Highland Park

Braeside, Highland Park Neighborhood

Nestled beneath a canopy of mature trees, Braeside offers a charming blend of historic mid-century homes and contemporary residences, creating a welcoming, close-knit community atmosphere. Residents enjoy easy access to lush parks, the acclaimed Ravinia Festival, and scenic walking trails, making Braeside a truly special place to call home.

Highland Park offers a serene environment with low noise levels and ample green spaces. The city features over 50 parks, including Berkeley Prairie Forest Preserve, all conveniently reachable from most locations. Its well-maintained single detached homes and townhouses provide a variety of three and four-bedroom options, showcasing charming designs from different eras. Central Avenue hosts numerous food stores, and several restaurants and cafes enhance local dining choices. The city is well-suited for biking with its accessible infrastructure and includes nearby train stations for convenient access to regional rail services. Parking availability is generous, making transportation hassle-free throughout the area.

The character of Highland Park is exemplified by its calm environment. Most locations in the city have fairly good access to parks, like -1, since there are over 50 of them nearby for residents to check out. This part of the Chicago metropolitan area is very quiet overall, as the streets are very tranquil.

Highlights of Braeside

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Braeside Park

Nestled along Ridge Road, Braeside Park is a beloved green space in the neighborhood, featuring a modern playground, picnic areas, and mature trees, making it an inviting spot for families and community gatherings.

🏫 Braeside Elementary School

Located on St. Johns Avenue, Braeside Elementary is a highly-rated neighborhood school within North Shore School District 112, known for its strong academic programs and active community involvement.

🍽️ Ravinia District Dining Strip

Just south of Braeside, along Roger Williams Avenue, residents enjoy quick access to a variety of local favorites, including pizzerias, coffee shops, and family-owned restaurants that anchor the social life of the area.

🛒 Convenience at Braeside Metra Station

Situated on Lake Cook Road, the Braeside Metra Station not only offers a direct and scenic rail route to downtown Chicago, but also connects locals to small retail options nearby for grab-and-go essentials.

🚴 North Branch Trail Access

Braeside provides direct entry to the North Branch Trail, a highly-regarded multi-use path winding through the forest preserves, ideal for cycling, running, and nature walks right out the neighborhood’s back door.

A Highland Park Neighborhood

This June in Braeside

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

June 3–October 28, 2026

Ravinia Farmers Market

Jens Jensen Park, Highland Park • Wednesdays, 7:00 AM–1:00 PM

A weekly opportunity for Braeside or Highland Park residents to pick up fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan items right nearby while enjoying a lively community atmosphere.

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June 4, 2026

Food Truck Thursdays

Jens Jensen Park, Highland Park • 4:30 PM–8:30 PM

Perfect for a summer evening close to home, this weekly food‑truck festival lets Highlands Park locals savor diverse eats and music with friends and family under the stars.

June 19–20, 2026

Taste of Highland Park

Port Clinton Square, Highland Park • Fri 5:00 PM–10:00 PM; Sat 3:00 PM–10:00 PM

A downtown culinary and music festival showcasing local restaurants and live performances—great for sampling neighborhood eateries and celebrating community summer vibes.

June 13–14, 2026

Arts on Sheridan

Central Avenue, Highland Park • Jun 13 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Jun 14 until 5:00 PM

An art stroll just minutes away, offering residents a chance to browse and buy works from local artists—ideal for a creative afternoon outing or Father’s Day gift hunting.

June 16, 2026

Grab & Go Paper Fish

Highland Park Public Library • All day

A simple, fun crafting activity for kids—Braeside families can swing by the local library for free materials to make a cute fish friend at their convenience.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Braeside

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Braeside

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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