Gilson Park, Wilmette, IL

Gilson Park occupies 66 acres of Lake Michigan shoreline in Wilmette, giving residents direct access to a sand beach, boat launch, and 1,200-foot promenade for walking or jogging. A 9-hole golf course, eight tennis courts, and two playgrounds are maintained by the Wilmette Park District, which also operates a seasonal beach house with changing rooms and concessions. The park connects to the Green Bay Trail, a paved multi-use path that runs north–south through the North Shore, allowing cyclists and runners to reach downtown Wilmette or Evanston without crossing major roads. Mature oak and maple trees provide shade along the northern edge, while open lawns near the water offer unobstructed lake views for picnics or informal sports. Public parking lots adjacent to Sheridan Road make the park reachable within a short drive or bike ride from most Wilmette neighborhoods.

Boating Dog Park Ice Skating Rink Picnic Area Sailboarding Sailing Swimming Pool Tennis Courts