Evanston's Kid-Friendly Side Highlighted by Disney!

We all know Evanston to be a thriving city fusing both young and old alike into dynamic community focusing on the arts, green living and historic preservation.  But, there’s another side of Evanston that has been highlighted by Disney’s Family.com website.  The ingredient that makes Evanston such a well-rounded environment is it’s family appeal. 

In the article on the websites travel section, Elaine Glusac pointed out the things she loves to see, eat and be a part of when she is in Evanston.  Below are a few of her favorites.

1. Mitchell Museum of the American Indian- What a great place for children to learn the rich heritage of the American Indians.  This museum also provides a hands on approach to learning with DIY crafts! 

3001 Central St.
Evanston, IL 60201

2. Grosse Point Lighthouse and Lakefront- Built in 1873, this lighthouse is nestled in the midst of gorgeous gardens and is open during the summer for panoramic Lake Michigan views from the top of its’ 141 steps.

2601 Sheridan Rd.
Evanston, IL 60201

3. Dave's Down to Earth Rock Shop and Prehistoric Life Museum- Have a hopeful Geologist in your group?  This rock shop and museum is ideal place to spend time viewing an extensive fossil collection and to round out your rock collection.

704 Main St.
Evanston, IL 60202

4. Al's Deli- Want to treat the kiddos to a giant sized cookie or enjoy the tastes of homemade soups and sandwiches?  Check out Al’s Deli, an Evanston staple, that offers delicious options in a casual atmosphere.

914 Noyes St.
Evanston, IL 60201

5. Toys Etcetera- What would be a day out with your favorite kids without stopping by a toy store?  Whether you’re young or just young at heart, Toys Etcetera allows shoppers to test out the products before buying.  A book nook situated in a cozy corner in the store, is a welcome treat for those who love to read!

711 Main St.
Evanston, IL 60202


Since summer seems to have officially settled in Evanston, now is the ideal time to grab your friends and family to venture out to these kid-friendly spots!  If you’re searching for more information on Evanston or are hoping to jump into the Evanston Real Estate market this summer; let me know!  I’d be happy to show you around and answer your questions!

Judy Newton
Your Evanston Real Estate Expert
Coldwell Banker

Evanston Real Estate
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10 Steps to Enhance Your Evanston Garden

Evanston is a beautiful place with it’s tree lined streets, well maintained lawns and its downtown area full of potted plants and foliage.  Many of its residents take great pride in contributing to this scenic city. 

If you haven’t begun your gardening for the season- it’s not too late!  Maybe you’ve never gardened before, but would like to start building your yard to create the curb appeal or even fresh vegetables you’ve always wanted.  Below is your May checklist to make sure you’re well on your way!

1. Bulbs- Want full, rich colors in your yard?  Begin planting bulbs of dahlia, lily, gladiolus and tuberous begonia. 

2. Annuals- Now is the time to plant hardy annual such as petunias, dianthus, snapdragons and pansies.  If you’re worried about front, simply cover the plants with plastic at night.  You can also opt for hanging mixed baskets filled with fuchsias, geraniums and impatiens which can easily be moved inside if threatened by a frost.

3.  Perennials- As you begin to see these return, be sure to give these plants some fertilizer to ensure they’re fed for the season.

4. Lawn care- Now is the ideal time to assess the needs of your lawn if you haven’t already done so.  Begin cleaning away weeds and debris that settled during the winter.  Begin fertilizing grassy areas and do any trimming to give a well manicured appearance.

5. Vegetables- Before you begin planting, consider the timing of your plants as well as who makes the best neighbors.  Plant hardier veggies such as lettuce or potatoes now and wait until it’s consistenly 60 degrees before planting the more delicate plants.  Beans, celery an cucumbers are happy to be planted near each other, but be sure to keep bean plants away from aromatic vegetables such as garlic.

6. Planting- Buy new plants along with replacements of those that may not have made it through the Chicago winters. 

7. Fertilizing- This is key to keeping your plants well fed and growing all season.  Don’t forget to give your well-loved plants their food!  Be sure that you don’t “over-fertilize” as it can kill the plants or cause “leaf burn.”

