Discover the Rich History of Sports in Waukegan, IL

Waukegan is a city steeped in sports history. Its residents have been passionate about all forms of athletics for centuries from baseball to basketball, football to track and field. For anyone interested in exploring this rich sporting heritage, there are many places to visit throughout the city.

First on your list should be Bowen Park (1800 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087), which played host to some of the earliest organized baseball games in the area. This park was home to teams like the Waukegan Reds and other local clubs that thrilled fans with their play on its fields. The parks towering trees and rolling hills also make it a great place for a jog or bike ride.

A little further north lies Glen Flora Country Club (2200 N Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087), where golf enthusiasts can explore one of Illinois oldest courses established way back in 1905! But golf isnt Glen Floras only claim to fame; it hosted an event regularly called Big Four where teams from four neighboring cities would gather every year and compete against one another.

Next up is Shiloh Park (27th St & Magnolia Ave, Zion, IL 60099). What started as a small community picnic turned into something much larger when famed boxer Jack Johnson visited Zion in 1913. He drew such huge crowds that organizers had no choice but relocate his exhibition bout from downtown Zion out here at Shiloh Park instead! Today it continues as districtowned public space while hosting annual events like Pumpkin Fest!

Finally head over toward North Shore Health Center (2219 Green Bay Road) which sits near former location of Kuklas Sweet Shoppe once located at corner of Clayton Street and Genesee Street...which used to be considered the sweetest hangout in Waukegan for athletes and supporters. The shoppe was a popular social gathering spot and known for its homemade chocolates, ice creams, sodas, and other sweet treats. Athletes used to stop by before or after games for refreshments.

Overall, visitors can explore decades of sporting events that have taken place throughout this beautiful city from baseball played at Bowen Park to golf tournaments held at Glen Flora Country Club; boxing exhibitions featured at Shiloh Park and local eateries that catered to famous athletes in town over the years! Come experience an eclectic mix of history with modernday energy as you discover what makes the sports community here so unique!

Websites:

City of Waukegan: https://www.waukeganweb.net/

Visit Lake County: https://visitlakecounty.org/