10 Best Places in Waukegan, Illinois To Visit By Charter Bus

Waukegan, Illinois is a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Michigan with a rich history, beautiful lakefront parks, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you’re planning a field trip, corporate outing, or private group tour, renting a charter bus from Charter Bus Rental Waukegan is one of the best ways to see all that this North Shore community has to offer. Our team makes it easy to book a bus rental for groups of all sizes headed to Waukegan! Just call 224-570-5620 to get started.

The Genesee Theatre

203 N Genesee St, Waukegan, IL 60085

The beautifully restored Genesee Theatre is a crown jewel of downtown Waukegan and Lake County’s premier performing arts venue. Opened in 1927 as a movie palace, it now hosts national touring concerts, Broadway shows, comedians, dance performances and more. The theater seats over 2,400 people in an opulent Art Deco space with stunning plasterwork, chandeliers, and excellent acoustics. Groups can catch a show, schedule a guided tour of the historic building, or even rent the lobby or ballroom for private events. Your charter bus can drop off and pick up right outside the main entrance on Genesee Street, making group logistics downtown a breeze. For a special night out, nothing beats dinner at a local restaurant followed by a show at the Genesee.

Waukegan Harbor & Marina

55 S Harbor Pl, Waukegan, IL 60085

With its scenic location on Lake Michigan, Waukegan Harbor is a hub for boating, fishing, and waterfront recreation. The marina features over 1,000 slips, public docks, boat launches, and a promenade perfect for strolling along the water. Groups can charter a fishing boat or sailing cruise, enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns, or simply soak in views of the lake and Chicago skyline. The harbor is also adjacent to the green spaces of Stiner Pavilion and the Waukegan Municipal Beach, which offers a sandy shoreline and summer swimming. Parking for buses is available in the large lots near the harbor office, providing easy access for school groups, tour groups, or anyone wanting a day by the water.

Jack Benny Center for the Arts

39 Jack Benny Dr, Waukegan, IL 60087

Named after Waukegan’s most famous native son, the legendary comedian Jack Benny, this community arts center is a hub for visual and performing arts education. The facility houses art galleries, classrooms, music studios, and a 250-seat theater that presents plays, concerts, and dance recitals year-round. School groups can attend matinee performances or schedule hands-on workshops in acting, ceramics, painting, and more. The Jack Benny Center is located within Bowen Park, which also features hiking trails, gardens, and a historic Civil War-era mansion. Bus parking is available in the park’s main lot, making it easy for students or tour groups to combine arts programming with outdoor activities in one stop.

Waukegan History Museum

1917 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087

For a deep dive into Waukegan’s past, bring your group to the Waukegan History Museum, operated by the Waukegan Historical Society in partnership with the Waukegan Park District. Housed in the 1858 Haines House, the museum features exhibits on local industry, notable residents like Jack Benny, and the city’s growth from a frontier settlement to a modern suburb. Guided tours can be arranged for student field trips or adult groups, often including a walk through the adjacent Lilac Cottage and a stroll around the historic Bowen Park grounds. With plenty of room for buses to load and unload, the museum is a must-see for history buffs or anyone interested in learning about Waukegan’s heritage.

Greenbelt Cultural Center & Forest Preserve

1215 Green Bay Rd, North Chicago, IL 60064

Just south of downtown Waukegan, the Greenbelt Cultural Center is part of the Lake County Forest Preserves and offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and community. The center hosts art exhibitions, multicultural festivals, environmental education programs, and private rentals in a modern event space surrounded by prairie and woodland. Miles of walking and biking trails wind through the adjacent Greenbelt Forest Preserve, which also features picnic shelters, a pond, and abundant wildlife. Groups can book a guided nature hike, attend a public festival, or simply enjoy a day outdoors. Charter buses can park in the large lot shared by the cultural center and preserve, making it convenient for eco-tourism groups, scouts, or anyone seeking fresh air and open space.

