Family Guide to Evanston: 11 Fun Things to Do with Kids

Located just north of Chicago, Evanston is a popular suburb known for its lakefront, beaches, classic architecture and culture. With close proximity to public transportation, beautiful tree-lined streets and a walkable downtown, it feels like a small city.

Ranked one of the best towns in America by Livability, Evanston has maintained its status as a great place to raise a family. Learn more about Evanston’s community in our family guide.

Quick stats about Evanston

• Population: 77,181
• County: Cook
• Median house value: $454,600
• Median rent:$1,625
• School district: Evanston/Skokie Consolidated School District 65, District 202 – Evanston Township High School
• Top schools: Evanston Township High School (A+), Dewey Elementary School (A-), Orrington Elementary School (A-)
• Transportation: Walk Score 76/100 (Very Walkable), Transit Score 51/100 (Good Transit), Bike Score 89/100 (Very Bikeable)
• Random fact: In Niche’s 2024 Best Places rankings, Evanston was ranked No. 4 in Best Suburbs to Live in Illinois.

*Information provided by Redfin and Niche.

Fun things to do with kids in Evanston

• Best Indoor Play Places Near Evanston
• Best Playgrounds Near Evanston
• Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants Near Evanston
• Best Desserts Near Evanston

And here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Evanston.

Alley Gallery

• Address: 2319 Thayer Street, Evanston

Artist Teresa Parod has transformed the garage doors in Evanston’s alleys into vibrant canvases, featuring colorful murals of flowers, purple elephants, outer space and other lively images. To view these stunning murals, drive through the alleys between Thayer Street and Isabella Street, as well as Park Place.

Art Makers Outpost

• Address: 609 South Blvd., Evanston

Bennison’s Bakery

• Address: 1000 Davis St., Evanston

Booked

• Address: 506 Main St., Evanston

This children-focused bookstore even has a miniature door for kids to enter through. There’s regular storytimes and a small adult section.

DB3

• Address: 1704 Central St., Evanston

Evanston Public Library

• Address: 1703 Orrington Avenue, Evanston

Get lost in a good book! Evanston Public Library offers a wide selection of the latest and most classic children’s book. There’s a wonderful, spacious, garden-themed reading nook. The library frequently welcomes local authors for readings and visits, and has a robust event calendar packed with crafts, nature play, STEM activities, and more.

Firehouse Grill

• Address: 750 Chicago Ave., Evanston

An Evanston tradition, Firehouse Grill is in a historic firehouse from the early 1900s. Kids will love the grilled cheese, quesadillas, pasta, and milkshakes. Fire truck toys are available for little ones to play with at the table.

Merrick Rose Garden

• Address: 1426 Oak Avenue, Evanston

During the warmer months, this quiet oasis in Merrick Park features several thousand roses and hundreds of varieties and a Centennial Fountain. Pack a picnic and kick around a soccer ball in the large grassy area.

Noah’s Playground for Everyone

• Address: 573 Ingleside Park, Evanston

Skyzone Evanston

• Address: 1711 Maple Avenue, Evanston

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