TRAVEL - Heritage Corridor Illinois Visitor Guide

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City of Historic Pride

DINE

Embers (TAP HOUSE) • emberstaphouse.com

The interior reflects the hip sensibilities of the surrounding area while also staying true to its tap house roots. Featuring innovative lunch and dinner menu items and over 40 craft beers on tap, this multi-level restaurant offers the choice to observe passers-by on the rooftop patio or to step inside for a game of pool.

Mamma Onesta’s (ITALIAN) • mammaonesta.com

Translated to Honest Mother, the restaurant is named after owner Frank’s mother, a hard-working and honest woman, Erminia DeGrassi. The DeGrassi’s carry on their family tradition with unique Italian cuisine. Visit for great service, great food, no rush, and experience dining, The Italian Way.

The Public Landing (FINE DINING) • publiclandingrestaurant.com

Located in the 19th century historic Gaylord Building along the I&M Canal, this fine-dining experience offers classic American fare, fresh ingredients, attentive service, a beautiful scenic patio, and attractive banquet rooms.

Founded in the 1830s and located along the I&M Canal, Lockport features a historic downtown framed by unique, landmarked buildings. In 2018, historic State Street underwent major reconstruction, and beautification continues in 2019. Come experience State Street, and you’ll discover award-winning restaurants, unique retail shops, and oneof-a-kind museums.

Tallgrass (FRENCH) • tallgrassrestaurant.com

Repeatedly voted one of the best restaurants in the Chicago region, Tallgrass is renowned for their crustacean entrées and appetizers. Chef Robert Burcenski and Maitre d’ Thomas Alves have maintained the highest standards for cuisine, wine, and service.

Naked Sprout Organics (JUICE BAR) •

@nakedsproutorganics

Featuring organic juice and smoothies made from scratch with all fresh raw fruit and local ingredients. The lounge area is a great space to hang out, work, or relax. Live music performances, classes, coffee, tea, and more.

The Vegan Café (VEGAN) • hsvegancafelockport.com

This raw vegan restaurant offers a wide variety of organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free appetizers, entrées, and desserts. Located in the heart of Lockport, the café has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Stop in for a full meal, grab a snack to-go, indulge in a dessert, or pop in for a specialty beverage.

As a historic town located along the Illinois and Michigan Canal, a sense of community pride and commitment is strong in Lockport.

SHOP

Betsy’s (YARN & TEA SHOP)

ENJOY

The Canyons Disc Golf

27-basket course in Dellwood Park

Canal House Antiques Inc. lockportpark.org (AMERICAN ANTIQUES) Creative Wings Studio To the Nines on 9th Art studio featuring an innovative (WOMEN’S CLOTHING) space, classes, and retail tothenineson9th.com

creativewingsartshoppe.com

Thimbles (FINE FABRICS & QUILTING)

Hell’s Gate

thimblesquilts.com

Wildwood (GALLERY & FRAMING)

Top rated haunted house adventure open early fall through Halloween hellsgate.com

wildwoodgallery.com

Visit Lockport.org for more details.

Port Noir Wine and Martini Bar Featuring live bands Friday and Saturday nights and open mic/jam parties on Sunday nights theportnoir.com

Roxy Lockport

Performance and event venue featuring a completely remodeled interior with art-deco décor @roxylockport


Annual Events

Old Canal Days

Thursday, June 13 – Sunday, June 16, 2019

Old Canal Days has been held for over 40 years in Downtown Lockport. This momentous weekend is where modern entertainment and culture meets the historical pride of the I&M Canal. Each day features family activities and something to remember for everyone!

oldcanaldays.com EXPLORE

The Gaylord Building

This National Historic Trust site is made of 170 year-old limestone from the I&M Canal. Home to a museum, Gallery 7, and Public Landing Restaurant, this beautifully renovated space overlooks the Lincoln Landing. gaylordbuilding.org

I&M Canal Trail

reconnectwithnature.org iandmcanal.org

Illinois State Museum – Lockport

One of only four state museums in Illinois featuring rotating exhibits of past and contemporary arts. illinoisstatemuseum.org

Will County Historic Society

Housed in the original headquarters (built in 1837) for the I&M Canal, the society features a museum and historic Heritage Village on 2nd Street. willhistory.org

FEATURING Craft Show

Food Trucks

Antique Show

Car Show

Carnival

History Tours

Live Music

Parade

Cemetery Tours

MORE FUN EVENTS

Independence Day Fireworks • Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Join us in Dellwood Park to celebrate Independence Day with our annual fireworks display. Car Show & Food Court • Mondays, June-August A classic car show featuring food and drink vendors, live music, and fun family activities. Summer Arts Series • June-October

Featuring a rotating theme of public art displays and programs, live entertainment on the Lincoln Landing, and new this year, the Midwest Waterways Short Film Festival; this summer is planned to be the biggest year yet, so check the City’s website for details.

Comicopolis • Saturday, July 27, 2019 The White Oak Library presents the 5th annual FREE pop culture and comics festival. Featuring a costume contest, photo opportunities, free giveaways, workshops, special guests, and activities for all ages. Sweets & Savory Crawl • Sunday, September 15, 2019

Every September since 2014, we hop from one local favorite spot to another, enjoying something sweet and savory at every stop.

Christmas in the Square • Saturday, November 30, 2019 Join us for this holiday favorite featuring the annual tree lighting, pictures with Santa, carolers, reindeer, and family activities.

Visit Lockport.org for more details.


Illinois & Michigan Canal

— ATTRACTIONS — ILLINOIS HISTORIC ROUTE 66, A NATIONAL BYWAY

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ILLINOIS RIVER ROAD, A NATIONAL BYWAY

LINCOLN HIGHWAY, A NATIONAL BYWAY

Route 66

I&M CANAL HERITAGE CORRIDOR REGION

The I&M Canal Heritage Corridor offers many quaint I&M Canal Towns, miles of trails and waterways stretching f rom suburban Chicago all the way to the Starved Rock area. Camp or stay at four-star hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Explore Route 66, shop big names and boutiques, dine or play at the area’s exciting attractions and gaming venues.

I&M CANAL

Visit Us

— TRANSPORTATION —

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

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Credit: Instagram sharksluvme

CONTENTS

What are these? The first three icons represent the three unique product themes of the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) service region. The blue icon represents the towns of the historic Illinois and Michigan (I&M) Canal National Heritage Corridor. The red icon represents the towns/communities along historic Route 66. The orange icon represents the towns around Starved Rock State Park – Starved Rock Country. The purple icon represents our partners that may lie outside the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor which we encourage you to visit. Towns/communities may overlap in multiple areas, so make sure to read through the entire guide.

The Guide 48 See You in J-Town!

That’s Joliet

09 Connect 10 Heritage Corridor Ale Trail

52 Top Shops

14 Heritage Corridor Antique Trail

54 Summertime Sports

18 Heritage Corridor Burger Trail

58 5 Fall Fun Ideas

6

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Dining

120 Services & Organizations 140 Looking for Lincoln 144 I&M Canal Map

59 Best Bets

Route 66

Starved Rock Credit: Facebook I&M Canal

Credit: Instagram backyardtourist

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108 Accommodations

56 Ways to Play

I&M Canal Towns

Attractions

102 Retail

53 Eat Like a Local

22 Heritage Corridor Bike Trails

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Credit: Instagram kenziemuha

08 Getting Here

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60 travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


travel I &M C A N A L HE RI TAGE COR R I DOR

24 I&M Canal Towns

Boutique shopping & dining in historic downtowns.

I&M CANAL TOWNS 29 Dining With a Side of History 30 Canal Towns: Where History & Folklore Abound

I&M CANAL TOWNS

I & M CANAL TOWNS ROUTE 66 STARVED ROCK

travel

I & M CANAL TOWNS ROUTE 66 STARVED ROCK

travel

I & M CANAL TOWNS ROUTE 66 STARVED ROCK

Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, Pontiac Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, Joliet

Plan a visit to these must-see sights. Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

THE THREE GUIDE COVERS The cover of Travel highlights one of the following three areas: I&M Canal Towns – The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is a 0.59-mile paved path through what remains of the former second largest steel factory in the US. Starved Rock – Starved Rock State Park features many locations to hike, including a picturesque trail leading to French Canyon. Route 66 – The Illinois Route 66 Association’s Hall of Fame and Museum features the world’s largest outdoor painted Rt. 66 shield.​

ROUTE 66

34 Get Your Kicks on Route 66

Take a nostalgic trip down America’s Mother Road.

38 Roadside Eateries

Get the flavor of Route 66 at these delicious stops.

40 Visit Livingston County-Pontiac 42 Itineraries

Plan a visit to these must-see sights.

44 Explore 3 Scenic Byways

ROUTE 66

See exciting historic sites and stops along the way.

45 46 47

ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 ILLINOIS LINCOLN HIGHWAY ILLINOIS RIVER ROAD

60 Set Your Sights On Starved Rock

Explore the natural wonders and quaint small towns that make the Starved Rock State Park area a vacation destination.

STARVED ROCK 64 Look to the Sky

You don’t have to go far to find fun at these lodging spots.

65 Remnants of the Past

Explore the intersection of nature and history.

66 Itineraries

STARVED ROCK

travel

Visit any and all of these museums for a historical ride.

32 Itineraries

800.926.CANAL (2262) www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Plan a visit to these must-see sights.

68 6 Summer Adventures

Soak up the sun and fun of the great outdoors.

70 A Dozen Ways to Dine

Forget the chill and enjoy these outdoor thrills.

74 Visit Bureau County 75 Raise A Glass

Publisher: Robert Navarro Contributing Content: Canal Corridor Association, Jen Nilsson, Kate Meehan, Kendall Kramer, Kit Bernardi, Margaret Doyle, Randy Chapman Editor: Dan Mulka Design and Production: Chicago Design Lab PHOTO CREDITS Barb Ferry, B Max Dixon, Canal Corridor Association, Chicagoland Speedway, Chris Kreutz, Christopher Rowland, Chris Tocke, Dan Mulka, Debbie Mercer, Harley Perez, Harrah’s Casino Joliet, Hollywood Casino Joliet, Jackie Novak Photography, James Miller, Jeremy Anderson, Jimi Allen, Joe Balynas, John Boex, John Harrison, Justin L. Nelson, Kathy Casstevens, Kendall Kramer, Laurence Pearlman, Lewis University, Manuel Diaz Photography, Marcin Wichary, Margauxtee at Instagram, Mariellarenzi at Instagram, Maymorato at Instagram, Michael Lopez , Mosquitohawk52 at Flickr, Pam Broviak, Paula Guttilla, Peter Aimaro, Reflections by Tracy, Route 66 Raceway, Ruby Ying, Ryan Mitchinson, Skip Maskeri, Stelken and Associates HERITAGE CORRIDOR CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF President & CEO - Robert Navarro, Ph.D. Marketing Manager - Dan Mulka Sales Manager - Daniel Jacobsen Tourism Manager - Kate Meehan Tourism Coordinator - Sandy Burns, Utica Tourism Coordinator - Donna Nordstrom, Utica Tourism Coordinator - Will Sasaki, Joliet Tourism Coordinator - Neile Moriarty, Joliet Tourism Coordinator - Kathleen Bailey, Joliet

Try the big tastes in these small town eateries.

72 Winter Wonderland

ADDITIONAL COPIES MAY BE OBTAINED BY WRITING TO Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau 2701 Black Road, Ste. 201 Joliet, IL 60435 844-94-HCCVB (844-944-2282) 800-926-CANAL (2262) marketing@hccvbil.com

Sample Illinois vintages at these local wineries.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to verify information contained within this publication. Heritage Corridor CVB shall not be held responsible for inadvertent omissions, invalid or outdated information. For the most current information regarding the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor region, please access the website at www.HeritageCorridorCVB. com Please inform the CVB of any additions or changes that may be suggested for future editions of the annual Visitors Guide.

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Table of Contents

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GETTING HERE

Rockford Lyons Township

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6-hour drive

Bismarck Minneapolis Green Bay

Pierre

Madison Milwaukee

Grand Rapids Detroit CHICAGO

Des Moines Lincoln

Springfield Kansas City

St. Louis

Jefferson City

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Indianapolis

Columbus Cincinnati

Louisville

Whether you take a plane, train, or automobile, it’s easy to get to the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor. Just 30 minutes from Chicago and within a one-day drive from 1/3 of the U.S. population. Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport are under an hour away. So, plan a road trip or hop on a train to the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor.

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


CONNECT

Heritage Corridor CVB Visitor Information Centers

Visitor Information

HERITAGE CORRIDOR CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU (CVB) OFFICES AND VISITOR CENTERS

ILLINOIS HOTEL & LODGING ASSOCIATION

Each location has unique hours, please call ahead to ensure availability. The CVB is a nonprofit membership-based organization certified by the Illinois Office of Tourism to receive state grant dollars for the purposes of marketing and promoting the counties of Will, Grundy, LaSalle, Putnam, Bureau and Livingston and the communities within those counties.

OFFICE AND VISITORS CENTER – JOLIET

312-346-3135 www.illinoishotels.org

ILLINOIS OFFICE OF TOURISM

800-2-CONNECT www.enjoyillinois.com

VISITORS CENTER – UTICA

2701 Black Rd., Ste. 201, Joliet, IL 60435 800-926-CANAL (2262) • 815-216-9960

801 E. US Highway 6, Utica, IL 61373 800-746-0550 • 815-667-4356 Fax 815-667-3096

Airports

OFFICE AND VISITORS CENTER – BOLINGBROOK (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY)

O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

800-832-6352, 773-686-2200 www.flychicago.com/ohare

Conveniently located within the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce 201B Canterbury Ln., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 815-216-9960

MIDWAY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

773-838-6000 www.flychicago.com/midway

Affiliate Visitor Centers BEDFORD PARK VISITORS CENTER/ CIVIC CENTER AUTHORITY

7800 W. 65th St. Bedford Park, IL 60501 708-496-0193

GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VISITORS CENTER

909 N. Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450 815-942-0113

660 S. Broadway Ave. Coal City, IL 60416 815-634-8662

LOCK 16 VISITORS CENTER

754 First St. LaSalle, IL 61301 815-220-1848

I&M CANAL – LOCKPORT

200 W. 8th St. Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-9400

OTTAWA VISITORS CENTER

1028 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350 888-OTTAWA-4

Transportation

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK VISITORS CENTER

AMTRAK

815-727-9279 www.amtrak.com

Rte. 178 & Rte. 71 Utica, IL 61373 815-667-4726

METRA

815-723-2244 www.metrarail.com

ILLINOIS WATERWAY VISITOR CENTER

JOLIET GATEWAY TRANSPORATION CENTER

950 N. 27th Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-667-4054

90 E. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60432

PONTIAC VISITOR CENTER

815-836-7000 www.pacebus.com

PACE BUS

At the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame 110 W Howard St. Pontiac, IL 61764 815-844-5847

Get Social. Connect With Us.

Keep a pulse on I&M Heritage Corridor’s ever-evolving scene, anytime, anywhere — online, on your phone or on a tablet

Facebook www.facebook.com/ HeritageCorridorCVB

Connect

Twitter www.twitter.com/heritagecvb

YouTube www.youtube.com/ HeritageCorridorCVB

Intagram www.instagram.com/ HeritageCorridorCVB

Email marketing@hccvbil.com

Website www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

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Creativity in every glass. Along the Heritage Corridor Ale Trail, you’ll find some of the best breweries in the nation.

BJECT TO

www.HeritageCorridorAleTrail.com

MyGrain Brewing, Joliet

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travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


www.HeritageCorridorAleTrail.com

POLLYANNA BREWING COMPANY

LEMONT Take a Saturday afternoon tour of the brewery in the fall or winter and be treated to tour pours that include the Full Lemonty Golden Ale and the Eleanor Porter. Stop by the taproom anytime to explore Pollyanna’s latest experiments with local fruits and spices.

BLUE NOSE BREWERY

HODGKINS

Take three best friends with a love of brewing beer, add some top-notch arcade games, and you’ve got a friendly atmosphere with fresh and unfiltered beer on tap. Try the Supersoaker, a pineapple sour “pumped up” with Himalayan pink sea salt.

WILL COUNTY BREWING COMPANY

SHOREWOOD

This brewery and taproom opened in March 2018, bringing craft brew to Shorewood – and locals and visitors alike have been raising a glass to the three local owners ever since. Try the “Juicesicle,” an orange and vanilla milkshake IPA.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

BUCKLEDOWN BREWING

LYONS

Founded by two local friends, BuckleDown produces small-batch craft beers with a side of creativity. Pull up a stool in the taproom and try Fiddlesticks, a Belgianstyle IPA, or Shady Aftermath, a malt-driven dark ale with layers of chocolate, caramel and coffee.

TANGLED ROOTS BREWING COMPANY

OTTAWA

One of the state’s “Illinois Made” artisans, this brewery is dedicated to both the making of great craft beers and the full experience of enjoying “farm-to-foam” craft beers. Come here to see how the beer is made from start to pour.

IRON & GLASS TAPROOM

ROMEOVILLE

A craft beer oasis. Browse the vast selection of beers for takeout, or try one of the 12 beers on tap at the bar. Stop by for a “tap takeover” when different breweries take over the bar, or check out a beer and yoga session.

METAL MONKEY BREWING

ROMEOVILLE

When guys who loved to homebrew got together to form Metal Monkey, the local small-craft brew scene changed for good. Stop by for one of the 16 unique beers on tap, and pull a board game off the shelf. Game on!

ELDER BREWING COMPANY

JOLIET

A cozy space with free popcorn and a free 1982 Millipede game to play. But don’t be fooled by the blast-from-the-past atmosphere. Top-notch craft brews are made in the modern brewery directly upstairs.

MYGRAIN BREWING

JOLIET

Located in Joliet’s historic Union Station, MyGrain Brewing pairs quality food with craft beers that are intense, flavorful and bold. The names of the beers are a nod to the history of the city, including Iron and Steel, Stateville Stout, and City of Stone.

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www.HeritageCorridorAleTrail.com

Alter Brewing Company, Downers Grove

BLACK HORIZON BREWING COMPANY

WILLOWBROOK

A nano-sized brewery with a taproom, Black Horizon is always brewing a new small batch with their own special twist. Enjoy a beer with board games, foosball, and an old-school Nintendo 64. Taproom open Thursday to Sunday. Bring your own food (BYOF).

HICKORY CREEK BREWING COMPANY

NEW LENOX

It all started with home brewing in a 150-year-old milk house. Today this nano-brewery has gone microbrewery, expanding to a 5,000-square-foot space with a tasting room. Try the Mighty Oak, an English Pale Ale named for the tree on the banks of Hickory Creek.

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SKELETON KEY BREWERY

WOODRIDGE

RIVER HAWK BREWERY

CHANNAHON

Taste. Learn. Craft. This brewery not only pours tasty beers, they also teach classes for home brewers to hone their craft. The “skeleton key” is one key that opens many doors, and that’s just what this brewery and taproom strives to be.

This canal-town brewery is set up for an immersion beer experience, with 12 fermenters and four 500-gallon wine tanks in full display in the tap room. Try the River Hawk’s flagships, the Patriot Lager and Red Tail Red Ale.

ALTER BREWING COMPANY

MIDNIGHT PIG BEER AT NEVIN’S BREWING

DOWNERS GROVE

This Brew House was manufactured by local products from the Heartland, but the ingredients are sourced from all over the world from Belgium to the Pacific Northwest – all in pursuit of the right combination for a good-sipping brew.

PLAINFIELD

During the Prohibition era, innovative concoctions were transported in unmarked jars called “pigs,” and the brewers at Midnight Pig find their inspiration in that history of determined novelty in production.

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


www.HeritageCorridorAleTrail.com

Tangled Roots Brewing Company, Ottawa

FLAPJACK BREWERY

5 RABBIT CERVECERIA

Located in Berwyn’s historic Depot District, Flapjack pours two flagship beers year-round, as well as eight rotating taps. All of this alongside a full complement of wood-fired pizza. With house-made draft sodas available, there is something for everyone at Flapjack.

The flavors and aromas of Latin America are brewed into the creative beers at 5 Rabbit. Take a seat in the Rabbit Hole taproom and pair these food-friendly beers with tacos served on Thursday and tamales served on Saturday. Try a Beer Slushie for a twist on tradition.

BERWYN

WERK FORCE BREWING COMPANY

PLAINFIELD

This creative nano brewery is always experimenting with out-of-the-box recipes. Try the Barrel Fermented Already Taken (farmhouse ale), or the Sleepy Bear (Russian Imperial Stout) in their recently expanded taproom.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

BEDFORD PARK

RADIUM CITY BREWING

OTTAWA

Although their brewery is not open to the public, you can get some of their tasty brews at many Ottawa locations like Herman’s Liquors. We recommend Baptism by Vampire and Breaking Blonde.

ROCK BOTTOM BREWERY

BOLINGBROOK

Rock Bottom at The Promenade Bolingbrook brings the “Tank to Table” philosophy of these well-known brew masters to town. Beer is made onsite and on par with some of the best in brewing. Try the Belgian Triceratops, or the Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter.

MISKATONIC BREWING COMPANY

DARIEN

Miskatonic features a rotating selection of the finest and freshest ales and lagers, including some creative brews that showcase their imagination. Try the Ingenue, a Belgian-style Farmhouse Ale with hints of white pepper and fresh-squeezed orange juice.

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Explore the

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Uncover hidden treasures at dozens of shops from Chicago Portage to Starved Rock

www.HeritageCorridorAntiqueTrail.com

Clark’s Run Antiques, Utica

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www.HeritageCorridorAntiqueTrail.com

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COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE GIFTS

BRAIDWOOD

This cozy gift store is designed to look and feel like a small village. Come here to browse more than 1,500 bolts of the finest quality fabrics, or to join a beginning quilt-making class.

GALLERY 1700

CREST HILL

More than 20,000-square-feet of vintage, retro, and homemade treasures await you in this large Crest Hill showroom. Be sure to stop by sister shop Midwest Ceramics for “ready to paint” ceramics.

