Information
Landmark: Waukegan Greg Petry SportsParkCity: Waukegan
Country: USA Illinois
Continent: North America
Waukegan Greg Petry SportsPark, Waukegan, USA Illinois, North America
Waukegan Greg Petry SportsPark is a municipal recreational facility located in Waukegan, Illinois, USA.
This park provides a range of athletic fields and amenities for public use.
Visual Characteristics
The park features multiple baseball and softball fields with clay infields and grass outfields. Outfield fences are typically chain-link. Bleacher seating is present at several fields. The park also includes a playground area with rubberized safety surfacing and various play structures. Open green spaces and paved walking paths are integrated throughout the grounds. Tree lines define the perimeter of many sections.
Location & Access Logistics
The park is situated at 4001 W. 21st Street, Waukegan, IL 60085. It is approximately 4.5 kilometers west of downtown Waukegan. Access is via 21st Street, which connects to Green Bay Road (IL-137) to the east and Lewis Avenue (IL-31) to the west. Ample paved parking lots are available on-site, accessible from 21st Street. Public transport options include Pace Bus Route 565, which has a stop near the park's entrance on 21st Street.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The park was developed by the City of Waukegan Parks and Recreation Department. Construction and development occurred in phases, with significant expansion and upgrades in the early 2000s to accommodate increased demand for athletic facilities. The land was previously undeveloped or agricultural before its conversion to a public park.
Key Highlights & Activities
Activities include baseball and softball games, practices, and tournaments on the dedicated fields. The playground area is available for children's recreation. Walking and jogging are possible on the paved paths. Picnicking is permitted in designated areas. The park hosts various community sporting events throughout the year.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available in a central building near the main parking area. Shade structures are present over some bleacher seating and at the playground. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the park. No on-site food vendors are present, but vending machines may be available in the restroom building. Water fountains are located near the restrooms and playground.
Best Time to Visit
For athletic events, the park is most active during spring and summer months, typically from April through October. Weekday evenings and weekends are the busiest periods. For general recreation, mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and less crowded conditions. Lighting for evening play is available on some fields.
Facts & Legends
The park is named in honor of Greg Petry, a former Waukegan Park District Commissioner who advocated for the expansion of recreational facilities. A specific local legend associated with the park is not widely documented.
Nearby Landmarks
- 0.8km East: Waukegan Sports Complex
- 1.2km Southeast: Adlai E. Stevenson High School
- 2.5km Northeast: Jane Addams Memorial Park
- 3.1km North: Waukegan Municipal Beach
- 4.0km East: Lakehurst Shopping Center