The best arts & culture spots in Lake County

“Just down the road in Waukegan’s Art District, Dandelion Gallery & Studio mixes rotating exhibitions with hands-on workshops and wellness sessions, plus lively ArtWauk nights where you can meet the makers. Great spot to support Lake County artists, join a community project, and leave buzzing with ideas.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, October 11, 2026

“/The Disney Gallery is a legit, fully licensed destination for Disney Fine Art limited editions and originals, plus Chuck Jones, Star Wars, DC and Marvel. They even land the occasional Edition #1 or AP, so Mundelein collectors might actually win a treasure hunt.”

From the Mundelein newsletter, September 11, 2026

“, and international artists. They also team with the Waukegan Printmakers Association for classes from beginner to expert, plus originals, prints, and wearable art worth a short hop from Gurnee.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, October 13, 2026

“Dave Strasser's Freestyle Academy of MMA runs its South Gym right here in Waukegan, an elite setup for jiu jitsu, wrestling, boxing, and Thai boxing under one roof. Bring your grit, pick your discipline, and level up with purpose.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Kapheim Studio Artist Thom Kapheim is a Lake County lifer turning out sculptures, drawings, pastels, and serious printmaking chops (woodcuts, etchings, mezzotints, the works), plus a quirky Wunderkammer to explore.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Set inside a former Soo Line depot, Mundelein Heritage Museum spotlights our local story with railroad memorabilia, a one-room schoolroom replica, pioneer tools, maps, photos, and rotating displays on nearby areas like Diamond Lake and Ivanhoe. Quick visit, big dose of Mundelein pride.”

From the Wheeling newsletter, September 10, 2026

“If you haven’t popped into Waukegan History Museum at the Carnegie yet, make it your midweek brain break. Thoughtfully curated exhibits and presentations dig into hometown stories, surprising photos and everyday legends that make Waukegan... well, Waukegan, and you’ll leave with at least one “I never knew that” fact.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Three Brothers Theatre keeps Waukegan's creative pulse going with intimate, live performances that feel close-up in the best way. From Mainstage productions to The Lab shows and education programs, it's a homegrown spot where local stories land laughs, feels, and the occasional goosebump.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, October 9, 2026

“From Ice Age origins to today, Waukegan History Museum brings our city’s story to life in a beautifully restored landmark, featuring Ray Bradbury’s personal book collection and rotating exhibits. Catch Threads of Greatness through September 27, 2026, then swing by Haines House to see the bed Abraham Lincoln slept on.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, September 24, 2026

“The African American Museum at the England Manor brings powerful stories, rare artifacts, and community voices together through guided tours, special exhibits, and events. They even help you start your genealogy journey, so you can connect the dots from Waukegan to your own family narrative.”

From the Waukegan newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Jeeps, planes, tanks & rare military vehicles are on view indoors & outdoors at an 8-acre site.”