RUBY BEGONIAS

MORRIS

This boutique in downtown Morris offers a warm and wonderful mix of new and vintage, from industrialinspired home décor to unique women’s accessories. Don’t miss the Baby Begonia section for little ones.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

PARAPHERNALIA ANTIQUES

WILMINGTON

Just off historic Route 66, this family-owned muststop is Wilmington’s original antique storefront. Find estate jewelry and three storefronts of general antiques and European imports.

PERU ANTIQUE MALL

PERU

More than 200 vendors sell quality vintage and antique items at this 20,000 square-foot mall. One of the finest antique malls in the area, and open seven days a week for treasure hunting.

TRUE NORTH

Morris

This antique store features the unique finds of more than 70 vendors, and boasts a number of local awards, including Grundy County’s best antique store, best gift shop and best home décor store.

CLARKS RUN ANTIQUES

UTICA

Find more than 70 vendors in one stop at Utica’s largest antique store. Make sure to stop by sister store Clark’s Run Creek Wine & Gifts for a wine tasting and to celebrate a good find!

BETTY’S

MORRIS

Find unique and eclectic clothes and trinkets at this boutique in Morris, featuring thrift, vintage and new fashion items.

CHIC, GEEK & ANTIQUE

WILMINGTON

This is the place for antiques, shabby chic and anything geek. From vintage toys, Star Wars, comic books, and records, this eclectic store right off of Route 66 is full of novelties, oddities and lore.

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MAE’S VINTAGE GOODS

OTTAWA

Located on Main Street, Mae’s offers a wide variety of antiques, furniture and collectibles for the home, the garden and even the classroom. Find a unique piece of fun here!

R PICKERS ANTIQUES

CREST HILL

R Pickers is an antique shopping adventure, with furniture, jewelry, collectibles, glassware, Pyrex, diecast cars and more. A stop here is a stop in a bygone era.

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HOME AGAIN GIFTS AND ANTIQUES

PONTIAC

Located next to the Route 66 Hall of Fame, a trip to this gift shop is full of fun and nostalgia. Look for the wide variety of artwork and other themed souvenirs celebrating historic Route 66.

ROSIE O’GRADY’S

MORRIS

Featuring finds from expert antiquers, there is always a variety of new treasures to sift through at Rosie’s busy store from home décor to new fashion and footwear.

MATTHEW BULLOCK AUCTIONEERS

OTTAWA

Hosts entertaining monthly auctions offer a wide range of items, including fine and costume jewelry, vintage postcards, vintage toys, collectible coins, and items from the Civil War, WWI and WWII.

OLD THEATRE ANTIQUE MALL

WILMINGTON

Get immersed in a world of vintage signs, antique outboard motors, military surplus and more. The shop also offers mineral crystals. A must-stop on any Route 66 journey.

A MESS OF THINGS.

OTTAWA

More than a dozen vendors sell artwork, hand-made jewelry, clothing, and vintage and repurposed treasures here. Stop by for a shopping adventure, or take painting lessons in their converted art room.

MONTANA CHARLIE’S

BOLINGBROOK

This family friendly flea market offers an incredible variety of merchandise. Vendors sell clothes, health products, flowers, produce and unique foods from around the world.

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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H&H MERCANTILE

STREATOR

Antiques, jewelry, collectibles, housewares, small furniture and more. You never know what you’ll find at this Streator shop located on historic Main Street.

MILLTOWN MARKET

WILMINGTON

This 140-year-old saw mill is home to more than 100 vendors selling nostalgia. With a unique collection of antiques, vintage items, home décor and gifts, this is the place to experience a blast from the past.

WATER STREET FLEA MARKET

WILMINGTON

Held on historic Water Street, this flea market is chockfull of antiques, collectibles, vintage items and crafts. The market takes place on the first Saturday of the month April to October.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

McMANIACS - VINTAGE

WILMINGTON

Stop in for a funky “blast from the past”. This store specializes in mid-century modern furnishings, home décor and kitsch.

OUTSIDE IN BY CAPPENOLLIE

RICK’S RELICS ON 66

WILMINGTON

Rick’s Relics on 66 offers a wide variety of antiques, primitives, brewery advertising, furniture, collectables and barn wood items. It’s the place to find that perfect item for a man cave.

JAKINS & SUCH PRETTIES

MORRIS

Find one-of-a-kind lighting, plus new, antique, vintage, industrial and DIY furnishings. Don’t miss the section of greetings cards, candles and scrap booking items.

MORRIS The three owners here are on a mission to spread joy, hope and fun – and they do just that with their collection of “Fancy Farm” junk, fine clothes, candles, jewelry and beautiful furniture.

CANAL MARKET

3 FRENCH HENS

The LaSalle County Historical Society hosts the canal market on the banks of the I&M Canal on Sundays from May to September. Peruse antiques, collectibles, handmade artwork and homegrown goodies.

Bringing the tradition of Open Air Euro Markets to the Midwest, 3 French Hens Country Market brings several vendors together on the grassy banks of the Historical I&M Canal in downtown Morris.

UTICA

MORRIS

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Sometimes you just want a good burger. The restaurants of the Heritage Corridor Burger Trail take it a step further, giving you an amazing burger experience.

www.HeritageCorridorBurgerTrail.com

Spicy Avacado Burger at The Lone Buffalo, Ottawa

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www.HeritageCorridorBurgerTrail.com

Twin Rail Pub, Minooka

TWIN RAIL PUB

99 HOPS HOUSE

Burger lovers come to this railway-themed sports pub for good food, friendly gatherings and live music on Saturdays. Try the Santa Fe Smokehouse Burger or Dynamo Black & Blue Burger, you’ll be glad you did!

Everyone is a winner at this sports bar in Hollywood Casino. Charbroiled Angus beef burgers are served on a buttery brioche bun with a side of fries. Build your own burger, or opt for the Hops Patty Melt for a burger served on toasted marble rye.

MINOOKA

NICK’S TAVERN

LEMONT

This old-school tavern is home of the “Nickburger,” voted the best burger in the towns of the I&M Canal the past two years. It’s one pound of beef with a secret mix of spices.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

JOLIET

SIZZLES

LOCKPORT

A family favorite for its ice-cream fountain drinks and popular kids’ menu, Sizzles is also a hit with adults for their tasty fire-grilled burgers with a twist. Try the breakfast burger with maple-drizzled bacon and egg, or the jalapeno-accented “Jal-of-a-Hotty”.

MYGRAIN BREWERY

JOLIET

History is on tap at this historic Joliet train stationturned brewery. Burger patties here are made with a blend of Angus, chuck and brisket beef served on a brioche bun. Try the Vince Burger with pickled peppers, chipotle mayo and bleu cheese crumbles.

HONEST ABE’S TAP AND GRILL

MORRIS

Choose from 21 gourmet burgers of cleverly named after historic Lincoln events, places and politics. Try the Log-Cabin burger with fried cheese sticks, or the Deep South burger with sweet chili sauce, grilled cabbage, and jalapeno & onion slaw.

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www.HeritageCorridorBurgerTrail.com

Burger Therory, Joliet

HAMBURGERSERIA

JOLIET

This gem of a gourmet burger shop also has an extensive sandwich menu. Try the Brie cheese and cranberry-crowned French Burger, or the cream cheese, jalapeño and bacon-topped Colorado burger.

Gourmet burgers and tenderloin sandwiches complement the menu at this casual restaurant with sophisticated American cuisine. Try the Quarto Formage Burger or the Black Bean Veggie Burger. All bread is made on site.

OLD ROUTE 66 FAMILY DINING RESTAURANT

PRINCETON

DWIGHT

This roadside diner dishes classic food with a side of Route 66 nostalgia in a family atmosphere. Try the namesake Route 66, a half-pound burger smothered in grilled onions, cheese and mushrooms.

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UPTOWN GRILL

LASALLE

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SPOONS RESTAURANT AND BAR

At this cozy diner, the ingredients are fresh, the atmosphere is friendly and the menu is foodie approved. The Greasy Spoon Hamburger here is a double dose of meat, with two patties from local meat purveyor Wyanet Locker made with all the trimmings.

THE LONE BUFFALO

OTTAWA

The restaurant and brewery prides itself on good food and beer in a comfortable atmosphere. Don’t miss the The Brewmaster BBQ Burger with Tilamook cheddar, candied bacon, onion rings and housemade spiced pickles.

MARKALLEN’S AMERICAN KITCHEN

PERU

MarkAllen’s menu is a wonder ... especially the WonderBurgers. The WonderBurgers here are made up of ground chuck patties mixed with the chef’s secret ingredients. Try the Philly WonderBurger, topped with sauteed onions and green peppers.

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www.HeritageCorridorBurgerTrail.com

BURGER THEORY

JOLIET

This restaurant takes the study of burgers to a new level. Try the Blue Cow Burger with a beef and jalapeno patty topped with crispy bacon, blue cheese and chipotle mayo. Or dare to order the Don Burger with beef, garlic, oregano and more.

DUFFY’S TAVERN

UTICA

A meeting place for friends and family in true Irish pub tradition, this tavern is famous for its Duffy Burger, a large patty of beef with your choice of cheese and a side of fries.

WILD HORSE RESTAURANT & BAR

JOLIET

Wild Horse’s wood grill gives their burgers an amazing taste. Full and half-pound burgers, don’t miss the Inferno Burger, KC Burger or Cowboy Burger.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

CHICAGO ST. PUB

JOLIET

DOCK ROTZ TAVERN

MINOOKA

This restaurant is the place for entertainment with a side of deliciousness in Joliet. Try the Rugger Burger with two patties, four cheeses, Irish bacon, grilled onions, and grilled portabella mushrooms – all topped with an onion ring.

This joint takes great pride in its sloppy sandwich options, so grab a napkin or two, and dive right in with the Sloppy Burger, a towering masterpiece with Dock’s cheese sauce, bacon, onion rings, an overeasy egg and all the trimmings.

THE PINK CHIHUAHUA

9TH STREET PUB

From the Apple Butter BLT with bacon, frizzled onions, provolone and house-drunken apple butter, to the Sweet Ride with pears, brie and candied almonds, the burger menu here is endless.

The Cheeseburger in Paradise is the consensus crowd favorite, but you can’t go wrong with any of the 12 mouth-watering burgers that await you at 9th Street Pub. Each burger gives you a reason to come back when you visit the Starved Rock area.

OTTAWA

LASALLE

THE RED DOG GRILL

OTTAWA

Ottawa’s The Red Dog Grill is the place for waterfront views all year round. Try a burger with whiskey cheese, Guinness sauce and crispy onions, or opt for the Guacamole Burger with chipotle mayo, bacon, pepper-jack cheese and, of course, guacamole.

Jal-of-a-Hotty from Sizzles, Lockport

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Credit: Michael Lopez

HERITAGE CORRIDOR

BIKE TRAILS Strap on your helmet and hit these popular paths

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Heritage Corridor Bike Trails

HERITAGE CORRIDOR

Credit: Michael Lopez

Credit: Michael Lopez

BIKE TRAILS

I&M CANAL STATE TRAIL/CHANNAHON TO MORRIS Start your 15-mile trek at Channahon State Park, home to a collection of historic canal structures. Heading west, the trail becomes a path between the I&M Canal and the Illinois River. Along the way you’ll see the ghost canal towns of Dresden and Aux Sable, with one of two remaining locktender’s houses.

Credit: Instagram meezer squeezer

I&M CANAL STATE TRAIL/LASALLE TO OTTAWA This 15-mile stretch of trail along the western branch of the I&M Canal begins in LaSalle, where the canal meets the Illinois River. Heading east, the trail winds between serene lakes and sandstone bluffs, before its end point near the historic I&M Canal Toll House in Ottawa.

Credit: Instagram erin0009

GAYLORD DONNELLEY TRAIL This 11-mile trail begins in historic Lockport, site of the beautiful limestone Gaylord Building and its impressive gallery of I&M Canal exhibits. As you bike the trail it passes an abandoned amusement park and the Old Joliet Prison, before ending at the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site.

Credit: Instagram rohithgrey

CENTENNIAL TRAIL Following a visit to the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, hop on this nearly 11-milelong trail that travels north to the cozy canal town of Lockport, then veers into the scenic woodlands of Isle a la Cache nature preserve. A historic swing bridge over the Des Plaines River is a highlight.

WAUPONSEE GLACIAL TRAIL Named for an ancient glacial lake, this 22-mile trail is accessed at the Sugar Creek Preserve in Joliet. From there, the Wauponsee skirts the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie and ends at a spectacular 600-foot-long bridge that spans the Kankakee River.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

Biking near Ottawa

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I&M Canal Towns parallel the Illinois River and the I&M Canal which are unique waterways that run through the Heritage Corridor. Starting southwest of Chicago spanning west to LaSalle County, I&M Canal Towns offer boutique shopping, delicious dining, and historic attractions.

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I&M CANAL TOWNS

Heritage Quarries Recreation Area, Lemont By Jen Nilsson

It was a grueling, but f ruitful, mapping expedition down the Mississippi River. In September 1673, explorers Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette were returning home, paddling upstream toward the Fox River. That’s when a group of Native Americans showed them a valuable shortcut, changing their route and, perhaps, changing the course of history. Following their guides, the explorers paddled instead toward the Illinois and Des Plaines Rivers. By carrying their birch-bark canoes over a muddy portage to the Chicago River, they saved themselves a boatload of time. Jolliet immediately saw the value in building a canal that would accelerate travel between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi, and the idea for the Illinois & Michigan (I&M) Canal was born. It would take more than 160 years before work began on the I&M Canal, but when it was completed in 1848, the continent would be forever

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changed by the first complete water route f rom the East Coast to the Gulf of Mexico, and the 96-miles of hand-dug canal f rom Chicago to LaSalle would be forever buoyed by newfound commerce and vibrant canal towns. Walk in the footsteps of Marquette, Jolliet and the Native Americans who showed them the way at the Chicago Portage National Historic Site, located in the Portage Woods Preser ve and Ottawa Trail Woods. Thanks to the I&M Canal, the cost of transporting goods plummeted as people bartered for supplies by the ton rather than the wagonload. By 1869, Chicago was the busiest port in the United States and people flocked to the area, including lock tenders, toll collectors, canal boat captains, and mule tenders – those who cared for the mules that pulled the canal boats. Take a trip back in time to the heyday of the I&M Canal in LaSalle, where costumed guides take passengers

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I&M CANAL TOWNS

Before the canal boats and their captains came, it was the workers who moved to the area to hand dig the 96-mile canal using primarily shovels, wooden scoops and wheelbarrows. The workers left their mark on the area. In Lemont, IrishCatholic canal workers founded St. James at Sag Bridge, a parish on top of a bluff that was once home to a French fort where Marquette is rumored to have worshipped. The present-day church building sits beautifully on the hill, showing off the limestone that was carried up the hill to complete the structure in 1858. It was during the construction of the canal that an abundance

Credit: Manuel Diaz

along for a ride on a full-sized, mule-pulled, replica canal boat. Stop by the Lock 16 Café & Visitor Center for afternoon tea in a restored building that was once home to a horse and buggy maker.

I&M Canal Boat, LaSalle

of limestone was found in Lemont, creating a mining boom for a time, and creating deep quarries for all time. Those limestone quarries are now beautiful freshwater lakes, surrounded by a hiking and biking trail that follows the I&M Canal’s historic towpath. Explore this intersection of history and nature at the Lemont Heritage Quarries Recreation Area. The limestone dug f rom the quarries also helped to build the impressive Gaylord Building in nearby Lockport. Once a canal warehouse, the historic building now houses a comprehensive exhibit about the impact of the I&M Canal on the development of northeastern Illinois. Schedule a tour f rom the experienced guides who can cover both the Gaylord Building galleries and the nearby Lincoln Landing, an open-air park and museum that explores both the canal and President Abraham Lincoln’s connection with the area.

Gaylord Building, Lockport

I&M Canal Towns

Budnik Plaza, Lemont

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I&M CANAL TOWNS

Credit: Gerry Rosser

Channahon State Park, Channahon

Lock 8 at the Aux Sable Creek Aqueduct , Morris

For a biking adventure with a bit of history, pick up the I&M Canal State Trail in Channahon State Park and take the 15-mile, crushed-limestone trail to the canal town of Morris, visiting remnants of the past along the way. At Channahon State Park, take in Locks 6 & 7 as well as an original Locktenders House. While the house is not open to the public, it is worth a stop to see where lock tenders, required to live on the canal, stayed with their families while they worked to keep boats moving along the river. See Lock 8 and another Locktenders House at Aux Sable Access, which also contains the Aux Sable Creek Aqueduct built to carry the canal over the creek. Once in Morris, spend some time in the charming downtown area, including stopping in at Liberty Street Cafe – you’ve earned it! Stroll through Canal Port Park to see the steel silhouettes of a mule and a canal driver and learn about their stories. To

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Chicago Portage National Historic Site, Lyons

view the landscape f rom the water, rent a canoe or kayak at Kayak Star ved Rock and set out to explore. Taking to the trails is an ideal way to explore all of the towns of the I&M Canal, which are inextricably linked through history and the canal itself. The towns surrounding the western terminus of the canal at LaSalle offer an opportunity to mix canal-town charm with the canyons, waterfalls and sandstone bluffs in and around Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park. Rent a bike at The Bike Shop in Ottawa and cycle past the only remaining I&M Canal Toll House. Schedule a tour to see the original log book and a rope bed where the toll collector napped. Stop in for a snack at The Cheese Shop ‘n’ Deli, located right on the banks of the I&M Canal.

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I&M CANAL TOWNS WITH A SIDE OF

DINING History Nick’s Tavern LEMONT

LOCKPORT

The “Nickburger” recipe hasn’t changed since 1945. It includes nearly one pound of meat, minced onions, a secret blend of spices and a “whole lot of love”. Cash only.

“Crafted by community” is the tagline here for good reason. This downtown Tap House literally rose from the embers of a burned out historical building.

Pesciolino Osteria

Morris Chop Shop

The vibe is rustic and unassuming, but don’t be fooled. The daily seafood specials delight, and the handmade pasta is served fresh with surprising ingredients.

Taste the fresh from the grill char at this Chop House, where meat is cooked over a woodburning grill, and everything is cooked from scratch using organic ingredients and locally raised beef.

Uptown Grill

Public Landing

American fare gets an update at Uptown, where familiar recipes are served with a twist. Enjoy the Truffle Fries alongside a Bourbon Butterbeer, poured with bourbon, butterscotch, apple cider and ginger beer.

A beautiful restaurant with a beautiful menu awaits in the Gaylord Building along the I&M Canal.

CHANNAHON

LASALLE

For a twist on the standard bike ride, head to nearby Utica and Mix’s Trading Post and Utica Electric Bike Rental. Check out the quaint shops and restaurants downtown before learning about the town’s fascinating history at the LaSalle County Historical Society museum campus. Learn even more at the Illinois Water way Visitor Center located at the Star ved Rock Lock & Dam where visitors can witness a modern-day lock system in action.

I&M Canal Towns

Embers Tap House

MORRIS

LOCKPORT

Illinois Waterway Visitor Center, Ottawa

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I&M CANAL TOWNS

CANAL TOWNS:

WHERE HISTORY & FOLKLORE ABOUND Visit any and all of these museums for a historical ride.

Get Historical UTICA

Explore a canal warehouse chock full of historic artifacts at the LaSalle County Historical Society. Don’t miss the replica prairie home of the 1850s, or the carriage that brought Abraham Lincoln to the site of the first LincolnDouglas debate.

Get Industrious JOLIET & PERU

Stroll through the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site where foundations of the original factory are preserved. Or take a walk through time at the Westclox Museum, where the history of the Western Clock Company is preserved.

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I&M CANAL TOWNS Get Scouting OTTAWA

Visit the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum to learn about the canal town’s past and see exhibits dedicated to the work of Ottawa native W.D. Boyce, one of the founders of the Boy Scouts of America.

Get Scholarly MORRIS & CARBON HILL

Browse Civil War weaponry, a one-room schoolhouse and an 1890s store at the Grundy County Historical Society and Museum. Dig a little further into county history at the Carbon Hill School Museum and explore the original schoolhouse (by appointment).

Get Weird LOCKPORT

Walk through the former I&M Canal headquarters building that today houses the Will County Historical Museum and Research Center, boasting a Canal-Era doctor’s office and an exhibit focusing on the oddities of history called the “Weird of Will County”.

Get Enlightened LEMONT

Stop in at the Old Stone Church, a National Landmark that was the Methodist Episcopal Church from 18611970 and a Civil War recruiting depot. Today it houses the Lemont Area Historical Society and Museum and artifacts preserving area heritage and folklore.

Get Natural ROMEOVILLE

Feel the softness of a beaver pelt and walk inside a wigwam at the Isle a la Cache Museum that explores the cultural heritage and natural history of the area during the 18th century and its booming fur trade.

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I&M Canal Towns Itineraries

FOODIES

ADVENTURE SEEKERS

HISTORY BUFFS

Raging Waves Waterpark in Yorkville is Illinois’ largest outdoor water park. The park sits on 58 acres and features 26 water slides.

The Seneca Area Heritage Museum highlights the rich history of of the area, spanning all the way back to 1865. Exhibits feature the importance of the Rock Island Railroad, the Illinois River and the Prairie Shipyard.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

INDOOR EXCITEMENT

Boggio's Orchard and Produce in Granville offers family excitement and fresh produce and baked goods for each season.

Challenge your family at Channahon Lanes keep bumpers up for a close game or enjoy the nightclub atmosphere of Rock 'It Bowl with special effects lighting and the music turned up. Or head outside for a friendly game of mini golf!

SNACK BREAK

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The Great American Bagel in Joliet has been offering a bagel bakery and deli concept in a welcoming neighborhood setting since 1987.

Rock Paper Scissors in Ottawa encourages education, imagination and inspiration in all of their products. Credit: Instagram poetinmyheart

RELAXING WEEKEND GETAWAY

Merichka's in Crest Hill has been family owned and operated since 1933 and is famous for their world famous "poorboys".

No matter the occasion, Haunted Trails in Joliet is always a family hit! Take a group shot in front of one of the mini golf holes, while zipping around in go-karts or all dressed up for laser tag.

COUPLES THERAPY Embers Tap House in Lockport combines the historical ambiance of the canal with a modern design provides the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable date night.

