See all properties
Entire home

The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main

Photo gallery for The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main

Hello!
Master Bedroom 2nd floor
Main Floor
Main Floor
Dining area

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 51200 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Evanston, IL
  • Place, AMITA Health Saint Francis Hospital Evanston
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Halim Time & Glass Museum
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Clark Street Beach
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.)
    ‪25 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Twin Beds

Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 2nd Floor

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom Main Floor

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main

No Additional Cleaning Fee! ---

Fully Furnished 2-story, 2 bedroom attached Townhouse/Duplex with a new King bed in the Master Bedroom and 2 Twin beds in the 2nd Bedroom. ---
The couch on the main floor is also a Queen sofa bed that sleeps 1-2 if needed. Main floor is wide open floor plan. ---

Large bathroom on the first floor with a new Walk-In Shower on the 2nd floor.

Keyless entry via your own private code to the front door. ---

All Utilities are included (Heat, Water, Electric, DirecTV Streaming TV, etc). ---
Heat and A/C are forced air, you can adjust the thermostat to suit. ---

Free WiFi is included throughout, Netflix portal on the downstairs 50” TV and also upstairs on the 32” Smart TV in the small bedroom. Sign in to your own account or use the House account! ---

Kitchen includes Keurig, French Press, and Mr Coffee coffeemakers, cooking utensils, cookware, flatware and dishes for most any needs. ---

EZ access to your own Washer/Dryer, clothes steamer and ironing board in the basement. ---

There is a small side garden as well as a larger garden in the back yard with a small outdoor fireplace and a newer Weber gas grill. ---

Off-street parking available in back for up to 2 vehicles (1 vehicle during Winter months with snow) . ---

This building used to be a Grocery Store with a home in the back before we purchased it over 40 years ago and converted the Store into this separate Townhouse/Apartment. ---

This space has been set up specifically for short-term rentals of 1-2 weeks or 1-2 months and has previously been used by Guests looking for homes in the Evanston area or by Evanston residents having rehab work done in their homes. ---

HALLOWEEN TERMS: ---
If you are booking any time around October 31, we ask that you allow us access to Master Bedroom 1 week in advance for exterior decor (stuff hangs from windows) and also you agree to allow us access to the front porch/landing (not inside) ON October 31 from 4-8pm for Trick or Treating (we get a lot of kids that come to the Front Door). ---

The parking space we provide is for CARS, and it is not suitable for an RV of any size. The space also cannot accommodate a TRAILER. Any "Camping" onsite (including- and ESPECIALLY- in the Parking Space provided) is not allowed. ---

When you make a booking you acknowledge that you have read ALL the details of this listing. ---
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Room
Stunning downtown Skokie mid-century modern Luxury four bedroom ranch home
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
Stunning downtown Skokie mid-century modern Luxury four bedroom ranch home

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
default

Events

No events allowed
Small Family Gatherings and Dinner Parties are OK
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items
Lock the doors
Take your stuff and lock the door! That's all you have to do when you leave.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
When you make a booking you acknowledge that you have read ALL the details of this listing.
You agree to provide a photo of Government Issued Photo ID of the Primary Person making the booking and payment if requested.
A/C is NOT available unless outside temps are above 50F for at least 24hrs as we do not like replacing the compressor every year.

Important information

You need to know

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
Note from host: Small Family Gatherings and Dinner Parties are OK
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
Property Registration Number VRL-1500

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Evanston

South Evanston, a neighborhood in Evanston, is home to this vacation home. Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Michigan and Millennium Park. Traveling with kids? Make time for Field Museum of Natural History, or check out an event or a game at Wrigley Field.
View more Vacation Homes in ChicagoOpens in a new window
Map
Evanston, IL

What's nearby

  • Evanston Cellars, LLC - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • FEW Spirits - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • AMITA Health Saint Francis Hospital Evanston - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Halim Time & Glass Museum - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Clark Street Beach - 5 min drive - 3.2 km

Getting around

  • Evanston Main Street Station - 16 min walk
  • Main Street Metro Station - 16 min walk
  • Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Burger King - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪The Supreme Burrito #1 - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main?

