Which towns north of Chicago have a walkable downtown? (Waukegan: theatre, college)

[paperpile]

Hi,

Need to find out which suburbs in the north (all the way up to Abbot Park area) have walkable town centers ranging from small quiant ones to larger ones. Looking for very safe towns with a pond, playground area, a bakery, bookstore, ice-cream place, gift shops, theatre, coffee shop, etc... I believe Evanston is on the larger side? Is it a good place to spend time with kids? Can anyone suggest all other towns in the north that would fit the bill? Thanks.

[chet everett]

Dozens of towns in the region have nice traditional downtowns the amenities you seek -- follow the train lines!

From Libertyville through Evanston there are a few areas with train service that would not fit your goal of having a safe place for a family. I would not recommend Waukegan or North Chicsgo...

[US-Traveller]

Chet has pointed you in the right direction. The communities along the Union Pacific North Line (Metra UP-N) developed commercial districts around the train stations.

Evanston has smaller shopping districts on Main Street/Chicago Avenue, Dempster Street/Chicago Avenue, and Central Street, in addition to its vibrant downtown. The centre of Downtown Evanston is anchored by a large Barnes & Noble Bookstore, community fountain, and the main public library.

Wilmette and Glencoe have smaller and sleepier downtowns. Winnetka has three shopping districts, including a downtown that is the most active in New Trier Township. Downtown Winnetka has lovely shops and a few upscale eateries.

Highland Park's downtown comes closest to rivaling Evanston's in size. It has a number of nice shops and restaurants.

Lake Forest has a beautiful downtown planned by Howard Van Doren Shaw, a prolific North Shore architect. It has a lovely fountain with a small village green/plaza.

All of them are family friendly. Downtown Evanston attracts a large cross section of teenagers, college students, young families, and seniors from across the area.

[pvande55]

Lots of towns have them: Evanston, Oak Park, Des Plaines, Arlington Heights. Those along the UP North line between Evanston and North Chicago as well, except they are prohibitively expensive. Also depends what you want within walking distance. Grocery stores? Not always close by. Bars? Many suburbs are dry. Dance clubs? Prohibited by most as a public nuisance.

[Lookout Kid]

Some of the best north or northwest suburban downtowns, in my opinion (in no specific order):

Evanston
Wilmette
Winnetka
Highland Park
Arlington Heights
Park Ridge
Barrington
Libertyville
Des Plaines
Palatine