Children's Museums

Waukegan History Museum

Name: Waukegan History Museum
Address: 1917 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087, Waukegan, IL, US
Telephone: (847) 336-1859
Rating: 4.8

★★★★☆ 4.8 (19 reviews)

📍 1917 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087

📞 (847) 336-1859

🌐 www.waukeganhistorical.org

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

🕐 Hours

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	Closed
Wednesday	Closed
Thursday	Closed
Friday	Closed
Saturday	12–3 PM
Sunday	Closed

⭐ Want to stand out? Get featured ⭐

About Waukegan History Museum

Waukegan History Museum is a children's museum in Waukegan, IL. The museum houses Ray Bradbury's personal book collection, connecting Waukegan to the famous science fiction author who was born in the city. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 19 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Natural History Museum
Location: Carnegie building in Waukegan
Highlights: Ray Bradbury book collection, Abraham Lincoln bed, late 1800s Haines House
Best For: All ages
Special Exhibit: Mary Neely: Across Time (May 16 - June 13, 2026)

💡 Did You Know?

⭐The museum houses Ray Bradbury's personal book collection, connecting Waukegan to the famous science fiction author who was born in the city
⭐The Haines House Museum features authentic late 1800s historic interiors and period furnishings, providing visitors with a preserved glimpse into Waukegan's residential past
🏛️The museum exhibits artifacts spanning from the last ice age to the 21st century, offering a comprehensive chronological overview of Waukegan's natural and human history
⭐The museum contains an Abraham Lincoln bed, a historically significant artifact connecting the museum to American presidential history

💬 What Visitors Say

💬Call ahead or verify operating hours before visiting, as reviewers have reported finding the museum closed during posted business hours. Contact the museum to confirm they are open before making the trip from out of town.
💡Take a guided tour when visiting - reviewers specifically praised the tour experience as a highlight of their visit, making it worth scheduling time for.
💡Plan to see the rotating exhibits throughout the year, including special exhibitions like 'Mary Neely: Across Time' (May 16 - June 13, 2026), which provide fresh reasons to revisit the museum.
💡The museum is well-maintained and suitable for all ages with exhibits ranging from natural history (last ice age) to modern Waukegan history, the Ray Bradbury collection, and historic house furnishings - allowing visitors to tailor their experience.
💬Inquire about membership programs when visiting, as the museum offers them and they may provide value for those interested in returning multiple times to see rotating exhibits.