Looking for an unforgettable experience? Head to Zip Chicago in Marseilles where you and your partner will go on a tour 85 feet above the ground across 8 different cables at speeds up to 45 mph.

Credit: Instagram fay_ricarica

Credit: Instagram

sidcasillas

FAMILY FUN

Take a journey back in time on the I&M Canal Boat in LaSalle. Board the 70-passenger, mule-pulled 1840's replica canal boat as it is gently pilled down the I&M Canal.

Gebhard Woods State Park in Morris offers couples the opportunity to bond with each other and nature while hiking, picnicking, camping and more.

Originally constructed to store canal construction materials, The Gaylord Building in Lockport is a historic land mark that currently houses an Exhibition Gallery and the Public Landing Restaurant.

While strolling along the beautiful streets on Morris, stop in to Sweet Tooth and spoil your date and your taste buds with their gourmet confections, popcorn, coffee and more!

Boughton Ridge Golf Course in Bolingbrook is a 9-hole 2205-yard par 2 haven situated on 5 beautiful acres. Challenge your date to a friendly oneon-one game, loser buys dinner just inside at Ashbury's.

Stroll through the historic Joliet Iron Works Historic Site on Columbia Street, where you'll see foundational ruins of the Joliet Iron and Steel Company, which operated from the 1870s to the 1930s.

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Credit: Instagram littlesiagon.eats

The Shrimp Barn in Minooka offers a wide array of seafood dishes, salads, desserts and drinks. With a weathervane in the logo, they are always collecting, and you can contribute to their collection and receive a free dessert or appetizer in return.

Come together as a team at Escape Hour Room in Bolingbrook to complete puzzles and challenges in an attempt to escape the various rooms.

Credit: Instagram ccomsga

The MJ Hogan Grain Elevator in Seneca was constructed in 1861-1862 and is the earliest remaining grain elevator built along the Illinois & Michigan Canal.

For an adventure your friends won't soon forget join Kayak Starved Rock in Morris for a guided kayak tour or a Glamping trip.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH Mora Asian Fusion in Plainfield and Bolingbrook take your taste buds on a journey of Asian inspired flavors by sharing a variety of grilled small plates and enjoying the utmost fresh sushi and sashimi.

Buffalo Range Shooting Park in Ottawa offers a safe environment to take classes, private training, plinking pit and different ranges for individual shooting.

Credit: Instagram photosbyk atied

FRIEND GETAWAYS

Naper Settlement in Naperville is a12-acre outdoor history museum that consists of a collection of thirty historical buildings and structures from the area.

Every Fall, Heap's Giant Pumpkin Farm in Minooka welcomes guests of all ages to explore the farm and partake in Autumn activities. Find the pumpkins of your choice, take a hay ride or visit the Haunted Corn Maze!

iPic Theaters & Salt Sports Bar in Bolingbrook is no ordinary Cinema, the theater offers luxury seating options and a chef-driven menu in an upscale lounge for a night out your friends will want to plan again and again.

HellsGate Haunted House in Lockport is more than a haunted house, it's an adventure, filled with secret passages, giant slides, and undead abominations all leading you to the zombie-infested woods you must cross to safety.

The Ottawa Bakery offers fresh made breakfast pastries, coffee and desserts daily as well as soups weekdays for lunch. Stop in to start the day right or for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Nothing Bundt Cakes of Shorewood uses perfect ingredients in all of their recipes get a full sized bundt cake, bundtlet or bundtini in any one of their signature flavors.

Relax and sip on the award winning wines of August Hill Winery and Illinois Sparkling Company. With grapes grown on family owned land just down the hill, the tasting room in Utica is a quiet place to sample wines, try pairings of wine and food or cool down with a frozen wine slushy.

Budnik Plaza is the home of Lemont's "Bicentennial Mural" which depicts the village's rich history of family, labor and faith. The symbols in the mural also represent the present and future of the community.

I&M Canal Towns

Play big and go home a winner at one of the area's premier gaming, dining and entertainment venues, Hollywood Casino Joliet and Harrah’s Joliet.

Dollinger Family Farm in Channahon is full of perfect photo ops: get your face painted before you take a romp around in the corn bin, visit the goats and other farm animals.

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ROUTE 66

Take a nostalgic trip down America’s Mother Road and see exciting historic sites and stops along the way Berwyn, Bolingbrook, Braidwood, Broadview, Burr Ridge, Channahon, Countryside, Crest Hill, Dwight, Elwood, Gardner, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park, Joliet, La Grange, Lemont, Lyons, Manhattan, McCook, Plainfield, Pontiac, Romeoville, Shorewood, Willowbrook, Wilmington

1926

12

year that Route 66 was established

interpretive kiosks

2

300

crosspoints of the Lincoln Highway and Route 66

miles of Route 66 in Illinois

30FT

$20.3M

height of the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, IL

1926’s cost of building the Rialto Square Theatre

E X P LO R E 3 Scenic Byways

(adjusted for inflation)

A National Scenic Byway is a road recognized by the US Department of Transportation for one of five intrinsic qualities: archaeological, cultural, historical, recreational and scenic.

DESCRIPTION The historic Route 66 begins in Chicago and works it’s way westward through the northeast corner of the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor. In this area of the Corridor you will find unique Route 66 diners, museums, attractions and more that make Route 66 a truly American classic destination. 34

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ROUTE 66

Joliet Area Historical Museum, Joliet

By Jen Nilsson

Completed in 1926, Route 66 connected the skyscrapers of Chicago to the sands of Santa Monica, cutting diagonally across America’s heartland and quickly establishing itself as a centerpiece of American lore. During the Great Depression, job seekers used it to migrate west; during the Prohibition Era, rumrunners used it to deliver hooch to Chicago; during the post-WWII years, returning soldiers used it to travel the country with their families in tow; and during the Sixties, hippies used it to roam in their VW buses. Illinois is home to 300 miles of Route 66, complete with all of the kitschy road-side attractions, retro diners, quaint towns, and legendary stories that pave the route. Start in Chicago at Adams Street and Michigan Avenue and then head west for the quirky towns that display the same neon signs that attracted so many travelers during the heyday of the Mother Road.

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Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, Pontiac

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ROUTE 66 Get your chicken fix at the historic Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook or at the original White Fence Farm in Romeoville. Making your way to the 12-foot-tall Joliet Kicks on 66 Highway Shield for a must-have picture.

On to the Route 66 Welcome Center, located within the Joliet Area Historical Museum. Take a seat at the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, on a carshaped couch complete with speakers that blare ‘50s music, and snap a picture with the replica Blues Brothers statue that lounges comfortably in the welcome center. At the Museum, get your ticket to tour the Old Joliet Prison. The prison, constructed from local limestone, opened in 1858 And operated until 2002. It may be most famous for its infamous prisoners and scene stealing in both The Blues Brothers movie and Prison Break television show.

perfect backdrop for a mural, and that’s where travelers can find the largest Route 66 shield on the route.

In Dwight, you can’t miss the bright red gas pumps outside the homey, white cottage of the Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station that once served as a filling station at the intersection of Route 66 and Illinois Route 17. Today it is a welcome center and a photo-op.

While getting nostalgic, hop across the street to the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum to explore a vast collection of artifacts and cars f rom the Pontiac and Oakland brands. Get lost in the old road signs, hood ornaments and antique oil cans that fill the museum. Round out a bucket-list adventure with a stop at the Old Log Cabin Restaurant where travelers have dined on classic American fare since the Mother Road welcomed its first travelers on what would become one of the most historic highways in the world.

Next, feast on chili-cheese fries at Braidwood’s Polka-A-Dot Drive In and pose with one of the iconic statues outside before heading for the Two-Cell Jail in Gardner. Snap a picture here from behind the bars of the jail built in 1906 before touring the nearby Streetcar Diner that once served travelers along the route.

Drive on to Pontiac and the Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum. This museum is home to non-stop nostalgia, housing thousands of artifacts from the glory days of the Mother Road in a renovated 1900s fire station. The brick exterior of the fire station makes the

Of the many exhibits to explore, one of the most popular remains the bus and van owned by Route 66 icon and traveling artist Bob Waldmire, whose family founded Springfield’s famed Cozy Dog Drive In. Take a tour of the bus, where Waldmire lived and worked, for a fascinating look inside the world of a prolific artist.

Credit: Instagram jbirdcurtis

Get back on the road and get that camera back out, because one of the most famous road-side attractions on the Mother Road awaits in

Wilmington where the 30-foot-tall Gemini Giant presides in sparkling green glory.

Polka-A-Dot Drive In, Braidwood

The Launching Pad, Wilmington

Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket, Willowbrook

Route 66

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ROUTE 66

ROADSIDE

EATERIES

Rich & Creamy, Joliet

Get the flavor of Route 66 at these delicious stops CHERRY RED ROASTERS

DELL RHEA’S CHICKEN BASKET

POLK-A-DOT DRIVE IN

NELLY’S ON 66

WHITE FENCE FARM

BUCK’S PIT STOP

RICH & CREAMY

OLD ROUTE 66 FAMILY RESTAURANT

DWIGHT

WILMINGTON HODGKINS

WOLFS HEAD RESTAURANT & BAR INDIAN HEAD PARK

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WILLOWBROOK ROMEOVILLE JOLIET

THE JOLIET ROUTE 66 DINER

BRAIDWOOD

DWIGHT

OLD LOG CABIN RESTAURANT PONTIAC

JOLIET

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ROUTE 66 POLK-A-DOT DRIVE IN

WHITE FENCE FARM

Take the ultimate Route 66 selfie at one of these unique spots

DELL RHEA’S CHICKEN BASKET

#MyIL66 NELLY’S ON 66

THE JOLIET ROUTE 66 DINER

Route 66

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visit

LIVINGSTON COUNTY

Two-Cell Jailhouse, Gardner

through Pontiac’s historic streets making stops at locations where Lincoln tried cases, made speeches and stayed overnight during his tenure as an attorney in Illinois Eighth Judicial Circuit.

Livingston County Courthouse, Pontiac

Like many settlements in the Illinois & Michigan Canal Heritage Corridor, the 15 communities in Livingston County sprouted up along waterways and Native American trails lacing the prairielands. Later, renowned U.S. Route 66 was built. It runs through Livingston County where road-trippers view landmark architecture, experience Illinois railroad history and learn about young Abraham Lincoln’s years as a lawyer. U.S. Route 66 passes through Pontiac, the county’s government

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HeritageCorridorCVB.com Livingston County Courthouse, Pontiac

seat. Pontiac visitors can walk into the recently restored, Second Empire Style courthouse designed by Chicago architect John C. Cochrane. Built in 1875, the clock towercrowned, mansard roofed building listed on the National Register of Historic Places harbors a county history exhibit and is one of nine sites on the Looking for Lincoln Story Trail. Pontiac’s Lincoln sites are identified by storyboards telling his connections to the community. Visitors can take an informative, self-guided walking or driving tour

The Vermilion Players dinner theater runs seasonally at Pontiac’s Eagle Performing Arts Center with summer shows held in the riverside Chautauqua Park. Visitors enjoy traversing the picturesque Vermilion River on Pontiac’s three, swinging pedestrian bridges. Two were built in the 1900s for workers to commute to eight shoe manufacturers operating from 1881 to 1941. Other historic sites are restored 19th century homes open for tours and the Pontiac Museum Complex housing the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum and five specialty museums including the Livingston County War Museum showcasing an expansive uniform exhibit and the Civil War-era music museum. Nearby is the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum and Museum of the Gilding Arts. 26 outdoor murals within a four block radius, painted by The Walldogs, illustrate Pontiac’s cultural, commercian and political histor The largest mural is the Route 66 shield sign, an Instagramworthy stop since the historic road passes through other Livingston County communities including Odell, Dwight

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Credit: Instagram sofia_k0ps

and Gardner.

In Dwight, six buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places -- including a bank designed by Prairie Style architect Frank Lloyd Wright – inspire travelers to pull off the Mother Road. The First National Bank of Dwight built in 1904 is one of Wright’s few public buildings still being used for the purpose it was built. Visitors recognize his signature architectural features, such as wood banding, Roman brick fireplace, earthtoned colors, limestone used on both the exterior and interior and an original bank desk Wright designed. The Dwight Historical Society Museum inside the 1891 C & A Railroad Depot designed by Henry Ives Cobb is also on the National Register, as are the public library inside Oughton Estate’s

“World’s Largest Outdoor Painted Route 66 Shield”, Pontiac

Carriage House, the Country Mansion, Pioneer Gothic Church, 1896 windmill and visitors center occupying restored 1933 Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station on Old Route 66. During the annual Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival each May the station is a hot spot to stop for photos, as is the 1906 two-cell jail in Gardner.

Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station, Dwight

Kilgus Farmstead Country Store, Fairbury

Route 66

Fairbury celebrates Livingston County’s agricultural heritage and flavors. Echoes Museum preserves the area’s farming history while visitors taste it at Kilgus Farmstead Country Store carrying local food products and soft-serve ice cream. In summer, stock cars zoom around Fairbury American Legion Speedway and the Indian Creek Market is held downtown. For a farm-to-fork tour and dining experience, visit Slagel Family Farm’s monthly dinners prepared by Chicago guest chefs. Slagel products are sold in nearby Forrest known for its historic, turreted train depot displaying railroad exhibits.

Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, Pontiac

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FAMILY FUN FOODIES

ADVENTURE SEEKERS

HISTORY BUFFS

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

INDOOR EXCITEMENT

SNACK BREAK RELAXING WEEKEND GETAWAY SELFIE STOPS 42

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Credit: Facebook Thomas Hess

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Route 66 Itineraries

Take a break from your drive down the Mother Road at Old Route 66 Family Restaurant, in Dwight, for breakfast, lunch or dinner to experience a small town charm, warm welcome and a delicious meal.

Route 66 Raceway in Joliet hosts events ranging from the National Hot Rod Association Nationals to swap meets and race your ride.

The former Joliet Ammunition Plant, the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood is a humbling and breathtaking space to honor those buried on the 982 acres.

Marvel at the 19,000-acre Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, in Wilmington, maintained by the US Forest Service as "the first national tallgrass prairie and the largest piece of contiguous open space in northeastern Illinois."

From Classic and American Muscle Cars to Vintage Motorcycles, Memorabilia displayed throughout the Midwest Classics on 66 museum in Wilmington immortalize automobiles of the past.

The coolest way to take a break, TCBY in Shorewood offers a mix of daily flavors and a wide variety of toppings, so each member of the family can make this treat their own.

Since 1977 Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre has been providing family friendly entertainment to the residents of the Joliet area through live plays, concerts and special themed events.

The historic Streetcar Diner in Gardner is a 20th century Kankakee streetcar that serves as a connection to the past along historic Route 66.

COUPLES THERAPY Ripp's Chicken has been a staple in Ladd since 1934 and the repeal of Prohibition. Despite a change of location, name and fire the famous family chicken recipe has been a constant.

Spend date night at the ball park snacking on some classic concession stand treats, enjoying the antics of mascots J L Bird and Spikes, and cheering on the local team, the Joliet Slammers.

Stroll through the historic Joliet Iron Works Historic Site on Columbia Street, where you'll see foundational ruins of the Joliet Iron and Steel Company, which operated from the 1870s to the 1930s.

If your looking for a place to learn and experience nature, check out the Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook. Enjoy the fishing, hiking, education center and community garden.

For a night you'll never forget, visit the historic Rialto Square Theatre in downtown Joliet for a concert, festival or comedy show. Look at the theatre's website for information on tours and other special events.

Look for the larger than life figures of the Blues Brothers perched on the roof of Rich and Creamy on Broadway Street in Joliet. Stop to get an ice cream treat, then walk a few steps to Route 66 Park where information kiosks and antique gas pumps hark back to the heyday of the iconic road.

Looking for shopping, dining, and entertainment? Louis Joliet Mall offers all three for the perfect date night variety.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Texaco Welcome Center in Dwight is a great insight into what was once a thriving service station.

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FRIEND GETAWAYS Hamburgerseria in Joliet offers a variety of gourmet burgers, sandwiches and homemade desserts. The inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place to friends to come together and make lasting memories.

Attend a full or half day experience at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet. Start the day in the classroom and end it by taking laps around the track, performance driving drills and more, depending on your program.

The original 1893 Carbon Hill School Museum displays hundreds of original artifacts depicting immigrant turn-of-the-century life of families, businesses, and coal mines.

The Forest Preserve District of Will County offers year-round outdoor activities throughout the county.

Challenge your friends, yourself, or the dealer at Harrah's Casino Joliet. Play, dine and enjoy the entertainment at downtown Joliet's casino.

For over 50 years the Polk-A-Dot Drive In in Braidwood has been serving ice cream and other treats to guests in their light-hearted fun atmosphere.

Located off the historic Mother Road, The Wine Café in Wilmington, offers a space to relax with friends while enjoying a drink from their assortment of wines and beers.

The Gardner Two-Cell Jail was built in 1906 and is a popular photo opportunity for travelers. A memorial adjacent to the jail honors Rev. Christian Christiansen for his contributions that helped prevent the construction of Nazi atomic bombs.

Route 66

OFF THE BEATEN PATH Pesciolino Osteria brings authentic handmade pasta, fresh seafood and house-made mozzarella to Channahon. The modern rustic décor is the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a signature cocktail and artisanal dish.

Built in 1858, the Old Joliet Prison located on Collins street has recently been open for public tours. View the abandoned prison known for it's breath-taking limestone architecture, appearances in tv and movies and infamous inmates.

Cornell-Amity Township Museum aims to remind residents of not only their own past, but also of generations past. Exhibits include Cornell historical items as well as educational pieces of past methods, tools and life styles.

Pontiac currently has over 20 outdoor Murals which depict its local commercial, cultural and political history. Each mural offers a unique backdrop for a fun group photoshoot.

Go back in time to the 18th Century at the Isle a La Cache Museum in Romeoville. Stop by the visitor center or participate in a program or events to learn about the native Potawatomi.

The quaint atmosphere inside a historic building in downtown Joliet is the perfect cozy place for a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate. After a morning of site-seeing stop in at Jitters Coffee House to treat yourself to a welldeserved snack of fresh pastries, sandwiches and more.

Nothing says "relax" like strolling through an antique shop. Chic, Geek & Antique in Wilmington houses a variety of goodies, and specializes in "geek-like" vintage toys, comic books, video games and records.

With only 3 of the giant "Muffler Men" left in the State of Illinois, along Route 66 the Gemini Giant stands along America's Mother Road, welcoming visitors to Wilmington.

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Scenic 3 Byways See exciting historic sites and stops along the way

Illinois Route 66 – Illinois Lincoln Highway – Illinois River Road

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SCENIC BYWAYS ILLINOIS

ROUTE 66

Established in 1926, Route 66 became the preferred and shortest route between the Midwest and the West Coast. Ford Model T cars puttered along the dirt road and became the route for many escaping the Dust Bowl during the Great Depression. In fact, author John Steinbeck christened Route 66 as the “Mother Road” in his classic novel, The Grapes of Wrath. Route 66 was traveled during Prohibition, through war times and the following peace, with businesses popping up with flashing neon signs signaling specials at “Mom & Pop” diners and cozy hotels offering a good night’s rest. But with the rise of the interstate highway, Route 66 was deemed obsolete. By 1977 most of Illinois’ Mother Road was replaced by I-55. Today, travelers can relive the Mother Road’s heyday and visit sites such as the Route 66 Welcome Center at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, Pontiac’s Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame & Museum, the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Braidwood’s Polk-aDot Drive In, and several other attractions and restaurants. The Gemini Giant, Wilmington

Polk-A-Dot Drive In, Braidwood

Scenic Byways

Joliet Area Historical Museum, Joliet

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SCENIC BYWAYS ILLINOIS

LINCOLN HIGHWAY

In 1913, Carl Fisher (founder of the Indianapolis Speedway) began tinkering with the thought of a coast-to-coast highway. He proposed the idea to a group of fledgling Detroit automakers, which seized upon the idea as a way to attract car buyers. Henry Joy, president of the Packard Motor Car Company, suggested that the road be named for Abraham Lincoln. But without federal funding, it was impossible to build a road that stretched across America. Instead, the Lincoln Highway Association decided to promote existing roads that, cobbled together, would provide a route across the country. They also

Downtown Plainfield

made it their mission to rally the government to build better roads throughout America. Illinois was the first state to pave its entire section of the Lincoln Highway. By the 1920s, a reliable network of roads had been built across the nation, and the Lincoln Highway was one of its stars, with songs and poems written about it. By the end of the decade, the Lincoln Highway became subject to a numbering system that made it just one more interstate highway among many others. In 1927, the Lincoln Highway Association decided to mark the route with bronze heads of Abraham Lincoln, designed by famed landscape architect Jens Jensen. Of the 175 markers placed in Illinois, only about 24 remain.

Rialto Square Theare, Joliet

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In 2000, the Lincoln Highway was designated a National Scenic Byway, helping to preserve its rich history. Today, visitors to Illinois can travel the Lincoln Highway on U.S. 30 and IL Routes 31 and 38, passing through charming towns and country villages. The 179-mile-long Illinois stretch begins in Lynwood and travels west to the Mississippi River. Look for the colorful murals in Heritage Corridor towns along the route that celebrate the highway’s history, including Crest Hill and Joliet. Joliet’s Rialto Square Theatre, built in 1926, is a signature attraction along the Illinois Lincoln Highway. In fact, there is a seven-foot-tall “Crossroads of America” marker in downtown Joliet at the corner of Chicago and Cass streets, noting the spot where historic Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway intersect.

