the Grosse Point Lighthouse has stood at the heights of the lakeshore as a guide to countless ships over the years. For those interested in the importance of the site itself, it has faithfully served Chicago Harbor since 1873 and represents one of the first photoelectric lighthouses on Lake Michigan (circa 1934). More information about the inner workings and storied history can be found on-site and on the associated website. While closed off to the public for preservation, the lighthouse stands as a protected site by the Lighthouse Park District with displayed information available to all visitors.
Since 1851, Northwestern University is a hub of activity for the Evanston community and its considerable student body. Their noteworthy athletics and recreation program has public access for both day visitors and daily visitors, opening up many sports opportunities. For both intramural sports and casual recreation, the university's state of the art facilities and organized channels allows for a safe, fun time regardless of what interests you! The arts programs are renowned for being world-class as well. While there is much in the way of academics, there are plenty of public seminars, performances, exhibitions, and gatherings to enjoy. Additionally, the university runs a number of public events throughout the year with monthly articles announcing upcoming events, so feel free to check their pages regularly for important information!
Northwestern University
633 Clark St., Evanston, IL 60208 | (847) 491-3741 | Website
Northwestern University - Arts (Office)
1603 Orrington Ave., 2nd Floor, Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 491-5001 | Website
Northwestern University - Athletics and Recreation (Office)
1501 Central St., Evanston, IL 60208 | (847) 491-3205 | Website
The broad lakefront in Evanston presents a number beaches to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine on Lake Michigan. For a bit of easy access, the adjacent beaches of Clark St. Beach and Dog Beach sit at the heart of Evanston with paths connecting to several larger green spaces, making for a perfect walk any time of day. The southern Greenwood St. Beach and Lee St. Beach offer more scenic terrain, perfect views for sunset, and decent proximity to the Dempster St. launch facility, making it fit for any picturesque beach activity. Settled on the fringes of town, the quiet reaches of Lighthouse Beach, Lincoln St. Beach, and South Boulevard Beach are not only a pleasant, quite spot for picnics and exploration, but also for hikes throughout other featured interests like the Grosse Point Lighthouse and Northwestern University. Each shore has something of interest, and while we don't advise visiting them all at once, you cannot go wrong by adding a beach visit to your weekend getaway in Evanston!
City of Evanston Beaches (Dempster St. Office)
1251 Lake Shore Blvd., Evanston, IL 60200 | (847) 866-4167 | Website
The nearly 90 cafes and restaurants in Evanston assure that you will never be short on options. Great atmosphere and service is waiting for you in Evanston. To mention a few, the Five & Dime is known for it vacation-like atmosphere, great views, and amazing staff alongside a tasty selection of dishes and platters to keep the party going. Seeking something more representative of Evanston as a community? Curt's Cafe is a comfortable shop that serves coffee, snacks, pastries, and support for those at-risk across the region, representing not only wonderful hospitality but also community involvement. If you're looking for like home feeling, Ridgeville Tavern is the place to be. With a friendly staff and good variety in food and drink, this model locale will be sure to serve up a good experience at all times.
Five & Dime
1026 Davis St., Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 869-4343 | Website
Curt's Cafe
2922 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 869-8385 | Website
Ridgeville Tavern
1520 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 905-0485 | Website
However, these are not all of the impressive dining experiences to be found in Evanston. Given some exploration, there is so much more to be enjoyed, but, for starters, here are a few additional spots we highly suggest checking out for yourself while visiting!
Devil Dawgs
921 Church St., Evanston, IL 60201 | (224) 265-7560 | Website
Elephant + Vine
719 Church St., Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 586-0223 | Website
Picnic
1619B Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 425-0159 | Website
Mensch's Deli
1608 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 | (847) 859-6153 | Website
A renowned feature of the Chicagoland area is its quality collective of alcohol fermenters of all kinds, each one unique and undoubtedly enjoyable. Whether it's pints or spirits, Evanston is home to its fair share of breweries and distilleries sure to interest any thirsty patron. Starting off, Double Clutch Brewing is the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours enjoying the tastes and listening to a few stories from others. With its near daily events and exceptional service, you'll never be bored when enjoying a brew. If you're wanting a spot for casual sips, Peckish Pig, with its atmosphere and fine selection of cocktails or wines, has what you're looking for and makes this pick perfect for family and friends alike. Lastly, the taproom of Sketchbook Brewing Company has plenty of weekly deals for casual visits and great venue fit for private events. Considering these three picks, there are countless options in the region with Evanston being a small sample of what is to be offered. So, go out and explore a little, but be cure to stop in Evanston along the way.
Double Clutch Brewing
2121 Ashland Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 | (224) 999-6850 | Website
Peckish Pig
623 Howard St., Evanston, IL 60202 | (847) 491-6778 | Website
Sketchbook Brewing Company
821 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60202 | (847) 859-9051 | Website