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Sweet Home Wauconda (Illinois)
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items Welcome to Wauconda: A charming small town nestled in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Come see all the things to do and places to go in Wauconda, Illinois, and the Lake County area.
Sections
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All About Wauconda
Restaurants
Coffee Shops & Bakeries
Shops
Health and Wellness
Fun Activities
All About Wauconda
An introduction to Wauconda, Illinois and the surrounding areas
Stroll through our downtown area, where you’ll find a delightful mix of unique shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants and bars that showcase the town’s welcoming atmosphere. Dive into our local culture at the seasonal farmers’ market or explore ...
Welcome to Wauconda: A charming small town nestled in northwest suburbs of Chicago
A beautiful hometown community and a great place to live
Wauconda, IL
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bangs Lake, a 306-acre glacial gem at the heart of Wauconda. Perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying lakeside dining with serene views.
Bangs Lake - Wauconda, IL
Official website for Lake County, Illinois
Lake County, IL | Official Website
Experience the nostalgia of Phil's Beach, a historic spot featured in "The Blues Brothers." Recently revitalized, it offers sandy shores, water slides, and family-friendly fun in a picturesque setting.
Phil’s Beach
Restaurants
Some of the great restaurants in and around Wauconda, Illinois
Lindy's is the place to go for fine dining, wedding events, and special occasions. A cherished lakeside spot offering American cuisine with stunning views of Bangs Lake. Enjoy a meal on their expansive deck or cozy up inside during cooler months.
Lindys Landing Restaurant & Marina
Deep dish, thin crust, and by the slice. Wauconda's favorite pizza place for families
Panhandler's Pizza | The Best Pizza in Wauconda!
A family-owned establishment known for its hearty American fare, including wings, burgers, and salads, served in a casual and friendly environment.
Uncle D's Bar & Grille
Offering a mix of American classics and bar favorites, J & D's is a local favorite for its relaxed atmosphere and satisfying menu options.
J&D's Bar and Grill
Whether it is thin crust or Chicago style, JJ Twigs has everything for the pizza lover
J.J. Twig's Pizza & Pub (Wauconda)
Indulge in artisanal, coal-fired pizzas crafted with fresh ingredients. SLYCE's warm ambiance and delectable offerings make it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
Slyce Coal Fired Pizza - Wauconda
A cozy spot known for its craft beers and inventive menu. The Side Lot provides a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
The Side Lot
Situated on the shores of Bangs Lake, Docks provides a blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment, all set against the backdrop of serene waterfront views.
Docks Bar & Grill
Dive into authentic Mexican flavors at Raul's Burrito Express. Known for its generous portions and delicious burritos, this hidden gem is perfect for a hearty meal that won't break the bank.
Raul's Original Burrito Express
Enjoy classic American fare with a twist at Deacon's. From their famous fish fry to mouth-watering burgers, this spot offers great food and a cozy atmosphere.
Deacon's Restaurant & Bar
They serve you delicious breakfast dishes, including hot skillets, homemade Greek yogurt, healthy oatmeal and fruit bowls, and of course delicious pancakes, waffles, and more!
Honeybella Pancakes & Cafe
Savor the taste of Mexico with Main Street Tacos' authentic dishes. Their fish tacos and grande burritos are a must-try for any taco lover.
Main Street Tacos
For BBQ enthusiasts, Little Rock Stock Cafe serves up smoky, flavorful meats and tasty sides. Don't miss their burnt ends and smoked mac n cheese.
Little Rock Stock Cafe
Experience a vibrant nightlife at Strawberry Moon. With live music, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the local scene.
Strawberry Moon
Coffee Shops & Bakeries
The best coffee, tea, and baked goodies found around Wauconda, Illinois
A cozy café perfect for starting your day with a freshly brewed coffee and a selection of pastries or light breakfast options.
Honey Hill Coffee Company | Wauconda IL
Indulge in a variety of baked goods and specialty coffees at this charming bakery, known for its warm service and delightful treats.
Whisk Bakery and Coffee Shop – A charming "from-scratch ...
Shops
Wauconda has a lot of unique stores, so let's go shopping!
There are so many proven benefits for having plants in your home, Mis Plantitas makes it fun and easy to keep all of your plant babies alive, no matter what color your thumb is. A good foundation will grow into years of beautiful greenery in any spac...
Mis Plantitas
Step into a world of nostalgia at this antique haven. Browse through an eclectic assortment of English and American antiques, where each piece tells its own story.
