Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan
Escape the city and relax in our newly renovated historic cottage and gardens. Peaceful yet centrally located, vintage yet modern, Mere Cottage has so much to offer.
Inside: You'll enjoy updated amenities in harmony with a distinctive vintage charm. The common area has an open layout, perfect for socializing. The kitchen and pantry (my favorite room!) are new from top to bottom and are fully stocked with any cooking gadgets you may need. Two bedrooms are joined by a Jack & Jill bathroom. The living room has a sofa that pulls out into full size bed.
Outside: Jordan and I had fun redesigning the grounds from front to back. Enjoy the front garden from the rocking chair on our wrap around porch. Out back we've added a vegetable and perennial garden for you to take in. Dinner out on the back deck overlooking the garden is highly recommended!
Location: Our cottage is located in Highland Park, about 25 miles north of Chicago on Lake Michigan. We like to think we have the best of both worlds- being in a quiet residential neighborhood with walking access to numerous amenities right around the corner. We're a quick 5 minute walk to Highwood (the north shore’s restaurant district) and an 8 minute walk to the Metra train that can take you from Chicago to Kenosha and any place in between. We're also right on the North Shore bike path (bring your bikes!). Fort Sheridan is also close by and worth exploring for its interesting history, architecture, and nature trails.
Getting around On foot: Many errands can be done on foot. We have some of the best restaurants and watering holes north of Chicago within walking distance. There is also a Walgreens convenience store 2 blocks away.
By car: Getting around by car is also easy. Parking is readily available almost anywhere you'll visit. You can get to downtown Chicago in 30 minutes in ideal traffic.
Train: The Metra (our train system) can also conveniently get you to and from various attractions including downtown Chicago (a scenic 45 minute ride), Ravinia music venue, the Chicago Botanic Gardens, Great Lakes Naval Base and many more.
Bike: Pack your bikes! We're located on the north shore bike trail. Head north on the trail to check out the beautiful Fort Sheridan, Lake Forest, and quaint Lake Bluff. Head south to Ravinia, Chicago Botanic Garden, and numerous other beautiful villages along Lake Michigan. I bike often and will gladly point you to some great hidden gems!
If you're flying into O'hare, we recommend taking an Uber to our cottage. We're about a 30 minute drive from the airport.
Six Flags Great America is also a 25 minute drive away.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
3-bedroom House in Cozy Mundelein with Private Patio and Grill
Mundelein
3-bedroom House in Cozy Mundelein with Private Patio and Grill
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
1. Reason for visit.
2. Full # of guests.
3. City/ state of origin.
4. For guests with children- will you need access to pack and play or high chair?
Please remove shoes upon entering the cottage.
Please keep things tidy and wash any dishes used during your stay.
No Commercial Use
Property not intended for business, events, or commercial activities without written consent. Violations may result in penalties.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number ACT-090139
Property # 3139975
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the neighborhood
Highland Park, IL
What's nearby
Moraine Park - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Park Avenue Boating-Fishing Beach - 4 min drive - 2.2 km
Highland Park Country Club - 4 min drive - 2.5 km
Naval Base Great Lakes - 20 min drive - 17.2 km
Six Flags Great America - 31 min drive - 28.5 km
Getting around
Highwood Station - 7 min walk
Chicago, IL (PWK-Chicago Executive) - 24 min drive
Restaurants
Tala Coffee Roasters - 9 min walk
Wooden Nickel - 9 min walk
Beermiscuous - 12 min walk
La Plancha Loca - 11 min walk
The Mean Wiener - 12 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan?
As of Aug 22, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan on Aug 31, 2026 start from $376, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
About the host
Hosted by Daniel
Jordan and I live in the neighborhood and will be available if you need us!
Why they chose this property
We really have fallen in love with this little cottage since the day we got the keys. Bringing this old gal back to life continues to be a special experience for us. We hope you enjoy her charm (quirks included) as much as we do! In addition to the home, this property is situated on a beautiful ravine edged property. Take a walk in the back yard gardens and you'll instantly get lost in nature.