Character abounds in the small and historic Village of Glencoe. The tree-lined residential streets include a broad variety of architectural styles dating from the village’s incorporation in 1869 to the present day. Many of the homes were designed by noteworthy architects including Frank Lloyd Wright, Robert Seyfarth, Keck & Keck, and many others. For the architecture enthusiast, a stroll through one of Glencoe’s neighborhoods is a treat.
The village is nestled within a greenbelt with three of its four borders surrounded by natural and recreational open space – including the Chicago Botanic Garden, Cook County forest preserves, the Skokie Lagoons, one public and two private golf courses, and Lake Michigan.
Downtown Glencoe is the place to be! Filled with shops, restaurants and entertainment. It continues to function as the central meeting place for the community with the post office, library, theatre, and shopping all within a few blocks. Here are a few of my favorite spots!
eats
Hometown Coffee & Juice – This is my go-to spot in town. I love their coffee, salads, toasts, smoothies & baked goods. Hometown also partners with local favorites like Do-Rite donuts & Shookies Cookies. For a cool summer treat visit the Hometown Hut for Homer’s Ice Cream & Mister Chill shaved iced, yum!
Foodstuffs – If you follow me on Instagram, you know I am a Foodstuffs loyalist and have been a devoted fan since I was 6 years old. I love their salads, sandwiches and premade foods. Cult favorites you must try: red pepper dip, monster bites and courtney’s tuna salad.
Guildhall – One of my favorite spots for any meal – brunch, lunch or dinner is Guildhall. An inviting space with a delicious menu that has something for everyone. They also have yummy craft cocktails and a great space for private events. I am also a big fan of their sushi & sake pop-up, Tori Dasu.
Meg’s Cafe – A great restaurant with gourmet soups, salads & sandwiches that always hit the spot! They’re open for dinner too which I haven’t had, but am sure is delicious. The kitchen also has a robust catering business, An Apple A Day – a NS favorite!
Little Red Hen – An institution serving comfort food like fried chicken, pizza, hot dogs and crinkle fries.
Merlo’s – Traditional Italian fare.
True Juice – The best spot for organic smoothies, juices and food. I also love their açaí bowls!
shops
Valentina – One stop shopping for women’s denim, dresses, sweaters & shoes. Clothing from favorites like white + warren, misa, alice + olivia, frame & more! They also have a fun selection of home, gifts and cards. Every holiday, you can count on Valentina to have fun goodies to help you get in the spirit and celebrate!
Blacksheep General Store – A curated selection of useful and unusual home decor, stationery, toys, jewelry, baby gifts and more. A great spot to shop for gift items for all ages and occasions.
North Shore Exchange – Luxury designer consignment for women and home. North Shore Exchange donates their profits to provide relief for low-income families and children. You can be a buyer, consignor or volunteer. There are many ways to help and so many beautiful pieces that you can score at a discounted price while helping to give back too!
The Wild Child – A joyful store filled with unique and fun toys for all ages. They also have an assortment of adorable clothes and pj’s. A dangerous store to bring your child into…they may never want to leave.
Hudson Grace – The newest addition to Glencoe’s downtown is SF based Hudson Grace boutique. A gorgeous store filled with signature serving pieces, a thoughtful collection of candles, barware and everything else in-between you could need for entertaining!
things to do
Chicago Botanic Gardens – One of the most beautiful places to visit with ever-changing views. Home to 27 gardens to explore spread out over 385 acres there is no shortage of views to take in, no matter season it is.
Writers Theater – For more than 25 years Writers Theater has captivated audiences with inventive interpretations of classic work with a bold approach to contemporary theatre in the most intimate theatrical experience.
Glencoe Beach – Enjoy a relaxing day by the water with beautiful views from the top as you make your way down to the beach.
Green Bay Trail – The Green Bay Trail runs parallel to the Metra North Line and offers a scenic path of trees and wildflowers.
Anne Loucks Gallery -Specializing in contemporary American painting, sculpture and works on paper. The gallery represents over 40 emerging and mid-career artists whose work represents a wide range of styles and media.
Glencoe Library – A picturesque exterior with a cozy interior with programs for all ages.
Favorite Parks – Friends Park, Duke Park & Phil Thomas Memorial Playground @ Shelton Park.
Watts Recreational Center – Outdoor ice rinks, tennis courts, pickleball courts, soccer fields & home to a disco golf course.
Visit the park district website for more Glencoe info!