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Credit: Instagram zamee

SCENIC BYWAYS

ILLINOIS

RIVER ROAD

The Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway follows the breathtaking banks of the Illinois River, spanning 290 miles and uniting more than 100 nature-based destinations. The scenic Illinois River Valley has attracted people for more than 12,000 years, due in part to its navigable river and fertile soil. Native Americans first lived here, hunting, growing crops and traveling on the Illinois River in dugout canoes. In the 1600s, European explorers, missionaries and fur traders found their way to the valley. They lived alongside the Native Americans, building homes, forts and trading posts. But when the Euro-American settlers arrived in the early 1800s they brought conflict and disease, which eventually forced out the Native American tribes. As more settlers came to the region they built communities that thrived on the fishing

Today, you can see glimpses of Illinois’ early f rontier days while traveling along the Illinois River Road, which parallels the Illinois River Country Nature Trail. Wildlife is abundant in the Heritage Corridor area, and if you’re lucky, you may spy a great blue heron, foraging white-tailed deer or even a soaring bald eagle during the wintertime. Hike or bike the towpaths along the picturesque I&M Canal State Trail. Take a ride with the pioneer crew aboard the I&M Canal Boat and check out the Lock 16 Visitor Center. Hike past glittering waterfalls at Star ved Rock State Park. And watch tugboats chug by the Illinois Water way Visitor Center in Ottawa. Credit: Instagram zamee

The Illinois River flows by Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

from the Illinois River and the fertile land that was ideal for farms growing crops and raising livestock. Limestone and sandstone were used to construct buildings. The series of channels and locks on the Illinois River linking the Great Lakes with the Mississippi River led to the eventual explosion of commerce.

French Canyon in Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

Scenic Byways

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Joliet

history … fun … imagination …

Spark your sense of wander and wonder on the nation’s Mother Road

-- the legendary Route 66 -- and visit eclectic Joliet, less than an hour south of Chicago. Historic and forward-thinking, Joliet brims with unique charm, culture, cuisine and especially colorful history as portrayed abundantly in stunning public art -- handsome murals and sculptures depicting significant historical events and personalities. Seek and you shall find artistic installations in every neighborhood. Residents proudly proclaim that Joliet is the “biggest little city” . . . an exciting array of fascinating diversion in a friendly small-town ambiance. Explore Joliet and you’ll find a city that honors its roots as it drives purposely to a greater future. Historically, Joliet shares an important link with Route 66. The city became an official part of Route 66 in 1926 with the roadway running through downtown for decades before it was eventually rerouted. The spirit of Route 66 remains, and today visitors can still experience a sense of Mother Road culture here. Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

Top: Old Joliet Prison | Middle: Downtown Joliet, including Harrah’s Joliet | Bottom: Polk-a-Dot Drive In, Braidwood

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Credit: Duane Lawrence

Visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum and its Route 66 Welcome Center to return to the heyday of the Mother Road. The museum, housed in the former Ottawa Street Episcopal Methodist Church built in 1909 in the grand Neoclassic Revival style, stands at the Crossroads of America - one block west of where the original alignment of Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway intersect. Take a seat on a classic car-inspired couch at the museum’s retro drivein movie theater and see images of the quirky roadside attractions and eateries that made Route 66 a destination itself. The museum showcases Joliet’s fascinating history in a brief, charming preview video. Then explore interactive exhibits that include a walk-through replica of the I&M Canal, turn-ofthe-century streetscape, and a depiction of an Old Joliet Prison guard tower. A museum highlight is the Lunar Lander Simulator that challenges visitors to blast off to the moon and attempt a spacecraft

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Top left - Rich & Creamy, Joliet | Top right - Rialto Square Theatre, Joliet | Middle right Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, Joliet

landing on the lunar surface. The simulator is part of the two-story, state-of-the-art Apollo/Houbolt exhibit that celebrates the 1969 moon landing and Joliet native Dr. John C. Houbolt, who was a vocal proponent of the history-making Apollo 11 mission. Before you depart the museum, pop into the lobby Museum Shop for a unique selection of Joliet and Route 66 memorabilia, books and toys. There are a few replica vintage gas pumps in the city (near Old Joliet Prison and Gas City) as a colorful salute to Joliet’s Route 66 connection. A good place for fun selfies is Route 66 Park, where you’ll want to snap a photo in front of the huge “Joliet Kicks on 66” highway shield. While here, grab a cone from the Rich & Creamy ice cream stand, the official starting point of Route 66 in Joliet. Take note of The Blues Brothers on the rooftop. Take a walk through the park and browse the kiosks that illustrate local Route 66 attractions and feature maps to help you find them.

Newly dubbed “The Alcatraz of the Midwest,” visit the Old Joliet Prison to walk the old grounds of the incarcerated, read interpretive displays that detail the prison’s fusty history and its inmates, as well as appreciate new-found fame with starring roles in The Blues Brothers movie and the hit TV shows Prison Break and Empire. Opened in 1858 and closed in 2002, the 16 intriguing acres of the Old Joliet Prison are now available for seasonal guided tours. Visitors will be able to participate in programs, photo ops and guided tours on the famous (or infamous) prison grounds and buildings housed inside the historic

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Joliet Limestone walls, the very same stone as Chicago’s renowned Water Tower. Contact the Joliet Area Historical Museum for details and admission tickets. Another place of interest is the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site. Once home to Joliet Iron and Steel Works, which originally opened in 1869, the site has preserved remnants of the once massive steel mill. Take a self-guided tour on a 1.5-mile walkway and see exhibits that illustrate the history of the mill and the men who worked there. You will pass foundations of old blast furnaces and crumbling structures from the dismantled factory. The site also links with a bike path to the I&M Canal State Trail.

Credit: Instagram ri_collins

Venture on to the “Jewel of Joliet,” the Rialto Square Theatre. This stunning vaudeville palace was built in 1926. Big name performers that have graced the stage include Bob Hope, Red Skeleton and The Marx Brothers, who are honored with a street-side silhouette sculpture nearby. The Rialto was designed in an over-the-top grand manner, incorporating ornate European architectural styles, including a replica of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, sweeping staircases, and a stunning 22-foot tall crystal chandelier that is known as “The Duchess.” The Rialto also features the last-of-its-kind Barton Grande theater pipe organ, which is still played today. The Rialto continues to present live theater and popular music throughout the year. Make sure to check their schedule for upcoming performances and behind-the-scenes tours fill with backstage tales of this awe-inspiring theater.

Old Joliet Prison, Joliet

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

Two blocks from the Rialto Square Theatre is the architecturally handsome 1912 small-scale replica of Chicago’s famous Union Station. The station’s glorious former waiting room has been transformed into The Grand Ballroom, a timeless and elegant setting for weddings and receptions. On the lower level, MyGrain Brewing Company is committed to bring flavorful and bold-yet-smooth styled craft beers paired to a lunch and dinner menu to appeal to anyone’s tastes. Adjacent to Old Union Station and newly-opened in 2018 is Joliet Gateway Center, a state-of-the-art transportation hub, offering both the convenience of long-distance Amtrak rail as well as regional Metra commuter service to Chicago and its suburbs. As you walk through downtown Joliet and drive through the city, you’ll notice colorful tile mosaics, murals and bronze sculptures that are part of the arts program created by the Friends of Community Public Art (FCPA). These artful installations capture Joliet’s history, culture and heroic personalities through sitespecific, audience responsive art work. Take a break at the scenic Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park & Theatre, nestled between limestone bluffs and the waters of the 133-mile Des Plaines River. There’s a lot to do at this 10-acre park, which is home to two community theater companies that stage plays yearround, the free summertime “Concerts on the Hill” Thursday evening series, and annual events such as the holiday “Festival of the Gnomes.” Stroll around the park and you’ll spy murals and large boulders with plaques noting former historic sites that stood on Bluff Street, Joliet’s first street that once ran through the park. Extend your nature experience at the Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory, located just east of downtown Joliet. You’ll appreciate the beautiful blooming flora on display located within a 660-acre wooded site at Pilcher Park. Built in the early 1900’s, this lovely Italian Renaissance-style building is the perfect background for seasonal flower shows. Amble about the grounds for artistically landscaped seasonal beauty. Finally, rev your engines at the Autobahn Country Club founded by racing star and Indy 500 champ Bobby Rahal. The 350-acre site (located near Chicagoland Speedway) is home to challenging tracks that, when combined, create one of the longest racing courses in the country. Although Autobahn is a members-only motorsports club, it does offer driving programs and events that are open to the public.

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Shops

Grab your wallet and get ready to spend at these shopping spots.

Credit: Giovanni Charres

Top

Far left - Louis Joliet Mall, Joliet | Middle - Countryside Village, Braidwood | Top right IKEA, Bolingbrook | Bottom right - Historic Downtown Plainfield, Plainfield

Louis Joliet Mall in Joliet, just off of I-55 and Route 30, has all the shops teens love (think H&M, American Eagle Outfitters and Hot Topic), while parents will want to make a beeline for the major department stores, including Macy’s and JCPenney. Grab a burger at TGI Fridays or a tasty soup at Panera, and then catch a movie at Cinemark. Find stores galore around the perimeter of the mall including Pier 1, Old Navy, Barnes & Noble, Target, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Historic Downtown Plainfield is a vibrant, pedestrianfocused destination for boutique shopping, dining and entertainment. Enjoy the backdrop of beautifully restored historic buildings and enthralling streetscape while dining al fresco on wide sidewalks. Anticipate exquisite layers of flavor at Mora Asian Fusion, where sushi and robata barbecue cuisine reigns. Wine & Cheese by TCC is a safe haven for wine connoisseurs and the “wine clueless” to sip, nibble and enjoy. Travel a bit north of Joliet and spend the day at The Promenade Bolingbrook, a trendy open-air shopping

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mall. You’ll find stores that everyone will love, including Hollister, Bass Pro Shops and Coach. Go see a movie and grab a bite at the upscale iPic Theatres, including having your meal delivered right to your seat. Or, bring a group of friends, put your minds together, and see if you can escape the “High Noon Room” or “Unsportsmanlike Conduct” at Escape Hour Room. At IKEA Bolingbrook shop chic, reasonably priced home furnishings, accents and unique housewares and gadgets that are the hallmarks of this Swedish retailer. Be sure to take a break for lunch (the Swedish meatballs are a must!) at the IKEA Restaurant. The charming Countryside Village in Braidwood is a 9,000-square-foot store designed to resemble a small village. Inside you’ll find home decor, gourmet food and wine, kitchenware, women’s clothing and accessories, and a fabric department that boasts more than 1,500 bolts of quality fabrics. Quilting classes are offered regularly.

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EAT LIKE A Local BAROLO RISTORANTE JOLIET

This elegant cucina serves traditional Italian fare, including chicken piccata and veal scaloppini, along with sinful desserts such as the chocolate hazelnut tiramisu.

CEMENO’S PIZZA JOLIET

For more than 40 years, this family-run spot has been serving up pizza (both deep dish and thin) and Italian dishes that still use Grandma Tressie’s recipes, including her original spaghetti and meatballs.

CHEVERE LATIN CAFÉ JOLIET

Adventurous Venezuelan dining in downtown Joliet right across from the Rialto Square Theatre. The arepas stuffed corn cakes, empanadas, fried plantains, and creamy flan are among the tempting offerings all prepared fresh daily.

BURGER THEORY JOLIET

For a fun, inviting and lively atmosphere where the menu uses new flavors to reinvent classic dishes, visit this spiffy eatery located in the newly opened Rock Run Holiday Inn. The focus is on gourmet burgers and the special proprietary blend of Certified Angus Beef chuck, brisket and short rib. Yum!

AL’S STEAK HOUSE JOLIET

Charbroiled steaks are the specialty at this restaurant of old-school ambience where the black Angus beef is cut in-house. Try any steak done in Al’s special Grecian style.

CHERRY HILL CAFE JOLIET

Start your morning off right with a farmer’s platter or one of their many breakfast options. Lunch is pretty tasty too: think about a savory reuben or a nice-sized chicken salad.

HOME CUT DONUTS JOLIET

You can’t go wrong with fresh homemade donuts and a piping hot cup of coffee. Open 24 hours! Try the double chocolate cake donut or the angel cream-filled long john.

J-TOWN EATERY JOLIET

TALLGRASS RESTAURANT LOCKPORT

This award-winning upscale restaurant presents multi-course gourmet meals (try the acclaimed rack of lamb) in a beautifully restored Victorian building.

FRIACO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT SHOREWOOD

A bright, cheery decor and lively music greets you at this friendly Mexican restaurant that serves specialties such as fish tacos, chipotle and enchiladas mole stuffed with chicken.

Pull right up to this little fast-food joint that gets raves for its authentic Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches and gyros platters.

TRUTH JOLIET

This friendly, neighborhood restaurant focuses on American Contemporary with locally, organically grown produce. Burgers to Filets, Seafood Manicotti to Pepperjack Chicken. The cuisine is complemented by a full bar and extensive wine list.

MERICHKA’S CREST HILL

Open since 1933, this iconic Joliet family-run restaurant is known for its steak poor boy sandwich served on French bread and slathered in garlic “butterine.”

HOLLINGWORTH CANDIES LOCKPORT

MCWETHY’S TAVERN ROMEOVILLE

Scottish inspired, American made. Eat amazing meals while overlooking the beautiful Mistwood Golf Course.

Stop by this State Street store in Lockport to sample Hollingworth’s signature English toffee and see how it’s made.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

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Sports Summertime

Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway in Joliet are must-stops for racing fans. Catch NASCAR races at Chicagoland Speedway and get in the driver’s seat of a stock car yourself (or ride along as a passenger) at one of the driving experiences designed by NASCAR stars Richard Petty, Mario Andretti, Dale Jarrett and Rusy Wallace. At Champions Park, located next to the grandstands, hear live music and grab a beer before the races. If drag racing is more your speed, head across the street to Route 66 Raceway and get close to the action at this stadium-style drag strip. Your ticket acts as a pit pass that allows you to watch teams work on their cars and get a chance to snag autographs from the drivers. Nearby Dirt Oval 66 offers select demolition derby experiences as well.

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Credit: AHJ Photography

Top left: Joliet Route 66 Stadium, Joliet | Bottom left: Chicagoland Speedway, Joliet | Middle: Inwood Golf Gourse, Joliet | Top right: Bolingbrook Golf Club, Bolingbrook | Bottom right: Mistwood Golf Club, Romeoville

The Joliet area is home to a number of great courses. The Joliet Park District offers three outstanding public courses, including Inwood Golf Course (which celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2016), the par 72 Wedgewood Golf Course and the scenic Woodruff Golf Course. Other standouts include Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont, open since 1927 and site of the famed Dubsdread course. The award-wining Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville brings Scottish flair

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

with a St. Andrews-style course. The championship Bolingbrook Golf Club has rolling fairways and seven lakes, along with a renowned golf academy. Catch a thrilling Joliet Slammers baseball game at Joliet Route 66 Stadium in downtown Joliet. The 2018 Frontier League champions season runs from May to September. Grab a seat in the handsome and comfortable stadium, or spread out on the lawn and cheer on the home team.

VisitJoliet.com

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Ways TO PLAY

Everyone’s a kid at these family-friendly attractions

HAUNTED TRAILS

CPX SPORTS

SKY ZONE

Scare up some fun at this popular spooky-themed spot that features indoor amusement rides, laser tag, go-karts, two miniature golf courses, video games and a casual café.

Paintball is the name of the game at this exciting attraction that offers several themed playing fields, including the apocalyptic “Armageddon,” the mysterious “Jungle of Doom,” and the unpredictable town of “Bedlam” (with 10 blocks of buildings).

Fly high in awesome healthy fun at the region’s premier indoor trampoline park. Experience “WOWEE” – the weightlessness of bouncing, flipping and landing into a pit filled with 5,000 colorful foam cubes. Toddlers all the way up to thrill seekers find the ultimate play experience here.

Joliet

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Joliet

Joliet

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SPLASH STATION WATERPARK

Joliet

At this railroad-themed water park, race down the thrilling six-lane water slide, drift away on the lazy river, and whoosh along the body slides.

RAGING WAVES WATERPARK

Yorkville

Illinois’ largest outdoor waterpark boasts numerous extreme water slides (including the award-winning “Wonambi”), three huge kiddie areas, big wave pool, lazy river and a sandy beach.

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

BOWLERO

WILDERNESS FALLS

More than just a bowling alley, Bowlero ups the ante with a laser tag arena, bumper cars and more than 50 arcade games.

Take your best swing at this miniature golf course that features a 40-foot tall mountain with a tumbling waterfall, the creepy Big Foot’s cave, and racing rapids. You can also take a swing at the baseball and softball cages.

Romeoville

CHANNAHON LANES

Channahon

Get in the game with super entertainment that won’t break the family budget. Kids will love bumper bowling, making sure they always hit the pins. Teens can groove to the cool Rock’it Bowl where the lights are turned down, special effects lighting mesmerizes and the music is turned up!

Bolingbrook

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM IN OAK LAWN

Oak Lawn

Spend the afternoon at this kids’ museum that makes learning fun with exhibits that include a market, treehouse, art studio, dairy-themed cafe, and a theater complete with puppets and costumes.

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5 Fall Fun Ideas 1

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HAUNTED PRISON TOURS JOLIET

Step onto the grounds of the Old Joliet Prison, where infamous prisoners like “Babyface” Neslon, Leopold, Loeb, Gacy and Speck roamed. Around Halloween, things may get paranormal.

BENGSTON’S PUMPKIN FEST HOMER GLEN

For nearly 40 years, a visit to the Bengston Family Farm has become an annual fall tradition. Hayrides, kiddie rides, petting zoo, pig races, haunted farm and the vortex tunnel are but a few of the attractions. Delicious treats include Uncle Bub’s award-winning BBQ.

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DOLLINGER FAMILY FARM CHANNAHON

Pick the perfect pumpkin at this scenic country farm. Get lost in the four-acre maze, join a tractor hayride, pet farm animals and run around the playground that features a pirate ship. Be sure to take home some of Grandma Dollinger’s Famous Fudge.

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3 1

Credit: Jonathan Naranjo

Autumn is full of scary and sweet surprises

HELLSGATE HAUNTED HOUSE LOCKPORT Named the scariest haunted house in Illinois and 11th scariest nationally (by HauntWorld.com), HellsGate is an adventure through the woods and through a multi-story mansion. Stay clear of the zombies and the dragons (and everything in between).

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HEAP’S GIANT PUMPKIN FARM MINOOKA

You’ll find more than 90 varieties of pumpkins, gourds and squash at this family-run farm. Take a hayride out to the 25-acre pumpkin patch to find your favorite pumpkin. Let the kids loose in Milo’s Castle Playground – and make sure to grab the popular grilled pork burger for lunch.

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Best BETS

Score at Joliet’s two winning casinos

Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel Located on the Des Plaines River in downtown Joliet, Harrah’s features more than 1,100 slot machines, gaming tables and the World Series of Poker Room, where tournaments and games with a variety of limits are played. Celebrate your good fortune with a succulent steak or fresh seafood at The Reserve or fuel up for the next round at Flavors the Buffet for a taste of Vegas with a hearty array of stir-fry, deep-dish pizza, luscious desserts and much more. Can’t tear yourself away from the slots? Order a burger from Cross Street Grill right on the casino floor! Stay the night at the 200-room Harrah’s Joliet Hotel.

Hollywood Casino Joliet Here you’ll find a generous bit of Golden-Age Hollywood ambience and more than 1,100 video slots (including the most penny slots in town), table games that include live poker, and casino hosts who can show you the ropes. Dine on prime beef or Chilean sea bass at Final Cut Steakhouse. Swig a craft beer and enjoy hearty sports bar fare with a twist at 99 Hops House. A truly decadent Sunday brunch is served at Epic Buffet. Or duck into Take Two Deli for a quick, palate-pleasing bite. Plan your trip to include an overnight at the Hollywood Casino Joliet Hotel & RV Park.

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HENNEPIN

AMTRAK CHICAGOQUINCY

STARVED ROCK Explore the natural wonders and quaint small towns that make the Starved Rock State Park area a vacation destination Earlville, Grand Ridge, Granville, Hennepin, Henry, LaSalle, Marseilles, McNabb, Mendota, Morris, Naplate, North Utica, Oglesby, Ottawa, Peru, Princeton, Seneca, Sheridan, Spring Valley, Streator, Tonica, Utica

Mendota

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Princeton

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Spring Valley

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Putnam

McNabb Senachwine Lake

PUTNAM COUNTY

DESCRIPTION Starved Rock is the western region of the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor. The Illinois River and I&M Canal flow through the area along with other outdoor features like hiking trails, canyons, and wildlife refuges.

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Rooms in the Reddick Mansion

Varieties of wildflowers found in the meadows of Starved Rock State Park travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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Bird species spotted nesting or resting at the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge

Year of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate that took place in Washington Square, Ottawa

Feet in length of the earthen sculpture snake at Buffalo Rock State Park

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By Jen Nilsson

The Starved Rock area is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s the place in Illinois where seasonal waterfalls abound and history confounds. It is here where state parks intersect with historic canals, and where local wines are served with a side of small-town charm. Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby boasts 18 canyons carved into the sandstone bluffs from the rushing waters of melting glaciers. Today, 13 miles of hiking trails wind through the treestudded canyons and sandstone buttes, while 200 varieties of wildflowers and 14 waterfalls add a dramatic backdrop to the scenic landscape. In the spring, the rain-engorged waterfalls delight, and in the winter the water turns into frozen ice sculptures perfect for climbing.

Before hitting the trails, stop by the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center for trail maps and to learn about the legends surrounding the area, including how the tall rock formation of “Lovers Leap,” may be named for a young couple from two warring Native-American tribes who chose to leap together to their deaths rather than remain apart as their chiefs demanded. For some indoor fun in an outdoor paradise, stay overnight at the Starved Rock Lodge

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Credit: Instagram joshcaterer

STARVED ROCK

Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

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& Conference Center, where a huge, twosided stone fireplace warms the Great Hall, and where live music fills the cozy Back Door Lounge in the winter and rocks the veranda in the summer. For a dream getaway for the kids, Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort in nearby Utica features an indoor water park complete with a wave pool and a lazy river. Both locations offer cozy onsite rooms and rustic outdoor cabins nestled beneath the trees.

The inviting village of Utica is the perfect place to relax after a day of outdoor exploration. Recline in the wine garden at Illinois River Winery and enjoy live music on warm-weather weekends while choosing from more than 30 types of hand-crafted, locally grown wines. In its downtown Utica tasting room, August Hill Winery pours local wine and bubbles, created from the nearby hillside vineyards that overlook the Illinois River. The tasting room also features

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STARVED ROCK Just a stone’s throw from the majestic beauty of Starved Rock State Park and from the quaint pleasures of Utica, Matthiessen State Park unfolds its colorful layers of sandstone and its beautiful rock formations, filling the park’s five miles of hiking trails with intrigue. The interesting color variations are a result of mineral-rich groundwater that has seeped through the exposed sandstone of the park’s canyon walls. The highlight of this water erosion is a colorful, mile-long canyon that meanders from Deer Park Lake to the Vermillion River and features a 45-foot drop with a waterfall called Cascade Falls. Less than 10 miles away, and just down the Illinois River, Buffalo Rock State Park in Ottawa soars above the water, offering aweinspiring views and a peek into history. Once an island within the river, it is now a park atop a bluff, and one of the places where French explorers Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette encountered Native Americans when they ventured down the river in 1673.

