Best of Evanston, IL
The best restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and things to do in Evanston, IL — mapped and organized by category.
About Evanston
Evanston is a city in Cook County, Illinois, situated on Lake Michigan 12 miles north of the Loop. As a Chicago suburb, it is bordered by Wilmette to the north, Skokie to the west, and Chicago to the south. The city had a population of 78,110 as of 2020.
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Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum
Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum is a local attraction in Central Street Evanston.
The museum shifted its mission in 2024 to focus specifically on Chicago's Native community and tribal nations across the Great Lakes region.
View details →The best of Evanston
Best Hotels in Evanston
19 places · Where to stay, from budget-friendly to boutique.
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Doubletree Hotel Chicago - North Shore Conference Center
A local hotel in Skevanston.
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Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station
A local hotel in Glenwood Arts District.
Best Restaurants in Evanston
118 places · Where to eat, from neighborhood staples to standout kitchens.
Best Cafés & Coffee in Evanston
46 places · Coffee shops, roasters and casual spots to linger.
Best Bars & Nightlife in Evanston
36 places · Cocktail bars, pubs and where the night goes.
Best Things to Do in Evanston
14 places · Museums, landmarks and the experiences worth your time.
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Evanston History Center
A local attraction in Evanston Lakeshore Historic District.
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Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum
A local attraction in Central Street Evanston.
Best Shops in Evanston
97 places · Independent boutiques, bookstores and places to browse.
Best Parks & Outdoors in Evanston
115 places · Green space, gardens and room to breathe.
Nearby cities to explore
More guides within driving distance of Evanston.
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- Chicago, IL 749 places
- Deerfield, IL 164 places
- Cicero, IL 130 places
- Bensenville, IL 156 places
- Berwyn, IL 388 places