The best things to do in Evanston

“Golf course with a country club hosting banquets and other events, plus scenic views.”

“Round up your crew for brainy, private adventures at Lock Chicago Escape Rooms - Evanston, the North Shore’s original escape room since 2015. Choose from rescuing a kidnapped silverback, sneaking through a thieves’ lair, or rebooting a jungle-overgrown space station...”

From the North Shore newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a quick after work loop or dialing in your irons on grass, Marquette Park Golf Course delivers a scenic, par 36, 9 hole test with spacious fairways, strategic water, and a full size grass driving range and practice center. Join league play, groove a swing, let Southwest Side vibes do the rest.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 4, 2026

“With lake views, covered heated mats, two slick synthetic putting greens, and a newly refreshed 18-hole mini course full of playful hazards, Diversey Driving Range & Mini Golf is perfect for an after-work bucket this week or a casual putt-off with friends. Lessons are there if you want a tune-up.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Sports complex with 2-tiered golf driving range, batting cages, and mini-golf.”

“This vintage postcard-inspired mural near the elevated tracks incorporates iconic local images.”

“Private golf club and wedding venue featuring a pool, and tennis and paddle tennis facilities.”

“Neighborhood golf site featuring a short, 18-hole course with scenic, tranquil surrounds.”

“Golf center featuring 2 18-hole courses & practice facilities, plus a clubhouse with a restaurant.”

“South Shore Golf Course recently reopened after a bunker refresh, and those shoreline views still deliver major calm. Perfect for a quick, low-stress round that feels like a mini escape from Gary traffic, plus they host events when you want golf energy without the swing.”

“Sports venue at Northwestern University hosting basketball games & other campus athletics.”

“7 mile landscaped trail draws runners & bikers.”

“Summertime outdoor water park with 5 slides, spray features & a lap pool, plus a kids' play area.”

“, then cap it with a movie at CMX Luxury Cinema. Built-in excuse for a treat-yourself matinee this week.”

“Movie theater screening new releases as well as independent, foreign & avant-garde flicks.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Golf course at Jackson Park offering 18 holes of play, a driving range & lessons.”

“Work on that draw without leaving the city at Indian Boundary Golf Course, an 18-hole championship track woven through Schiller Woods with surprising quiet and wildlife. Sneak in a quick nine, join a league, or book a lesson and actually stick that new grip this week.”

“Family-friendly venue with an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, arcade games & a snack stand.”

“Urban, not-for-profit golf facility with 3,600 yards, 60 par, and views of the Baha'i House of Worship.”

“Built in 1915 with vintage charm and a full bar, The Logan Theatre is a perfect this-week pick with late-night screenings, movie trivia, and open mic comedy. Grab a cocktail, soak up the old-school ambiance, and remember why going to the movies still hits different.”

“Public scenic 9-hole course on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering rental carts & equipment.”

“Seasonal tours of a historical lighthouse, which includes a trek up 141-steps to the light tower.”

“Public golf course offering a mix of par-3s to par-5s in a relaxed setting.”