What to Do With a Long Weekend in Evanston?

Grosse Pointe Lighthouse

The Grosse Pointe lighthouse is one of the most popular sights in the city. It was built in 1873 and has National Landmark status, and is open year-round. Tours are offered from June through September, on Saturdays and Sundays at 2, 3, and 4 p.m., although construction has limited access this year. Tour tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children aged 8 to 12, and it is advised to call 847-328-6961 before your visit. Even if you don’t take a tour, it’s a great place to pull over for a few minutes to take a look around, free of charge.

Northwestern University

You can’t visit a college city without visiting the college. The NU campus is scenic and great for walking or picnics, and sneaking off to the back parking lot on the east side of Sheridan Road offers stunning views of the city. Now's a great time to explore the university, too, since students haven't yet come back to school.

Noyes Cultural Arts Center

The Noyes center gallery, 927 Noyes St., is open every day of the week, from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday. The current exhibit, which runs through Sept. 4, is called "Structured Conversations," and admission is free.

The Beach

Evanston’s beaches are open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.  (weather permitting) through Labor Day. In addition to sunbathing and splashing around in the water, the Evanston beach offers kayak and sailboat rentals, kayak and sailboat lessons, and kayak fishing trips. The beaches aren’t free, but passes are available at the entrance and cost for $8 for people over age 12, $6 for people ages 1-11, and free for children under age 1.

Bahai Temple

OK, it's not in Evanston, but it's worth the short trip north up Sheridan Road to the Bahai Temple, 100 Linden Ave. Hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the grounds are as gorgeous as the temple itself.