Living in Illinois, you may think that visiting a coastal town would require a plane ride to the East or West Coasts. It's true that there are tons of incredible small towns in Illinois, but many of them are surrounded by a sea of farmland, not water. But with access to Lake Michigan, part of Northwestern Illinois becomes a stunning shoreline dotted with cities, beaches, and culture where one of the best coastal towns in America can be found.
Waukegan, Illinois is a suburb located along the North Shore portion of Lake Michigan, about an hour north of Chicago. In 2021, its population was about 88,600, making it a bustling mid-size city, but with plenty of small-town charm.
Its proximity to Lake Michigan — aka the Illinois Ocean — is a defining feature of life here.
Waukegan Municipal Beach offers 400 acres of gorgeous lakefront, complete with sandy beaches and green space for recreation.
The beach includes a full mile of sand and natural sand dunes — some of the only ones left in the area. Mixed with tall grasses, the sound of rolling waves, and a cool lakeside breeze, this Midwestern town quickly transforms into a coastal gem.
The waterfront also features a 1,000-slip marina for those who want to venture out further into the lake.
At sunset, the sky is lit like a watercolor painting, and its pier is a popular place for locals to soak in the picturesque scene.
Even in winter, the beach is alive as a frozen playground.
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And as any great coastal city would have, cute local restaurants are there to feed hungry beach-goers. One favorite is Dockside Dogs, located at 46 E. Madison St., which serves up handheld classics such as hot dogs, Italian beef, pulled pork, and Polish sausage, as well as refreshing drinks.
I'm always reaching for a lemonade on a hot summer day!
Waukegan also offers a rich arts and cultural scene, with boutique shops, dining, and annual festivals. Many high-profile performers also like to stop by the historic Genesee Theatre, located at 203 N. Genesee St.
You can also find colorful and creative art throughout the downtown area.
The coastal town is also full of stunning historic homes and incredible architecture. In the Near North Historic District is the John B. Leonard House, which dates back to the late 1800s.
So, do you think Waukegan, Illinois is one of the best coastal towns in America? If you've ever been, what's your favorite thing to do there? Those looking to travel, will you add it to your bucket list? What is your favorite coastal spot in Illinois? Tell us in the comments! Plan your visit to the North Shore by checking out the City of Waukegan website and the City of Waukegan Facebook page! And while you're in town, check out this mouthwatering thin-crust pizza paradise beloved by locals.
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