Things To Do
in Wilmette
Wilmette is a leafy North Shore suburb nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, just north of Chicago. It blends tranquil residential streets with a small-town village feel, easy lakefront access, and a handful of locally loved eateries and shops. The town is home to the iconic Bahá'í House of Worship, as well as parkland, beaches, and bike-friendly paths that invite outdoor exploration.
Visitors will find a safe, family-friendly atmosphere with convenient Metra access to downtown Chicago for broader urban experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a sunrise stroll along Gillson Beach, breathing in fresh Lake Michigan air and capturing serene views of the water. Sample a latte and fresh pastries from a nearby café as you watch joggers and dog walkers grace the shoreline. Take a refreshing swim or simply relax on the sand before the crowds arrive.
Head to the Bahá'í House of Worship, known as the Mother Temple, for a guided tour through its stunning gardens and intricate architecture, reflecting a spirit of peace and unity. Enjoy a picnic on the temple grounds, surrounded by meticulously manicured lawns and flowering shrubs. Take time for meditation or quiet reflection in one of the temple’s north or south doors.
Wander over to Wilmette Harbor as the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange over anchored boats. Dine at Harbor Master Grill’s outdoor patio, savoring fresh fish tacos or handcrafted burgers. Finish the evening with a lakeside bonfire organized by local community groups, sharing stories under the stars.
Wake up early and head to the Wilmette Farmers Market at Centennial Plaza to browse stalls brimming with colorful produce, artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread. Chat with local farmers and sample seasonal jams and honey straight from the source. Pick up vibrant flowers to brighten your hotel room or picnic blanket.
Dive into local history with a visit to the Wilmette Historical Museum, housed in the 1872 Fischer Farmhouse, exploring exhibits on early settlers and maritime heritage. Stroll through the museum’s period gardens for a glimpse of 19th-century landscaping techniques. Pause for a homemade lemon tart and iced tea at the house’s charming tearoom.
Attend a lecture or book talk at the Wilmette Public Library, soaking in community stories and cultural insights. Enjoy dinner at a family-owned Italian bistro on Green Bay Road, sampling house-made pasta and tiramisu. End your night with a leisurely walk through Lindner Park, illuminated by vintage lampposts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, family-friendly atmosphere with strong community feel
- Beautiful lakefront access and numerous parks
- Easy Metra access to downtown Chicago and other North Shore towns
- Compact village center with walkable amenities
- Nightlife options are limited locally; broader options require travel
- Some services and dining can be pricier than average for a suburb
- Parking can be challenging near popular lakefront spots on weekends
Places to Visit in Wilmette
Visit one of these nice places.
An architectural landmark with a striking dome and tranquil surrounding gardens, ideal for architectural and landscape photography at different times of day.
Scenic lakefront pier and sandy shorelines provide opportunities for sunrise/sunset shots with the Chicago skyline in the distance.
Long vistas of Lake Michigan and the city skyline; great for wide-angle lake photos and seasonal color.
Tree-lined avenues and classic North Shore homes offer charming street photography with period architecture and curb appeal.
Food in Wilmette
Wilmette Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, buttery crust with a chunky tomato sauce and generous cheese; widely available at family-friendly pizzerias nearby.
Must-Try!
Seasonal, light breading fish served with fries or potato wedges, a nod to the lakefront culinary tradition.
Thin-sliced beef on a crusty roll with peppers, a Chicago staple often featured at casual urban eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, breads, pastries, and artisanal goods in a community-friendly setting.
Nearby market with a wide range of fresh produce and prepared foods; easy to pair with a lakefront stroll.
Occasional mobile food options at community events and summer weekends around Wilmette and nearby towns.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite in residential areas, keep noise to reasonable levels, and yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and paths.
A simple 'hello' or 'good morning' goes a long way; please and thank you are appreciated in service settings.
Safety
Tipping in Wilmette
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is typical for good service. Ballooning to 20-25% for exceptional service is common. Tips are usually given in cash or added to credit card payments.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for smaller shops or markets. Sales tax adds to the total at checkout.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight; enjoy lakefront activities, outdoor dining, and frequent community events. Thunderstorms can roll in in the afternoons; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak heat.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage along the lakefront and in neighborhood streets. Great for photography and scenic walks; layering is key as temperatures vary.
Cold with potential snowfall; outdoor activities continue with proper winter gear. Shorter days mean sunset photos earlier; indoor venues and cafés are cozy retreats.
Milder temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for outdoor strolls, markets reopening, and café patios depending on weather.
Wilmette at Night
Hiking in Wilmette
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive nature reserves with looping trails around lagoons ideal for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Urban green space with walking paths and seasonal plantings suitable for short hikes.
Scenic coastal routes accessible from Wilmette for longer hikes along the lakefront.
Airports
How to reach Wilmette by plane.
Primary international gateway; approx. 14-25 miles from Wilmette by car, with multiple transit options to reach downtown Chicago.
Alternative city-center gateway further south; longer drive but reachable via highways or rail connections when traveling to the South Side routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of households with children and long-term residents.
Commuters and professionals who work in Chicago or nearby towns.
Active senior residents attracted by safety, community programs, and lakefront access.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common youth and adult participation in local leagues and school programs.
Lakefront beaches and pool facilities support summer swimming and water activities.
Nearby public and private courses offer scenic North Shore settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wilmette.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Wilmette restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and grain bowls, and don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions.