Things to do in Evanston

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic building with a lighthouse, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
A street with a Taco Bell restaurant, a brick building, and a row of parked cars.
A park with a walking path, trees, and a body of water.
A modern building with large glass windows and the name "Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art" on the facade.
A large white building with intricate architecture, a central fountain, and a symmetrical garden with trees and flowers.

Things to do

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

P1,477
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket

Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket

P1,516
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket
Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago

P2,432
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Art Institute of Chicago
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

P2,462
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

P2,979
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
cruise ship sailing past navy pier in chicago

City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise

P9,971
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Chicago Architectural River Cruise

Chicago Architectural River Cruise

P3,040
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Chicago Architectural River Cruise
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What to do in Evanston

Stay near popular Evanston attractions

A calm sea with a single sailboat in the distance.
Photo by Oleg Cosiuc
Open Photo by Oleg Cosiuc

Clark Street Beach

9.2/10 (53 reviews)
Clark Street Beach offers pristine Lake Michigan shoreline with Chicago skyline views near Northwestern University. Enjoy swimming in lifeguard-patrolled waters or beach volleyball on the sandy courts.
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Where to stay in Evanston

Find the best Evanston areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A historic lighthouse with a red roof, a white building with arched windows, and a flagpole with an American flag.

South Evanston

South Evanston is well-liked for its restaurants and shopping. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Lake Michigan and FEW Spirits are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Main Street Metro Station or South Boulevard Station to get around.

A modern architectural building with reflective glass facades and a landscaped area with a pathway.

North Evanston

The restaurants and shopping are just a few things visitors like about North Evanston. Ryan Field and Grosse Point Lighthouse are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Central Station (Purple Line) or Noyes Station to get around the larger area.

A storefront with a black awning labeled "BOOKMAN'S ALLEY."
Photo by Tara Jabbari
Open Photo by Tara Jabbari

Downtown Evanston

While you're in Downtown Evanston, take in top sights like 1111 Church Street Evanston and jump on the metro at Davis Metro Station to see more of the city.

Lakeshore Historic District

If you're spending some time in Lakeshore Historic District, Lee Street Beach and Evanston History Center are top sights worth seeing.

Church & Dodge

Church & Dodge might not have many top sights, but 1111 Church Street Evanston and Ryan Field are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Frequently asked questions

Is Evanston worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Evanston is explore Lincoln Park Zoo. Check this top sight off your itinerary, then experience more of this area's nature and dining.
How do I spend a day in Evanston?
Lincoln Park Zoo and Montrose Beach are two awesome places to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Evanston while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Evanston?
The top tourist attraction in Evanston is Lincoln Park Zoo, so don't forget to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Evanston?
Three days will give you time to check out many city attractions, including Montrose Beach, Riviera Theatre and Kathy Osterman Beach. The average stay in Evanston is three days. If you have the time to extend your break, Chicago isn't far away.
Is Evanston a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Evanston is a great place to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between North Shore Center for the Performing Arts and Loyola Beach. Then take a stroll around Rogers Park, located 5 kilometers from the center, and West Ridge, which is roughly 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Evanston with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all the family, we've got some great ideas for what to do in Evanston with kids.

What to do in Evanston for adults?
FEW Spirits and Armitage Avenue are just two of the things to do in Evanston. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Evanston?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Evanston is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Montrose Beach is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.