Wauconda was once a popular vacation spot for Chicagoans who sought to escape the city and enjoy the waters of the village's Bangs Lake. The village was named "Waconda," meaning "spirit water," by LaFayette Mills, who was a teacher in the town's little red school. Today, the residents of Wauconda enjoy a small-town lifestyle that features easy access to downtown Chicago via Metra commuter train service from the nearby Barrington train station.

Attractions:
Wauconda residents have many activities from which to choose. They can spend time shopping in Wauconda, or drive to Gurnee Mills, the world's largest factory outlet mall; relax in one of Wauconda Park District's well-equipped parks; swim, boat, or fish in Bangs Lake; golf at one of over a dozen public golf courses in the area, or enjoy the rare plants and birds at the Wauconda Bog, a national natural landmark.