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ArtPark: Waukegan's Creative Oasis

Discover vibrant art installations and community creativity at ArtPark, a unique outdoor gallery in the heart of downtown Waukegan.

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ArtPark is a miniature alley park turned vibrant art space in downtown Waukegan, Illinois. Founded in 1997 by local artist Jim Harrington, it features sculptures, gardens, and diverse art projects, offering a unique cultural experience.

A brief summary to ArtPark

Local tips

  • Check ArtPark's social media or website for information on upcoming events, workshops, and art exhibitions.
  • Visit during ArtWauk, a monthly event, to experience the park's vibrant atmosphere with live music and local artists.
  • Take your time to explore the art installations and gardens, appreciating the creativity and community spirit behind each piece.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in downtown Waukegan, start at the Waukegan Public Library at 128 N County St. Walk south on County St for about 0.3 miles until you reach S Genesee St. Turn right onto S Genesee St and walk another 0.1 miles. ArtPark is at 14 S Genesee St on your left. The walk should take about 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Waukegan Metra Train Station, go to the bus stop at 200 S Genesee St. Take Pace Bus Route 565 towards Gurnee Mills. Get off at the stop on Genesee St at Washington St (3 stops). Walk north on S Genesee St for about 0.1 miles to ArtPark at 14 S Genesee St on your right. The total travel time is around 30 minutes. A one-way bus fare is typically around $1.75.

  • Driving

    ArtPark is located at 14 S Genesee St, Waukegan, IL 60085. From major roads, navigate to downtown Waukegan and follow signs for Genesee Street. Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, such as Garage C at 225 N County St. Hourly parking rates in Garage C are $1.00 per hour. Metered street parking is also available, costing $0.25 for 30 minutes. Be aware of alternate parking laws enforced daily from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 a.m., requiring parking on the odd side of the street on odd calendar days and the even side on even calendar days; non-compliance results in a $25 ticket.

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Discover more about ArtPark

ArtPark, nestled in the heart of downtown Waukegan, Illinois, is a testament to the power of community-driven art. Originally conceived in 1997 by local artist Jim Harrington, ArtPark transformed a neglected alley into a vibrant, miniature park and outdoor gallery. Harrington's vision was to eliminate an eyesore and infuse life and art into the urban core of Waukegan. Over the years, ArtPark has become a dynamic space showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions. Visitors can find original Harrington sculptures, beautiful plants, and a wide array of art projects. The park serves as an engaging environment where creativity flourishes, offering inspiration and connection to the community's vibrant culture. ArtPark hosts various events, including the monthly ArtWauk, which celebrates local artists and brings the community together. These events provide opportunities for artists to display their work and share their stories, fostering a sense of unity and support. Though the physical location has faced challenges, including temporary closures due to demolition, the spirit of ArtPark lives on through community projects and virtual platforms. The hope remains to return to its original location and expand throughout Lake County, continuing to enrich the cultural landscape of Waukegan.

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