As of Mar 6, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main on Mar 15, 2026 start from $269, 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 The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The NICEST place in Evanston for Families 1500Main located?

This family-friendly Evanston vacation home is located in South Evanston, within 3 mi (5 km) of Lake Michigan and Northwestern University. Montrose Beach and Loyola University Chicago are also within 6 mi (10 km). Main Street Metro Station is 16 minutes by foot and Dempster Station is 22 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 62 out of 62 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 62 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 62 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 62 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 62 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Batya C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
One of the best Vrbo rentals we stayed in. Great location, clean, spacious and has everything one needs for a comfortable stay. We had stayed for a week and it felt like being home away from home.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terry F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Extremely comfortable house where the hosts intentionally considered scores of thoughtful details to make the place a home away from home. Our 6 night stay was perfect for a multi generational visit. Family friendly in the extreme. Hosts were gracious, conscientious, considerate, and welcoming.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sean H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent stay

Jim and Ginger were absolute gems. The house was perfect. Great for a family ir just a couple or if you just need some space. Well located and very easy to get to. We will be staying here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family holidays

The hosts were amazing! So many thoughtful things are all around the space making it feel like home. A great place to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maggie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place and excellent hosts

This lovely house was perfect for our visit to Chicago. Extremely clean and comfortable with many thoughtful touches added by the responsive owners. Highly recommended!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katherine C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply the Best

My husband and I could not have asked for a more well appointed setting to compliment our visit in Evanston. A perfect location with everything we could possibly need and hosts who were lovely and also very respectful of our privacy. Can't wait to come back! So grateful to have found this home away from home :)
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alvin L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Best Ever

We were at Northwestern for Reunion and Homecoming. Everything and I mean everything was perfect. The magazine story of the history of the house. ALL the extras, much appreciated
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gregory R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gold Medal stay

This may have been the best VRBO property that we have ever rented, Ginger and Jim were great hosts and thought of everything to make our stay as close to stress free as possible. The house is well equipped and included many unexpected extras, including bikes, beach totes with beach passes, and more. The backyard garden is like an arboretum, but totally kid friendly. It was a PERFECT week!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Josh M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Evanston

We had a wonderful time at this property. It was in a great neighborhood. Plenty of stuff close enough you wouldn’t have to go into downtown if you didn’t want to. The home was super clean, plenty of amenities that weren’t expected, very comfortable master bed, nice big shower in the upstairs bathroom, and a beautifully landscaped yard with many varieties of different plants and flowers. You can tell the owners take pride in their property. Only thing I can see someone complaining about is the stairs to the upper level, didn’t bother us at all though. Would definitely stay here again. Thanks Jim and Ginger!!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kerri H., New York, NY

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming Home in Evanston

We had a wonderful stay in this former town market. The hosts are ever so thoughtful in how they have prepared their lovely home for guests. Immaculate, decorated with care, filled with information and stocked with all kinds of goodies— drinks, snacks, coffee, robes, truly everything you’d need for your stay. Perfect for anyone visiting Northwestern or Evanston. A nice neighborhood within walking distance of Lake Michigan. One of the most welcoming VRBOs I have ever stayed in.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kyle G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Warm and welcoming hosts

By far the best hosts we’ve ever had. This was our first time traveling as a family of 4, bringing our 4 month old along with us. They thought of everything and had everything to make our stay as comfortable and easy as possible. We were in town for a wedding at the Botanic Garden. The location offered us ability to visit friends downtown and friends in the suburbs without being too far from the venue. So many great playgrounds in the area for our daughter to explore, including the one across the street. Lots of great kid-friendly restaurants nearby. We were anxious about this first big trip and we could not have been put more at ease with where we decided to stay. Thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Neelofur A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best VRBO ever!

