The Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee tops the list with a 9.3 overall rating and perfect 9.5 staff scores. For extended stays with real kitchens, Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee delivers a solid 8.4 with a 9.1 location score. Both serve Navy graduation crowds and Six Flags visitors well.
Finding the right hotel near the Great Lakes Naval Base or Six Flags means balancing scores, amenities, and nightly rates — here’s every option ranked by what matters most: guest reviews.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 6700+ verified guest reviews across 19 properties in the Waukegan area to build this list, prioritizing properties with an average guest score of 8.1/10 and focusing on cleanliness, location, and value breakdowns.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall: #10 Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee→ Rates
- Best for extended stays: #4 Sonesta Simply Suites Chicago Waukegan→ Rates
#19 TownePlace Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee→ Rates - Best for Navy graduation families: #12 SpringHill Suites Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee→ Rates
#10 Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee→ Rates - Best pet-friendly: #15 Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee→ Rates
- Top-rated luxury: #7 The Inn On Sheridan→ Rates
- Best location for Six Flags: #8 Wingate by Wyndham Gurnee→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. La Quinta by Wyndham Chicago Gurnee | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gurnee, IL | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Baymont by Wyndham Gurnee | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Sonesta Simply Suites Chicago Waukegan | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waukegan Great Lakes | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Inn On Sheridan | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Wingate by Wyndham Gurnee | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Sleep Inn near Great Lakes Naval Base | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee by IHG | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Hotel Gurnee | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 12. SpringHill Suites Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago/Waukegan | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Comfort Inn Gurnee near Six Flags | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Waukegan / Gurnee | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Zion by IHG | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Hampton Inn Chicago-Gurnee | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Days Inn by Wyndham Waukegan | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 19. TownePlace Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews of the 19 Best Hotels in Waukegan, Illinois
1. La Quinta by Wyndham Chicago Gurnee
The Vibe
This 3-star La Quinta sits 2 miles from Six Flags Great America, pulling a solid 8.7 location score and an exceptional 9.5 for Wi-Fi. Guests routinely describe the rooms as clean and comfortable — one called it “quite clean and comfortable” for a quick overnight. The heated indoor pool is a reliable bonus after a day at the park.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with mini fridges and microwaves, confirmed by guest Q&A. The free breakfast draws positive marks — “good breakfast” is listed as a highlight. Parking is free on-site, which helps given the suburb location. Pets are allowed (charges apply), and check-in requires a credit card with a minimum age of 21. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies, so plan ahead if you’re traveling with a larger crew.
Choose this if: you need pet-friendly lodging with reliable free Wi-Fi and easy access to Six Flags.
Check Tonight’s Price for La Quinta by Wyndham Chicago Gurnee →
2. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gurnee, IL
The Vibe
Perched on Grand Avenue, this Country Inn sits under a mile from Six flags’ main gate, earning an 8.9 location score. Guests note the staff are friendly and “you had everything you needed.” The indoor pool and fitness center add utility for families burning off energy or squeezing in a workout before exploring the area.
What You Actually Get
Free parking and free Wi-Fi (scoring 9.3) are included. The “Wonderful Breakfast” is served on-site, and air conditioning is standard. Note: pets are not allowed here. Check-in runs until midnight, offering flexibility for late arrivals. The 700+ reviews suggest consistent quality, though facilities score a 7.8 — slightly below the overall average — so don’t expect luxury fixtures.
Choose this if: you want a straightforward, location-first stay near Six Flags without pets.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gurnee, IL →
3. Baymont by Wyndham Gurnee
The Vibe
Off I-94, this budget-friendly Baymont offers something you won’t find at most competitors: rooms with private Jacuzzis. One guest Q&A confirmed a “One King Bed with Jacuzzi” room type. The indoor pool and hot tub are open, per recent updates. At 7.3 overall, it’s the lowest-rated on this list — but for the price point and those tub rooms, it fills a niche.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking, pet-friendly policies (charges apply), and a “Good Breakfast” are included. Wi-Fi scores 8.9, and there’s a fitness center. The location score of 8.5 is respectable, sitting a mile from the Six Flags entrance. Military guests under 21 can check in with a valid military ID, per the property — a flexible policy others don’t match.
Choose this if: a private Jacuzzi after a theme park day is non-negotiable and you’re on a strict budget.
