North Shore (Chicago) facts for kids
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The North Shore is a group of well-known towns located just north of Chicago, Illinois. These communities are special because they sit right along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. They are part of suburban Cook County and Lake County.
The main towns that are considered part of the North Shore include Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, and Lake Bluff. These places are known for being prosperous and for their lovely lakeside locations.
Exploring the North Shore Communities
The North Shore is home to many unique towns, each with its own history and attractions. These communities offer a mix of natural beauty, interesting architecture, and educational opportunities.
Evanston: A College Town by the Lake
Evanston is the first North Shore town you reach when heading north from Chicago. It's famous for being home to Northwestern University, a large and well-known college. The city has a lively downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural spots. Its lakefront parks and beaches are popular places for people to enjoy Lake Michigan.
Wilmette: Home to a Unique Temple
Just north of Evanston is Wilmette. One of its most famous landmarks is the Bahá'í House of Worship. This beautiful building has a unique dome and intricate designs, making it a peaceful place for people of all faiths to visit. It's the only Bahá'í House of Worship in America.
Kenilworth and Winnetka: Historic Lakeside Towns
Kenilworth and Winnetka are smaller, historic towns known for their beautiful homes and tree-lined streets. They offer a quiet, charming atmosphere right on the lake. These towns have a rich history, with many buildings dating back to the early 1900s.
Glencoe and Highland Park: Nature and Culture
Glencoe is home to the Chicago Botanic Garden, a huge and amazing place with many different gardens and plants from all over the world. It's a great spot for learning about nature. Nearby, Highland Park is known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful Ravinia Festival, an outdoor music venue.
Lake Forest and Lake Bluff: Grand Estates and Lake Views
Further north, Lake Forest and Lake Bluff are known for their large estates and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Lake Forest has a historic downtown area and is home to Lake Forest College. Lake Bluff offers a more relaxed, small-town feel with its charming village green.
History of the North Shore
The North Shore began to develop in the late 1800s as people looked for peaceful places to live outside of busy Chicago. The arrival of train lines made it easier for people to travel between the city and these new lakeside communities. Many wealthy families built large homes here, drawn by the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Over time, these towns grew into the well-established communities we see today.
Images for kids
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Many credit Walter S. Gurnee as the father of the North Shore.
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The Book of the North Shore (1910) was one of the first books about this area. It shows the front door of the S.H. Gunder house, which is now the North Lakeside Cultural Center in Chicago.
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A timetable cover from 1941 for the North Shore Line, a train service that helped connect these towns to Chicago.
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The amazing Chicago skyline, as seen from the campus of Northwestern University in Evanston.
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The unique Bahá'í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois. It is the only one of its kind in America.
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