Evanston's Hidden Gem: Northwestern's Norris Center

The first time I experienced NU’s Norris Center, I attended a dance marathon in support of our college babysitter.  I walked into the center gripping the hand of my 2-year-old son and infant daughter, worrying about germs and stairs and the absence of changing tables the entire time. I was a young mom, trying to seem with-it and cool and part of “the scene.”  I loved how the NU students looked at my little ones with such sweet, earnest faces. I overheard comments like, “I used to suck my thumb, too!” and “He’s so little, Man. That little guy looks too young to be walking.” 

I felt like the older, wiser sister back then.

These days, I’m somewhat surprised and yet entirely grateful to feel totally welcome at NU. 

My kids are now old enough to take advantage of the fantastic NU Underground, including a game room and art center.  Did you know NU offers mini courses on every topic imaginable? Plus, they've got lunches on the lawn. Outdoor movies. Bike rentals – including tandem bikes. It’s such a hidden gem...and I rarely hear Evanston residents take advantage of it.

On Thursday, I took my 8-year-old son and three of his friends to the game room in The Norris Center Underground.  What a feast of summer fun.  For $3, each boy could play videogames, ping pong, pool, you name it.  The students were friendly and happy to see “regular kids” hanging out. Check out these Norris Center offerings:

ARTica

Gameroom

Mini Courses

And, the bike rentals (including tandem bikes) through Norris Outdoors.

If you've never checked out the Norris Center, this might be the perfect time.