4. Sonesta Simply Suites Chicago Waukegan
The Vibe
This extended-stay property scores an 8.0 overall with an 8.8 staff rating, but the real draw is the kitchen setup. Guests confirm there’s a two-burner stove in each suite — perfect for longer stays near the Naval base. “Convenience to everything” as one guest put it, with Walmart across the street and easy access to the base.
What You Actually Get
Private parking is available on-site, and the fitness center is open to guests. Wi-Fi scores a middling 7.4, but the trade-off is having cooking facilities. The property allows pets (charges apply). Check-in starts at 4 PM, later than most. Groups booking 6+ rooms have different policies — worth noting if you’re coordinating multiple families for a graduation.
Choose this if: you’re staying 5+ nights and need to cook meals to save on dining out.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta Simply Suites Chicago Waukegan →
5. Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee
The Vibe
This 8.4-rated Sonesta property shines for Navy graduation travelers. “If you are here for Naval Boot Camp this is the BEST PLACE,” one guest wrote. The 9.1 location score reflects proximity to the base, shopping, and dining. The seasonal outdoor pool and “Very Good Breakfast” (currently a grab-and-go bag with water, cereal bar, and yogurt) keep things practical.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking, pet-friendly policies (on request, with charges), and a fitness center. The two-bedroom suites include a pull-out sofa bed in the living area — confirmed by guest Q&A. Wi-Fi scores a weak 6.5, so heavy streamers will want to hotspot. Minimum check-in age is 21, though active or reserve military can stay younger.
Choose this if: you’re visiting for a Great Lakes Naval graduation and value location plus breakfast.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee →
6. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waukegan Great Lakes
The Vibe
Just 3 miles from the Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, this 2-star property delivers where it counts: staff scores 8.8 and cleanliness 8.3. “The staff is extremely nice,” one guest reported. The on-site restaurant and free parking add value. For the price-to-proximity ratio near the Navy base, it’s a solid play.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (7.5) and free parking are included. Pets are allowed (charges apply), and there’s no age restriction — a rare flexibility. A fitness center and breakfast are on-site. Located on Green Bay Road, it’s within a 5-minute drive to the base and 15 minutes to Six Flags. The 7.8 overall rating reflects its budget-class positioning.
Choose this if: you need a no-frills, affordable base near the Naval base with on-site dining.
Check Tonight’s Price for Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waukegan Great Lakes →
7. The Inn On Sheridan
The Vibe
The Inn On Sheridan is the quiet standout of this list. With an 8.7 overall rating and scores of 9.0 across facilities, cleanliness, comfort, and value, it’s the most consistent performer. Located 1.4 miles from Illinois Beach State Park and 35 minutes from MKE, it’s ideal for travelers who want Lake Michigan access without the Waukegan commercial strip.
What You Actually Get
A fitness center, free private parking, and a shared lounge are available. Breakfast is included. Restrictions: pets are allowed on request (50 lbs or less, max 2 pets) with a $20/night security deposit. Check-in runs until midnight. Wi-Fi scores 7.2 — functional but not stellar. The 9.0 value score suggests you get more than the rate implies.
Choose this if: you prioritize consistency — this property scores 9.0 or higher in four categories.
8. Wingate by Wyndham Gurnee
The Vibe
This Wingate earns a 9.3 location score — one of the highest in this ranking. It sits 2.1 miles from Six Flags and 10 miles from Naval Training Center Great Lakes. The manager gets specific shoutouts: one guest noted “exceptional assistance of the Hotel Manager Mr. Ajay Patel” during a difficult trip. Cleanliness scores 8.6.
What You Actually Get
The heated indoor pool runs 6 AM to 10 PM daily — towels provided. “Good Breakfast” is included, and parking is free on-site. No security deposit is required at check-in. Wi-Fi scores 8.5. Note: pets are not allowed, and groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies. The property is near Gurnee Mills for shopping.
Choose this if: location is your #1 priority — this is the best-positioned property for Six Flags and the mall.
