Evanston and Chicago
Access both: a quintessential college town and a world-class city.
Orient Yourself
Learn more about our campus location.
Evanston is a walkable college town with mature trees, multiple beaches, grand old homes and a small downtown. It is located just north of Chicago; in fact, our campuses are just 13 miles apart, and students use our intercampus shuttle or public transit to travel between the two.
As the nation's third-largest city, Chicago is a bustling hub of commerce and the arts. It is known for its music scene, fine dining and ethnic restaurants, passionate sports fans and iconic architecture.
Chicago is great. It's got everything New York has, just in slower and smaller volume. And it's also got a really small-town feel, depending on what neighborhood you live in. It's just the greatest, greatest city I've ever lived in.”
Stephen Colbert, Class of '86
Our Lakefront Gem
With trails and beaches, a bustling downtown and panoramic views of Chicago's skyline, Northwestern’s Evanston campus offers more than a place to study.
Campus on the Lake
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, the campus offers stunning views and beaches for swimming and sailing. Warm days fill the lakefront with hammocks, picnics, students, joggers and walkers.
Blend of Urban and Suburban
While the campus offers a tranquil environment, its proximity to Chicago provides a mix of big-city access and suburban peace.
Architectural & Landscape Diversity
The campus features a range of architectural styles and landscapes, including a Jens J. Jensen-designed Shakespeare Garden, creating a vibrant visual environment.
Strong Sense of Community
Northwestern fosters a strong community through various student organizations, events and traditions.
Bordered by a Global City
Northwestern's proximity to Chicago, an internationally eminent city, enhances academic, professional, cultural and social opportunities for its students.