Things to do in Evanston

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A historic building with a lighthouse, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
A street with a Taco Bell restaurant, a brick building, and a row of parked cars.
A park with a walking path, trees, and a body of water.
A modern building with large glass windows and the name "Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art" on the facade.
A large white building with intricate architecture, a central fountain, and a symmetrical garden with trees and flowers.

Evanston Attractions

They say that good things come in small packages, and this endearing city is no exception. From amazing tourist attractions to thrilling activities, there are loads of fun things to do in Evanston.

If you're ready to discover the best of Evanston, sign up for one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly expert show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {121 fun activities in Evanston fun activities in Evanston} are also worth looking into.

Things to do

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

$22
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago

$40
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket

Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket

$25
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

$41
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Flyover in Chicago

Flyover in Chicago

$31
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Flyover in Chicago
cruise ship sailing past navy pier in chicago

City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise

$174
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Color Factory Chicago Ticket

Color Factory Chicago Ticket

$34
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Color Factory Chicago Ticket
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Most popular activities in Evanston

Tours & day trips

See all 86 activities
Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

Activity duration is 1 day
8.6 out of 10 with 558 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was $49 and current price is $44 per adult
Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus TourOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 24 activities
Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 1011 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $85 per adult
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Classes & workshops

See all 22 activities
Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop

Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 15 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $40 per adult
Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip WorkshopOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 21 activities
Chicago: Shooting & Spinning Art Experience (Neon Lights)

Chicago: Shooting & Spinning Art Experience (Neon Lights)

Activity duration is 45 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is $114 per adult
Chicago: Shooting & Spinning Art Experience (Neon Lights)Opens in new tab

Attractions

See all 10 activities
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

Activity duration is 2 hours
8.6 out of 10 with 731 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $30 per adult
360 CHICAGO Observation DeckOpens in new tab

Recommended things to do in Evanston

Number of things to do
121
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Chicago Sports Legends Guided Tour: $5
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Evanston

Free Things to Do in Evanston

There's no need to dig deep into your pockets in Evanston. The following won't cost a thing.

Northwestern University - This well-known local landmark is a wonderful backdrop for a selfie or two.

Dawes Park - If you relish spending time in the garden, this attraction will satisfy your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Evanston with Kids

There are loads of sensational experiences in Evanston that the entire gang will love. These are some of the best family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Evanston? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Evanston attractions

A historic building with a lighthouse, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

Grosse Point Lighthouse

8.8/10 (62 reviews)
This 113-foot maritime sentinel has guided Great Lakes sailors since 1873 with its rare second-order Fresnel lens. Tour the National Historic Landmark for panoramic lake views.
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Where to stay in Evanston

Find the best Evanston areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Evanston
Learn more about Evanston
A historic lighthouse with a red roof, a white building with arched windows, and a flagpole with an American flag.

South Evanston

South Evanston is well-liked for its restaurants and shopping. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Lake Michigan and FEW Spirits are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Main Street Metro Station or South Boulevard Station to get around.

A modern architectural building with reflective glass facades and a landscaped area with a pathway.

North Evanston

The restaurants and shopping are just a few things visitors like about North Evanston. Ryan Field and Welsh-Ryan Arena are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Central Station (Purple Line) or Noyes Station to get around the larger area.

A storefront with a black awning labeled "BOOKMAN'S ALLEY."
Photo by Tara Jabbari
Open Photo by Tara Jabbari

Downtown Evanston

While you're in Downtown Evanston, take in top sights like 1111 Church Street Evanston and jump on the metro at Davis Metro Station to see more of the city.

Lakeshore Historic District

If you're spending some time in Lakeshore Historic District, Evanston History Center and Dawes Park are top sights worth seeing.

Church & Dodge

Church & Dodge might not have many top sights, but Halim Time & Glass Museum and 1111 Church Street Evanston are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Evanston

A city skyline with modern skyscrapers and a river with boats and people in the foreground.

Chicago

A city skyline with modern skyscrapers, a large museum, and a waterfront park.

Skokie

Three pizzas with different toppings in pans.

Lincolnwood

An aerial view of a city with a prominent domed building surrounded by lush greenery and a river.

Wilmette

Frequently asked questions

Is Evanston worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Evanston is visit Lincoln Park Zoo. Check this leading sight off your list, then discover more of the area's nature and dining.
How do I spend a day in Evanston?
Start your adventures with a visit to Lincoln Park Zoo and Montrose Beach. Then, explore other areas of Evanston for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Evanston?
The top tourist attraction in Evanston is Lincoln Park Zoo, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Evanston?
Three days in Evanston is more than enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many travelers stay for three days on average. Montrose Beach, Riviera Theatre and Kathy Osterman Beach are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Chicago.
Is Evanston a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Evanston is a good destination to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between North Shore Center for the Performing Arts and Loyola Beach. Then take a stroll around Rogers Park, located 3 miles from downtown, and West Ridge, which is about 3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Evanston with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all of your group, have a look at these great ideas for what to do in Evanston with kids.

What to do in Evanston for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Evanston, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to FEW Spirits or Milwaukee Avenue.
Are there free things to do in Evanston?
One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Evanston is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. Montrose Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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