We have been renting homes on VRBO and other sites for decades. This is BY FAR the best one we have ever had. The owners live on the property and the rental has every amenity. It is spotless, and they thought of everything. There is a very professional “house manual” that covers every aspect of appliances and TV. That’s often one of the most frustrating things in a new place. We already recommended this rental to others we know. Cannot say enough good things. All places should meet this bar!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Liz F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful home in the perfect Evanston location

Our family spent Christmas at Ginger and Jim’s lovely home and cannot recommend it enough. They were the most gracious hosts, always around to answer questions or make us feel at home but respected privacy. The home was fully stocked with everything you could need. Jim even brought us a ‘fake fire’ to put in our homemade chimney for Santa. We were able to walk to our favorite spots (HoosierMama, Penny Park and the train station - we had two little boys who thoroughly enjoyed train watching - among others!). We highly recommend this lovely home as your home base in Evanston. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Thad S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Personal touch

As advertised, this property is full of thoughtful amenities, with helpful labels and even a customized “how-to” guide. What created an exceptional experience for me, though, was a single gesture from Jim and Ginger. I had shared that I was out in Evanston to visit my daughter who was having knee surgery. Much to my surprise and delight, when I went to the common area, I found a set of crutches laid out with a note saying “in case she needs these.” What a touching display of kindness. I’ll definitely be back here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Meredith H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Perfect 10!

This was the perfect location for my husband & I during visit to relatives on the Chicago North Shore & as a jumping off spot to Chicago highlights with our daughter & grandson. Easy highway access to airport and city, picturesque neighborhood routes (mid century modern homes, charming landscaping) for local travel. There is a spacious, bright living area on the first floor & large, multifunction bedrooms on the second floor—plenty of room for a family to spread out during downtime for naps, showers, diverse TV fare. Our grandson periodically chilled out in the bedroom with his iPad & the smart TV, & my physician husband set up a mini Office in the master bedroom to handle some patients calls, etc—where there was great internet, plenty of outlets, a small side-table-turned-desk, great lighting and quiet. The accessible back garden is a virtual horticultural center: meticulous & artfully landscaped—a functional haven with seating & barbecue. Every vacation-typical culinary need was anticipated, & the hosts stressed their availability to help problem-solve if we lacked any appliances (we didn’t). Important amenities like a real stovetop fan vented to the outside for searing or frying, 3 coffeemaker options & a grinder, a BIG colander, good knives, etc) were in evidence everywhere. Hosts were nearby but not intrusive, helpful via clear signs & instructions left inside. Charming & homey, crisp & arty decor. ❤️ will be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

doak and kim p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was like an art gallery with all the comforts of home. Location was a 7 blocks from great shops downtown Evanston, excellent restaurants, and a nice neighborhood that felt safe, day or nite. Kitchen, bath, bedrms, living space all well appointed. The host was organized, very nice, and had thought of everything.
Elementary school across the street.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Marty P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the most well organized VRBO that we have ever stayed in. It was really clean and every little thing waa mark and clearly identified.There is a comprehensive book with tips and instructions answering every possible question. Therefore easy to use the tv or stereo, etc.The parking in the back was outstanding and the location was perfect for us.There were snacks and coffee available.A wonferful experience.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Christopher H H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a wonderful stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best short term rental we've ever stayed at.

Wonderful hosts! The place was well appointed and very clean. We were very comfortable during our stay!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mimi G., NYC

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful home away from home!!

