This Lakefront Town in Illinois Feels Like It Belongs in Europe

Evanston, Illinois, is one of my favorite Chicagoland suburbs. It’s a proper suburb, but it’s still accessible on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) via the Purple Line. This ease of access has long made Evanston a favorite getaway for city dwellers like myself. With its fantastic lakefront and quaint downtown, you’d easily feel like you’re sipping espresso in a cafe along a European coastline rather than hanging out in the Land of Lincoln.

First and foremost is the Lincoln Street Beach. Tucked in the shadow of Northwestern University, this beach offers lifeguards and is extremely popular with students. It's a lovely strip of land that is well-maintained and offers relaxing views of Lake Michigan. 

Another local Evanston favorite is Clark Street Beach. Also manned by lifeguards, this beach has a more family-friendly atmosphere. There’s a playground at the neighboring Centennial Park, plenty of space for building sandcastles, and even a dog beach just south of the main Clark Street Beach area. With a total of six public beaches in Evanston, visitors are spoiled for choice. 

In addition to the coastal scene, Evanson offers a European vibe with its many international cafes and restaurants. Spots like Pâtisserie Coralie, Paris Baguettel, and St. Roger Abbey French Organic Pâtisserie offer delicious and authentic French pastries, desserts, and meals. On top of that, there are also Italian, Greek, and many other European cuisines to choose from.

Want a little taste of that famous European arts scene? While not quite the Louvre Museum, Evanston has its own art district known as "The Main-Dempster Mile." It's home to a variety of galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. The neighborhood also hosts an annual street festival called "The Custer Fair," where visitors can peruse and purchase unique artwork, jewelry, and other crafts.

Apart from the beaches, Evanston boasts more than 75 parks and playgrounds. These green spaces allow for picnics, some friendly competition on the courts, or simply relaxing under a tree with a good book. One of my favorites is Dawes Park, located right on the lake, where you can frequently find live music events to enjoy. Plus, Evanston easily connects to the 18.5-mile Chicago Lakefront Trail.

Like Europe, Evanston also has a rich history, with many historic buildings and landmarks scattered throughout the city. One notable landmark is the Grosse Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1873 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Evanston History Center and Charles Gates Dawes House are also worth checking out. 

As you can see, Evanston offers a little bit of everything with a charming European feel. Between its coastal vibes, international eats, and historical sites, this city is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the Midwest. Plus, with its close proximity to Chicago, Evanston is the perfect day trip or weekend getaway for those wanting to experience both urban and suburban life in one trip. What other cities and towns in Illinois give off a coastal European feel? Let us know by filling out our nomination form.