Evanston is located on Lake Michigan’s shoreline just 12 miles north of Chicago. From hiking trails to beaches, parks, and bike paths there are plenty of outdoor activities close by for all kinds of adventures. The city boasts numerous award-winning restaurants, bars, and pubs as well as art galleries, museums, and theatres. Evanston, Illinois is the perfect combination of urban adventure and peaceful suburban living. The first settlers arrived in Evanston in 1836 – that’s over 184 years ago!
The cost of living may be higher than in other parts of Illinois but the quality of life makes it worth every penny. No matter what kind of lifestyle you lead, you’ll always feel right at home here. Evanston was originally called Grosse Pointe after its prominent geographical feature on Lake Michigan – an elevated sand ridge jutting out into the lake. In 1863, after much debate and disagreement between neighboring townships, the name was officially changed to Evanston. Today, this bustling small-town atmosphere continues to draw people from all walks of life looking for something special.