Waukegan, Illinois: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever wondered what's in store for you in Waukegan, Illinois? This city, just north of Chicago, has changed a lot since the 2000s. Now, it's a place full of culture and fun for everyone. You'll find everything from the historic Genesee Theatre to the exciting ArtWauk event.

Looking for beautiful beaches or thrilling rides? Waukegan has it all. You can explore Illinois Beach State Park and Waukegan Municipal Beach. Or, head to Six Flags Great America for fun. The city also offers a peek into its history, tasty local food, and a lively arts scene. Get ready to see the best of Waukegan!

Key Takeaways

• Waukegan, Illinois is a lakefront city that has undergone significant revitalization since the 2000s.
• The city offers a diverse array of attractions, from cultural landmarks to outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities.
• Explore the historic Genesee Theatre, the monthly ArtWauk event, and the stunning natural landscapes along Lake Michigan.
• Experience thrilling rides and entertainment at the nearby Six Flags Great America theme park.
• Indulge in local flavors and brews, and discover the rich history and vibrant arts scene of Waukegan.

Iconic Cultural Attractions in Waukegan

Waukegan, a city in Illinois, is known for its rich culture. At its heart is the Genesee Theatre, a beautiful building from 1927. It was once a movie house and vaudeville stage, now fully restored to its former glory.

The Genesee Theatre is filled with luxury, from its heating and cooling to its marble and tapestries. It hosts a wide range of shows, from Broadway to comedy, making it a top spot for arts lovers.

In downtown Waukegan, you'll find a lively area with unique shops and a growing arts scene. There are many places to eat, from pubs to Caribbean spots, and even ice cream and hot dogs by the marina. The area is also home to ArtWauk, a monthly event with art, music, comedy, and street performances.

Genesee Theatre

Downtown Waukegan

"The Genesee Theatre is a true gem, transporting visitors back to a bygone era with its stunning architecture and captivating performances."

Outdoor Recreation at Its Finest

Waukegan is a gem along Lake Michigan's shores, offering many outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The Illinois Beach State Park and Waukegan Municipal Beach are top spots for exploring the area's beauty.

Illinois Beach State Park

The Illinois Beach State Park covers 4,160 acres, showcasing natural beauty. It has almost 7 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and a unique dune system with over 650 plant species. Visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, swimming areas, picnic spots, and the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center.

At Illinois Beach State Park, you can hike, birdwatch, or just relax in nature. The park has trails for exploring, hidden spots to discover, and views of the dunes and Lake Michigan.

Waukegan Municipal Beach

The Waukegan Municipal Beach is a hidden treasure. It's a mile long, with clean waters and natural dunes. It's great for swimming, sunbathing, kiteboarding, and sand volleyball.

The 400-acre park around the beach has concerts and festivals in summer. There are food vendors and Dockside Ice Cream by the harbor. It's ideal for enjoying a treat by the lake.

"The dunes and beaches of Illinois Beach State Park are truly a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's the perfect place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of Lake Michigan."

Family Fun in Waukegan, Illinois: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Just 10 minutes west of Waukegan, you'll find the popular Six Flags Great America. It's one of the top 20 theme parks in the country. Since 1976, it has had 15 roller coasters and over 50 attractions. Highlights include the 208-foot Raging Bull and the five-inversion Batman: The Ride.

Next to the theme park is Hurricane Harbor Chicago, a water park. It has a huge wave pool, slides, and the world's tallest water coaster, Tsunami Surge.

For a calm outdoor time, visit Bowen Park in northern Waukegan. This urban park has a long history, once a summer home for famous people like former Chicago mayor John Charles Haines. Now, it has old-growth forest, a ravine, and more.

The park is great in the fall, with trees showing off their autumn colors. It has the Waukegan History Museum, the Jack Benny Center for the Arts, and a skate park. There's also a splash pad for kids.

"Bowen Park is a true gem in Waukegan, offering a perfect balance of history, nature, and family-friendly activities."

Artistic and Historical Gems

Waukegan History Museum

The Waukegan History Museum is in the Haines House, a historic spot since 1843. It takes you back to the 1870s with its old furniture, wallpaper, and more. This makes you feel like you're in another time.

At the museum, you'll find cool items linked to famous people. There's a trunk from Jack Benny and the bed Abraham Lincoln slept in when he visited in 1860. These items let you connect with Waukegan's past in a special way.

If you love history or just want to learn more about Waukegan, don't miss this place. The Waukegan History Museum has great museum exhibits that show off the city's local history. It's like finding a treasure chest of historic homes stories.

