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Cheap Hotels in Waukegan, IL

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Top Waukegan Cheap Hotels

Find out more about Waukegan

Discover cheap things to do in Waukegan

Waukegan, Illinois, offers an array of activities and attractions for budget-conscious travelers. Start your adventure at the beautiful Waukegan Harbor, where you can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan—perfect for a leisurely afternoon with the family. For art enthusiasts, the Waukegan Arts District features various galleries and public murals, inviting you to explore local creativity without spending a dime. Families will appreciate a visit to the historic Genesee Theatre, where you can often catch free or low-cost events and performances that showcase local talent. Nature lovers can head to the nearby Illinois Beach State Park, where hiking trails and picnicking spots provide a fantastic day out in the great outdoors. When it comes to dining, the area boasts several affordable eateries, such as the beloved Dengeos, famous for their hearty sandwiches and friendly service. For accommodations, consider staying near the downtown area where a selection of budget-friendly hotels are conveniently located, allowing easy access to these attractions while providing a comfortable and welcoming experience. With attentive staff and good value options, you can enjoy your stay in Waukegan without breaking the bank.

Find the best cheap hotels in Waukegan

Travelers seeking affordable accommodation in Waukegan, Illinois will find these budget-friendly hotels a perfect choice, offering great amenities without breaking the bank.

Courtyard Chicago Waukegan Gurnee

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Courtyard Chicago Waukegan Gurnee stands out with its excellent guest review rating of 9.2, making it ideal for budget travelers who still want quality. This hotel offers free self-parking and Wi-Fi, along with a complimentary breakfast to start the day right. Guests can unwind in the indoor pool or hot tub, ensuring a refreshing escape after a day of exploring the area.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its inviting amenities, the hotel features a rooftop garden for enjoying the outdoors, a 24-hour fitness center for those who like to stay active, and premium bedding for restful nights. Located conveniently near shopping and golf, this hotel combines affordability with a range of features designed for a comfortable stay.
  • Nearby attractions: The Temporary by American Place - 0.51 miles, Naval Base Great Lakes - 3.51 miles, Asylum Skate Park - 3.79 miles

Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For travelers looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on comfort, the Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Waukegan Gurnee is an excellent choice. With a strong guest review rating of 9.0, this hotel provides essential amenities like complimentary daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and spacious suites equipped with kitchens, ensuring a pleasant stay for budget-conscious guests.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include free self-parking, a hot tub for relaxation, and a 24-hour fitness center to keep up with workouts. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of nearby winery tours, shopping opportunities, and easy access to golf courses. The hotel’s welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful amenities make it a top pick for those seeking value in Waukegan.
  • Nearby attractions: The Temporary by American Place - 1.22 miles, Naval Base Great Lakes - 2.87 miles, Asylum Skate Park - 3.14 miles

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Waukegan/Gurnee is a fantastic budget-friendly option with an impressive guest review rating of 9.0. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and spacious suites with separate living areas, perfect for travelers seeking extra comfort without overspending. The indoor pool and fitness center provide opportunities for relaxation and exercise alike.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include free self-parking, accessible facilities, and nearby shopping options. The hotel also features a child-friendly window design, making it a safe choice for families. With a focus on value, this hotel ensures guests have a pleasant and accommodating stay in Waukegan.
  • Nearby attractions: Six Flags Great America - 3.72 miles, The Temporary by American Place - 0.15 miles, Naval Base Great Lakes - 3.93 miles

Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Waukegan

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget travelers, the Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Waukegan offers a delightful stay with a solid review rating of 9.0. Guests enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast daily, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes comfort. The indoor pool provides a great space to relax, making it a family-friendly choice without the hefty price tag.
  • Other amenities: This hotel also offers free self-parking, access to 24-hour fitness facilities, and convenient grocery shopping services, ensuring guests have what they need at their fingertips. Additional amenities include a terrace for outdoor enjoyment, a microwave in each room for easy meal prep, and daily housekeeping for a straightforward experience during the stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Six Flags Great America - 3.79 miles, The Temporary by American Place - 0.15 miles, Naval Base Great Lakes - 4.0 miles

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waukegan by IHG

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget-conscious travelers, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waukegan by IHG presents a solid option with a guest review rating of 8.8. This hotel offers free breakfast options daily, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free self-parking, making it easy for guests to enjoy their stay without worrying about extra costs. The indoor pool and hot tub add to the relaxation factor after a day of exploring.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include accessible amenities, a fitness center open 24 hours, and a microwave in each room for convenience. The hotel also provides a snack bar and housekeeping services, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests.
  • Nearby attractions: The Temporary by American Place - 0.73 miles, Naval Base Great Lakes - 3.61 miles, Asylum Skate Park - 3.92 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Waukegan?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Waukegan

  1. If you're looking to travel to Waukegan on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as . Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as . Staying a short amount of time in Waukegan is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Waukegan, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Waukegan, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Waukegan, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Waukegan like for travelers on a budget?
Waukegan has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. In addition to its well-known attractions like Lake Michigan, this destination is home to Waukegan SportsPark, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Waukegan?
Based on reviews, Red Roof Inn Gurnee - Waukegan is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free WiFi and free parking.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Waukegan?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Waukegan, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually July and August with an average temp of 68°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 29°F. Average annual precipitation for Waukegan is 41 inches.
What is there to see and do in Waukegan?
Waukegan attracts visitors with its fantastic dining options and lakeside setting, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions on your list, such as Naval Base Great Lakes and Six Flags Great America, and then make time for other wallet-friendly activities. Enjoy the outdoors at Lake Michigan and North Beach, or check out the area's cultural spots like Genesee Theater.
How can I get to Waukegan and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Waukegan can help keep you on budget. The most convenient airport is Kenosha, WI (ENW-Kenosha Regional), situated 16 mi (25.7 km) away. However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can arrange flights in and out of Chicago, IL (PWK-Chicago Executive), which is 17.8 mi (28.6 km) away. If you want to venture outside of the area, hop on a train at Waukegan Station.

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