Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waukegan Great Lakes
619 S Green Bay Rd, Waukegan, IL 60085, North Chicago, United States
2-star hotel
Guest rating: 3.7 / 5
Overview
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waukegan Great Lakes is a simple, budget-minded 2-star hotel in North Chicago/Waukegan at 619 S Green Bay Rd. It sits about a mile from Highway 41 on a corridor with casual dining options. The hotel’s public rating is 3.7/5 from 559 reviews.
Location & Nearby Attractions
The property is positioned for quick access to Six Flags Great America, roughly 5 miles away, with multiple rides and attractions nearby such as Goliath, Raging Bull, X-Flight, Whizzer, American Eagle, Demon, THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity, and Little Dipper. Lake Michigan recreation is within reach, including Waukegan Harbor & Marina (about 3 miles) and Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park (about 10.3 km away). Other nearby points of interest include the National Museum of the American Sailor (about 4.7 km) and Independence Grove Forest Preserve (about 7.5 km).
Rooms
Rooms are relaxed and equipped with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffeemaker for simple in-room meals and snacks. Reviews commonly characterize the accommodations as basic, with some noting dated elements and smaller beds by typical U.S. expectations. Guests also mention comfortable sleep and strong shower water pressure and heat.
Breakfast & Nearby Dining
Complimentary breakfast is served in a no-frills dining room. Guest feedback indicates breakfast offerings can feel limited, with some travelers seeking additional options nearby. A local restaurant option in the area includes Liguez Brunch (about 2.7 km away).
On-site Services
Free parking is available, which is helpful for travelers driving to regional attractions. The hotel also has a fitness center. Pets are welcome.
Best for
This hotel fits budget-focused travelers who want practical basics like free Wi-Fi, free parking, and in-room microwave/mini-fridge convenience. It’s also well-suited to Six Flags Great America visitors, with the park and many signature rides within roughly 5–6 miles. Guests who prioritize friendly service and cleanliness over modern styling tend to find it a good value.
Travel tips
If you’re planning a theme-park day, the drive to Six Flags Great America and nearby coasters (including Goliath and Raging Bull) is typically around 5–6 miles, so having a car is convenient. Breakfast is included, but reviews suggest it may be limited—consider nearby dining along Green Bay Rd or spots like Liguez Brunch (about 2.7 km away). For lakefront time, plan a separate outing to Waukegan Harbor & Marina (about 3 miles) or Illinois Beach State Park (about 10.3 km).
What guests say
Reviews frequently highlight helpful, courteous front-desk service and a smooth, friendly check-in experience. Cleanliness is a common positive theme, with guests noting a fresh-smelling lobby/hallways and well-kept interiors. Sleep comfort is often praised, along with showers that deliver strong water pressure and good heat. On the downside, some guests describe the property as basic or dated, mention smaller beds, and feel the included breakfast can be minimal.
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