Nestled on the eastern edge of Highland Park, the Braeside neighborhood is a local treasure that captures the best of suburban living — offering peace, connection, and unparalleled access to nature. If you’re considering a move to Highland Park, Braeside consistently stands out for its calming streets, strong sense of community, and family-friendly amenities. Here’s a look at what life is really like in Braeside, with honest insights from those lucky enough to call it home.
Community Vibe: Quiet, Friendly, and Involved
Ask any Braeside local, and they’ll tell you — there’s something distinct about this corner of Highland Park. The neighborhood exudes a calm, welcoming energy. On a typical morning, you’ll find neighbors waving hello during walks on Cedar Avenue or chatting outside the Braeside Metra station.
- Residents tend to look out for each other, whether it’s bringing in a neighbor’s mail or organizing seasonal block parties.
- There’s an understated Midwest friendliness here — not overly fussy, but always willing to lend a hand.
- The neighborhood is diverse in age, with a healthy mix of growing families, mid-career professionals, and longtime residents who provide a sense of legacy and pride.
Types of Housing: Historic and Modern Charm
Braeside boasts a unique blend of housing options, giving it visual interest and flexibility for varying budgets and preferences.
- You’ll find classic brick Colonials and Tudor-style homes along streets like Sheridan Road and Oakwood Avenue.
- Newer construction and tastefully updated ranches are scattered throughout, especially east of Green Bay Road.
- Some properties feature generous yards with mature trees, while others are more compact and easy to maintain for busy families or empty nesters.
- Rentals are occasionally available, but the vast majority of residents are homeowners — a testament to the neighborhood’s stability and appeal.
Walkability: A Neighborhood Made for Strolling
One of the best aspects of living in Braeside is how easy it is to get around without a car. The streets are quiet and tree-lined, creating a perfect setting for an evening walk or a morning jog.
- The walk from residential streets to Braeside Park is just a few minutes, making spontaneous trips to the playground a regular part of life for many families.
- The neighborhood’s sidewalks, especially along Dean Avenue and Sheridan Road, are well-maintained and safe for pedestrians.
- For commuters, the Braeside Metra station is a huge asset. Located on Lake Cook Road, it offers direct service to Chicago, making downtown accessible without the hassle of city driving.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top-Notch for Kids
Highland Park’s reputation for excellent public schools extends to Braeside, and it’s a key factor for many families choosing to move here.
- Braeside Elementary School, located right within the neighborhood, is highly rated and deeply involved with the community. Many students walk or bike to school, adding to the neighborhood camaraderie.
- Middle and high school students attend Edgewood Middle School and Highland Park High School, both renowned for academics, arts, and extracurriculars.
- The area is known for a safe, nurturing atmosphere where kids play freely outside and neighbors keep watch out for each other’s children.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature at Your Doorstep
What truly sets Braeside apart is its proximity to some of the North Shore’s best green spaces.
- The neighborhood borders the legendary Chicago Botanic Garden. Many residents enjoy spontaneous weekend strolls or morning jogs on the garden’s extensive trails (membership is worth every penny if you’re moving here).
- Braeside Park, nestled on Oakwood Avenue, features updated playgrounds, tennis courts, and open fields — perfect for fitting in an afternoon of fun without leaving the neighborhood.
- For bigger adventures, nearby Heller Nature Center and the Green Bay Trail provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird-watching.
Safety: Peace of Mind on Every Block
Safety is a top priority in Braeside, and it’s one reason families often stay for decades.
- Crime is remarkably low, and the Highland Park Police Department is proactive and visible in the area.
- Many blocks participate in neighborhood watch programs and stay in close communication through local listservs.
- Regular street lighting and community involvement help ensure everyone feels secure — whether you’re out walking after dark or letting kids bike to a friend’s house.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers: The Best of Both Worlds
Braeside’s location provides both a serene retreat and convenient access to everything you need.
- Downtown Highland Park — with its local restaurants, shops, and farmer’s markets — is less than a 10-minute drive. Weekend mornings often start with coffee from That Little French Guy before heading back to the quiet of Braeside.
- Major employers along the I-94 corridor, as well as Lake Cook Road’s office parks, are all within an easy commute.
- For city-lovers or those who work downtown, the Metra train provides a direct, stress-free trip into Chicago in under an hour.
What Residents Love Most
When you ask residents what keeps them rooted in Braeside, a few answers come up again and again:
- The harmony of natural beauty and convenience. It’s rare to find a neighborhood where you can walk to a world-class botanic garden or hop a train to downtown Chicago just as easily.
- The genuine neighborly spirit. Braeside is a place where people remember your name and your kids’ birthdays — and where new faces are always welcomed.
- The peaceful atmosphere. Free from the bustle of busier Highland Park hubs but never isolated, Braeside lets you set your own pace of life.
Braeside isn’t just a neighborhood — it’s a community built on nature, learning, safety, and connection. If you’re searching for a place in Highland Park that feels like home the moment you arrive, Braeside may be exactly what you’re looking for.