This is an ideal place for a picnic while pondering the history of the hills, or while fueling up before heading out on the I&M Canal State Trail. With easy trail access from the park, this trail is a great way to hike or bike between canal towns.

Before leaving Buffalo Rock State Park, make sure to see the two bison – Holly and Pebbles – who call the park home. The two massive mammals may just be the only bison to have a craft beer made just for them. The Lone Buffalo Brew Pub – home to the Tangled Roots Brewing Company – in downtown Ottawa brews the “Bison Weizen” beer to raise funds for Buffalo Rock State Park. While the Bison Weizen is not always on tap, this “farm-to-foam” brewery and restaurant is a beer lover’s haven. After a pint at The Lone Buffalo, take a short stroll to Washington Square Park. Be sure to look up to see the mural of bison above the pub, before stopping on the next block to admire the large, colorful

mural named “The Day of the Great Debate,” in honor of the first debate between Illinois Senator Stephen A. Douglas and his relatively unknown challenger, Abraham Lincoln in 1858. The two engaged in seven debates in front of raucous crowds across the state of Illinois. While Lincoln would lose his bid for the Senate, the debates helped to pave the way for his presidential victory over Douglas just two years later. Enter Washington Square Park to see the two bronze statues of Lincoln and Douglas at the place where the historical debate took place, and to reflect on the monument to the Civil War and the soldiers from LaSalle County who did not come home.

Washington Square Park, Ottawa

Credit: Instagram chrystel_in_america

The park is best known for the five, huge earthen sculptures in the form

of indigenous animals that serve as a tribute to the mounds of earth that Native Americans once raised over burial grounds. Called Effigy Tumuli, the crowning jewel of the huge outdoor art exhibit is an earthen snake more than 2,000 feet long.

Credit: Instagram cfschultz050

the work of local artists and artisans, so grab a glass and browse.

Giants Bathtub at Matthiessen State Park, Oglesby

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Credit: Instagram brickstorycom

STARVED ROCK

LOOK

TO THE

SKY

Dixon Waterfowl Refuge HENNEPIN

The Starved Rock area resides beneath the Mississippi Flyway, one of the most important bird migration routes. More than 325 bird species use the Flyway for their round-trip adventure each year, and 80 percent of the waterfowl who follow the Flyway, stop to rest in the wetlands surrounding the Illinois River. The 3,000 acres of the Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge offer an inviting place for the 270-bird species that have stopped here, and for the public to view them. It is open 365 days a year.

Eagle Watch Weekend

Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, Starved Rock Lodge and Illinois Waterway Visitor Center Each winter, eagles migrate to Illinois, traveling south as the rivers freeze in pursuit of the fish in the cold waters of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Eagles start to arrive in December and, as the weather grows colder, more and more flock to the area. Traditionally, the last weekend of January is the best time for eagle watching, which is when the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, Starved Rock Lodge and Illinois Waterway Visitor Center jointly host events, including eagle watching hikes throughout the area.

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Hegeler Carus Mansion, LaSalle

From here, head across the square to the famed Reddick Mansion & Gardens to visit the most expensive and ornate private home constructed in the Midwest during the mid1800s. Businessman and politician William Reddick, who sat on the speakers’ platform on that fateful debate day in August 1858, commissioned the 22-room Italianate mansion across from the square in 1855. Today many of the rooms are restored to reflect their original luxury. Another ornate mansion – and symbol of a bygone era – resides in nearby LaSalle, where the Hegeler Carus Mansion remains nearly unaltered from its original 1876 appearance. The seven-level, 57-room mansion was designed by W.W. Boyington, architect of the Chicago Water Tower, and was home to zinc manufacturer Edward Hegeler and his large family, including ten children. Complete your tour of historic mansions in charming Putnam County with a tour of the recently restored and redecorated Pulsifer House, built in Hennepin in 1844 for businessman Edward Pulsifer.

Continue on to Bureau County and keep an eye out for the unexpected and artistic splashes of color that adorn more than two dozen of the county’s farm buildings. Spotting the Barn Quilts of Bureau County is a fun way to explore this charming area that is steeped in history. It is here where the Hennepin Canal was completed in 1907, connecting the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. Today it is a 104.5-mile linear park, where the reclaimed space makes for endless outdoor opportunities like hiking, cycling, horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, and even snowmobiling in the winter months. While exploring Bureau County, don’t miss the RedCovered Bridge just outside of Princeton. Built in 1863, the 149-foot bridge is still open to traffic, and it is a photographer’s delight. The same can be said for Princeton itself, where the historic Apollo Theater on Main Street shows modern-day movies in the same beautiful building that once brought opera and vaudeville to the area.

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STARVED ROCK

Remnants of the Past Explore the intersection of nature and history

The New Way of Life

The I&M Canal

The Starved Rock area, with its abundance of outdoor options, is home to the rich history of the I&M Canal. It is here where the western region of the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor spills its historical secrets in charming canal towns and along the twists and turns of the canal with its remnants of a boomtown past that helped to create Chicago and to forever change the course of navigation, trade and commerce.

The Underground Railroad

One of the most important safe havens along the route for escaping slaves was in Princeton at the home of Owen Lovejoy. Even after his brother, Elijah, was murdered by a pro-slavery mob, Lovejoy remained an outspoken abolitionist and a daring “conductor� along the Underground Railroad. Today the city of Princeton operates an intriguing peek into life in the pre-Civil War Era at the Owen Lovejoy Homestead. The property also houses the one-room Colton Schoolhouse.

Starved Rock

Before the I&M Canal, local farmers brought their goods to market by horse and wagon. The lives and fortunes of local farmers were changed when grain elevators were built along the canal to ship grain in bulk to the fast-growing city of Chicago. The canal town of Seneca is home to the M.J. Hogan Grain Elevator, which was completed in 1862. Today, it is the earliest remaining grain elevator and tours are provided through the Seneca Historical Guild.

The Above-Ground Railroad

It was once the longest railway in the world, and the Illinois Central ran right through the city of Mendota. It is here where the Illinois Central crossed with the Chicago & Aurora Railroad, creating a place rich in railway history and an apt location for the Union Railroad Depot Museum. Stop by for guided tours and to see a section of the Illinois Central, which hauled 30 percent of union troops and supplies to the south during the Civil War.

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Credit: Instagram Parkfitfamliving

FOODIES

ADVENTURE SEEKERS

HISTORY BUFFS

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

INDOOR EXCITEMENT

SNACK BREAK RELAXING WEEKEND GETAWAY SELFIE STOPS 66

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Credit: Angie Miller

FAMILY FUN Dine in, or carry out Bianchi's Pizza in Ottawa and enjoy an ideal family pizza night! You'll find yourself wanting seconds and thirds of Bianchi's famous pizza and house-made hot sauce.

There is something for everyone at Quest Water Sports in Ottawa. Your family can choose from a variety of water activities including boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and eclipses.

The Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the history of boy scouts, girl scouts, campfire and the Ottawa area.

Amazing waterfalls are active in the spring and after heavy rains. Starved Rock State Park has 13 miles of trails to explore and the Illinois River offers fishing (ice fishing, too), boating, extraordinary views and great places to relax. The Hegeler Carus Mansion was built in LaSalle as a family home in 1874 and remains virtually unaltered since. The mansion has been placed on the National Historic Landmark list and hosts tours and events year round.

COUPLES THERAPY For over 60 years, Casa Mia has offered the residents and visitors of Naplate some of the finest dining in the area in casual elegance.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Illinois River at the 298-acre Buffalo Rock State Park, which features walking trails, picnic shelters, tables and cooking grills, a playground area and baseball diamond. Nearby, the 1,900 acre Matthiessen State Park features an abundance of plant and animal life as well as spectacular canyons, waterfalls and streams.

Historically important and architecturally unique, the Reddick Mansion anchors Washington Square, the site of the first LincolnDouglas Debate in Ottawa. Built in 1855, this lovely 22-room Italianate mansion was possibly the most expensive and ornate private home built in Illinois before the Civil War.

Want to plan a date that neither of you will ever forget? Plan a trip to Ottawa's Skydive Chicago where you can free fall into a once in a lifetime experience.

Ottawa's SaltTreeYoga wellness center offers a variety of relaxing wellness alternatives including one of only 10 Himalayan Salt Caves in the state. Experience a new, natural way to restore your body to its natural, functional and healthy state.

Treat the whole family to pies, pastries, smoothies and more at Four and Twenty Café in Princeton. Using locally sourced food this midwestern café is dedicated to the best house made meals and treats.

After a morning of adventuring, stop in at Nonie's Bakery in Utica to get a freshly baked goodie. Open until 3pm everyday, this family owned business makes everything fresh, daily.

Enjoy the big screen from the comfort of your own car at Route 34 Drive-In Theater in Earlville. Snack on made-to-order treats while watching today's box office hits

When the Apollo Theater first opened in 1883, it served as an opera hall and vaudeville stage, until its first projection machine was installed around 1910. Along with its rich history, the theater in Princeton now offers the latest Hollywood Blockbusters.

The familiy can get their hands dirty with classes at Streator’s Fine Field Pottery. Birthday parties, couples events and more can be held in a safe and encouraging atmostphere.

Credit: Instagram ruben_empresarion

Starved Rock Itineraries

"The Walldogs" is an internationally renowned organization of sign and mural artists and in June and July of 2018, they chose to visit Streator. You can stroll through town and view the 17 murals done by the Streator Walldogs.

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Credit: Instagram Ember Ferrantino

Credit: Instagram Ember Ferrantino

FRIEND GETAWAYS

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Whether your group is looking for a laid back fishing trip or a whitewater adventure Vermillion River Rafting packs the fun in Oglesby.

Star Union Spirits, located in the historic Westclox Building in Peru, is a new distillery serving amazing drinks and experiences. Check out the beautiful location, listen to music on select nights, and make sure to take home a bottle!.

The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial, located in Marseilles, was built with donated material and labor. It is the first of its kind in the history of the United States. It honors our fallen soldiers by name while we are still in the war that caused the lost lives of our brave soldiers.

On November 13, 1909, the coal mine in Cherry caught fire and a total of 259 men and boys lost their lives. This disaster was the worst coal mine fire in U.S. history and is the third worst coal mine disaster. You can still visit and pay respect to those lost at a the Cherry Mine Disaster Memorial.

Boating, kayaking, fishing, canoeing‌just a few ways to explore Heritage Harbor Ottawa. Grab a kayak or canoe and create your own tranquil tour around the marina, taking in the spectacular scenery. Or board a boat and enjoy fishing, water skiing, tubing, sightseeing, or any number of other boating activities.Â

Starved Rock Hot Glass brings hand blown art class, jewelry and cremation glass to Ottawa. Stop in and see Lara, the owner and artist, work in the hot shop, or call ahead to set up a class and tour.

Spirit Farms in Sheridan is dedicated to the forward progress of farming in the nation, they host Progressive Ag Safety Day, Continuing Education Seminars, Agricultural Tours and more.

Credit: Instagram oliviaplunk

Attentive service and high quality, delicious food greet you at the Red Dog Grill in Ottawa. Along with the view, the progressive menu and daily specials will keep you coming back.

Credit: Ember Ferrantino

To find a spot everyone will like, try B.A.S.H. in Ottawa. Burger and Sushi House was established in 2013 based on the idea of bringing everyone to the table. B.A.S.H. is a unique pairing of quality food, service, & ambience.

The Westclox Museum is dedicated to the preservation and displaying of collections of products, documents, photos and history of the Westclox Company, which was founded in Peru.

Tone's Cones has been a family owned and operated business since 1993 that treats every customer that comes to their Ottawa shop like family. Indulge in premier sundaes, shakes, malts, flurries, waffle cones or cake cones!

Myrtle's Cafe & Pie, in Princeton, is known for their variety of homemade pies. Open every day from 7:00am to 5:00pm, this is the perfect place to get a burst of energy after a long day.

Find the best deals in town, catch the latest blockbuster or grab a bite to eat at the Peru Mall.

Visit Weber House and Garden in Streator to immerse yourself in the storybook/ Tudor architecture and English-style gardens that sit on 2 acres of land. You will be amazed by the 10 gardens, each with its own theme and purpose.

Cedar Creek Ranch in Cedar Point is the perfect opportunity to capture the joy on your friend's faces; whether they are riding horses, at the petting zoo, on the gator creek cruise or motorized tour, it is sure to be a time you will want to remember.

Starved Rock

Bureau County is home to over 60 Barn Quilts of both traditional quilt design as well as personal designs for different farm owners. You can take in the beauty of the quilts as you drive through the county.

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SUMMER ADVENTURES

Soak up the sun and fun of the great outdoors

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HIKING

Lace up your boots, grab your walking stick and head out for a hike on the 13 miles of spectacular trails that weave among the waterfall canyons and sandstone bluffs of Starved Rock State Park. Stop in at the Visitor Center to pick up trail maps and snacks to take on your hike.

Ottawa Canyon, Starved Rock State Park , Oglesby

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travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


STARVED ROCK

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BIKING

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RAFTING/ KAYAKING

The I&M Canal State Trail offers an easy, scenic ride on its leafy former towpath, traversing more than 60 miles. Get a history lesson from wayside exhibits and historic landmarks like the restored Ottawa Toll House as you bike along the canal waters.

Stop by C&M Canoe Rental in Ottawa and set off paddling in a 17-foot-long canoe along the picturesque Fox River (seven-, 12- and 21-mile trips are offered). Toast your day on the water with a drink at Chet & Mary’s Fox River Tavern.

Experience the rush of whitewater rafting and kayaking with Vermillion River Rafting. You’ll paddle between tall cliffs and right through the racing rapids of the Vermillion River. Riders should have some kayaking or paddling experience, as the trip is not guided. Or try Kayak Starved Rock for both individual and group kayaking, plus its popular “glamping.”

Starved Rock

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SKYDIVING

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ZIPLINING

Take the plunge at Skydive Chicago, located on a sprawling complex in Ottawa. First-time jumpers and experienced skydivers alike flock to this place, which also offers cabins if you want to stay the night and do it all over again the next day.

Zip Chicago in Marseilles guides guests on a canopy zipline tour that whips through the treetops at speeds that can reach up to 45mph. Platforms and suspension bridges are surrounded by native trees, and you’ll have a great view of the Illinois River Valley as you zip along 85 feet above the woods.

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A DOZEN WAYS TO

DINE

Try the big tastes in these small town eateries The Pink Chihuahua, Ottawa

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THE LONE BUFFALO OTTAWA

This restaurant was created in the idea of “slow food” – meaning you can close your eyes and truly savor every bite. Farm-fresh products bring the flavor, whether from their own farm or nearby producers. Beef Tip Pappardelle, Bone-in Ribeyes, Pulled Pork Cheese Fries are just a few of the great items on this menu.

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THE NEW CHALET RESTAURANT OTTAWA

Old-fashioned home cooking is the focus at this diner that offers everything from breakfast favorites like biscuits and gravy, to hearty lunches that include chicken with all the fixins.

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CAPTAIN’S COVE BAR & GRILL OTTAWA

Located at the Starved Rock Marina, Captain’s Cove keeps things interesting with a variety of dishes, ranging from oysters to tortilla-crusted salmon and a bacon-wrapped filet.

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THE RED DOG GRILL OTTAWA

Pull your boat right up to The Red Dog Grill, located at Heritage Harbor Ottawa on the Illinois River. You’ll find fresh fare here, including flat-iron steak with Asian chili sauce and lemon-pesto shrimp served over rice. Listen to live music on Saturday nights.

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THE PINK CHIHUAHUA OTTAWA

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CAJUN CONNECTION UTICA

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The globally influenced menu here offers everything imaginable, including Chinese pot stickers, slow-roasted pork tacos, chicken pad Thai, Korean BBQ kabobs and big burgers.

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Chef Ron McFarlain, who grew up in the swamps of Louisiana, uses his own family recipes to create authentic Cajun dishes such as the catfish Acadian and jambalaya. For dessert, don’t miss the homemade roasted pecan pie.

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This hip restaurant attracts crowds with its menu of upscale “bar food,” such as the pork shank set on cheesy grits and the delicately breaded Southern chicken sandwich with sriracha sauce.

MARKALLEN’S AMERICAN KITCHEN PERU

Chef Mark Weisbrod and his artist wife Ann bring a sense of whimsy to their colorful restaurant that serves serious food like beef tournedos and pan-seared trigger fish in a lime-garlic-brown butter sauce.

JOY & ED’S SUPPER CLUB UTICA

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CASA MIA NAPLATE

UPTOWN GRILL LASALLE

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ANNIE’S HIDE-AWAY NAPLATE

Stop here for breakfast before hitting the trails at Starved Rock State Park. The egg sandwich with ham or the hot cakes sided with hash browns will fuel you for the day.

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SOCIAL KITCHEN LASALLE

Everything on the extensive menu is made from scratch at this family-owned restaurant. Share the house-made polenta with roasted tomatoes, then move on to the panko-crusted swordfish. See live music acts in the Uptown Playlist Theater.

A staple in the tiny hamlet of Naplate for more than 60 years, cozy Casa Mia is known for its classic American dishes, such as baconwrapped scallops and broiled NY strip steak.

This hidden restaurant serves up favorites like fried chicken, potato-crusted cod and delicious seasonal desserts such as homemade apple dumplings.

MENU ITEMS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

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MENU ITEMS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

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STARVED ROCK

WINTER Forget the chill and enjoy these outdoor thrills

Credit: Instagram adventureswithjared

Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

EAGLE WATCHING Flock to the Rock - Starved Rock State Park - the picture-perfect setting for spying American bald eagles. Join the Discover the Eagles Trolley Tour in January and February, which departs from Starved Rock Lodge. You’ll ride over to the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center, where a park ranger conducts an informative eagle presentation. Observation decks at the Center offer a bird’s-eye view of the Starved Rock Lock & Dam, where the eagles like to swoop down and catch fish in the open waters. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles all along the Illinois River, where the regal birds perch in the trees f rom late December until March. Or catch Eagle Watch Weekend in January, when the Starved Rock Visitor Center, Starved Rock Lodge and Illinois Waterway Visitor Center jointly host live birds of prey shows, eagle watching hikes and family activities.

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The Illinois River at Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


STARVED ROCK ICE CLIMBING Glittering frozen waterfalls are a stunning sight during the winter at Starved Rock State Park. You can climb them if weather conditions are right. Ice climbing is only allowed in four canyons: Wildcat, LaSalle, Ottawa and Tonty. You must have a partner and bring your own gear. Contact the park office for permission and ice conditions, then sign in when you arrive. From there it’s just a matter of grabbing your gear and heading for the falls.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Love to cross-country ski or want to learn how? You can rent skis in the Dells Area of Matthiessen State Park and glide out onto six miles of snowy trails on weekends f rom December through March. Lessons are offered at the park during the Cross-Country Ski Weekend event in February.

SNOWMOBILING Once there’s at least four inches of fluffy snow on the ground, snowmobilers are free to zoom along more than 60 scenic miles on the I&M Canal State Trail. Depending on where you want to access the trail, call the nearest state park office for snowfall and trail conditions.

WINTER HIKING There’s nothing like the hush of the woods as snowflakes gently flutter from the sky. Take off on a winter hike in Starved Rock State Park and you’ll be treated to breathtaking ice falls and perhaps even scampering wildlife. Starved Rock Lodge offers guided winter hikes that lead to LaSalle Canyon, Lover’s Leap and Eagle Cliff for the best views of majestic bald eagles in flight.

Starved Rock

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visit

Bureau County By Kit Bernardi

Bureau County has always been on travelers’ maps dating back to Native American migrations. From 1776, fur traders and early settlers stopped into brothers Michel and Pierre Bureau’s trading post at the confluence of Big Bureau Creek and the Illinois River. The village named after them, Bureau, was the halfway point on the railroad journey between Rock Island and Chicago. Today’s travelers exploring Bureau County’s 23 communities discover rich American history, outdoor activities and contemporary cultural experiences.

Princeton is the Bureau County government seat, site of one of Illinois’ oldest county fairs started in 1856 and central point for touring the area. Park benches, colorful flower displays and independent shops housed in 1800s storef ronts line brick-paved Main Street. Sugary scents waft f rom F lour House Bakery & Coffee, artsy clothing draws boutique shoppers into Beetz Me! and on-site ceramics studiogallery Annies Little Pots features Central Illinois artists’ works. Little Blue Dress carries eclectic fashions and handcrafted, affordable adornments. Meadows Home Decor & Gifts showcases tasteful home design pieces and festive seasonal decor in an 1895 Queen Anne style, former dry goods store.

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Seasonal Princeton events include the Z-Tour cross-country bike ride, summer street concert series and the Shadows of Blue and Gray Civil War reenactment. Festival 56 stages a variety of shows from mid-June into December including Shakespeare in the Park and productions at the Grace Performing Arts Center. The exhibits at the Bureau County Historical Museum illustrate pioneer, agricultural, political, canal and mining industry history. A National Historic Landmark and museum, the homestead of abolitionist-ministercongressman Owen Lovejoy was one of several Bureau County stops on the Underground Railroad.

Noteworthy road-tripping routes through Bureau County include the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway and the Galena Trail and Coach Road, a historic commuter trail used by Native Americans, pioneers and coal miners. Now it’s travelers traverse the 1863 Red Covered Bridge outside Princeton and pass through abundant farmlands surrounding communities with interesting historical society museums. The annual More on 34 yard-garage sale over Father’s Day weekend stretches through communities along U.S. Route 34. The Barn Quilts of Bureau County driving route passes 90 patterned

barn quilts painted on agricultural buildings. Along the way visitors learn of the Cherry Mine Disaster of 1909 that led to passage of the nation’s first federal standards for mines safety and the Illinois Workmen’s Compensation Act.

