Newcomers’ Guide to the Best of Highland Park
If you have recently moved to Highland Park, Illinois or plan to do so in the near future, you’re in luck. This area is vibrant, beautiful, and truly has something for everyone. From upscale shopping, to incredible restaurants, to outdoor adventures – this North Shore suburb is the place to be! So, whether you’re just looking for a casual day of exploration just outside of the city or are in need of some quiet alone time in a natural setting, you’re sure to find something you love about Highland Park. To get you started, we’ve put together our insider’s guide to the best of all that Highland Park has to offer. Check it out:
Highland Park Shopping
Named Chicago’s ‘Best Neighborhood Shopping (Suburbs)’ in Make It Better Magazine for 2016, Highland Park is every shopaholic’s dream come true. From chains, like Free People and Anthropologie, to locally-owned boutiques, such as E Street Denim, there is something for absolutely everyone! Here’s a small sampling of the local businesses that are a can’t-miss for Highland Park patrons:
E STREET DENIM
The Original Jeanfitters. Dressing Chicago’s North Shore since 1990
1876 First St. Highland Park, IL 60035
Trendy, fashion-forward designer clothing for women.
678 Central Ave. Highland Park, IL 60035
AMI AMI
Contemporary women’s boutique.
668 Central Ave. Highland Park, IL. 60035
Simply divine little confections for the head – inspired by the millinery salons of Paris.
441 Central Avenue Highland Park, IL, 60035
A destination for music and fashion lovers who appreciate good vibes, great clothing and rare vinyl.
1821 St. Johns Ave. Highland Park, IL 60035
Sneaker and apparel boutique.
1854 First St. Highland Park, IL 60035
Woman’s clothing boutique.
1882 Sheridan Rd. Highland Park, IL 60035
Men’s suits, sportswear, outerwear, footwear and accessories – Elegance with an edge.
1849 Green Bay Rd. #105 Highland Park, IL. 60035
Boutique with unique designers, tops, sweaters and cashmere.
1866 First St. Highland Park, IL 60035
A special boutique owned for women by women, offering a stunning collection of lingerie, sleepwear, yoga-wear, body and unique gifts.
658 Central Ave. Highland Park, IL 60035
Upscale resale boutique.
1780 Green Bay Rd. Suite 114 Highland Park, IL 60035
Recreation
Adventure awaits in the Park District of Highland Park. One of the oldest park districts in Illinois, Highland Park is beautifully nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan. You can explore everything from the district’s unique beachfront Interpretive Center, to its historic parks where gorgeous secret gardens and ponds can be found. So, whether you’re looking to explore nature, try a new sport or want to embrace your inner creative, the Park District has it all! These are some of our favorite spots:
Park District of Highland Park
West Ridge Center
636 Ridge Road
Highland Park, IL 60035
Facilities within the Park District:
- Heller Nature Center
- Hidden Creek Aquapark
- Park Avenue Boating and Fishing Beach
- Centennial Ice Arena
- Deer Creek Courts
- Highland Park Golf Learning Center
- River’s Edge Adventure Golf
- Sunset Valley Golf Course
Heller Nature Center
A 97-acre preserve with oak-hickory forests, tall grass prairie, savanna, and natural wetlands home to native plants and animals.
Chicago Botanic Garden
Twenty-three gardens on 385 acres of ever-changing spectacle and beauty.
North Shore Yacht Club
Open to anyone interested in watersports, including sailing, sailboarding, and more.
There’s a reason that Highland Park is so well-loved by natives and visitors alike. With so many incredible offerings, you can go from being completely immersed in the city to hiking in gorgeous forests all in the same day. These are just some of our favorite places, but we want to know, what are some of your favorite things to do around Highland Park? Send us your list of favorites in the comments section. In the meantime, keep exploring!
