Downtown

Downtown Evanston features the City's most diverse mx of retail brands, over 60 restaurants, and rooftop bars with a view. Its world-class arts and entertainment—including Evanston's cinema and entertainment complex and the Northlight Theater (coming soon)—are ripe for (re)discovery. Only ½ mile from the shore of Lake Michigan and Northwestern's campus, you can see why over 6 million people visit Downtown every year.

 Main-Dempster Mile

This walkable district features something for everyone—from vegetarian fare to Detroit style pizza to Argentine gelato. Check out a live show at Space or browse the many eclectic retail shops, galleries, and studios that line both Main and Dempster streets.

Central Street 

This neighborhood district's name says it all— it's a corridor  chock-full of independent stores, bakeries, coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Bookended by two museums—the Evanston Arts Center and the Mitchell Museum— as well as Northwestern University's stadium, you'll find plenty of cultural, creative, and Big Ten inspiration here.

Noyes Street

A stone's throw from Northwestern University, this cozy district is home to long-standing Evanston eateries, including Al’s Deli and Dave's Italian Kitchen, as well as new institutions like Stacked & Folded. After grabbing some hot brew from Coffee Lab, walk through Tallmadge Park and the Noyes Cultural Center, which hosts several performances, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.

Howard Street

This area has historically been home to Evanston's industrial and manufacturing businesses. Today, the neighborhood includes Temperance Brewing Company, Evanston Rebuild, and other manufacturing companies. Sit out on Temperance's patio and play board games or check out the district's collection of businesses focused on recreation, wellness, and the arts. And while there, don't forget to visit the Valli Produce grocery store, featuring ingredients from all over the world.

In the heart of Evanston, this district has had a long history as a cultural center for the City's African American community. Many of the first Black-owned businesses in the City were started in this district, and some have been passed down through generations, like Ebony Barbershop. Indulge in homemade ice cream from C&W Market and Ice Cream Parlor and explore the district and its legacy.

The West Village Business District is a unique arts and wellness enclave of artisanal shops, artist studios, and galleries anchored by Heartwood Center, the Midwest's oldest holistic healthcare center.  Joining the village recently is Zentli, a Mexican restaurant aiming to heal the community through incredible Mexican street food and art. Once a Polish meat shop, the Evanston Made headquarters now anchors the Greenleaf & Florence art galleries, which have made this neighborhood district a draw for both local and visitors.