9. Sleep Inn near Great Lakes Naval Base
The Vibe
This 4-star Sleep Inn sits in Lake Bluff, 21 miles from ORD and near the Great Lakes Naval Base. Military families dominate the guest mix — “I attended the Navy graduation,” one wrote. The hotel offers military discount rates (confirmed in Q&A) and connects guests with a private shuttle company charging $10/person roundtrip to the graduation center. Cleanliness scores 8.3.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (8.6), free parking, and a 24-hour front desk are standard. The continental breakfast is included. Pets are not allowed. Room service is available. Groups booking more than 5 rooms have different policies. The 8.6 location score reflects its proximity to the base and easy I-94 access.
Choose this if: you’re a military family attending a Great Lakes graduation and want a budget-friendly shuttle option.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sleep Inn near Great Lakes Naval Base →
10. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Waukegan/Gurnee by IHG
The Vibe
At 9.3 overall, this is the highest-rated property in this guide. Staff scores 9.5, cleanliness 9.3, comfort 9.4, and location 9.5 — basically flawless across the board. Navy families rave about the graduation shuttle and live-streaming in the breakfast area. “The staff was super friendly and accommodating” sums up the consensus. It’s 4 miles from Six Flags.
What You Actually Get
A 55-inch flat-screen TV in every room, indoor pool, fitness center, and “Wonderful Breakfast” are included. Wi-Fi scores 8.5. The property offers Jacuzzi rooms (confirmed via Q&A). Free parking on-site. Minimum check-in age is 21. Pets are not allowed. The live stream and shuttle for Naval graduations are unique to this property among the list.
Choose this if: you want the best-reviewed property near Waukegan — this is the gold standard.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Waukegan/Gurnee by IHG →
11. Hotel Gurnee
The Vibe
Hotel Gurnee is a solid mid-tier pick, scoring 8.8 location and 8.4 cleanliness. The real draw is the breakfast buffet: eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, potatoes, biscuits and gravy, yogurt, cereal. It’s one of the most extensive free breakfasts on this list. Located 1.8 miles from Six Flags, it’s a practical choice for park-goers.
What You Actually Get
Indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and free private parking. Wi-Fi scores a low 6.4 — expect slower speeds. Pets are allowed (charges apply). Check-in starts at 3 PM, and the front desk is 24-hour. There’s no shuttle to Six Flags, so plan to drive. Some guest feedback mentions maintenance hiccups — the property scores 7.9 for facilities.
Choose this if: you care more about a hot breakfast spread than high-speed Wi-Fi.
12. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee
The Vibe
This Marriott property scores an 8.9 overall with a 9.5 staff rating — tied for best in this guide. Guests highlight cleanliness (“how clean it was even in the corners”) and comfortable beds. The complimentary shuttle runs to the ROTC/basic training center and local businesses like AbbVie and Abbott. Location scores 9.4.
What You Actually Get
Indoor pool, fitness center, and “Wonderful Breakfast” are included. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.8. The property charges a deposit for incidentals upon check-in (refunded at check-out). Minimum check-in age is 21. Pets are not allowed. The shuttle service is complimentary — a significant saving for Navy families. Elevator access to upper floors is available.
Choose this if: you want Marriott quality, a free shuttle to the base, and top-tier cleanliness.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee →
13. Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago/Waukegan
The Vibe
This Hampton Inn scores 8.2 overall with 8.6 for cleanliness and comfort. It’s pet-friendly (charges apply) and features an indoor pool. Location sits 3.8 miles from Six Flags and 30 miles from Loyola University. Guests praise the accommodating staff but note the property doesn’t have kitchenettes or a Navy base shuttle.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (8.5), elevator access, and a “Good Breakfast” are included. Parking is on-site. Check-in requires a credit/debit card plus a $30 incidental hold per day — no cash accepted. Pets allowed with charges. No age restriction for check-in. No shuttle to the Naval base. The location works well for both Six Flags and downtown Waukegan access.
Choose this if: you need a pet-friendly hotel without age restrictions and don’t mind driving to the base.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago/Waukegan →
14. Comfort Inn Gurnee near Six Flags
The Vibe
This 4-star Comfort Inn scores a 9.0 location — just 2.1 miles from Six Flags and 10 miles from the Naval Training Center. At 7.3 overall, it’s tied for the lowest rating on this list, but the location and pet-friendliness work for budget-focused theme park visitors. Wi-Fi scores a respectable 8.9.
