You Won’t Need a Car To Explore This Walkable Coastal City in Illinois

Relying on a car to get around is no longer the way I operate, especially as a traveler. I'm happier walking an hour in any direction than getting stuck in a car. So when it comes to getting around, a city's walkability is a major factor for me. That's why this walkable city in Illinois is so often on the horizon. Flanked by Lake Michigan, Waukegan, Illinois, has everything you could want in a coastal sunset view without the dreaded traffic of other coastal cities.

The Best Things To See Within Walking Distance

A casual stroll from the banks of Lake Michigan will take you to much of the historic downtown. Meander from the water for 20 minutes and grab a photo with the Jack Benny statue to commemorate one of Waukegan's most famous residents. If Benny's connection piques your interest, you could walk another few blocks south, an 8 to 10 minute walk, to learn more about the town that made him at the Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie.

Or, if a museum visit is not of interest, head to the next block to pay a visit to another of Waukegan's beloved sons: Ray Bradbury. The Bradbury statue is just one block west. And smack dab in between them is Nightshade and Dark's Pandemonium Brewing, if you want to sample some of the city's brewing prowess. Whatever you're trying to get out of your day out and about in Waukegan, if you stick to the heart of the historic downtown along Genesee Street or visit Waukegan Dunes or Waukegan Harbor, you'll find myriad views and things to do. Shops, museums, and statuary await you along this downtown stretch.

What Makes This City Truly Stunning

Lavish Art Deco theaters are not just found in major cities. You'll find them hiding in plain sight in mid-sized or even small cities all around the country, like the Genesee Theatre in Waukegan. Without its colorfully lit façade, it would be easy to miss this stylish brick building. Yet inside is an opulent movie palace, built in 1927, and lovingly restored in 2004. Its gilded ceilings and walls were brought back to life with the gleaming of the chandeliers. Yet, like much of the city, it is a short hop away from the shoreline. Within 20 minutes or so on foot, you're right back at Waukegan Harbor or Waukegan Municipal Beach.

Tips for Visiting Without a Car

First things first, Chicagoans (especially North Siders like myself) have it easy for visiting Waukegan without a car. That's because the Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) with the Metra goes right to Waukegan on its way to Kenosha, Wisconsin. Once you hop off at the station on Spring Street, you are only a 5 or 10-minute walk from the heart of Genesee Street.

It's honestly easy to visit Waukegan without a car. This historic stretch isn't terribly long, only about half a mile. In addition to the beachfront, though, you can do as much or as little walking as you'd like. The best advice I could give is to take advantage of the city's proximity to Chicago or Kenosha to begin your journey with a scenic train ride. Take breaks, pop into the cafes or restaurants when you need to, and spend plenty of time enjoying the Lake Michigan shoreline.