Chicago is a vibrant city that attracts millions of visitors every year. But sometimes, it's nice to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and explore nearby cities. Fortunately, there are plenty of great cities to visit near Chicago. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the best cities to visit near Chicago.
Evanston: A College Town with a Lot to Offer
If you're looking for a college town near Chicago, look no further than Evanston. Located just 12 miles north of downtown Chicago, Evanston is home to Northwestern University, one of the top universities in the country. But there's more to Evanston than just the university. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and vibrant downtown area.
One of the most popular attractions in Evanston is the Baha'i House of Worship, a stunning temple that attracts visitors from all over the world. Other popular attractions in Evanston include the Grosse Point Lighthouse, the Block Museum of Art, and the Evanston History Center.
Naperville: A Family-Friendly Destination
If you're looking for a family-friendly destination near Chicago, Naperville is a great option. Located about 30 miles west of downtown Chicago, Naperville is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and family-friendly activities.
One of the most popular attractions in Naperville is the Riverwalk, a beautiful park that runs along the DuPage River. The Riverwalk is home to several art installations, fountains, and bridges, making it a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic.
Naperville is also home to several great museums, including the DuPage Children's Museum and the Naper Settlement, a living history museum that tells the story of Naperville's early days.
Milwaukee: A Great Destination for Food and Drink
Located about 90 miles north of Chicago, Milwaukee is a great destination for food and drink enthusiasts. The city is known for its breweries, cheese curds, and bratwursts, making it a great place to indulge in some classic Wisconsin cuisine.
But there's more to Milwaukee than just food and drink. The city is home to several great museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum. And if you're a sports fan, be sure to check out Miller Park, home of the Milwaukee Brewers.
Gary: A Hidden Gem Just Outside Chicago
Located just 25 miles southeast of Chicago, Gary is a hidden gem that's often overlooked by visitors to the area. But the city has a lot to offer, including beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and a vibrant arts scene.
One of the most popular attractions in Gary is the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, a beautiful park that's home to some of the best beaches in the area. Other popular attractions in Gary include the Gary Aquatorium, the Marquette Park Pavilion, and the Gary Southshore RailCats, a minor league baseball team.
Comparing Cities Near Chicago
Now that we've taken a look at some of the best cities to visit near Chicago, let's compare them in a table:
| City | Distance from Chicago | Population | Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evanston | 12 miles | 75,000 | Baha'i House of Worship, Grosse Point Lighthouse, Block Museum of Art, Evanston History Center |
| Naperville | 30 miles | 147,000 | Riverwalk, DuPage Children's Museum, Naper Settlement |
| Milwaukee | 90 miles | 590,000 | Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, Miller Park |
| Gary | 25 miles | 79,000 | Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Gary Aquatorium, Marquette Park Pavilion, Gary Southshore RailCats |
As you can see from the table, each of these cities offers something unique. Evanston is a great destination for art and architecture lovers, while Naperville is perfect for families. Milwaukee is a food and drink lover's paradise, and Gary is a hidden gem with beautiful beaches and a vibrant arts scene.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a Chicago native or just visiting the city, be sure to take some time to explore the surrounding area. There are plenty of great cities to visit near Chicago, each with its own unique attractions and charm. From college towns to family-friendly destinations to foodie paradises, there's something for everyone just a short drive away from the Windy City.
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