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Evanston Along the Lake

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Stroll through Evanston’s Lakeshore Historic District, where diverse architectural styles from Queen Anne to Modern frame the tranquil lakefront.

This tour currently has no scheduled dates.

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This walk through Evanston's Lakeshore Historic District explores a variety of churches and residences in the town that became Daniel Burnham's "country retreat" and which is still considered one of Chicago's most desirable suburbs.

Duration
2 hours
Site Type
Neighborhoods
Location
Suburbs
Architects and Styles
Meet

Northwest corner of Hinman Ave. and Lake St., Evanston, IL

In the 1850s, the founders of Northwestern University organized the village of Evanston along the lakefront just north of Chicago. Join us for a walk through Evanston's beautiful historic Lakeshore District and discover a village green encircled by architecturally-significant churches; learn how architects designed apartment buildings that seamlessly blend with historic single-family homes; and enjoy the stunning mixture of architecture styles from Queen Anne, Italianate, Victorian Gothic, Neoclassical, Tudor to Prairie and Modern.

Notes:
  • Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
  • Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.

Tour reviews

    • The tour is an education about just about every important architect and style during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
      Bonnie MooreCAC Docent
  • A photo of Lake Street Church as seen from across the street.

    Lake Street Church. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • A photo of Lake Street Church as seen from across the street.

    Lake Street Church. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • A photo of First Presbyterian Church as seen from across the street.

    First Presbyterian Church. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

  • A photo of First Presbyterian Church bell tower.

    First Presbyterian Church. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers.

FAQ

  • Essential walking tours depart from the center at 111 East Wacker; they are free for all CAC members. Premier walking tours depart from other locations across Chicago, including neighborhood tours. Premier tours are discounted for individual, dual and family memberships and free for Deco level and above.

  • The CAC welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its offerings feel safe and accessible to everyone. Learn more about accessibility options.

  • Many of our tours depart from the CAC at 111 E. Wacker. Your ticket (regular or print-at-home) will indicate the departure location. If you have any questions about your tour’s meeting place, give us a call at 312.922.TOUR (8687).

    For tours that don’t begin at the CAC, please consult the individual tour webpage, or call 312.922.TOUR (8687) for details on the meeting location.

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Group & Private Tours

CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.

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Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

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