12 Unique Attractions Around the North Shore
March 15, 2021
Things To Do In Chicagoland
Chicago's North Shore is a lively and lush area, known for its charming neighborhoods, easy access to Lake Michigan, and endless list of things to see and do — ranging from waterparks to museums to incredible shopping destinations. Easily accessible by car or train, the North Shore is a wonderful place to call home, or visit for a day.
So, what are some of the top attractions that help the North Shore stand out? Here are some of the most unique destinations to add to your must-see list as you explore northern Chicagoland:
1.) Baháʼí House of Worship
Located in Wilmette, the Baháʼí House of Worship is the oldest surviving Baháʼí house of worship in the world, officially dedicated in 1953. Built to serve all of North America, this stunning and enormous temple is an impressive sight, complete with gorgeous grounds with lush lawns and perfectly manicured gardens.2.) Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park
Running for roughly two miles adjacent to the north channel of the Chicago River in Skokie, the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park is an incredible open air gallery featuring more than 60 astonishing sculptures by artists from all over the world. In addition to the art, visitors love the sprawling lawns and vibrant greenery.
3.) Grosse Point Lighthouse
Originally constructed in 1873 as the lead lighthouse marking the approach to Chicago, the Grosse Point Lighthouse has guided countless sailors to safety along Lake Michigan's rocky shores. Today, this historic lighthouse is the stunning centerpiece of a lovely lakefront park in the heart of Evanston.4.) Ravinia Festival
North America's oldest music festival, the Ravinia Festival generally welcomes hundreds of thousands visitors to more than 140 different concerts and events each summer. In addition to the acts, people flock to Ravinia for its stunning wooded grounds, situated over 36 acres in beautiful Highland Park.
5.) Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
Locatedin Evanston, the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is one of America's only museums focused exclusively on collecting, preserving, and celebrating the art, history, and culture of American Indian and First Nations peoples past and present. While the museum is closed due to COVID-19, visitors can tour exhibits and access resources online.6.) The Grove
If you're looking to get lost in nature or step back in time, The Grove should be high on your list of North Shore attractions to visit. An outdoor history and nature museum in Glenview, The Grove features more than 140 acres of ecologically diverse natural areas, as well as structures that help visitors experience what early Native American and settler life would have been like in Illinois more than a century ago.7.) National Museum of the American Sailor
Located within the Great Lakes Naval Station, the National Museum of the American Sailor's mission is to "collect, preserve, and interpret the history of the Enlisted Sailor." Housed in a historically significant mid-century modern building, the museum features a variety of exhibits documenting the history of the Navy from the colonial era to the present day.8.) Halim Time and Glass Museum
Conveniently located in central Evanston, the Halim Time and Glass Museum is one of Chicagoland's most unique attractions, featuring expansive exhibits dedicated to the history of clocks and timekeeping, stained glass from around the world, and the American artist L.C. Tiffany.9.) Chicago Botanic Garden
The North Shore community of Glencoe is known for its ample outdoor spaces, including this local jewel. The Chicago Botanic Garden boasts more than 385 acres of land and features 27 gardens and four natural areas — including a pristine Japanese-style bonsai garden and a traditional rose garden. With special events and new plants added throughout the year, the Botanic Garden is always worth a fresh look.10.) Merrick Rose Garden
Speaking of rose gardens, the historic Merrick Rose Garden in Evanston features hundreds of picturesque and fragrant rose bushes, as well as the stunning centerpiece Centennial Fountain, which dates back to 1876.11.) Schmidt-Burnham Log House
The Schmidt-Burnham Log House was originally built in the 1830s, making it the oldest building currently standing in Winnetka — as well as the oldest log structure still in use in Cook County. Named for the families who occupied the structure for the longest periods of time, the Schmidt-Burnham house is today operated by the Winnetka Historical Society. Visitors can explore the historic structure, or tour the scenic grounds.12.) Kohl Children's Museum
The Kohl Children's Museum in Glenview is a well-loved family staple in the North Shore. This kid-focused museum features a variety of permanent and special exhibits where youngsters can learn through hands-on play and educational activities. Currently, the museum is open at a limited capacity due to COVID.Looking to Live In the Heart of It All?
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