Ray Bradbury Experience Museum

13 N Genesee St, Waukegan, IL 60085

Science fiction fans won’t want to miss the Ray Bradbury Experience Museum (RBEM), dedicated to the life and works of the acclaimed author who grew up in Waukegan. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive storytelling that explore Bradbury’s imagination and his connections to his hometown, which he fictionalized as “Green Town” in many stories. Groups can arrange guided tours, writing workshops, or film screenings related to classics like Fahrenheit 451 and The Martian Chronicles. Located in a storefront on Genesee Street, RBEM is within walking distance of other downtown attractions and restaurants. Small buses can usually find curbside parking nearby, while larger groups may need to use municipal lots a few blocks away.

Waukegan Public Library

128 N County St, Waukegan, IL 60085

Far more than just books, the award-winning Waukegan Public Library is a cornerstone of the community offering resources and programs for all ages. Groups can visit to see rotating art exhibits, attend author talks or film screenings, or participate in educational workshops on topics from technology to local history. The library’s Children’s Department is especially popular for school field trips, featuring interactive play areas, storytimes, and STEAM activities. The building also houses a business center, computer lab, and meeting rooms that can be reserved for private events. Located in the heart of downtown, the library has a dedicated bus loading zone on County Street and is close to restaurants, shops, and other attractions, making it a great anchor for a day in Waukegan.

Bowen Park

1800 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087

One of Waukegan’s largest and most beautiful parks, Bowen Park offers 60 acres of rolling hills, wooded ravines, gardens, and historic buildings just north of downtown. Groups can explore hiking trails, play on sports fields, or enjoy a picnic under the towering trees. The park is home to the Jack Benny Center for the Arts, the Waukegan History Museum, and the Lilac Cottage, creating opportunities to combine outdoor activities with arts and culture. In spring, the park’s daffodil and lilac displays are a major draw for garden clubs and photographers. Ample parking is available for buses in the main lot off Sheridan Road, and the park’s central location makes it an easy stop on any Waukegan itinerary.

Field House Sports, Fitness & Aquatics Center

800 Baldwin Ave, Waukegan, IL 60085

If your group is looking for indoor recreation, the Field House at Hinkston Park is Waukegan’s top destination for sports, fitness, and aquatics. This massive facility includes a 77,000-square-foot field house with basketball courts, a track, and turf fields; a fitness center with cardio and weights; and an aquatic center with lap pools, slides, and a lazy river. The Field House hosts tournaments, leagues, swim meets, and special events throughout the year, and offers group rates for schools, camps, or private rentals. There’s plenty of parking for charter buses in the large lot, and the adjacent park features additional amenities like playgrounds, ball fields, and picnic areas. It’s an ideal spot for active groups or anyone needing a rain plan!

Downtown Waukegan Arts District

Genesee St & Water St, Waukegan, IL 60085

No visit to Waukegan is complete without experiencing its revitalized downtown, where historic architecture meets a dynamic arts scene. The Waukegan Arts District centers on Genesee Street and surrounding blocks, home to galleries, studios, theaters, murals, and creative businesses. Groups can take a self-guided walking tour of public art, attend an exhibit opening or live performance, or shop for handmade goods at monthly ArtWauk events. The district also hosts street festivals, food trucks, and pop-up markets that draw crowds from across the region. Charter buses can drop off passengers at designated zones along Genesee Street and then park in municipal lots east of the Metra tracks. With its walkable layout and mix of culture, dining, and nightlife, downtown Waukegan is perfect for groups looking to immerse themselves in local flavor.

Book Your Charter Bus Rental in Waukegan Today

Ready to start planning your group trip to Waukegan? Whether you’re organizing a school field trip, corporate retreat, wedding shuttle, or private tour, Charter Bus Rental Waukegan has the vehicles and expertise to make your transportation smooth and stress-free. Our statewide fleet includes minibuses for small groups, full-size charter buses for large parties, and everything in between—all available with premium amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. We’ll work with you to customize your itinerary, coordinate multiple stops, and ensure everyone travels comfortably and safely. And with 24/7 customer support, you’ll have help every step of the way. Call 224-570-5620 today for an instant quote and let us show you why we’re the top choice for Waukegan charter bus rentals. Your adventure starts here!