Quick answer Waukegan is a cruise port in Waukegan, Illinois, United States. The nearest airport for car rental is Waukegan National Airport (UGN).

Waukegan is a small port in US Lake Michigan, United States. It is located on Lake Michigan; Great Lakes. Harbor type: coastal (breakwater); shelter: fair.

What are the best hotels near Waukegan?

Quick answer Top hotels close to Waukegan ideal for pre-cruise overnight stays and post-disembarkation rest before flying home.

Chicago/Waukegan Airport Hotel
5 minutes from the airport Get Directions
Chicago/Waukegan Airport Hotel
5 minutes from the airport Get Directions
Chicago/Waukegan Airport Hotel
5 minutes from the airport Get Directions

Convenient for early departures, late arrivals, or overnight stays near Waukegan.

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What train stations are near Waukegan?

Quick answer Reach Waukegan by rail using one of the train stations below — useful for travelers arriving without a flight or rental car.

Waukegan Station View Station
57th Street Station View Station

What is near Waukegan?

Quick answer Explore points of interest, attractions, and neighborhoods near Waukegan on the map below — useful for pre-cruise sightseeing or post-disembarkation plans.

What should I know before visiting Waukegan?

Quick answer Confirm distance to the port, allow extra time on cruise embarkation days, and book your rental car early during peak season for the best rates.

Confirm the distance between the airport and cruise terminal before booking.
Allow extra time for port traffic, security check-in, and luggage handling.
Compare vehicle size, fuel policy, and return timing before choosing your rental.
Book early during cruise season, holidays, and major port days for better rates.

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What time is it at Waukegan?

--:--:--

Current local time in Waukegan.

What's the weather at Waukegan?

61°F

Broken Clouds

Wind21 mph

Humidity59%

Updated9:20 AM

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Search Flights to Chicago/Waukegan

Compare flights to Chicago/Waukegan (UGN) across all major airlines.

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Find Hotels Near Waukegan

Compare rates from hundreds of sites for hotels near Waukegan on KAYAK.

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How do I get to Waukegan?

Train Stations

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Waukegan Station Rail connections and station info

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57th Street Station Rail connections and station info

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View all train stations in Waukegan 20 stations found nearby

Local Travel Information

Waukegan at a glance

Port: Waukegan

City: Waukegan

State: Illinois

Country: United States

Nearest airport: UGN

Frequently asked questions about Waukegan

How do I rent a car near Waukegan?

The most reliable option is to book a rental at Waukegan National Airport (UGN), the closest car rental hub. Compare rates above, choose your dates, and pick up the vehicle on arrival. Booking online a few days ahead usually delivers better rates than walking up at the counter.

What's the nearest airport to Waukegan?

The nearest airport is Waukegan National Airport (UGN). It's the closest car rental hub and works well as your pickup point before boarding or your drop-off after disembarking.

How long does it take to get from the airport to Waukegan?

Drive times to Waukegan from the nearest airport vary by traffic and route. Allow extra time on cruise embarkation days when port traffic and security checks slow things down.

Where can I park near Waukegan?

Most cruise ports offer paid on-site parking with daily and weekly rates. Off-site cruise parking lots are also available nearby and typically cheaper. If you're returning your rental car before sailing, parking isn't needed — just drop it at the airport.

What's the best way to get from the airport to Waukegan?

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility — you control your timing, can stop for groceries or supplies, and avoid waiting on shuttle schedules. Cruise transfers, taxis, and rideshares are alternatives, but a rental usually wins on cost when traveling with luggage and multiple passengers.

Can I rent a car directly at Waukegan?

Most cruise ports do not have on-site rental counters. You'll need to pick up your rental at the nearest airport. Use the search tool above to compare options at Waukegan National Airport (UGN).

What documents do I need to rent a car for a cruise from Waukegan?

You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name, and a government-issued ID or passport. International travelers may also need an International Driving Permit. Always pack your cruise documents separately so you're not searching for them at pickup.

Should I drop off my rental car before or after my cruise?

Drop off before boarding if you don't need a vehicle on disembarkation day, then take a shuttle, taxi, or rideshare to Waukegan. If you want flexibility on return day, rent a one-way that lets you pick up at the airport on arrival and drop off near the port before boarding.

How do I get the best deal near Waukegan?

Compare total price, pickup method, and local traffic before booking.
Cheapest isn't always easiest — check shuttle requirements.
Book early during cruise season for best availability.

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