Bureau County attracts active outdoor travelers. Spring Valley ranks as a top Illinois destination for boating, water sports, bird watching, geocaching and championship fishing. Spring Valley on the Illinois River is the first stop on Cabela’s Masters Walleye Tournament, the premier walleye fishing competition in the country. Constructed from 1892 to 1907 and connecting the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, the 104.5-mile Hennepin Canal starts in Bureau and travels west through Wyanet where visitors view Lock 21’s original lock tender houses and stop into Sheffield’s Hennepin Canal Visitors Center. Canal activities include canoeing and fishing and bicycling, hiking and horseback riding the shoreline trails comprising part of the Grand Illinois Trail and coast-to-coast American Discovery Trail. For more information, visit the Bureau County Tourism website: bureaucounty-il.com, or call: (815) 866-3606.

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


STARVED ROCK

Raise A Glass Sample Illinois vintages at these local wineries and exciting events

OTTAWA 2 RIVERS WINE FEST Great jazz, exquisite wine and amazing lobster await you at June’s Ottawa 2 Rivers Wine Fest in Downtown Ottawa. Enjoy samples from over 20 wineries and Tangled Roots Brewing Company as you listen to first-class jazz musicians. Fresh lobster from Maine is imported, so make sure to pre-order your wine and lobster tickets online at the event’s web site.

AUGUST HILL WINERY & ILLINOIS SPARKLING CO.

August Hill Winery & Illinois Sparkling Co.’s Tasting Room in Downtown Utica is a perfect stop for wine lovers. Pull up a chair at the tasting bar, or take your glass into the lounge area or three-season patio. Try the dry red Cabernet Franc or the crisp ISC Brut with a nosh plate that includes three different cheeses, prosciutto and flatbread crackers.

CATSEYE

The newest wine bar in the Starved Rock area is located in Downtown Ottawa. Visit CatsEye and enjoy an eclectic vibe, great wine list, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. The wines are rotated seasonally, and well-crafted cocktails and barrel-aged beers are available to enjoy as well.

Starved Rock

VINTAGE ILLINOIS

Illinois’ largest wine fest takes place in midwest September in scenic Matthiessen State Park. Bring your blanket or lawn chair, and get ready to enjoy over 25 Illinois-based wineries and amazing local music. Food from the best nearby restaurants is also available. Sip, savor and enjoy the scenery and the scene.

CLARKS RUN CREEK The wine is the headliner at Clark’s Run Creek Wine and Gifts. Enjoy wines from Illinois wineries including Prairie State, Spirit Knob, Blue Sky, Kickapoo Creek, and Pheasant Hollow. Relax in their upstairs lounge and get a great view of Downtown Utica. Make sure to check out the gift shop, and don’t forget that gifts for yourself are perfectly acceptable.

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ATTRACTIONS Alive with history, culture and adventure, the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor is the perfect destination to play! Matthiessen State Park, Utica AREA LEGEND I&M Canal Towns

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HELLSGATE HAUNTED HOUSE

3101 Canal St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 605-301-4283 www.hellsgate.com

KAYAK STARVED ROCK

Griggs Dr., Morris, IL 60450 • 630-567-4653 www. kayakstarvedrock.com

SKYDIVE CHICAGO

3215 E. 1969th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-0000 www.skydivechicago.com

ZIP CHICAGO

2681 E. Rte. 6, Marseilles, IL 61341 • 815-795-5001 www.zipchicago.com

GRIZZLY JACK'S GRAND BEAR RESORT & WATERPARK

2643 N. IL Rt. 178, Utica, IL 61373 • 866-399-3866 www.grizzlyjacksresort.com/water-park

HAUNTED TRAILS ENTERTAINMENT PARK & PICNIC GROVES

1423 N. Broadway Street, (Rt. 53), Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-722-7800 www.hauntedtrailsfun.com

PELICAN HARBOR INDOOR/OUTDOOR AQUATIC PARK

200 S. Lindsey Ln., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-739-1705 www.bolingbrookparks.org

PIRATE'S CAY

2558 N. 3653rd Rd., Sheridan, IL 60551 • 815-496-3292 www.piratescay.com

RAGING WAVES WATERPARK

4000 N. Bridge St., Yorkville, IL 60560 • 630-882-6575 www.ragingwaves.com

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Outside the Corridor

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Sat.-Sun. Open Play/Private Parties All Day

No

Yes

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Adventure

Over $30

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

April-October

Adventure

Over $30

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

March - November

Adventure

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

No

No

Amusement Park

$20 - $30

Thurs. - Mon.

No

No

Amusement Park

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Amusement Park

Under $10

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Amusement Park

$10 - $20

June - Mid August; 7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Mid August - May; Thur. - Mon.

Amusement Park

Over $30

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

May - September

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


DON’T MISS THE 2019 THRILLS

AT CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY AND ROUTE 66 RACEWAY

JUNE 27 – 30, 2019

THURSDAY, JUNE 27

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

SUNDAY, JUNE 30

MAY 30 - JUNE 2, 2019

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY

CHICAGOLANDSPEEDWAY.COM / ROUTE66RACEWAY.COM 8 8 8 . 6 2 9.7 2 2 3


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ALTER BREWING COMPANY

2300 Wisconsin Ave., #213, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-541-9558 • www.alterbrewing.com

BLACK HORIZON BREWING COMPANY

7560 South Quincy St., Willowbrook, IL 60527 • 630-413-4964 www.blackhorizonbrewing.com

BUCKLEDOWN BREWING

8700 West 47th St., Lyons, IL 60534 • 708-777-1842 www.buckledownbrewing.com

ELDER BREWING COMPANY

218. E Cass St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-953-0127 www.elderbrewingco.com

HICKORY CREEK BREWING COMPANY

1005 W. Laraway Rd., New Lenox, IL 60451 • 779-803-3974 www.hickorycreekbrewingil.com

METAL MONKEY BREWING

515 Anderson Dr. #900, Romeoville, IL 60446 • 630-862-9595 www.metalmonkeybrewing.com

MISKATONIC BREWING COMPANY

1000 N. Frontage Road, Unit C, Darien, IL 60561 • 630-541-9414

POLLYANNA BREWING COMPANY

431 Talcott Ave., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-914-5834 www.pollyannabrewing.com

RIVER HAWK BREWERY

24735 W. Eames St., Channahon, IL 60410 • 815-255-2202 www.riverhawkbrewing.com

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Thurs. - Sun.

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Brewery

Under $10

7 Days a Week

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Brewery

Under $10

Wed. - Sun.

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Brewery

Under $10

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Brewery

Under $10

7 days a week

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Minutes from Aurora Yorkville, IL

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NONSTOP THRILLS,

STARRING

YOU!

COME FOR THE FUN. STAY FOR THE REWARDS! Enjoy the benefits at two Chicagoland casinos featuring MyChoice®. You don’t want to miss out on the newest slots, live entertainment and all the excitement the two local casinos have to offer.

1 W NEW YORK ST « AURORA, IL 60506 777 HOLLYWOOD BLVD « JOLIET, IL 60436 Some restriction may apply. Must be 21 to enter the casino. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).


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SKELETON KEY BREWERY

8102 Lemont Rd., Unit 300, Woodridge, IL 60517 • 630-395-9033 www.skeletonkeybrewery.com

TANGLED ROOTS BREWING COMPANY

808 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-9549 www.tangledrootsbrewingco.com

WILL COUNTY BREWING COMPANY

1142 W. Jefferson St., Shorewood, IL 60440 • 815-600-9450 www.willcountybrew.com

HARRAH'S JOLIET CASINO & HOTEL

151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

HOLLYWOOD CASINO JOLIET

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

STAR UNION SPIRITS

350 5th St., Ste. 135, Peru, IL 61354 www.starunionspirits.com

BACKSTAGE AT HOLLYWOOD

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

BILLIE LIMACHER BICENTENNIAL PARK AND THEATRE

201 W. Jefferson Street at Bluff St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-724-3761 www.bicentennialpark.org

RIALTO SQUARE THEATRE

102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-726-7171 www.rialtosquare.com/

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Brewery

Under $10

Thurs. - Mon.

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Under $10

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No

Distillery

$10 - $20

See Website for Details

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A History Like No Other ...

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A Shht Drive That Takes You Far

Come Get Away Princeton is located two hours west of Chicago on Interstate 80. We invite you to indulge in the sophisticated charm of this small town’s boutique shopping and arts, music festivals, vintage covered bridges and other historic landmarks.

princeton-il.com


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SPIRIT FARMS

3874 N. Rte. 71, Sheridan, IL 60551 • 815-695-5667 www.spiritfarms.com

SPIRIT OF PEORIA

100 NE Water St., Peoria, IL 61602 • 309-637-8000 www.spiritofpeoria.com

THE EAGLE PERFORMING ARTS & CONFERENCE CENTER

319 N. Plum St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-1187 www.pontiaceagle.com

THE FORGE

22 W. Cass St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-666-8079 www.theforgelive.com

ABRAHAM LINCOLN NATIONAL CEMETERY

20953 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood, IL 60421 • 815-423-9958 www.cem.va.gov

EXIBIT GALLERY & FINE ARTS CENTER

315 Bedford Rd., Ste. A, Morris, IL 60450 • 815-258-5191 www.facebook.com/theexibitfineartscenterandgallery/

GEMINI GIANT

US Rte. 66, Wilmington, IL 60481

HEGELER CARUS MANSION

1307 Seventh St., LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815-224-5892 www.hegelercarus.org

I&M CANAL BOAT

754 First St., La Salle, IL 61301 • 815-220-1848 www.lasallecanalboat.org

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Yes

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$20 - $30

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

Entertainment

$10 - $20

Days Vary

Yes

No

Entertainment

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

$20 - $30

Fri. & Sat.

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

$10 - $20

Wed. - Sun.

Yes

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Heritage & Culture

$10 - $20

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Yes

Yes

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May - October

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 SCENIC BYWAY

700 E. Adams, Springfield, IL 62701 • 217-525-9308 www.illinoisroute66.org

JOLIET IRON WORKS HISTORIC SITE

Access E. Route 53 & Scott St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-727-8700 www.reconnectwithnature.org

MIDWEST SOARRING FOUNDATION

133 W 13th St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 773-585-8613 www.midwestsoarring.org

OTTAWA ART LEAGUE

807 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-223-0714 www.ottawaartleague.org

REDDICK MANSION ASSOCIATION

100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-6100 www.reddickmansion.org

ST. JAMES AT SAG BRIDGE

10600 S. Archer Ave., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-257-7000 www.historicstjames.org

THE GAYLORD BUILDING

200 W. 8th St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-838-9400 www.gaylordbuilding.org

TWO CELL JAIL

E Mazon St., Gardner, IL 60424

WEBER HOUSE AND GARDEN

1503 Baker St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-672-8327 www.weberhouseandgarden.com

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Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

Heritage & Culture

Free

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

Over $30

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

$10 - $20

Fri. - Mon.

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Heritage & Culture

Free

Tue. - Fri.

Yes

No

Heritage & Culture

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Heritage & Culture

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

Wed., Fri. & Sat.

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March - December

April - October

polished. H&M VICTORIA’S SECRET BATH & BODY WORKS

SW18_0380_LOJO Attractions

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0149

7.375” x 4.6875”

800.926.CANAL (2262)

83


ATTRACTIONS Ar

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BOLINGBROOK'S CLOW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

130 S. Clow International Pkwy., Bolingbrook, IL 60490 630-378-0479 www.clowairport.com

CARBON HILL SCHOOL MUSEUM

875 Second St., Carbon Hill, IL 60416 • 815-347-0810 www.ccpld.org/museum.htm

CHILDREN'S MUSEUM IN OAK LAWN

5100 Museum Dr., Oak Lawn, IL 60453 • 708-423-6709 www.cmoaklawn.org/

GALLERY SEVEN

200 W. 8th St. (2nd floor), Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-483-4310 www.galleryseven.net

GREATER LIVINGSTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL / PONTIAC COMMUNITY ART CENTER

209 W. Madison St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-419-2472 www.artsinpontiac.org

GRUNDY COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM

510 W. Illinois Ave., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-4880

HUME-CARNEGIE MUSEUM

901 Washington St., Mendota, IL 61342 • 815-539-3373 www.mendotamuseums.org/HCMUS.htm

Museum

Sat.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

Mon.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

Tue. - Sun.

Yes

No

Museum

Over $30

Wed.-Sun.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

7 Days a Week

No

No

Museum

Free

Thur. - Sat.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

Sat. and Sun.

No

Yes

Museum

Free

Sat.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

See website for details

Yes

No

March - December

ILLINOIS AVIATION MUSEUM

130 S. Clow International Parkway Bolingbrook, IL 60490 • 630-771-1937 www.illinoisaviationmuseum.org

ILLINOIS ROCK & ROLL MUSEUM

On Route 66, Joliet, IL 60423 • 815-927-1540 www.roadtorock.org

where

fun

unlimited rides & attractions for summer fun!

50% off! unlimited!

& PIcnics

A “Do-It-All” package or summer unlimited rides & attractions wristband* *When you buy same at regular price.

Must show this ad. Both packages must be used on the same day. Up to a $15 Value.

OFFER CODE: 0022409903

unlimited rides & attractions for summer fun! (Check website for details.)

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best!

Voted “best” in family fun & birthday parties!

Tag Arena new! Laser “Phantom’s Fury” coming soon!

joliet - 1423 n. broadway st. (Rt. 53) 84

is...

(Check website for details.)

(815) 722-7800 hauntedtrailsjoliet.com

Family Entertainment & Company Picnics

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


ATTRACTIONS Ar

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ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

110 W. Howard St, Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-4566 www.visitpontiac.org

ISLE A LA CACHE MUSEUM

501 E. Romeo Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-727-8100 www.reconnectwithnature.org

JOLIET AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM

204 N. Ottawa St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-723-5201 www.jolietmuseum.org

LASALLE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

101 E. Canal St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4861 www.lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org

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MIDWEST CLASSICS ON 66

706 West Baltimore St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-926-2542 www.mco66.com

OLD JOLIET PRISON

1125 N. Collins St., Joliet, IL 60432 www.jolietprison.org

OTTAWA HISTORICAL AND SCOUTING HERITAGE MUSEUM

1100 Canal St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-431-9353 www.facebook.com/OttawaHistoricalAndScoutingHeritageMuseum/

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Museum

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Museum

Free

Tue. - Sun.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

Tue. - Sun.

Yes

No

Museum

Under $10

Friday-Sun.

Yes

Yes

January-November open Friday-Sun. or by appointment

Museum

Under $10

Sat. and Sun. or by appointment

Yes

Yes

March - December

Museum

Under $10

Thur. - Tue.

Yes

No

Museum

$10 - $20

Days Vary

No

Yes

Museum

Under $10

Thurs. - Mon.

Yes

No

MENDOTA MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY

901 Washington St., PO Box 433, Mendota, IL 61342 815-539-3373 www.mendotamuseums.org

ge

April - October

Historic Dwight Train Depot, Dwight

Attractions

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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Museum

Under $10

By appointment JanuraryFebruary

Museum

Free

Museum

l p le ca ib na di ess so n a c Ha Ac Se

No

March - December

Yes

Yes

Open Wed., Sat., Sun. May-September. Sat. and Sun. October-December/ March-April.

Mon., Wed., Fri. & Sat.

No

Yes

November February Friday & Sat. only

Under $10

1st Sat. of the month or by appointment

No

No

Outdoor Recreation

Under $10

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Outdoor Recreation

$20 - $30

Friday - Mon.

Yes

Yes

March - November

Outdoor Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

September October 30

Outdoor Recreation

Free

Varies

No

No

SENECA HISTORICAL GUILD

431 N. Main St., Seneca, IL 61360 • 815-769-5077 www.senecahistory.com

WESTCLOX MUSEUM

312 5th St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-250-0617 www.westcloxmuseum.com

WILMINGTON AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM

114 North Main St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9311 www.facebook.com/Wilmington-Area-Historical-Society-Illinois-2059407644333612/

BOGGIO'S ORCHARD AND PRODUCE

12087 IL Hwy. 71, Granville, IL 61326 • 815-339-2245 www.boggiosorchardandproduce.com

BUFFALO RANGE SHOOTING PARK

1252 N. 2803 Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-2471 www.buffalorangeshootingpark.com

DOLLINGER FAMILY FARM

7502 E. Hansel Rd., Channahon, IL 60410 • 815-467-6766 www.dollingerfarms.com

FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF WILL COUNTY

17540 W. Laraway Rd., Joliet, IL 60433 • 815-727-8700 www.reconnectwithnature.org

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Yes

327 Old Hwy. 26, Hennepin, IL 61327 • 815-925-7560 www.putnamcountyhistoricalsociety.org

Under $10

n

• GARDEN CENTER • ARBORETUM • BOTANICAL GARDENS EVENT CENTER

Garden Center open April 10 – October 10 22937 1140 N. Ave., Princeton, Illinois 61356 Hornbakergardens.com | (815) 659-3282

86

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Star Union Spirits, Peru

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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GOOSE LAKE PRAIRIE PARTNERS

5010 N. Jugtown Rd., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-2899 www.gooselakeprairie.org

HEAP'S GIANT PUMPKIN FARM

4853 US Hwy. 52, Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-475-7373 www.heapsgiantpumpkinfarm.com

HERITAGE HARBOR OTTAWA

2 Great Loop West, Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-5000 www.heritageharborottawa.com

HIDDEN LAKES HISTORIC TROUT FARM

475 Trout Farm Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-759-2381 www.bolingbrookparks.org

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Outdoor Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week; call in advance

Yes

No

Outdoor Recreation

Under $10

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

September October

Outdoor Recreation

Over $30

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

April - October

Outdoor Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

March - November

Outdoor Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Outdoor Recreation

Free

Days Vary

Yes

Yes

Outdoor Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Outdoor Recreation

Under $10

7 Days a Week

No

No

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

HIDDEN OAKS NATURE CENTER

419 Trout Farm Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-739-2600 www.bolingbrookparks.org/en/facilities/hidden-oaks-conservationarea/

HORNBAKER GARDENS, INC.

22937 1140 N. Ave., Princeton, IL 63156 • 815-659-3282 www.hornbakergardens.com

MIDEWIN NATIONAL TALLGRASS PRAIRIE

30239 S. State, Rte. 53, Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-423-6370 www.fs.usda.gov/midewin

MIX'S TRADING POST & UTICA ELECTRIC BIKE RENTALS

602 Clark St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4120 www.facebook.com/pages/Mixs-Trading-Post/163089727051876

BIRD HAVEN GREENHOUSE & CONSERVATORY

222 N. Gougar Rd., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-741-7278 www.jolietpark.org/bird-haven-greenhouse

April 10 to October 10

Dry Hydrotherapy, Migun ermassage Bed, Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, Ionic Foot Detox & Yoga Hume-Carnegie Museum, Mendota

Attractions

www.salttreeyoga.com 800.926.CANAL (2262)

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Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

COLUMBIA WOODS (FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT OF COOK COUNTY)

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

GEBHARD WOODS STATE PARK

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

HISTORIC SHABBONA PARK

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Parks

Under $10

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

1300 North 27th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-2224

CATLIN PARK

2560 E. 1251 Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 www.lasallecounty.org

At Archer Ave. & Willow Springs Rd., Willow Springs, IL 60480 401 Ottawa St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-0796 4165 E. 16th Rd., Earlville, IL 60518

I&M CANAL/ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

@ Gebhard Woods State Park, Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-0796 www.dnr.illinois.gov/

MATTHIESSEN STATE PARK

2568 E. 950th Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-667-4868

OLD JOLIET PRISON PARK

1125 Collins St., Joliet, IL 60432 www.cityofjoliet.info/visitors/joliet-prison

PILCHER PARK NATURE CENTER

2501 Highland Park Dr., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-741-7277 www.jolietpark.org/pilcher-park-nature-center

SPRING LAKE NATURE PARK

1413 E. 16th Rd., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-257-3528 www.springlakefalls.org

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May - October

Bureau County Historical Society Museum, Princeton

88

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travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


ATTRACTIONS Follow the River, Fly with the Hawk! Expansive Craft Beer and Wine Taproom Also available for parties or special events

24735 W. Eames Street Channahon, IL 60410 815-255-2202 riverhawkbrewing.com Hours: Mon-Thurs, 3PM -10PM | Fri, 3PM-11PM | Sat, Noon-11PM | Sun, Noon-9PM

Downtown WIlmington

Attractions

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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STARVED ROCK STATE PARK

Rt 178 & 71, Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-5351 www.dnr.illinois.gov

CORVETTES UNLIMITED

2001 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-715-3644 www.corvettesunlimited.net/

IPIC THEATERS & SALT SPORTS BAR

619 E. Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-378-8034 www.ipictheaters.com

OPEN SPACE ART GALLERY AND STUDIOS

223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-293-7099 www.osartstudios.com

PRAIRIE STATE ROAD RUNNERS

PO Box 293., Channahon, IL 60410 www.psrr.org

RUN STARVED ROCK COUNTRY

719 Canal St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-228-7253 www.facebook.com/RUNSRC

AUTOBAHN COUNTRY CLUB

3795 CenterPoint Way, Joliet, IL 60436 • 815-722-2223 www.autobahncc.com

BOLINGBROOK GOLF CLUB

2001 Rodeo Dr., Bolingbrook, IL 60490 • 630-771-9400 www.bolingbrookgolfclub.com

BOUGHTON RIDGE GOLF COURSE

335 E. Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-739-4100 www.bolingbrookparks.org

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Parks

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Recreation

Under $10

1st Sat. of the month

Yes

No

Recreation

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Recreation

Under $10

Fri.-Sun. or by appointment

Yes

No

Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Recreation

Free

7 Days a Week

No

No

Sports

Over $30

Tue. - Sun.

