North Suburban Chicago Map
North Suburban Chicago is a picturesque region filled with attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best of the region, from its stunning natural wonders to its vibrant nightlife.
Top Attractions
Some of the top attractions in North Suburban Chicago include the Chicago Botanic Garden, the Baha’i Temple, and the Ravinia Festival. The Botanic Garden boasts over 385 acres of stunning gardens and natural landscapes, while the Baha’i Temple is a breathtaking architectural marvel. Meanwhile, the Ravinia Festival is a must-visit for music lovers, with over 100 concerts held each year.
Hidden Gems
North Suburban Chicago is also home to some hidden gems that are worth exploring. The Grainger Museum is a quirky museum dedicated to the life and work of inventor W.W. Grainger, while the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park is a beautiful outdoor art space. For a unique dining experience, check out the Blind Faith Cafe, a vegetarian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
Food Scene
North Suburban Chicago has a diverse food scene that offers something for every taste and budget. For a classic Chicago-style pizza, head to Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s. For a more upscale dining experience, check out Abigail’s American Bistro or The Barn Steakhouse. And for a taste of international cuisine, try Kabuki Japanese Restaurant or Taste of Cuba.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy North Suburban Chicago. Take advantage of free events like the Skokie Festival of Cultures or the Highland Park Art Walk. You can also save money on dining by ordering from food trucks or checking out happy hour specials.
Outdoor Adventures
North Suburban Chicago is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking trails, bike paths, and water activities. Some popular spots include the Des Plaines River Trail, the North Branch Trail, and Lake Michigan. You can also rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards at the Skokie Lagoons or Lake Glenview.
Natural Wonders
North Suburban Chicago is home to some stunning natural wonders, including the Morton Arboretum and the North Shore Channel Trail. The Arboretum boasts over 1,700 acres of trees, gardens, and natural landscapes, while the North Shore Channel Trail offers breathtaking views of the Chicago River.
Family-Friendly Activities
North Suburban Chicago is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. Some popular spots include the Kohl Children’s Museum, the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Butterflies & Blooms exhibit, and the Glenview Park District’s Splash Landings water park.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, North Suburban Chicago has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to explore. Check out the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center for a thought-provoking look at history, or the Wagner Farm for a glimpse into farm life in the 1920s.
Vibrant Nightlife
North Suburban Chicago has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some popular spots include the Ravinia Festival’s outdoor concerts, the Loft at Studio 10 for live music and comedy, and the Three Dots and a Dash tiki bar.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, check out one of North Suburban Chicago’s many farmers’ markets. Some of the most popular include the Evanston Farmers’ Market, the Glenview Farmers’ Market, and the Skokie Farmers’ Market.
Beaches and Mountains
North Suburban Chicago may not be known for its beaches and mountains, but there are still plenty of spots to enjoy the great outdoors. Head to Glencoe Beach for a day of swimming and sunbathing, or hit the slopes at the Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort.
Cultural Immersion
North Suburban Chicago is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in different traditions and customs. Check out the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Japanese Garden or the Baha’i Temple’s Persian architecture. You can also explore the area’s Jewish heritage at the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center.
Art and Music Scene
North Suburban Chicago has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and music venues. Some popular spots include the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, the Robert Crown Center for the Arts, and the Art Center Highland Park.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking to explore North Suburban Chicago on foot, there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Some popular options include the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Garden Walks, the Ravinia Festival’s Backstage Tours, and the Highland Park Historical Society’s Walking Tours.
Architectural Marvels
North Suburban Chicago is home to some stunning architectural marvels, including the Baha’i Temple and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. You can also check out the Farnsworth House, a modernist masterpiece designed by Mies van der Rohe.
Historical Sites
For a glimpse into North Suburban Chicago’s rich history, check out some of its many historical sites. Some popular options include the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, the Glencoe Historical Society’s Takiff House, and the Winnetka Historical Society’s Schmidt-Burnham Log House.
Biking Routes
North Suburban Chicago is a great destination for bikers, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some popular options include the North Shore Channel Trail, the Des Plaines River Trail, and the Skokie Valley Trail.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, North Suburban Chicago has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Check out the Equinox Spa in Highland Park or the Kohler Waters Spa at the Burr Ridge Marriott.
Adventure Sports
North Suburban Chicago is also a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking, and more. Check out Vertical Endeavors in Glendale Heights for indoor rock climbing, or the Chicago River Canoe & Kayak for a guided tour of the Chicago River.
With so much to explore, North Suburban Chicago is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. From its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.