Whippletree Farms Antiques
Discover unique fashion and accessories at Threads Boutique. Located in downtown Wauconda, this charming shop offers a curated selection that reflects the spirit of the community.
Threads Boutique
An antique and gift boutique that carries antiques, collectibles, new gift items, and accessories with a romantic vintage flair. They also offer vintage paper, photos, and postcards.
At the Green Bench Antiques
Specializing in Pedego Electric Bikes, live music, great food, a full bar, video gaming, kayaks, paddle boards, snowshoes, and bike rentals. It's a hub of fun and adventure.
Main Street Outfitter
A full-service jewelry store offering quality and service trusted for over 67 years. They provide retail sales of diamonds, gemstones, gold, silver, giftware, and watches, along with expert jewelry repair and appraisals.
Leonard's Jewelry
Health and Wellness
Take the time to relax and fill your life with health and wellness. From skincare and massage therapy to yoga and energy healing.
Silver Lotus Yoga offers a variety of classes tailored to participants, incorporating mindfulness, movement, breathwork, and meditation techniques. They also host workshops, wellness training, and special events.
Silver Lotus Yoga
Offering body work, massage, and acupressure, 365 Health Center is dedicated to helping you relax and rejuvenate.
365 Health Center
A day spa providing skincare treatments to help you look and feel your best.
A New Dawn of Skincare
Fun Activities
Engage in memorable experiences
Explore Lake County's largest forest preserve, boasting trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities. Discover the beauty of nature across prairies, woodlands, and wetlands.
Lakewood Forest Preserve - Fort Hill Trail
Embark on a prehistoric adventure at this nearby attraction. Encounter life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and engage in interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages.
Jurassic Gardens - Volo
Explore a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles at Volo Antique Malls. With 300 dealers and miles of aisles, it's a paradise for antique lovers.
Volo Antique Malls
Events
Special events hosted on Main Street in downtown Wauconda, Illinois
Come out of hibernation and get back outside! Visit one of our local natural areas. Enjoy a self-guided storywalk and activity, then explore the bog.
Spring Storywalk at Volo Bog - Mar 21, 2025
A lively springtime event that invites participants of all ages to join in a festive fun run or walk. Dressed in their best bunny-themed attire, families and friends enjoy a scenic route, laughter, and camaraderie.
Wauconda Bunny Hop
A heartfelt tribute to honor the men and women who have served our country. The parade features local veterans, community groups, bands, and patriotic displays, creating a meaningful and reflective atmosphere.
Wauconda Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony 5.26.2025
The Village of Wauconda’s family-friendly Cruise Nights are free to cruisers and spectators. Each Cruise Night frequently attracts over 500 vehicles per event. 3rd Tuesday of the Month from June – August
Wauconda Cruise Night Updates
June 26-29, 2025 at Cook Park - Wauconda Fest is an annual community celebration in Wauconda, Illinois, featuring live music, carnival rides, food vendors, games, and family-friendly activities.
Wauconda Fest
July 3rd at Cook Park - Bring your family and friends to Cook Park to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, music, food and drinks. Our festivities begin at 6:00 pm and fireworks will begin at dusk.
Wauconda Community Fireworks
From July through September on Main Street. Fresh produce, flowers, meats, bread, sweet treats, food vendors, local artisans, Chamber Cheer Bar, and sidewalk sales by area shops.
Wauconda Farmers Market
Kids Race: July 26, 2025, Adult Race: July 27, 2025 – An annual event featuring swimming, biking, and running races. Participants of all ages and skill levels can compete in a supportive community environment.
Wauconda Triathlons
August 5th, 2025 – An annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live.
National Night Out 2025 - Wauconda, IL
August 30, 2025 – An annual event featuring live music on two stages, abundant food and drinks, creating a lively evening of music and community celebration.
Wauconda Street Dance
September 13th, 2025 – Offers a vibrant atmosphere where the community can come together to enjoy performances, delicious food, and activities that highlight the Latin heritage and diversity.
Wauconda Latin Heritage Fest
October 25, 2025 – Enjoy a fun filled day full of spooky thrills, and CANDY! Visit each vendor booth and business along Main Street for a special treat and enjoy fun activities.
Trick or Treat on Main Street - Wauconda Park District
November 27, 2025 -- An annual Thanksgiving event where participants run or walk to support a local charity.
Wauconda Turkey Trot 2025
December 6, 2025 – Join us for this yearly holiday festival in Wauconda the first weekend in December.
HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY (free and family friendly)