This was the nicest place we have ever stayed in . The hosts were helpful, informative , and friendly , but never intrusive . The house has every imaginable convenience, from comfy robes ,several kinds of coffee makers ,tea & coffee, a fantastic mattress , ( the most comfortable we have ever slept on )snacks , an easy frozen meal for our first night , washer & dryer , to even paper and pens , in case one forgot to bring them !! Every item made us feel like we were in our own home . The location was great , just a few minutes from restaurants , super markets including Whole Foods & Trader Joe, small shops , drugstores , and delicious bakeries . There are spaces for two cars in the back of the house. We were delighted to find a place that checked all of our boxes and we will most certainly be back.
Stayed 17 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location for families with kids

One of the best-stocked and most well-thought-out properties we've ever seen. Perfect for preschool-aged kids with huge playground across the street, plus things like kids' books, puzzles, step stools, kids' utensils and plates, etc. Parking in the back of the house was super convenient. Coming and going couldn't be easier. We'd love to come back!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jorge G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thanksgiving Vacation

We traveled from Florida to Chicago for Thanksgiving week. We had close friends saying about 20 minutes away and they recommended the area. This rental was absolutely perfect! It was clean, quaint, in a perfect location. We cannot say enough good things. One of the nights I wanted to cook I had messaged the property owners to see if they had a crock pot available and within 10 minutes there was a Crock-Pot right there for me to use. We feel they went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable. We absolutely hope to go back again someday.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jessica T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

Such. A beautiful home that has everything! All the little details were amazing! Will definitely be going again!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Shara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best House And Perfect Family Experience

My family stayed in Jim and Crystal's house for 3 night in Evanston and Chicago for college search. Everything went beyond our expectations. The rooms are big, super clean. Have tons of things prepared for guests. Everything you need at home or goes to beach, they have things for you. Beach bags, beach towels, beach chairs, bug spray, sunscreen, you name it; and beach passes for 4 as well; disinfection wipes, hand sanitizers; If you prefer cooking, they were tons of condiments in the pantry. there were different types of cookwares and utensils etc. You want to cook rice, you can find rice cooker; you want to cook lobster, you can find a big pot. all cookwares look so new. Jim and Crystal were so thoughtful hose. There were a lot food/snack/battle water prepared. If you need extra beds, there were at least two very sturdy airbeds. The laundry room in the basement also has everything (even more than you may need) The garden was relaxing place for my family as well. Tons of plants with name tags. So educational for garden lovers. If you need moving staffs, there were two wagons in the backyard where you park your cars. There were Folding Trolley Dolly Carts you can use if go groceries stores which are very nearby. If you don't want to cook, Jim and Crystal provided bunch of take-out menus from restaurant around which was very helpful for us. Jim and Crystal were super nice. Crystal even used her professional knowledges to help me for an issue I had with an offer for house purchase I was making while I was traveling (for sure I approached to her for her advises). My kids said Jim and Crystal's house was better than my own house and we ALL love it so much. We will definitely stay again if visit the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Susanna C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect rental in Evanston

My husband and I had a wonderful stay at this property in Evanston. It was clean, well stocked, and spacious. It is conveniently located about 1 mile from the train and from bars, restaurants, and shopping. We’d love to stay here again! It was perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

About the host

Hosted by Ginger & Jim

Host profile image
Ginger has lived here for 45 years after buying the original building which was a house in back and a grocery store up front. She hired Jim for a job when they both worked in the Motion Picture and TV commercial Industry in Chicago. She has been stuck with him ever since.

Why they chose this property

This used to be a Grocery Store. The couple that owned and operated it lived in the house attached to the back and raised NINE children here.
I was looking for a space to use to both raise a family and have a working "Art Studio"; the grocery store fit the bill as it became available when the owner's wife died and he retired.
Many people in Evanston still remember going to school across the street at Washington Elementary School and then coming over to "Charlie's Store" across the street to get some candy after school let out.
We recently travelled to California to visit the youngest son of the owner (the son is now 93 years old!). We shared many memories and stories of the building over the years and returned with a good history of the family business that will be available to anyone that is interested via our website or to guests via a magazine-type welcome packet that we provide.

What makes this property unique

This is one of only a handful of properties in Evanston that has been fully inspected and Licensed by the City for Short Term Rentals like this.

Also- NO ADDITIONAL CLEANING FEE!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

Hotels

Vacation Rentals