8. Pruning- Pruning needs vary by climate zones.  Be sure to check on more details of pruning for the Chicago area. 

9. Weeding- No one likes to do it, but weeds need to be nipped in the bud before they get out of control.  Spraying weed killer is a great option, just be sure to spray on a warm day with limited wind.

10.  Preparing Your Patio- With Memorial Day just around the corner, you’ll want to make sure your patio is spruced up and the furniture is cleaned and in good working order.

I hope these tips have been helpful! Getting your Evanston outdoor space ready for the summer season is something you’ll enjoy during the warmer months- and your neighbors will too!  Feel free to contact me with any questions you have about living in Evanston!


Judy Newton
Your Evanston Real Estate Expert
Coldwell Banker

Evanston Real Estate
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Celebrating the Artistic Community of Evanston with a Sweet Treat from a Local Favorite!

Evanston has come to be known as an artistic community with a finger on the pulse of all things current in artisan circles.  And one my wonder how Evanston grew into this elite group of residential areas that throw their warm embrace around all types of creative outlets.  It could be the Evanston Art Center, The Block Museum on Northwestern’s campus, the myriad of art galleries, and the performing art venues of The Piccolo Theatre, the Next Theatre Company, and the Light Opera Works theatre that are all housed in Evanston. 

However Evanston came to be such an art infused community may remain a mystery, but how it will continue to be seems very clear.  This Saturday, May 15, Evanston will open its streets to the school children of the community to hold their yearly YEA (Young Evanston Artists) Festival!  Throughout the school year, the children have been working diligently on their performing and visual art that they will be showcasing on this special day. Taking place on the corner of Chicago and Dempster from 10am to 4pm gives each child the opportunity to develop a love for the arts and to take pride in the work they have done. 

It’s apparent that the community of Evanston will continue its passion for art as our city instills artistic expression in the children.  If your interests in living in Evanston is peaked due to the lure of the arts- let me know!  I enjoy showing people around this great place and answering any questions about this fantastic community! 

P.S.  If you plan on showing your support of the YEA Festival this weekend, be sure to stop by Bennisons Bakery.  They were just noted in Chicago Magazine as the best place in Chicago to indulge in the French treat, macarons!  View the article in Chicago Magazine or visit Bennison’s Bakery- a favorite of Evanston locals.


Judy Newton
Your Evanston Real Estate Expert
Coldwell Banker

Evanston Real Estate
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Unique Events This Week in Evanston!

What makes Evanston such a great place to live?  I could mention it’s close proximity to one of major cities in the world, the outstanding restaurants, the pristine homes on tree studded streets, or the edgy condos perfect for young professionals.  I could also mention the growing art scene which highlights everything from theatre, music, film and the ever increasing number of galleries.  Events that promote Evanston community involvement are in abundance and the charming downtown is always a draw for both residents and visitors alike. 

Hearing about the unique things that Evanston offers always makes me proud of the way the city is constantly looking to expand its views and give big city culture to this perfectly sized town.  Below are just a few of my recent findings:

Community Media Workshop: Twitter

The Evanston Public Library is hosting an information workshop this Thursday, May 6 from 12-2pm.   This free event will explain the ins and outs of this popular social media tool, so if you’ve been wondering what all the hype is about or how to utilize it to its’ fullest- here is your chance to find out!  View more information here.

The Talking Films Festival

Featuring the best in independent films, this North Shore event organized by Percolator Films was birthed last year in May.  This year, The Talking Films Festival is being held exclusively in Evanston locations!  There are a number of places to view the films, each of which represents the character of this great city. 

The festival opens this Thursday with the film, The Other Bank by George Ovashvili at the Regional Premiere Century Theater at 7:30pm.  Don’t miss this four day even which ends on Sunday, May 10 with a celebration at the Indigo Lounge in Hotel Orrington.  You’ll be able to mingle with friend to discuss the films while enjoying free appetizers and a cash bar.  View more information on the festival along with the film schedule.

I hope you’re able to take advantage of these unique events in Evanston this week!  As always, if you’re interested in finding your niche in Evanston and the ideal place to call “home” give me a call!  I’d be happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have!

Judy Newton
Your Evanston Real Estate Expert
Coldwell Banker

Evanston Real Estate
View Evanston Listings
Visit My Website
Email Me