No

Yes

Sports

Over $30

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Sports

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

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April 1 - Oct. 31

March - November

Photography • Paintings Sculpture • Wood Work Printmaking • Jewelry Glass Work • Pottery 200 W. 8th Street Ste. 200, Lockport, IL 60441 Wednesday-Saturday: 12-5, Sunday: 12-3

galleryseven.net Channahon Lanes, Channahon

90

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travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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BOWLERO

735 N. Center Blvd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 630-378-2695 www.bowlero.com/location/bowlero-romeoville

CHANNAHON LANES

25306 W Eames St., Channahon, IL 60410 • 815-467-2026 www.gobowl2.com

CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY

500 Speedway Blvd., Joliet, IL 60433 • 815-722-5500 www.chicagolandspeedway.com

JOLIET SLAMMERS BASEBALL

1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-722-2287 www.jolietslammers.com

PINE HILLS GOLF CLUB BAR & RESTAURANT

1665 N. 2501 Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-3985 www.ottawapinehillsgolfclub.com

RIVERFRONT LANES

402 Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-2600 www.gobowl2.com

ROUTE 66 RACEWAY

500 Speedway Blvd., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-722-5500 www.route66raceway.com

SALTTREEYOGA

310 1/2 W. Main St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-343-2751 www.salttreeyoga.com

PK UNKORKED WINE SHOP AND TASTING ROOM

220 N. Main St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-419-2676 www.facebook.com/PKUnKorked/

THE WINE CAFE

130 Bridge St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9009 www.thewinecafe.net

AUGUST HILL WINERY & ILLINOIS SPARKLING CO.

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Sports

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Sports

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

No

No

Sports

Over $30

Select Days

Yes

Yes

April - October

Sports

Under $10

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

May - October

Sports

$20 - $30

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

Weather Permitting

Sports

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Sports

Over $30

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

Wellness

$20 - $30

Mon. - Sat.

No

No

Wine Bar

$10 - $20

7 Days a Week

No

No

Wine Bar

Under $10

7 Days a Week

No

No

Winery

$10 - $20

7 days a week

Yes

No

April - October

Credit: Kim Robinson

106 Mill St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-5211 www.augusthillwinery.com

n

iPic Theatres, Bolingbrook

Open Space Art Galleries and Studio, Ottawa

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK Come hear their stories and surround yourself in over 140 years of history. Guided tours are available all year long. See hegelercarus.org for a full list of events.

Westclox Museum, Peru

Attractions

815-224-5892

800.926.CANAL (2262)

91


Dining

DINING Whether you have a taste for classic Midwest fare, spicy world cuisine or a big juicy steak, the Heritage Corridor has dining options to please every palate. Morris Chop Shop, Morris AREA LEGEND I&M Canal Towns

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ANNIE'S HIDEAWAY

323 Railroad Ave., Naplate, IL 61350 • 815-433-9686 www.facebook.com/Annies-Hide-away-489509721159135/

ASHBURY'S AT BOUGHTON RIDGE GOLF COURSE

335 E. Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-739-2377 www.boughtonridgegolf.com/bar_grill/

BURGER THEORY

1471 Rock Creek Blvd., Joliet, IL 60431 • 630-229-6074 www.facebook.com/BurgerTheoryJoliet/

CHERRY RED ROASTERS BBQ

207 East Delaware St., Dwight, IL 60420 • 815-584-1227 www.cherryredroasters.com/

CHEVERE LATIN CAFE

81 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-582-4353 www.cheverelatincafe.com/

CHUCK'S SOUTHERN COMFORTS CAFE & BANQUETS

8025 S. Cass Ave., Darien, IL 60561 • 331-431-4000 www.chuckscafedarien.com/

CROSS STREET GRILL

151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

DELL RHEA'S CHICKEN BASKET

645 Joliet Rd., Willowbrook, IL 60527 • 630-325-0780 www.chickenbasket.com

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT

2951 Centerpoint Way, Elwood, IL 60421 • 773-230-6855 www.dickeys.com

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Outside the Corridor

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Br

American

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

Tue.-Sat.

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

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travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide



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DOC WATSON’S SMOKEHOUSE

444 N. Weber Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-524-3774 www.facebook.com/Doc-Watsons-Smokehouse-149241635692293/

DUFFY'S TAVERN

101 Mill St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4324 www.duffystavernandgrill.com

EDINGER'S FILLING STATION

423 W Madison St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-419-2255 www.facebook.com/edingersfillingstation/home

EMBERS TAP HOUSE

933 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-552-3031 www.emberstaphouse.com/

FIRE WATER BBQ

1847 Knapp Rd., Crest Hill, IL 60403 • 815-729-9755 www.firewaterbbq.com

GREENHORN SALOON

303 Bedford Rd., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-513-5671 www.greenhornsaloon.com

HALFTIME RESTAURANT PIZZA AND COCKTAILS

1625 E. Norris Dr., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-9389 www.halftimerestaurantpizzaandcocktails.com

HAMBURGERSERIA

1015 Essington Rd., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-725-2883 www.hamburgerseria.com

HANOVER & HARDY'S PUBLIC HOUSE

205 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-679-1600 www.facebook.com/hanoverandhardys/

a kf

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e in is e C u Ty p

Br

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

No

No

Yes

Mon. - Sat.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

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American

TAKE A MULE-PULLED BOAT RIDE IN THE NATIONS 1ST NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA. Start your adventure at the Lock 16 Visitors Center

Gift Shop & Cafe Healthy fresh breakfast, lunch & tea. Housemade scones, soups, and desserts. Locally roasted coffee and specialty teas.

Two brands. One roof. Lots of Passion.

& Wine tastings, flights, gifts & accessories

Located in historic downtown LaSalle

754 First St. • 815.220.1848 visit us at www.iandmcanal.org

94

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Visit our tasting room or plan your next private event or party with us. 106 Mill Street * Utica, IL 61373 815.667.5211 augusthillwinery.com * iscbubbly.com

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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HAYDEN'S CROSSING

107 N. Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-5925 www.haydenscrossing.com

HOOTERS OF JOLIET

3301 Hennepin Dr., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-267-8602 www.originalhooters.com/locations/chicago/joliet/

HOPSCOTCH & VINE

24047 W. Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-230-5609 www.hopscotchandvine.com

JACK'S PLACE RESTAURANT & BAR

2642 N. IL Route 178, Utica, IL 61373 • 866-399-FUNN (3866) www.grizzlyjacksresort.com

JERRIE'S DOGS & FRIES

1003 Essington Rd., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-666-1196 www.jerriesdogsandfries.com

JIMMY JOHN'S GOURMET SANDWICHES

2971 E. 8th St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4160 www.jimmyjohns.com

JOLIET ROUTE 66 DINER

22 West Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-723-3865 www.facebook.com/66Rtdiner/

JOY AND ED'S INN

113 Mill St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4850 www.utica-il.gov/business/joy-eds-bar-restaurant/

MARKALLEN'S AMERICAN KITCHEN

1402 Peoria St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-220-0642 www.markallens.com

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American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Thur. - Mon.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

Yes

Under $10

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sat.

No

$20-$30

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1001 Essington Rd. Joliet, IL 60435 1-815-730-8488 M-Th: 11AM -2 AM Friday: 11AM -3AM Saturday: 10 AM -3AM Sunday: 10 AM -2AM

Festive Variety of Beers, Spirits & Cocktail Specials! 1003 Essington Rd. Joliet, IL 60435 1-815-666-1196 M-Th: 10:30 AM -10 PM Fri-Sat: 10:30 AM -12AM Sunday: 11AM -7PM

All Beef Vienna Hot Dogs with Steamed Rosen’s Buns!

Dining

800.926.CANAL (2262)

95


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e in is e C u Ty p

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American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

Mon. - Sat.

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

October 1 - March 31 Wed. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

POLK-A-DOT DRIVE IN

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

PUBLIC LANDING RESTAURANT AND BANQUET CENTER

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Re

st

MERICHKA'S

604 Theodore St., Crest Hill, IL 60403 • 815-723-9371 www.merichkas.com

NELLY'S RESTAURANT ON ROUTE 66

140 Bridge St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9590 www.nellysonroute66.com

OLD LOG CABIN

18700 Old Route 66, Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-842-2908 www.route66oldlogcabin.com

OLD ROUTE 66 FAMILY RESTAURANT

105 S. Old Route 66, Dwight, IL 60420 • 815-584-2920 www.route66restaurant.com/

PINE HILLS GOLF CLUB BAR & RESTAURANT

1665 N. 2501 Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-3985 www.ottawapinehillsgolfclub.com 222 N. Front St., Braidwood, IL 60408 • 815-458-3377

200 W. 8th St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-838-6500 www.publiclandingrestaurant.com

R PLACE EATERY

21 Romines Dr., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-3690 www.rplaceeatery.com

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Come & relax in downtown Ottawa! • Eclectic

724 La Salle St, Ottawa, IL 61350 96

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Credit: Instagram jmhuber50

Wine Bar • Urban Vintage Charm • Wines Rotated Seasonally • Handcrafted Cocktails & Spirits • Craft Beers • Clever Plates

Haunted Trails, Joliet

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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RTE 66 BAR & GRILL

113 E Baltimore St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-6000 https://rte66barandgrill.wixsite.com/mysite

SIZZLES IN LOCKPORT

571 E. Division St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-524-4391 www.facebook.com/sizzlesinlockport

SUNFIELD RESTAURANT

2754 Columbus St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-5500 www.sunfieldrestaurant.com/

TAKE TWO DELI

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

TALLGRASS RESTAURANT

1006 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-838-5566 www.tallgrassrestaurant.com

THE CHEESE SHOP 'N' DELI

1219 Fulton St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-0478 www.thecheeseshop.biz

THE HI-WAY RESTAURANT

210 West Norris Dr., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-431-9431 www.hi-wayrestaurant.com

THE NEW CHALET RESTAURANT

514 State St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-2746 www.thenewchalet.com

THE OFFICE BAR AND GRILL

25520 Pheasant Ln., Channahon, IL 60410 • 815-467-7801 www.theofficebarandgrill.net

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American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sun.

No

Over $30

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

Under $10

American

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

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Live entertainment 3 days a week. Over 70 beers and 10 wines available.

253 9th Street • LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815.223.8960 • ebener@comcast.net Dining

800.926.CANAL (2262)

97


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THE PINK CHIHUAHUA

700 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-780-8032 www.thepinkchihuahua.com

THE RIGHT SPICE SUPPER CLUB

2102 4th St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-9824 www.rightspice.biz

TRUTH RESTAURANT

808 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-744-5901 www.truthrestaurant.com

UPTOWN GRILL

601 First St., LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815-224-4545 www.uptowngrill.com

WHITE FENCE FARM

1376 Joliet Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 630-739-1720 www.whitefencefarm-il.com/

WILD HORSE RESTAURANT & BAR

2314 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-280-5008 www.wildhorsejoliet.com/

MORA ASIAN FUSION

24108 W Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-782-5340 www.moraasianfusion.com

HOME CUT DONUTS

815 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-727-3511 www.homecutdonuts.com

JITTERS COFFEE HOUSE

178 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-0048 www.facebook.com/JittersJoliet/

KREMA COFFEE HOUSE

24038 W. Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-616-6933 www.facebook.com/kremacoffeehouse/

LOCK 16 CAFE & I&M CANAL VISITORS CENTER

754 First St., La Salle, IL 61301 • 815-223-1851 www.lasallecanalboat.org

NONIE'S BAKERY

522 S. Clark St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-691-5002 www.facebook.com/Nonies-Bakery-Cafe-390141894351056/

THE GREAT AMERICAN BAGEL

1101 Essington Rd., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-744-9630 www.gabgrub4me.com

THE OTTAWA BAKERY

630 Court St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-2253 www.facebook.com/theottawabakery630?ref=br_rs

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American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sat.

Yes

$10-$20

American

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sat.; Sun.s during October April

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sat.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

American

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

American

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

Asian

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

No

No

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

Mon. - Fri.

No

Under $10

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

Under $10

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

7 Days a Week

Yes

Under $10

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

Mon. - Sat.

No

Under $10

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Catering • carry out bagels • Sandwiches 1101 Essington Rd. Joliet, IL 60435 gabgrub4me.com 815-744-9630 HOURS:

Mon - Fri 6:00AM - 4:00PM Sat 6:30AM - 3:00PM Sun 7:30AM - 3:00PM

98

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

paninis • wraps soups • Salads coffee • beverages breakfast • espresso

Ottawa 2 Rivers Wine Fest, Ottawa

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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CHERRY HILL CAFE

2635 E Cass St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-726-0881 www.facebook.com/CherryHillCafe

LIBERTY STREET CAFE

511 Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-4355 www.facebook.com/pg/downtownmorrisil/

99 HOPS HOUSE

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

ELDER BREWING COMPANY

218. E Cass St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-953-0127 www.elderbrewingco.com

POLLYANNA BREWING COMPANY

431 Talcott Ave., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-914-5834 www.pollyannabrewing.com

EPIC BUFFET

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

FLAVORS, THE BUFFET AT HARRAH'S JOLIET

151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

CAJUN CONNECTION

North Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-9855 www.ronscajunconnection.com

LICKETY SPLIT

507 E. Baltimore St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-926-2689 www.facebook.com/LicketySplit2010/

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Breakfast

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Breakfast

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

Under $10

Brewhouse

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Brewhouse

No

No

No

No

No

Wed.-Sun.

No

Under $10

Brewhouse

No

No

No

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

Under $10

Buffet

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Wed. - Sun.

No

$20-$30

Buffet

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Thur. - Mon.

No

$20-$30

Cajun

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Thur. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

Dessert

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

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Need a space for your next event?

We can accommodate groups of 10 to 100. Call now to book! 815-999-2703. Hop Scotch & Vine

Dining

Opera House

800.926.CANAL (2262)

99


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NOTHING BUNDT CAKES - SHOREWOOD

207 Vertin Blvd., Shorewood, IL 60404 • 815-782-8930 www.nothingbundtcakes.com/bakery/il/plainfield-shorewood

THE LAUNCHING PAD DRIVE-IN

810 E. Baltimore St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-6535 www.facebook.com/thelaunchingpadroute66/

MYGRAIN BREWING

50 E. Jefferson St., Ste. 106, Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-345-3339 www.mygrainbrewing.com

THE LONE BUFFALO

808 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-9549 www.thelonebuffalo.com

12 HANDLES ALE HOUSE

1827 Knapp St., Crest Hill, IL 60403 • 815-582-4446 www.12handlesalehouse.com

9TH STREET PUB

253 Ninth St., LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815-223-8960 www.9thstpub.com

CAPTAIN'S COVE BAR AND GRILL

Rte 1, Box 411, Dee Bennett Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-0881 www.captainscovebarandgrill.com

CHICAGO STREET PUB

75 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-727-7171 www.chicagost.com

CLAYTON'S TAP

122 W. Washington St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-3811 www.claytonstap.com/

DOCK ROTZ TAVERN

859 South Ridge Rd., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-467-2200 www.dockrotztavern.com

DOUBLE J SPORTS BAR

1001 Essington Rd., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-730-8488 www.doublejsportsbar.com

HONEST ABE'S TAP & GRILL

3585 N. Route 47, Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-2485 www.honestabestapandgrill.com/

NICK'S TAVERN

221 Main St., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-257-6564 www.nickstavern.net

STATION 343

140 E. Main St., Dwight, IL 60420 • 815-584-9343 www.st343.com

THE RED DOG GRILL

1970 N. 2753rd Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-4406 www.reddoggrill.com

TWIN RAIL PUB

502 Twin Rail Dr, Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-521-4000 www.facebook.com/TwinRailPub

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Dessert

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

Mon.-Sat.

No

Under $10

Dessert

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Gastropub

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Gastropub

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

No

$10-$20

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Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Memorial DayLabor Day, Wed.-Sun. Limited hours until Mid-Oct.

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Mon. - Sat.

No

Under $10

Grills & Pubs

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Grills & Pubs

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Italian

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Mon. - Sat.

No

$10-$20

Italian

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Mon. - Sat.

No

$10-$20

TULLY MONSTER PUB & GRILL

104 Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-5098 www.facebook.com/Tully-Monster-Pub-andGrill-235421089855144/

BAROLO RESTAURANT

2765 Black Rd., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-729-3606 www.barolofinedining.com

PESCIOLINO OSTERIA

24554 S. Pheasant Ln., Channahon, IL 60410 • 815-255-6901 www.pesciolinoosteria.com

100

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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MACIANO’S PIZZA AND PASTARIA

850 Brookforest Ave., Shorewood, IL 60431 • 815-773-0800 www.friacosrestaurant.com

FRIACO'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

1321 Rte. 59, Joliet, IL 60404 • 815-254-4866 www.friacosrestaurant.com

CEMENO'S PIZZA

1630 Essington Rd., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-254-2500 www.cemenospizza.com

GELSOSOMO'S PIZZERIA

206 Main St., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-410-8106 www.gelslemont.com

HALFTIME RESTAURANT, PIZZA & COCKTAILS

1625 E. Norris Dr., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-9389 www.halftimerestaurantpizzaandcocktails.com/

THE COUNTY SEAT PUB & PIZZERIA

801 Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-416-1200 www.facebook.com/thecountyseat/

BIG FISH GRILLE

27425 S. Will Rd., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9331 www.bigfishgrille.net

THE SHRIMP BARN

125 Mondamin St., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-828-5526 www.ShrimpBarn.com

AL'S STEAK HOUSE

1990 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-725-2388 www.alssteaks.com

CASA MIA

219 18th Ave., Naplate, IL 61350 • 815-434-0758 www.facebook.com/Casa-Mia-Restaurant-Ottawa-IL-103710913006200/

FINAL CUT STEAKHOUSE

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

MORRIS CHOP SHOP

701 N. Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-710-5006 www.chopshopgrille.com

OPERA HOUSE STEAK & SEAFOOD

15060 S. Illinois St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-782-5916 www.operahouseplainfield.com

THE RESERVE STEAKHOUSE AT HARRAH'S CASINO

151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

WOODY'S STEAK HOUSE

1321 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-2400 www.woodyssteakhouse1.com

BLU BAR

24027 W. Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-733-5280 www.facebook.com/Blu-1625810597630846

CAT’S EYE - WINE BAR

724 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-481-1389 www.facebook.com/catseyewinebar

PORT NOIR - WINE AND MARTINI BAR

900 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-834-9463 www.facebook.com/waws900/

WINE & CHEESE BY TCC

24104 W. Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-436-3499 www.wcbytcc.com

Dining

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e in is e C u Ty p

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Italian

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

Mexican

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Pizza

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

Pizza

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$20-$30

Pizza

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

Yes

$10-$20

Pizza

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sun.

Yes

$10-$20

Seafood

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$20-$30

Seafood

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Mon.-Sat.

No

$10-$20

Steakhouse

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$10-$20

Steakhouse

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sat.

No

$20-$30

Steakhouse

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Open Wed.Sun.

No

Over $30

Steakhouse

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$20-$30

Steakhouse

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Tue. - Sat.

No

Over $30

Steakhouse

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sun.

No

Over $30

Steakhouse

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

$20-$30

Wine Bars

No

No

No

No

Yes

Tue. - Sat.

No

$10-$20

Wine Bars

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

7 Days a Week

No

Under $10

Wine Bars

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

Wed. - Sun.

No

Under $10

Wine Bars

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Tue. - Sun.

No

$10-$20

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800.926.CANAL (2262)

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RETAIL Searching for the perfect touch to make your house a home, an outfit for a night on the town or the perfect gift? Browse one of our many retail shops. Jobst Monument and Gifts, Ottawa AREA LEGEND I&M Canal Towns

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BABY ICONIC

617 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-5101 www.facebook.com/geticonic

BETTY'S

104 W. Washington St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-693-4464 www.facebook.com/bettys104

ICONIC BOUTIQUE

617 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-5101 www.facebook.com/geticonic

ITISAMAZING

76 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-582-4995 www.itisamazingthrift.com

JAKINS & SUCH PRETTIES

310 N Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-1149 www.facebook.com/JakinsandSuch/

GREATER LIVINGSTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL / PONTIAC COMMUNITY ART CENTER

209 W. Madison St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-419-2472 www.artsinpontiac.org

DNA ATHLETICS

24210 W Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-588-0908 www.dna-athletics.com

J.C. WHITNEY

761 Progress Pkwy., LaSalle, IL 61301 • 866-529-4359 www.jcwhitney.com

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, s al th e en on on al ap ibl p f s c n o O i s a M o ys ek nd ces Se at as If Wh Se Ha Ac D a We

Apparel

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Apparel

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Apparel

7 Days a Week

No

No

Apparel

Mon.-Wed., Fri. & Sat.

Yes

No

Apparel

Tue. - Sat.

Yes

No

Art

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Athletics

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Automotive

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


RETAIL

r! mas Eve o r A t s e The B N

OR POPC FEE! & COF

Uncork a Great Time at Clark’s Run Clarks Run Antiques 215 N. Division St., Utica 815.667.7190 • Unique

Antiques & Gifts • New Tasting Room • Enjoy Wine & Beer Selection HOURS: Mon-Sat 10-5, Sunday 11-4

Clarks Run Creek Wine & Gifts 143 Mill St., Utica 815.691.8047 • Utica’s

Best Kept Secret • Gifts & Wine • Bourbon • Serving Specialty Drinks HOURS: Sun, Mon, Wed, Thurs 12-6 Fri & Sat 12-9 Closed Tuesdays

Doc Watson’s Smokehouse, Romeoville

Retail

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THE BIKE SHOP IN OTTAWA

1313 Chestnut St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-324-9431 www.thebikeshopinottawa.com

PRAIRIE FOX BOOKS

719 La Salle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-7323 www.prairiefoxbooks.com

ROCK PAPER SCISSORS

712 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-4233 www.edumaginationist.com

BLAIN'S FARM & FLEET - OTTAWA

4140 Columbus St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-4536 www.farmandfleet.com/

BLAIN'S FARM & FLEET - ROMEOVILLE

451 S Weber Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-905-3333 www.farmandfleet.com/

APPLEBEE'S BAIT SHOP

2956 N. Rte. 178, Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-7036

A MESS OF THINGS

726 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-481-2389 www.facebook.com/messofthings

CHIC, GEEK & ANTIQUE

222 N. Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 779-875-3149 www.chicgeekantique.com/

CLARKS RUN ANTIQUES

215 N. Division St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-7190 www.clarksrunantiques.com

CLARKS RUN CREEK WINE & GIFTS

143 Mill St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-691-8047 www.clarksruncreek.com/

COUNTRYSIDE VILLAGE

1540 N. Division St., Braidwood, IL 60408 • 815-458-2191 www.countrysidevillagegifts.com

H & H MERCANTILE/VERANDA

314 E. Main St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-992-2424 www.facebook.com/HnHmMercantile314/

HOME AGAIN GIFTS AND ANTIQUES

321 N. Main St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-674-5062 www.facebook.com/HomeAgainAaG/

HORNBAKER GARDENS, INC.

