Things to Do in Lake County, IL: Cities, Restaurants, and Local Favorites Near Waukegan

If you are looking for the best things to do in Lake County, IL, you have plenty of options beyond one-day trips for your visit. This area of northern Illinois includes several destinations you can explore, whether you are interested in the best restaurants, lakes, live entertainment, or the forest preserves. These different attractions are part of what makes people rent apartments in Waukegan and other areas of Lake County so attractive. Whether you want to spend a day at the lake, explore the downtown areas of various towns in the county, or try a new restaurant in the area, Lake County has it all for its tourists and residents alike. For more information about the area and the many attractions for residents and tourists, check out the Lake County government website.

Cities in Lake County, IL, Worth Exploring

There are many reasons why Lake County, IL has so many good things to do. Waukegan, for instance, has many activities for those who live here or who visit the area. Other towns, such as Libertyville, are known for their town and restaurant areas. Other areas, such as Gurnee, attract individuals interested in shopping. Highland Park, on the other hand, includes a variety of dining options for its residents. Overall, these different towns offer a variety of options for tourists and residents to explore, and there are 52 municipalities in Lake County, according to the county government website.

Things to Do in Lake County, IL for Outdoor and Cultural Fun

Illinois Beach State Park: Best Lakefront Nature Escape

If you are looking for something to do in or near Waukegan, Illinois Beach State Park is one of the best destinations. The park covers 4,160 acres and includes multiple units for visitors to explore. According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the park offers visitors options to fish, swim, hike, picnic, and even discover one of the last remaining shorelines of its kind in Illinois (where it used to be a beach). For those looking for a more scenic option in the area, this spot is one of the best.

Genesee Theatre: Best Live Entertainment

Anothee spot to visit in Waukegan is the Genesee Theatre. This venue hosts a variety of live entertainment for locals and tourists. Whether you are interested in seeing a rock band, a musical, or even stand-up comedy acts at the theater, this spot is a top recommendation for visitors to Waukegan.

Independence Grove: Best Forest Preserve

If you want to go somewhere that includes a variety of outdoor activities, try visiting Independence Grove in Libertyville. According to the Lake County Forest Preserves, the area offers hiking, biking, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and more. You can visit this spot to spend a day outside and enjoy some of the best forest preserves in Lake County, IL.

Dunn Museum: Best Historical Spot

For a spot that includes more cultural and educational activities, try the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This spot features exhibits, workshops, events, and tours for adults and children to enjoy. Whether you are interested in history or just want to take a break from the action in town, this spot is a top recommendation for tourists and residents.

Restaurants in Lake County, IL to Add to Your Rotation

The Board Room: Best Cocktails

If you are looking for a restaurant in Lake County, IL to visit, one of the best spots is The Board Room in Libertyville, which features a variety of craft cocktails and wines, as well as a menu of shared plates from different cuisines. This spot is one of the best for food lovers looking to dine in a more upscale location within Lake County.

Toluca's Restaurant: Best Casual Dining

For a spot close to Waukegan and featuring some of the best food in the area, head to Toluca's Restaurant. It features tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and other Mexican-inspired cuisine. It is open to those who live in the area and to those who are touring the area for food (and to see the attractions in Waukegan).

Live Near the Best Things to Do in Lake County, IL

There are many reasons to live in Waukegan, and one of the best is its proximity to some of the best spots for entertainment, food, and outdoor activities in Lake County. This is one of the main reasons properties like the Harbor Lake Apartments in Waukegan are available to those who would like to live near some of the best things to do in the county. Whether you are interested in restaurants, the theater, lakes, or forest preserves, Harbor Lake Apartments will allow you to live near these areas while still enjoying the convenience of Waukegan and its vicinity.