North Shore

Nestled along the captivating beaches of Lake Michigan and 30 minutes north of Downtown Chicago, North Shore comprises several affluent neighborhoods and suburb towns that each have a distinct charisma. The area was settled around 1833 but didn’t truly begin to blossom until the founding of Northwestern University in 1855, which brought with it railways and transportation.

 

Though the towns included under the umbrella of “North Shore” can be debated at times, the most commonly accepted list includes Evanston, Northbrook, Glenview, Northfield, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, Kenilworth, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Wilmette, and Winnetka.

 

An escape from urban life for many, North Shore offers a family-friendly residential lifestyle close to the lake while still being within a stone’s throw of Chicago. The housing options are just as beautiful as the area itself—here, you’ll find inspiring, lakeside single-family homes, mansions crafted in styles that range from Georgian to lavish Greek Revival, luxurious apartments in bustling downtowns, affordable yet elegant houses, historic buildings, and much more.

• Stunning views along any of the area’s pristine beaches
• Peaceful trails and fascinating history at The Grove
• Incredible Greek fare at Avli
  
  

The North Shore area is brimming with wealth—several of the towns within its boundaries are within the top 5% when it comes to income in the United States. Its residents also tend to be highly educated and family-oriented, and North Shore boasts an incredible school system. Culturally rich and full of opportunity, North Shore is the ideal place for families and individuals who appreciate the affluence and scenery of one of Chicago’s premier areas.

Comprising several suburbs—each of which emanates its own style and character—the amount of variety among retailers, eateries, and places to visit in North Shore is staggering. Throughout the area, you’re certain to find impressive upscale boutiques, incredible restaurants, and an abundance of beautiful views.

 

Some of the premier boutiques in the area include Harper & Ash, an upscale shop that sells incredible home goods and décor. From unique kitchenware full of personality to tasteful wall art, their products are sure to make your home shine. Find incredible deals on luxury, name-brand items at North Shore Exchange, a high-end consignment shop whose entire profit goes to charity.

 

Natives to the area know that the best laid-back pub atmosphere and simple, quality fare can be found at Charlie Beinlich’s Food and Tap—known simply as Beinlich’s to locals. At Abigail's American Bistro, find an unpretentious yet classy ambiance and seasonal fare crafted from the finest ingredients. For a true, contemporary Mediterranean experience, settle in at Avli and savor any of the delicious choices, like their specialty homemade gyros.

In an area so diverse and conveniently located along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, it’s impossible to run out of things to do in North Shore. Whether it’s diving into the local culture and community through festivals or experiencing the best of the shore’s recreation, residents and visitors have some of the best activities in the state right at their fingertips.

 

Sit captivated by award-winning theater performances at Writers Theatre in Glencoe, where the intimate setting and refreshing takes on classic plays will make you one of their thousands of repeat audience members. You can also take part in North America’s oldest music festival Ravinia, and listen to the over 140 diverse performances from preeminent artists throughout the summer.

 

Looking to step out of the hustle and worry of daily life? Revel in beauty and relax at the Chicago Botanical Gardens, located in Glencoe. Featuring both indoor and outdoor gardens, as well as an aquatic garden, this stunning location is the perfect place to breathe a little deeper in the vivid kaleidoscope of nature’s finest. In the warmer months, you can head to any one of the area’s lovely Lake Michigan beaches, such as Glencoe Beach.

North Shore is home to many excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:

• Highland Park High School, 9-12, highly rated public high school
• New Trier, 9-12, one of the top-rated public high schools in the state
• Lake Forest High School, 9-12, highly rated public high school
• Lake Forest Academy, 9-12, the second-best private high school in the state
• North Shore Country Day, PK-12, one of the top-rated private schools in the state