Local Flavors and Brews

In Waukegan, Illinois, a craft brewery stands out with its German-inspired beers. A husband-wife team runs Zümbier Brewery, making it a top spot for beer lovers. They offer a unique and tasty experience.

Zümbier Brewery focuses on small-batch "biers." They have 22 beers always available and change up their seasonal ones. You can try the crisp Altbier, the refreshing Kölsch, or the rich Belgian Dark Beer. For those who love hops, their IPAs are perfect, and the Imperial Stout is a treat.

When you visit, the taproom's vibe is trendy and lively. Enjoy live music, trivia, and the smell of homemade popcorn. It's a place where you can try different beers or just relax with a pint. You'll leave loving German-inspired brewing more than ever.

Zümbier Brewery shows its quality and care in every sip. Visit to explore German beer traditions and Waukegan's craft beer scene. It's a local spot you can't miss.

Waukegan's Lakeshore Angling Adventures

The harbor and marina in Waukegan are perfect for fishing trips on Lake Michigan. From early April to early November, you can fish for salmon and trout during the best fishing seasons.

There are many fishing charters to choose from, like Captain Don's Charter Fishing and Lake Michigan Charter Fishing. These companies offer everything you need for a great day on the lake. They have top equipment and know the best places to fish.

Waukegan's lakeshore is great for both new and experienced anglers. It offers a top-notch fishing experience that you'll always remember. Book your fishing charter now and catch the big one on Lake Michigan.

Explore Nature's Bounty on Trails

Outdoor lovers in Waukegan, Illinois, can dive into the area's natural beauty. The Robert McClory Bike Path and Lyons Woods Forest Preserve are top spots for biking, hiking, and seeing wildlife.

Robert McClory Bike Path

The Robert McClory Bike Path stretches 26.5 miles through quiet, green suburbs. It's a scenic path for cyclists and hikers. It used to be part of the Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad.

This path offers a peaceful break from city life. You'll find parks and natural spots to stop and enjoy the calm. It also links to the Green Bay Trail and the Kenosha County Bike Trail for longer adventures.

Lyons Woods Forest Preserve

Close to Waukegan, the 345-acre Lyons Woods Forest Preserve is a nature haven. It has different landscapes like woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Hikers can see various wildlife in their natural settings.

The peaceful trails and chance to connect with nature make Lyons Woods a top spot for outdoor lovers in Waukegan.

"The scenic trails at Lyons Woods Forest Preserve and the Robert McClory Bike Path offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature."

Monthly Artisan Extravaganza

Downtown Waukegan becomes a lively arts center on the third Saturday of each month with ArtWauk. This event highlights the talents of local artists and galleries. It offers a mix of painting, sculpture, and more. Plus, there's live music, comedy, street theater, and tasty food from the city's food scene.

ArtWauk is a community event that brings people from Waukegan and nearby to enjoy the city's culture. It's perfect for art lovers and those looking to explore new things. This monthly event aims to amaze and inspire everyone who comes.

Discover the Artistic Heart of Waukegan

Walking through downtown Waukegan during ArtWauk, you'll see a lot of creativity. Galleries welcome you to see works by local artists. You'll find everything from city-inspired paintings to sculptures that push the limits of art.

But it's not all about looking at art. The event also celebrates performing arts with live music, comedy, and street theater. As you explore, try out the local food and drinks. This adds to the fun atmosphere of the event.

If you're a local or just visiting, ArtWauk will spark your senses and show off Waukegan's artistic side. Make sure to come on the third Saturday of the month. It's a celebration of creativity that you won't forget.

Conclusion

Waukegan, Illinois, has become a lively city by the lake. It has many attractions and activities for visitors. The famous Genesee Theatre and busy downtown are just the start. There's also outdoor fun at Illinois Beach State Park and Six Flags Great America.

This city is rich in history and has a strong arts scene. It's close to Lake Michigan, making it perfect for those in the Chicago area. Whether you want culture, adventure, family fun, or local food, Waukegan has it all.

Check out the Waukegan History Museum or the Robert McClory Bike Path for nature. Don't miss the ArtWauk events every month. Waukegan has changed a lot over the years. Now, it's a top spot for those looking for something different in Illinois.

Waukegan is getting more popular as a tourist spot. Its population has almost doubled since the 1930s. It's a place where people from all backgrounds come together. With its culture, outdoor activities, and things for families, Waukegan will make you want to come back.