Things to do in Evanston

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Evanston
Evanston
Evanston
Evanston
Evanston
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Most popular activities in Evanston

Tours & day trips

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Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

Activity duration is 1 day
8.6 out of 10 with 551 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was ￥7,902 and current price is ￥7,112 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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Chicago Sports Legends Guided Tour

Chicago Sports Legends Guided Tour

Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥806 per adult
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Classes & workshops

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Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop

Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 14 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥6,450 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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Rosemont: Two Flight Indoor Skydiving Experience

Rosemont: Two Flight Indoor Skydiving Experience

Activity duration is 1 hour
7.0 out of 10 with 8 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥21,165 per traveler
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Cruises & boat tours

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Chicago: Ghosts and Gangsters Night Kayak Tour

Chicago: Ghosts and Gangsters Night Kayak Tour

Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥11,425 per adult
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What to do in Evanston

Stay near popular Evanston attractions

Grosse Point Lighthouse

8.8/5 (62 reviews)
This 113-foot maritime sentinel has guided Great Lakes sailors since 1873 with its rare second-order Fresnel lens. Tour the National Historic Landmark for panoramic lake views.
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Where to stay in Evanston

Find the best Evanston areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Evanston
Learn more about Evanston
evanston lighthouse in chicago

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.

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.

Photo by Tara Jabbari
Open Photo by Tara Jabbari

Downtown Evanston

While you're in Downtown Evanston, take in top sights like Halim Time & Glass Museum 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 Halim Time & Glass Museum and 1111 Church Street Evanston are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Popular day trips from Evanston

Chicago

Chicago

Aerial View of Baha'i House of Worship in Illinois. High-angle aerial view of the Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, surrounded by lush greenery, gardens, and urban landscape.

Wilmette

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.