Just north of Chicago, old towns, architectural wonders and breathtaking views hug the Lake Michigan shoreline. The Sheridan Road stretch is the perfect Chicago day trip to venture out of the city and enjoy the surrounding Chicagoland area.
The first stop on the scenic route lies 13 miles north of the downtown area. Founded in 1857, Evanston is home to one of the world’s leading research universities, Northwestern University. Today, Evanston is known for its diverse neighborhoods and has been shaped by the influence of Chicago.
Grosse Point Lighthouse
- Built in 1873, this structure helped guide ships into Chicago’s ports for over half a century. The lighthouse has been completely restored and takes visitors through a guided tour of its interior, with no more than 12 people at a time. The park grounds surrounding the structure are open year-round.
○ Location: 2601 Sheridan Rd, Evanston
The Evanston History Center
- The town’s history center takes place inside the former home of the U.S. Vice President under Calvin Coolidge and Nobel Peace Prize winner Charles Gates Dawes. This 28-room mansion is over 130 years old and is restored to its 1920s glory. The house tour highlights Dawes’ lifelong accomplishments alongside Evanston’s milestones and memories.
○ Location: 225 Greenwood St, Evanston
Baha’i House of Worship, Wilmette | Photo by BartShore and
The next stop along the drive is the town of Wilmette. Four miles north of Evanston resides the 1924 merger of two older villages, Wilmette and Gross Point. These communities' two origins and developments differed and are still visible today through their landscape.
Baha'i House of Worship
- Known for its breathtaking architecture, the Baha’i House of Worship is the second Baha’i House of Worship ever to be constructed. It is still the oldest temple standing and is one of eight temples built to serve all of North America. Surrounding the temple are nine circular gardens, representing a Western landscape and serving as an outdoor room for prayer.
○ Location: 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette
Gillson Park
- Right along the lakefront, Gillson Park offers 60 acres of land perfect for picnics, biking, volleyball, soccer, tennis and kayaking. Bordering the park is a glimpse of some breathtaking houses, showcasing the area’s wealth.
Location: Lake Ave & Michigan Ave (North entrance), Sheridan Rd & Michigan Ave (South entrance)
Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe | Photo by Mary Warren and Creative Commons
Finishing off the day is your arrival in Glencoe. This village takes its name from the wife of former Chicago mayor, Walter S. Gurnee. The creation of the Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad in 1855 developed the city.
Chicago Botanic Garden
- Seven miles north of Wilmette is the Chicago Botanic Garden. With over 385 acres of nature and beauty, there is always something to discover. They have seasonal walks throughout the year alongside a Nature Play Garden for kids to have fun and roll down its hills. Admission into the garden includes attractions to the Butterflies & Blooms, Model Railroad Garden and Grand Tram Tours.
Location: 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe
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