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Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan

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A single-story house with a porch, surrounded by a garden with various plants and flowers.
A garden pathway with a metal archway and plants on either side.
A kitchen with grey cabinets, a coffee maker, and a window with a view of trees.
A garden with plants in wire cages, a wooden bench, and a dark sky.
A modern kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and wooden cabinetry.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors

    Guests love the outdoor space here.

  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View map
Highland Park, IL
  • Place, Moraine Park
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Highland Park Country Club
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Naval Base Great Lakes
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Airport, Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Common area 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 11:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

No pets allowed

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to 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 # 3139975vb
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Map
Highland Park, IL

What's nearby

  • Moraine Park - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Highland Park Country Club - 4 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Naval Base Great Lakes - 20 min drive - 17.2 km
  • Northwestern University - 24 min drive - 21.8 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

  • ‪NorthShore Highland Park Hospital - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Tala Coffee Roasters - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Michael's Chicago Style Red Hots - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Wooden Nickel - ‬9 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 is parking at Re-imagined 1880's cottage walking distance to Highwood, Metra, Lake Michigan?

On-site 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?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 30 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property is fantastic and the host Daniel is outstanding. Here’s some reasons why you should book this place; adorable 19th century cottage redone to modern standards, great garden thanks to Jordan, perfect location for walking to dining in Knollwood, the train station and Tala coffee, near to open lands and hiking trails. If you need a place to stay to visit Northshore family or friends … this is it.
Stayed 28 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very safe, clean, charming and close to all Chicago activities. I would highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were incredibly welcoming and so kind. The cottage is beautifully renovated, absolutely charming, and in a great location. We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This home is not too little, not too much, it is just enough. The cottage is charming and the gardens beautiful. It really felt like home. Daniel and Jordan are welcoming and helpful. They do some very special things for their guests ---I must mention Jordon's beautiful garden flower arrangement --but the coffee and sparkling water were also very much appreciated. I highly recommend this home. I hope to go back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Home, cosy.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Property, Great Location

Terrific home in a great location.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing lil cottage

This was the cutest lil cottage. It had everything we needed, the beds were comfy! I just loved it!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
well equipped. thoughtful touches
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Awesome!

Beautiful and comfortable home and yard. Great hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Charming cottage, perfect for rest and planning

I had a wonderful stay at the cottage. It is designed so beautifully and intentionally. It’s cozy and also has high end lighting, kitchen and bath. The bed is comfy and it was an excellent location. Will return!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful

Lovely home, thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Clean and comfortable!

The home was clean and comfortable. It had everything we needed to enjoy our stay plus a few extras. It’s in walking distance to some friends and to shops and restaurants, so I am sure we will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

August Stay

Was a pleasure staying at this cottage. Home is adorable, and the back yard is a true statement piece! Hosts were very helpful and accommodating! You will not be disappointed!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful cottage

We had a very pleasant stay at the cottage. Everything was in top shape, and Daniel was in constant communication. We'll be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Family Trip

Took a trip with 4 and 6 year old. The house was perfect! We felt safe, had space, and all enjoyed the garden!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

LOVED IT!

The house is a beautiful historic cottage that has been both updated and still preserves the historic charm at the same time. The gardens are beautiful and relaxing. The hosts are welcoming, thoughtful, and very kind. It was the perfect house to spend a long weekend in. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Lovely!

I truly think this is the nicest rental we've ever stayed at. The space is so thoughtfully and beautifully furnished. The kitchen was set up so well, there were cute notes everywhere giving tips on how to use everything, and the outdoor space was enviable. Also, the owners were across the street, which was great to know in case we needed anything (which we didn't!). It was perfect for my family.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect

We had such a nice stay at this beautiful cottage. Sleeping arrangements were so comfortable. Awesome back yard garden growing fresh vegetables. Host was available if we needed anything. Location perfect for visiting downtown Chicago, lake views & neighboring states. We had such a nice time!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy cottage on the North Shore

What a lovely stay at Mere Cottage in Highwood! Old world charm updated with all the modern amenities. Walking distance to coffee, great restaurants, Lake Michigan and the metro to enjoy the city. Host was super responsive and provided suggestions for enjoying the area. Will definitely be back!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful cottage in great location

We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful cottage! The owners are incredibly thoughtful and communicative and have thought of everything! The cottage is impeccably decorated and maintained and is very charming. Check in and out was seamless. The location is great and easily walkable to a park and playground and many wonderful restaurants. I highly recommend a stay at this lovely cottage!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful home convenient to downtown Highwood!

This was truly the most beautiful well maintained rental property I have ever stayed! Check in and check out were simple and uncomplicated. The beds were comfortable, and the location was super convenient for the event we were coordinating. Our only regret is that we didn’t have time to take advantage of the beautiful yard. Thank you again for being wonderful hosts!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

The perfect getaway

Perfection.This beautiful property has been so lovingly restored. My friends and I had a wonderful, relaxing weekend! It was delightful coming back from our Frank Lloyd Wright tour to our own tasteful “home”. There were so many thoughtful touches, like fresh eggs from their (off-property) chickens. We hope to return soon!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect Cottage Retreat…

This cottage is the perfect place to awake & retreat while visiting friends and places in Chicago. We were graciously welcomed by Daniel and our stay was fabulous. The cottage has been stocked with everything you could want or need. The neighborhood is quiet yet close to restaurants and shops in Highwood. We would highly recommend a stay here and look forward to returning! Definitely a 5 star property..
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Thanksgiving Week a huge hit with all!

Excellent location with charming, stylish and recently remodeled cottage. Very welcoming and a treat to stay there. Excellent communication with owners and we even had our favorite dark roast waiting for us. Although we didn’t have Thanksgiving dinner here, we had a few lunches and dinners and kitchen is well stocked. Had the weather been warmer we would’ve enjoyed the backyard for sure, thank you so much!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

A Very Special Gem

This is a small but very special gem of a house. Meticulously outfitted, spotlessly clean, and comfortable in every respect. The owners are attentive and generous, and very kind. I’ve recommended it to good friends who go to the Highland Park area, and I plan to return. It’s really lovely!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Daniel

Host profile image

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.

Languages:

English, Spanish

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