We've intentionally left parts of the weekend flexible so attendees can enjoy Evanston and Chicago at their own pace. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, beaches, bookstores, gardens, museums, or simply finding a great meal, there are plenty of wonderful places to explore nearby.

Questions during your visit?
Feel free to reach out to Caitlin at 847-769-6068. As locals, we're always happy to recommend restaurants, activities, neighborhoods, and hidden gems.

We recommend staying in Evanston whenever possible, as the majority of reunion activities will take place in Evanston or Chicago's North Side.

Airbnbs + Hotels in Chicago
Many attendees may also enjoy staying on Chicago's North Side or downtown and taking the CTA Purple Line, Red Line, Metra, or Lyft/Uber to reunion activities.

We particularly recommend looking for accommodations in:

• Andersonville: A vibrant, walkable neighborhood known for its independent boutiques, cozy bookstores, acclaimed restaurants, and welcoming community feel.

• Lincoln Square: A charming, European-inspired neighborhood featuring leafy streets, outdoor cafés, local bakeries, neighborhood taverns, and a lively town-square atmosphere.

• Ravenswood: A relaxed residential enclave known for its craft breweries, coffee roasters, historic industrial architecture, and convenient access to both downtown Chicago and Evanston.

• If you are interested in staying downtown, that is also an option and you can take the Metra or L trains to Evanston and various other attractions. 

Walking
Many reunion activities are located within downtown Evanston and are easily walkable.

Public Transit
Chicago's CTA and Metra systems make it easy to travel between Evanston and Chicago.

• CTA Purple Line

• CTA Red Line

• Metra Union Pacific North Line

Rideshare
Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Evanston and Chicago.

Driving
Renting a car is entirely optional. Most reunion activities can be reached by walking, rideshare, or public transit. Parking is generally available throughout Evanston, though downtown Chicago can be more challenging and expensive.

Reunion WhatsApp Group
A reunion WhatsApp group will be available throughout the weekend to share updates, coordinate rides, organize meals, and stay connected.

Coffee & Pastries

• Pour: Coffee and small bites during the day, wine and light fare in the evening. 

• Cupitol: A favorite local café serving coffee and pastries.

• Collectivo: A spacious neighborhood café serving coffee, breakfast, sandwiches, and baked goods.
  
  

Breakfast & Brunch

• Ovo Frito: A local favorite for breakfast and brunch.

• Cupitol: A favorite local café serving coffee, breakfast, pastries, and lunch.

• Lucky Platter: An Evanston institution known for creative breakfast dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
  
  

Lunch & Casual Dining

• Hoosier Mama Pie Company: Savory pies, sandwiches, baked goods, and excellent desserts. Also good for breakfast if you're craving quiche or a brekfast biscuit!

• Blind Faith Cafe: A longtime Evanston favorite offering excellent vegetarian and vegan fare. They also do breakfast and brunch with generous servings!

• Shang Noodle: Hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and comforting Chinese dishes.

• Mensch's Deli: A modern neighborhood deli serving sandwiches, bagels, soups, and classic Jewish deli favorites.

• Sea Ranch Sushi: Affordable grab-and-go sushi that's perfect for a beach picnic.
  
  

Dinner

• Union Pizzeria: Wood-fired pizza in one of Evanston's most beautiful dining spaces.

• Five & Dime: Rooftop dining, cocktails, and a lively summer atmosphere.

• Tapas Barcelona: A lively neighborhood restaurant serving Spanish tapas, paella, sangria, and other classic Mediterranean dishes.

Dessert

• Frío Gelato: Authentic Argentine gelato served in a bright, welcoming downtown shop.

• Hartigan's Ice Cream: Classic neighborhood ice cream stand serving generous scoops and summer nostalgia.
  
  

Looking for more?
For additional options check out the Eater reviews for Evanston and Chicago.