Chicago’s North Shore isn’t just home to scenic lakefronts and charming downtowns—it’s also the backdrop of some of America’s most iconic teenage film moments. For fans of classic 1980s cinema, filmmaker John Hughes immortalized the North Shore in movies like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Breakfast Club, and Sixteen Candles. Now, thanks to a Chicago Star article (January 2024) titled “Save Ferris: Self-guided John Hughes North Shore Tour”, locals and visitors alike can explore the neighborhoods, schools, and iconic movie locations that gave these films their enduring charm.
A “Ferris”–Inspired Adventure
For residents in Optima Verdana® in Wilmette or other nearby communities, you may already be living among these cinematic landmarks without realizing it. The self-guided tour highlighted in the Chicago Star article invites you to hop in your car (or on your bike) and retrace the footsteps of Ferris Bueller and his friends—minus the worry of avoiding Principal Rooney, of course. From real-life high schools featured in The Breakfast Club to classic suburban homes used as filming locations, this tour connects you directly to Hughes’ teenage wonderland.
Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of 80s teen movies, the tour doubles as a way to delve into North Shore history. You’ll get to see how suburban life has evolved while admiring preserved architecture, manicured lawns, and local businesses that continue to thrive decades after the films’ release. For residents who appreciate a blend of modern living and storied tradition—key aspects of Optima® communities—this unique outing couldn’t be more fitting.
Key Stops on the Tour
Glenbrook North High School (Northbrook)
Known in The Breakfast Club as “Shermer High,” Glenbrook North sets the stage for some of the best-known scenes in 80s cinema. Though access to school grounds is restricted, you can still snap a photo outside or explore the surrounding neighborhood to soak up the atmosphere.
Home of Ferris Bueller (Long-time rumor: Highland Park)
While the address has always been a point of debate among super fans, driving past the rumored exteriors evokes the unmistakable spirit of teenage rebellion and comedic highjinks.
Highland Park Downtown
Many John Hughes classics used Highland Park’s serene streets as backdrops, capturing the essence of suburban life with a twist of humor and nostalgia. A stroll down these blocks might inspire you to craft your own comedic scenarios.
Shermer Road
Hughes frequently referenced “Shermer,” a fictional town in Illinois modeled after his real-life experiences growing up in Northbrook. Exploring Shermer Road ties together the overlapping narratives of his films and highlights the sense of continuity that runs through them.
Making a Day of It
Local institutions are well-known—think the Art Institute of Chicago cameo in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off—but the smaller, less-publicized sites along the North Shore offer a fresh perspective on Hughes’ legacy. Unlike official tours, the self-guided approach encourages leisurely discovery and invites you to linger in neighborhoods that Hughes brought to life on screen.
Before you set out on your “Save Ferris” adventure, consider grabbing brunch at one of the local diners along the route or stopping by a bakery that evokes nostalgic 80s vibes. Pack a camera (or just your phone) to capture the subtle changes each location has undergone over the decades, and perhaps bring along a fellow movie buff for lively discussions about which of Hughes’ films remains your all-time favorite.
Ultimately, this self-guided tour celebrates more than just film trivia—it’s a tribute to the suburban landscapes and easygoing spirit that define the North Shore. For Optima Verdana® residents and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a piece of cinematic and local history, this “hidden gem” experience offers a chance to forge new memories while honoring the classic scenes that continue to influence pop culture.
