5 Keys to Enjoying Outdoor Evenings on the North Shore

by Julie Keywell, The Got Spot

sunset over the lake

Have you noticed that it’s already getting darker earlier and earlier? Some might say it’s the harbinger of cold weather, but I think it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the temperate fall evenings before another winter bears down on us!

When we were kids, dusk was really when all the fun began. Kick the Can, Ghosts in the Graveyard and tag—they all took on a new light (pardon the pun) when the sun went down. Why not let that inner child out to play? There are plenty of “grown up” activities to enjoy (with or without your children) as the sun sets.

Here are 5 Keys to enjoying dusk on the North Shore:

Have Dinner Outside: Whether you’re at one of the many hot spots that offers al fresco dining or you’re in your very own backyard, put on a sweater and break bread outside at dusk.

Trattoria Demi in Evanston

Several North Shore restaurants offer outdoor dining while the weather holds. From Trattoria Demi in Evanston to one of our favorites, Tamales, a Mexican Joint in Highland Park, you can find just about any type of food to satisfy your tastes. Don’t forget to call ahead—tables fill up fast as others savor the last days of summer.

Dining in your backyard doesn’t have to be hot dogs and burgers. Try preparing your favorite meal outside—our family loves white pizza with grilled chicken and asparagus cooked on the grill. Throw down a tablecloth and put out some citronella candles to set the mood and to keep the bugs off. Then dine to the soundtrack of nature, open a bottle of wine and breathe in the autumn air.

Watch the Sunset at the Lake: We know, we know—the sun sets in the west. But even though you won’t see the big ball of fire get swallowed by the sea, the colors in the eastern sky remain breathtaking. Pack a picnic dinner or your favorite beverage and sit on one of the North Shore’s many beaches. The color show above and the gentle lapping of the waves is as relaxing as it is romantic.

Garden Cafe

Stroll in Chicago’s Botanic Garden: Open daily until sunset, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a North Shore treasure and one of the most enjoyable places to walk at dusk. With 23 garden displays and three natural habitats, there’s beauty in every direction. End your stroll at the Garden Café, which offers dining until 9pm—al fresco, if you desire.

but build it in a fireplace, please!

Build a Fire in Your Backyard: Fire pits are a hot trend (again, pardon the pun), but the ritual of sitting around them is as old as time. Build a fire at dusk and enjoy its crackle and glow well into the night. Invite neighbors over for s’mores and wandering conversation—our family does this at least once a week and one of our neighbors even brings his guitar!

Late Night HP: Remember when you were young and lived downtown? Nights didn’t begin until 10pm! Well, Highland Park hasn’t forgotten that the occasional late-night adventure is good for the soul. On Friday and Saturday nights, businesses stay open until at least 11pm, and everything from music to comedy can be found in and around the downtown business district. Enjoy the fresh air, food and fun.

Don’t dread the earlier sunsets!  Use one of our Keys and unlock an enjoyable evening on Chicago’s North Shore.

Didn’t see your favorite night time activity here? Let us know what it is so we can share it with others! Send us your pictures and video too!

Julie Keywell

A proud North Shore resident and the mother of two, Julie Keywell is the co-founder of The Got Spot, a Web site for deeply discounted daily deals on the North Shore. Check it out to save money on your night time (or anytime!) activities.