Waukegan, Illinois, a city along the shores of Lake Michigan, carries a blend of historical depth and contemporary energy that’s difficult to overlook. With a population of just under 87,000, this northern Illinois community has long been one of the larger cities in Lake County. It's a place where industry and art have met for over a century, giving the area a character that feels both practical and inspired.
People often associate Waukegan with the renowned writer Ray Bradbury, who was born here and drew deeply from the city’s landscape in much of his early work. His boyhood neighborhood still inspires literary fans who come to explore locations that found their way into his stories. Beyond literature, the city is known for its lakefront, once an industrial hub and now undergoing significant revitalization. The Waukegan Municipal Beach, for instance, offers residents and visitors a stretch of sand with lake views that rival the more crowded spots further south.
Walking through downtown Waukegan, the legacy of the city’s architecture is clear. The Genesee Theatre, a restored 1920s movie palace, now serves as a performing arts center and a cornerstone for local entertainment. It’s hard to miss during a visit, especially on a weekend evening when crowds gather for concerts, comedy shows, or theatrical performances.
Despite its industrial roots, Waukegan has developed a surprisingly eclectic food scene. Big Ed’s BBQ is a standout—family-owned and known for its slow-smoked ribs and brisket that practically melt off the bone. Locals will tell you it’s the real deal, and the long lines on Saturdays seem to agree. For something a little different, La Canoa Colombian Restaurant serves up arepas and empanadas with a following of its own. Meanwhile, Anastasia’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge manages to blend hearty American fare with the kind of energetic crowd that makes it a popular stop on game nights.
Waukegan is also home to unique businesses like Greentown Tavern, which isn’t just a bar—it’s where musicians and artists gather regularly. It plays a role in keeping the city’s creative spirit alive. Shoppers often stop by Nightshade And Dark‘s Pandemonium Brewing, a local brewery offering craft beers with flavors that change seasonally. It’s the kind of spot that speaks to Waukegan’s evolving identity—one that embraces both tradition and reinvention.
There’s more to do here than most would guess. Each summer, the city hosts Scoop the Loop, a cruising event that pays tribute to the classic car culture that once defined the downtown strip. The community comes out in droves, not just to see the vintage cars but to celebrate shared history. And then there’s ArtWauk, a monthly art walk that transforms downtown into a live gallery with open studios, local vendors, and music in the streets. It’s a moment where creativity spills from the walls onto the sidewalks, offering something new every time.
The city’s cultural mix brings energy to its festivals as well. Mexican Independence Day celebrations, the Fiestas Patrias Parade, and the annual Fourth of July fireworks over the harbor draw diverse crowds and foster a strong sense of community. Whether it’s food, music, or art, Waukegan finds a way to express itself in color and motion.
Even with its focus on growth and revitalization, Waukegan hasn’t lost its deeper layers. Stories circulate about the former courthouse being haunted, and some longtime residents say the old Carnegie Library still holds echoes of the past. It’s details like these that give the city a certain weight—like it remembers everything that came before, even as it continues to move forward.
We’ve spent enough time working in Waukegan to understand how much care people put into their homes here. At B&G Remodeling, we’ve helped families modernize kitchens, restore aging bathrooms, and take on all the little repair jobs that can make a space feel brand new again. Whether it’s an old bungalow near Grand Avenue or a mid-century ranch closer to the lake, we know how to bring out the best in a home. If you're thinking about a remodel, need some handyman work, or just want to talk about what’s possible, make sure to contact us. We’re ready when you are.