What You Actually Get
“Wonderful Breakfast” is included. Pet policy: max 2 pets per room, allowed only in rooms with 2 beds, with a $20/night fee covering 2 nights (additional nights may cost more). Indoor pool. Minimum check-in age is 21, with a military ID exception. No age restriction for general guests. Free parking on-site.
Choose this if: your budget is tight, you’re bringing a pet, and proximity to Six Flags is the priority.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn Gurnee near Six Flags →
15. Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Waukegan / Gurnee
The Vibe
This Courtyard scores 8.5 overall with 9.0 staff, 9.0 cleanliness, and 9.3 location — a strong performer. “This was our second stay as a Navy family attending graduation,” one guest noted. The garden setting sets it apart from the strip-hotel feel of the Gurnee properties. Indoor pool, on-site restaurant, and pet-friendly policies add appeal.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (9.0), indoor pool, fitness center with 3 treadmills, and parking on-site. Pets are allowed on request (charges apply). The hotel is 4 miles from the Naval training facility. The restaurant next door (not the hotel) live-streams Naval graduations. No age restriction for check-in. Cleanliness and comfort both score 9.0.
Choose this if: you want Marriott consistency with a garden setting and easy base access.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Waukegan / Gurnee →
16. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Zion by IHG
The Vibe
This newly remodeled Holiday Inn Express in Zion is a dark horse pick. It scores a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi — the only property on this list to do so. Located 35 miles from MKE and 33 miles from ORD, it’s slightly north of the main Waukegan cluster but close to Illinois Beach State Park. Guests praise the “spacious and clean room” and “great complimentary breakfast.”
What You Actually Get
Indoor pool, fitness center, free on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi (again, perfect 10.0). Pets are allowed (charges apply). Check-out time is 11 AM, with late check-out available for a fee. The hotel doesn’t broadcast the Naval graduation, but first-floor rooms are available on request. Breakfast is included and rated “great” by multiple guests.
Choose this if: reliable high-speed internet is non-negotiable and you want a north-side base near the beach.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express & Suites Zion by IHG →
17. Hampton Inn Chicago-Gurnee
The Vibe
This Hampton Inn sits a 15-minute walk from Six Flags, earning a 9.0 location score. The seasonal outdoor pool separates it from indoor-only competitors — great for summer park trips. Staff scores 8.8, and the lobby is described as pleasant. Breakfast is limited but available for takeaway to your room.
What You Actually Get
Free parking, fitness center, and breakfast included (limited hot breakfast being phased back in). Wi-Fi scores a low 6.9. Pets are allowed (charges apply). No shuttle to the Naval base. Check-in runs until 11 PM — early arrivals may need to coordinate. The 8.8 staff score suggests attentive service despite the property’s modest 8.1 overall.
Choose this if: you’re visiting Six Flags in warm months and want a walkable, pet-friendly option.
18. Days Inn by Wyndham Waukegan
The Vibe
This 2-star Days Inn scores 7.9 overall with a standout 8.4 for cleanliness and 8.4 for comfort — impressive for its tier. “The property and the room were very clean,” one guest wrote. It’s 3.6 miles from Six Flags and 5.8 miles from the Naval Training Center. The location score of 8.6 makes it a practical budget pick.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (7.5) and breakfast (good breakfast included) are standard. Pets are allowed (charges apply). Maximum stay is 21 days before mandatory check-out. The property is about 5 miles from American Place Casino. No age restriction for check-in. Parking is available but specifics are unlisted — confirm at booking.
Choose this if: you’re on the tightest budget and want a clean, simple room near the base.
19. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan Gurnee
The Vibe
This new addition to the Waukegan Marriott family earns an 8.7 overall with a 9.3 comfort score — the highest comfort score in this guide. It sits 3.8 miles from Six Flags and offers full kitchens in suite-style rooms. Staff scores 9.2, value 9.2, and location 9.3. The pool opens from 7 AM to 11 PM.
What You Actually Get
Indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi (7.5), free private parking, and continental breakfast are included. Kitchens are standard in every suite. Pets are allowed (charges apply). Minimum check-in age is 21. Parking is available on-site (a booking glitch reporting “no parking” has been flagged to Booking.com by the property). The 50+ reviews are still limited — but the scores are stellar.
Choose this if: you want the highest-rated comfort at this price tier with kitchen facilities for longer stays.
