Background

Waukegan Harbor & Marina: A Lakeside Gem

Experience the best of Lake Michigan at Waukegan Harbor & Marina: boating, fishing, recreation, and stunning lakefront views await!

4.6

Waukegan Harbor & Marina, located on Lake Michigan about an hour north of Chicago, offers a wide range of boating facilities and recreational activities. With a history as a bustling port and a modern array of amenities, it's a destination for boaters, anglers, and visitors seeking a lakeside experience.

A brief summary to Waukegan Harbor & Marina

Local tips

  • Check the Waukegan Harbor website for information on events, fishing charters, and slip availability.
  • Take a stroll along the harbor promenade for scenic views of Lake Michigan and the boats.
  • Visit the harbor during the extended season (April 1 - November 1) to enjoy the lakefront without the summer crowds.
  • Consider booking a fishing charter for a chance to catch salmon and trout on Lake Michigan.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Waukegan Harbor & Marina is within walking distance of the Waukegan Metra station, which is on the Union Pacific/North Line from Chicago's Ogilvie Transportation Center. From the Metra station, it's about a 10-15 minute walk east towards the lakefront. Metra tickets vary depending on distance, but a one-way fare from Chicago to Waukegan costs around $7 - $9. Check the Metra website for schedules and fare information.

  • Walking

    From downtown Waukegan, the harbor is easily accessible by foot. Head east on Washington Street or Clayton Street towards Lake Michigan. Follow the signs for the harbor and marina. The walk is generally flat and takes about 15-20 minutes from the center of downtown.

  • Driving

    If driving, take Sheridan Road (IL-137) to Waukegan and follow the signs to the harbor. Parking is available in several lots near the marina. Parking fees vary, with daily rates around $5 - $20, but may be higher during special events or holidays. Some lots offer monthly passes. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak season.

Unlock the Best of Waukegan Harbor & Marina

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Waukegan Harbor & Marina

Waukegan Harbor & Marina is more than just a place to dock a boat; it's a vibrant center of activity on Lake Michigan. Established in 1955, the Waukegan Port District oversees the harbor's operations, which have grown from a small trading post known as 'Little Fort' to a major recreational and commercial hub. The harbor boasts nearly 700 slips, accommodating everything from small boats to luxury yachts. It provides a full complement of services, including fuel docks, pump-out stations, laundry facilities, and a ship store. Anglers will find a well-stocked bait and tackle shop, and the harbor is known as a prime spot for charter fishing on Lake Michigan. Several species of trout and salmon are commonly caught. Beyond boating, Waukegan Harbor & Marina offers a promenade, a nearby public beach, and a park, making it a destination for leisure and relaxation. The harbor's location provides easy access to downtown Waukegan, with its restaurants and shops. The harbor also serves as a commercial port, receiving shipments of materials such as gypsum and cement. Waukegan's history is intertwined with the harbor's development. Originally a French trading post and Pottawatomie settlement, the area became a bustling port in the mid-19th century, facilitated by the arrival of the railroad. Today, Waukegan Harbor & Marina continues to evolve, balancing its industrial role with its appeal as a recreational destination.

Popular Experiences near Waukegan Harbor & Marina

Popular Hotels near Waukegan Harbor & Marina

Select Currency