How Far is Great Lakes Naval Base from Chicago?
The Great Lakes Naval Base is a United States Navy base located in North Chicago, Illinois, approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Chicago’s city center. The base is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes, which provides a unique training ground for naval personnel.
Getting to Great Lakes Naval Base from Chicago
Traveling to the Great Lakes Naval Base from Chicago is relatively easy, with several options available:
- By Car: The most convenient way to get to the base is by driving. Take I-94 East from Chicago and exit at IL-120/Lake Street. Follow IL-120 North for approximately 10 miles, then turn left onto Sheridan Road. The base will be on your right.
- By Public Transportation: You can take the Metra Union Pacific North line from Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center to the Waukegan stop. From there, take a taxi or ride-share service to the base (approximately 10-15 minutes).
- By Taxi or Ride-Share: Taxis and ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available in Chicago and can take you directly to the base.
Distance and Travel Time between Chicago and Great Lakes Naval Base
| Distance (miles) | Distance (kilometers) | Travel Time (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 48 | 45-60 minutes by car |
| 35 | 56 | 1 hour 15 minutes by public transportation |
| 10-15 | 16-24 | 20-30 minutes by taxi/ride-share |
What to Expect when Visiting the Great Lakes Naval Base
The Great Lakes Naval Base is a working military base, and visitors should be prepared for security screenings and restrictions. Here’s what you can expect when visiting the base:
- Security Checkpoints: Be prepared to stop at security checkpoints, where you’ll need to present your identification and vehicle registration.
- Authorized Access Only: The base is primarily for authorized personnel, visitors, and contractors. Civilians must have a legitimate reason for visiting the base and may need to provide proof of identification and authorization.
- Base Map and Directions: The base provides a map and directions to help you navigate the facility.
- Military Personnel and Equipment: Keep in mind that the base is a working military installation, and you may encounter military personnel and equipment on the base.
About the Great Lakes Naval Training Command
The Great Lakes Naval Training Command is the largest and most prestigious of the United States Navy’s training commands. The base provides training for enlisted sailors, officers, and cadets in various fields, including:
- Surface Warfare: Training for enlisted sailors and officers in naval surface warfare, including naval gunnery, naval aviation, and naval ships.
- Submarine Warfare: Training for sailors and officers in submarine operations, including submarine warfare and nuclear power.
- Aviation: Training for naval aviators, naval flight officers, and maintenance personnel in naval aviation, including fixed-wing and helicopter operations.
- Leadership and Officer Development: Training for officers and midshipmen in leadership and officer development, including basic officer training and officer career development.
Conclusion
The Great Lakes Naval Base is a significant military installation located approximately 30 miles north of Chicago. Visitors can get to the base by car, public transportation, or taxi/ride-share. While the base is primarily for authorized personnel, civilians can visit the base with proper authorization. The base provides training for enlisted sailors, officers, and cadets in various fields, making it a vital part of the United States Navy’s training capabilities.