Check Tonight’s Price for TownePlace Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan Gurnee →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#10 Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee
9.3 overall score, 9.5 staff and location, free Navy graduation shuttle, and live stream make this the undisputed best in the area.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Waukegan/Gurnee by IHG →
💰 Best Value
#5 Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee
8.4 overall with a 9.1 location score, free breakfast, suites with pull-out sofas, and pet-friendly policies at a budget-friendly nightly rate.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee →
🏖️ Best for Extended Stays
#19 TownePlace Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan Gurnee
8.7 overall with 9.3 comfort, full kitchens, and 9.3 location — ideal for stays of 5+ nights near the base or Six Flags.
Check Tonight’s Price for TownePlace Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan Gurnee →
How We Ranked These Waukegan Hotels
We evaluated 19 properties with over 6,700 total verified guest reviews, filtering for an average guest score of 8.1/10. Our ranking prioritizes guest satisfaction, location, and value — three factors that determine whether a stay feels worth the money.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews were considered
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Great Lakes Naval Base, Six Flags Great America, and highway access (I-94)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Waukegan hotels?
Yes, several hotels in this guide allow pets. La Quinta Chicago Gurnee (#1), Baymont Gurnee (#3), Sonesta Simply Suites (#4), Sonesta ES Suites (#5), Howard Johnson (#6), The Inn On Sheridan (#7), Hampton Inn Waukegan (#13), Comfort Inn Gurnee (#14), Courtyard by Marriott (#15), Holiday Inn Express Zion (#16), Hampton Inn Gurnee (#17), Days Inn Waukegan (#18), and TownePlace Suites (#19) all permit pets — most with charges. The Inn On Sheridan caps pets at 50 lbs and 2 per room. Hotels that do not allow pets include Country Inn & Suites (#2), Wingate (#8), Sleep Inn (#9), Holiday Inn Express Waukegan (#10), and SpringHill Suites (#12).
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and date across all 19 hotels, so there’s no blanket rule. Generally, the Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee (#10) and SpringHill Suites (#12) offer flexible cancellation on standard rates, while budget properties like Days Inn (#18) and Howard Johnson (#6) may enforce stricter policies. Always check the specific cancellation terms at booking — we recommend using free cancellation filters on Booking.com for the most flexible options.
What’s the best hotel near Six Flags Great America?
For walking distance, Country Inn & Suites (#2) is under a mile from Six Flags’ entrance. Wingate by Wyndham (#8) scores 9.3 location and is 2.1 miles away. For the best overall experience near the park, the Holiday Inn Express Waukegan/Gurnee (#10) is 4 miles away but offers the highest guest scores (9.3 overall) and a free breakfast. Hampton Inn Chicago-Gurnee (#17) is a 15-minute walk with a seasonal outdoor pool.
What hotels are closest to the Great Lakes Naval Training Center?
Howard Johnson Waukegan (#6) is 3 miles from the Recruit Training Command. Sleep Inn Lake Bluff (#9) sits near the base with military discounts and a $10 shuttle. Sonesta ES Suites (#5) is 5.5 miles away but popular with graduation families. SpringHill Suites (#12) and Holiday Inn Express Waukegan (#10) both offer complimentary shuttles to the base for graduations — the Holiday Inn also live-streams the ceremony in its breakfast area.
When’s the best time to visit Waukegan?
Summer (June–August) is peak season, driven by Six Flags Great America crowds and Navy graduation weeks. Room rates rise and availability shrinks. Spring and fall offer milder weather and lower rates. Winter is cheapest butp; some indoor pool properties like La Quinta (#1) and Wingate (#8) remain reliable year-round. If visiting for a Navy graduation, book 4–6 weeks in advance — the Holiday Inn Express (#10) and SpringHill Suites (#12) sell out fastest.
What’s the most walkable area in Waukegan?
Waukegan itself is car-dependent — most hotels sit along major roads like Green Bay Road, Grand Avenue, and Lakehurst Road. For walkability near the lake, The Inn On Sheridan (#7) in Zion is 1.4 miles from Illinois Beach State Park and walkable to a few local restaurants. The Gurnee cluster (Wingate, Country Inn, Baymont) is near Gurnee Mills mall and Six Flags, but you’ll want a car for grocery runs and dining beyond fast food.