22937 1140 N. Ave., Princeton, IL 63156 • 815-659-3282 www.hornbakergardens.com

JOBST MONUMENTS & GIFTS

402 West Main St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-0310 www.jobstmonument.com

K'S SECRET GARDEN

215 E. Main St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-672-9733 www.KsSecretGarden.com

LOCK 16 GIFT SHOP

754 First St., LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815-223-1851 www.lasallecanalboat.org

MILLTOWN MARKET

508 N. Kankakee St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-0386 www.milltownmall.com

MYSTERY CRATE TREASURES

315 Bedford Rd. Suite C, Morris, IL 60450 • 815-585-7113 www.facebook.com/mysterycratetreasures/

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l, hs na nt l en p ble o a a o p f s c i n o di ess ea at M s ek O so y n S a c If Wh Se Ha Ac D a We

Bicycle

Fri. - Mon.

No

No

Bookstore

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bookstore

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Department Store

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Department Store

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Fishing Shop

7 Days a Week

No

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

No

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Wed. - Sun.

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Thur. - Sat.

No

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

Yes

April - October

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Days Vary

Yes

Yes

April 10 to October 10

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Mon. - Sat.

No

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Tue. - Sat.

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

No

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

Winter Hours Tue. - Sat.

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


RETAIL e Ar

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MYSTERY CRATE TREASURES 2

809 Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-585-7113 www.facebook.com/mysterycratetreasures/

OLD THEATRE ANTIQUE MALL

114 S Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9335 www.facebook.com/pg/OldTheatreAntiqueMall/about/?ref=page_internal

PARAPHERNALIA ANTIQUES

112 N. Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9841 www.facebook.com/paraphernaliaantiques

PERU ANTIQUE MALL

2702 May Rd., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-224-9991

R PICKERS ANTIQUE STORE

2205 Plainfield Rd., Crest Hill, IL 60403 • 815-582-4521 www.facebook.com/rpickers2017/

RICK'S RELICS ON 66

116 N. Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-260-4602 www.facebook.com/ricksrelics66/

ROSIE O'GRADY'S

216 W. Washington St., Morris, IL 60450 • 779-875-8020 www.facebook.com/Rosie-Ogradys-320200441422845/

RUBY BEGONIA'S

114 W. Washington St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-0752 www.facebook.com/rubybegoniasmorris/

TRUE NORTH

539 Bedford Rd., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-705-0161 www.shoptruenorth.com

VERANDA

221 E. Main St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-992-2424 www.facebook.com/Veranda-189168258102318/

l, hs n e na nt l e p l o a a o p b s c i n of di ess ea at M s ek O so y n S a c If Wh Se Ha Ac D a We

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Thur. - Sun. & Tue.

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Sat. - Thur.

No

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Tue.-Sun.

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Wed. - Mon.

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

Tue. - Sun.

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gifts, Antique & Speciality Shops

See Facebook for more information

No

No

Gourmet Food

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Gourmet Food

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Gourmet Food

7 Days a Week

No

No

FLUTTERBY GOURMET POPCORN

723 S Clark St., North Utica, IL 61373 • 815-691-8064 www.flutterbypopcorn.com

HOLLINGWORTH CANDIES, INC.

926 N. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 800-807-2275 www.hollingworthcandies.com

ROXIE'S SWEET CONFECTIONS

723 S. Clark St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-343-8317 www.facebook.com/roxiesconfections

Winter Hours Tue. - Sat.

January-April, closed Tue.

que Store Grundy County’s BEST Anti Open every day 6000 square feet 70+ vendors

ShopTrueNorth.com

Buffalo Rock State Park, Ottawa

Retail

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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SWEET TOOTH

108 Washington St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-1003 www.facebook.com/Sweet-Tooth-220642897593/

HANDY FOODS

604 W. Main St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-2300 www.handyfoodsiga.com

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l, hs na nt l en p ble o a a o p f s c i n o di ess ea at M s ek O so y n S a c If Wh Se Ha Ac D a We

Gourmet Food

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Grocery

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Home Furnishings

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Home Furnishings

Wed. - Sun.

Yes

No

Home Furnishings

7 Days a Week

No

No

Home Furnishings

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Liquor Store

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Liquor Store

Tue.-Sun.

Yes

No

Liquor Store

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Mall

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Mall

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Pottery

Tue. - Sat.

Yes

No

Sewing

7 Days a Week

No

No

IKEA

750 East Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 888-888-4532 www.ikea.com/us/en/store/bolingbrook

MCMANIACS

112 West Washington St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-325-4333 www.mcmaniacsantiquemall.com/

TATTERED ACCENTS

313 E. Jackson St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-710-5038 www.tatteredaccents.com/about/

YOUR INTERIOR MOTIVES

222. W. Madison St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-4006 www.yourinteriormotivesinc.com

HERMAN'S PACKAGE STORE

504 W. Main St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-0075

IRON&GLASS

632 S. Weber Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-782-5559 www.facebook.com/ironglasstap/

KENWOOD LIQUORS

12037 W. 159th St., Homer Glen, IL 60491 • 708-590-8210 www.kenwoodliquors.biz

LOUIS JOLIET MALL

3340 Mall Loop Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-439-1000 www.shoppinglouisjolietmall.com

THE PROMENADE BOLINGBROOK

631 E. Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-296-8340 www.shoppingpromenade.com

FINE FIELD POTTERY COMPANY

215 E. Main St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-878-1284 www.finefieldpottery.com

THIMBLES

940 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-836-8735 www.thimblesquilts.com

Red Dog Grill, Ottawa

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RETAIL

Dollinger Family Farms, Channahon

Matthiessen State Park, Utica

Retail

800.926.CANAL (2262)

107


ACCOMMODATIONS Finding the right place to stay in the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor region is a lot easier when you use our handy guide.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Joliet North/Plainfield, Joliet AREA LEGEND I&M Canal Towns

ea

Ar

Route 66

Starved Rock

Hotels

Outside the Corridor

B or it C V Fav

ALOFT BOLINGBROOK HOTEL

500 Janes Ave., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-410-6367 www.aloftbolingbrook.com

AMERICINN HOTEL & SUITES STREATOR

1705 N. Bloomington St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-672-0080 www.americinn.com/hotels/il/streator

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AMERICINN LODGE & SUITES OSWEGO

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BEST WESTERN PLUS CHICAGOLAND- COUNTRYSIDE

6251 Joliet Rd., Countryside, IL 60525 • 708-354-5200 www.bestwestern.com/chicagolandcountryside

BEST WESTERN PLUS - JOLIET

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BEST WESTERN OGLESBY

3231 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-439-4299 www.bestwestern.com

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BEST WESTERN JOLIET INN & SUITES

900 Holiday St., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-883-3535 www.bestwesterglesby.com

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1050 Douglas Rd., Oswego, IL 60543 • 630-554-9090 www.americinn.com/hotels/IL/oswego 4380 Enterprise Dr., Joliet IL 60431 • 815-730-7500 www.bestwesternillinois.com

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BEST WESTERN PONTIAC INN

1821 W Reynolds St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-842-2777 www. tinyurl.com/ydh8lmou

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BRIGHTWOOD INN

2407 N. Rte. 178, Oglesby, IL 61348 • 888-667-0600 www.brightwoodinn.com

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ACCOMMODATIONS

Hotels

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COMFORT INN JOLIET

1520 Commerce Ln., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-730-1111 www.ramada.com

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COMFORT INN - MORRIS

70 W. Gore Rd., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-1433 www.choicehotels.com/illinois/morris/comfort-inn-hotels/il067?source=lb

COMFORT INN NORTH JOLIET

3235 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-436-5141 www.comfortinn.com

COMFORT INN ROMEOVILLE

70

1235 Lakeview Dr., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 630-226-1900 www.comfortinn.com/hotel-romeoville-Illinois-IL220

COMFORT INN & SUITES - OTTAWA

120 E. Stevenson Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-0029 www.choicehotels.com/illinois/ottawa/comfort-inn-hotels/il504

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DAYS INN AND SUITES

DAYS INN OGLESBY/STARVED ROCK

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80 Hampton Dr., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-9000 www.daysinn.com 120 N. Lewis Ave., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-883-9600 www.daysinn.com/hotel/04593

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COUNTRY INN & SUITES BY CARLSON

1265 Lakeview Dr., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 630-378-1052 www.countryinns.com/romeovilleIL

p r s ica be m m R oo n d ce s s u a N of H Ac

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DAYS INN ROMEOVILLE

1280 W. Normantown Rd., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-372-1000 www.bestwestern.com

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES JOLIET NORTH/PLAINFIELD

3239 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-436-6577 www.marriott.com/mdwfi

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Complimentary Business Center

Complimentary High Speed Wireless Internet

24 Hour Fitness Center

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Earn Hilton Honors Points on Every Stay In-Room Microwaves & Mini-Refrigerators 43” Flat Screen HD Televisions Indoor Heated Pool

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


WHY WAIT

— for the —

WEEKEND?

Located less than two hours from Chicago, it’s hard to believe that stunning scenic overlooks, majestic canyons and seasonal waterfalls are waiting for you to explore their beauty. All of this and historic Starved Rock Lodge are nestled within Starved Rock State Park located near Utica, Illinois. Why wait for the weekend? Escape to Starved Rock! Take our suggestion and book a midweek getaway. You’ll find a greater sense of peace and quiet than you would on the weekends. Kick back and unwind in the indoor pool, hot tub and sauna or schedule a therapeutic, hot stone massage. At Starved Rock Lodge, the past is powerfully present in the warm, old-fashioned hospitality that has never gone out of style. It’s been the hallmark of this charming destination since guests first stepped through the doors back in the late 1930’s. Built by the men of the Civilian Conservation Corps, the ambiance of yesteryear is still present in the Lodge and cabins. Outdoor adventure awaits with a hike to the top of the Rock being first on the list of fun things to do. Add a river cruise aboard the Eagle I with lunch or dinner included in your ticket price. Hike the trails on your own or go with an experienced guide like Geology Joe. He’ll tell you fun facts and turn your walk in the park into a wonderful memory. A wide variety of midweek overnight packages are available from “History on Horseback” at Cedar Creek Ranch to the “Hops & Hideaway” option which lets you try craft beer at Tangled Roots Brewing Company.

ADVERTISEMENT

|

2688 EAST 873 RD ROAD

|

Celebrate a special occasion and toast to it with Starved Rock Bubbly or visit August Hill Winery and see why their award-winning wines are among the best on the market. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Main Dining Room. Outdoor dining on the Veranda combines great food with the best view in LaSalle County. There’s no better way to learn about the rich past of Starved Rock than on a Historic Trolley Tour (offered daily from June-October). One of the most popular activities are the musical tribute shows in the Great Hall. These matinees are paired with a delicious lunch buffet. From Nashville to Broadway, the talented vocalists will take you on a nostalgic walk down memory lane when you attend a “Tribute to the Stars” performance. Call the friendly staff toll-free at (800) 868-7625 or visit the Lodge website to learn more: starvedrocklodge.com W H E R E T H E PA S T I S A LWAY S P R E S E N T t m

OGLESBY, IL 61348

|

(800) 868-7625

|

StarvedRockLodge.com


ACCOMMODATIONS ea

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FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES OTTAWA - STARVED ROCK

3000 Fairfield Ln., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-431-8955 www.fairfieldmarriottstarvedrock.com

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FIESTA MOTEL

Rte.66 & Rte. 116, Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-7103

GRIZZLY JACK'S GRAND BEAR RESORT & WATERPARK

2643 N. Rte. 178, Utica, IL 61373 • 866-667-FUNN (3866) www.grizzlyjacksresort.com

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FAIRFIELD INN SOUTH

1501 Riverboat Ctr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-741-3499 www.marriott.com/mdwfs

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FAIRFIELD INN AND SUITES- PERU

4385 Venture Dr., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-7458 www.marriott.com/sqipr

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HAMPTON INN & SUITES MINOOKA

621 Bob Blair Rd., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-828-6450 www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/Illinois/ hampton-inn-and-suites-minooka-JOTMIHX/index.html

HAMPTON INN BY HILTON JOLIET I-55

3555 Mall Loop Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-439-9500 www.jolieti55.hamptoninn.com

HAMPTON INN BY HILTON JOLIET I-80

1521 Riverboat Center Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-725-2424 www.jolieti80.hamptoninn.com

HAMPTON INN BY HILTON OTTAWA

4115 Holiday Ln., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-6040 www.hamptoninnstarvedrock.com

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Family Fun Begins at Holiday Inn Club Vacations® Fox River Resort Escape to Sheridan for spacious villas, fun-filled amenities and outdoor adventures. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, an executive golf course, Pirate’s Cay™ Indoor Water Park, a lake perfect for fishing and boating and nearby hiking trails.

Book your Starved Rock Country getaway today!

18-MRP-1111

Call (855) 427-6329 or visit holidayinnclubvacations.com/foxriver.

2558 North 3653rd Road, Sheridan, IL 60551

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ACCOMMODATIONS e Ar

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HAMPTON INN PERU

4421 N. Peoria St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-220-8400 www.hamptoninn.hilton.com

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HAMPTON INN PONTIAC

2000 Grand Prix Dr., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-4400 www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/illinois/hampton-inn-pontiacBMIPIHX/index.html

HARRAH'S JOLIET CASINO & HOTEL

151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

HOLIDAY INN COUNTRYSIDE

6201 Joliet Rd., Countryside, IL 60525 • 708-352-1101 www.holidayinn.com

HOLIDAY INN & SUITES

205 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-679-1600 www.bolingbrookholidayinn.com

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HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS FOX RIVER RESORT

2558 N. 3653rd Rd., Sheridan, IL 60551 • 855-427-6329 www.tinyurl.com/ybwovrgq

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HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES MORRIS

222 Gore Rd., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-8700 www.holidayexpress.com/morrisil

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES PERU

5253 Trompeter Rd., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-224-2500 www.hiexpress.com/lasalleperu

Credit: Cindy Cain

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926 N. 2150th Rd Oglesby, Illinois 61348 1-815-431-0936 ILLINOIS’ NEWEST RV & TENTING CAMPGROUND

• • • • •

Located just 5 miles from Starved Rock State Park Creekside Campsites Spring-fed Stocked Fishing Pond Well Supplied Camp Store Latitude: 41.259673, Longitude: -88.985295

Monee Reservoir, Monee

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

800.926.CANAL (2262)

113


ACCOMMODATIONS

4095 Hennepin Drive Joliet, IL 60431 815-727-3310 www.JolietPlainfield.Home2SuitesbyHilton.com

Mural in Streator

114

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Three Roses Bed and Breakfast, Pontiac

Kayak Starved Rock, Morris

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


ACCOMMODATIONS

Come Check Out Our New Look Completely Renovated Full Service property offering: 145 Guest Rooms with 27 suites • Microwaves & refrigerators in all rooms • Complimentary wireless internet • Premium TV channels by Direct TV he • Indoor heated pool, whirlpool & sauna

On-site Restaurant and Bar • Room service

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 205 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL (630) 679-1600 bolingbrookholidayinn.com

Over 4,000 sq. ft. of flexible Meeting and Banquet space IHG Rewards, Sign up today at www.ihgrewards.com Conveniently located close to downtown Chicago, right off of Interstate 55 and Route 53

Lower rates for longer stays • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Onsite Laundry Facility • Internet Access • 24 Hour Fitness Facility • “In A Pinch” Market • Complimentary Breakfast • Business Center • Pool & Whirlpool • Outdoor Patios with Grills and Fire Pit Joliet Slammers, Joliet

(815) 741-2400

1515 Riverboat Center Dr. Joliet, IL 60431 www.Marriott.com/MDWTS.com

Heritage Harbor, Ottawa

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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Ar

Hotels

HOLIDAY INN HOTEL AND SUITES ROCK RUN CONVENTION CENTER

B or it C V Fav

3

100

3

3

3

115

3

3

3

3

3

63

3

3

3

3

3

113

3

3

3

3

100

3

3

121

3

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24

MARRIOTT TOWNEPLACE SUITES JOLIET

MOTEL 6 JOLIET SOUTH

1850 McDonough St., Joliet, IL 60436 • 815-729-2800 www.motel6.com

MOTEL 6 NORTH

3551 Mall Loop Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-439-1332 www.motel6.com

THE PALAMAR MOTEL

213 South Ladd St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-4799

PARK MOTEL

24

1923 N. Division St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-1321

PRAIRIE LAKES COUNTRY CLUB & INN

QUALITY INN & SUITES

63

3

3

3

3

3

50

3

3

3

3

60

3

3

3

3

3

54

3

3

3

3

108

3

3

RED ROOF INN JOLIET

RELAX INN

22

1551 N. Il Route 23, Streator, IL 61364 • 815-672-3168 www.relaxinnstreator.com

RESIDENCE INN BOLINGBROOK

103

3

82

3

3

3

97

3

3

3

60

3

3

STARVED ROCK LODGE AND CONFERENCE CENTER

SUPER 8 JOLIET

116

HeritageCorridorCVB.com

3

3

3

3

SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT

3401 Mall Loop Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-439-3838 www.super8.com

3

3

3

QUALITY INN PONTIAC

2668 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-667-4211 www.starvedrocklodge.com

3

3

QUALITY INN MORRIS

125 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-759-0529 www.marriott.com/chibl

3

3

200 Gore Rd., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-6600 www.qualityinnmorris.com

180 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-332-5200 www.tinyurl.com/y6uvf3tl

3

3

3

QUALITY INN PERU

1750 McDonough St., Joliet, IL 60436 • 815-741-2304 www.redroof.com/joliet

3

3

QUALITY INN AND SUITES JOLIET

1823 W. Reylds St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-4444 www.choicehotels.com/Illinois/pontiac/quality-inn-hotels/il447?source=gyxt

3

63

175 W. Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-378-5300 www.choicehotels.com

5240 Trompeter Rd., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-8585 www.choicehotels.com/Illinois/peru/quality-inn-hotels/il069?source=lb

g tin s ee m M R oo

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2550 N. 32nd Rd., Marseilles, IL 61341 • 815-795-5107 www.prairielakescc.com

135 S. Larkin Ave., Joliet, IL 60436 • 815-744-1770 www.comfortinn.com

r

3

LA QUINTA INN AND SUITES PERU

1515 Riverboat Center Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-741-2400 www.towneplacesuitesjoliet.com

to

3

HOME2 SUITES

4389 Venture Dr., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-224-9000 www.lq.com

va

120

HOLLYWOOD CASINO JOLIET & HOTEL

4095 Hennepin Dr., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-727-3310 www.jolietplainfield.home2suitesbyhilton.com

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1471 Rock Creek Blvd., Joliet, IL 60431 • 312-296-6658 777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

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3

3

3

3

3

3

3

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3

3

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


ACCOMMODATIONS ea

Ar

Hotels

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SUPER 8 OTTAWA

500 East Etna Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-2888 www.super8.com

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3

52

3

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61

3

3

48

3

67

3

3

3

87

3

3

3

81

3

3

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SUPER 8 PERU

1851 May Rd., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-1848 www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/peru-Illinois/ super-8-peru/overview

SUPER 8 PONTIAC

601 S. Deerfield, Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-4444 www.tinyurl.com/y7f96ewk

SUPER 8 ROMEOVILLE

1301 Marquette, Romeoville, IL 60446 • 630-759-8880 www.super8.com/romeoville

TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT - MINOOKA

630 Bob Blair Rd., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-828-4900 www.facebook.com/towneplacesuitesminooka

WINGATE BY WYNDHAM

101 McDonald Ave., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-741-2100 www.wingatehotels.com/hotel/09387

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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ACCOMMODATIONS e Ar

Bed & Breakfast

a

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CABINS AT STARVED ROCK LODGE

2668 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-667-4211 www.starvedrocklodge.com

3

CHEF TOM'S GUEST HOUSE CHESTNUT STREET INN

17

3

7

REMEMBRANCE ROCK LODGE

THE WILLOWS

3

3

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1948 N. 299th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-326-1094 www.remembrancerock.com

THREE ROSES BED AND BREAKFAST

3

3

MARCIA'S BED AND BREAKFAST

209 E. Howard, Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-374-2899 www.threeroses.us

3

5

MADISON STREET LIVING

325 Clark St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-3400 www.thewillowshotel.net

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804 Chapel St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-1500 www.madisonstreetliving.com 3003 N. IL Route 71, Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-488-5217 www.marciasbnb.com

d

3

LANDERS HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST AND COTTAGES

115 E. Church St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-5170 www.landershouse.com

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4

KISHAUWAU'S STARVED ROCK CABINS

901 N. 2129 Rd., Tonica, IL 61370 • 815-442-8453 www.kishauwaucabins.com

3

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FOX RIVER BED AND BREAKFAST

3367 E. 2072nd Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-579-2368 www.foxriverbnb.com

21

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14

205 W. Wilson St., Streator, IL 61364 • 815-257-1025 301 E. Chestnut St., Sheffield, IL 61361 • 800-537-1304 www.chestnut-inn.com

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3

3

3

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3

3

3

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Putnam County Historical Society's Agricultural Museum, Hennepin

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ACCOMMODATIONS ea

Ar

Camping

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CHICAGOLAND SPEEDWAY AND ROUTE 66 RACEWAY CAMPING

500 Speedway Blvd., Joliet, IL 60433 • 815-722-5500 www.chicagolandspeedway.com www.route66raceway.com

3

3

219

3

3

3

80

3

3

3

120

LASALLE PERU KOA

756 N. 3150th Rd., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4988 www.koa.com

LEISURE LAKE RESORT

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135

3

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500

3

3

100

3

3

3

RACE VIEW FARMS

TROLL HOLLOW CAMPGROUND

3

3

Credit: Instagram thebackyardtourist

2265 N. 2453 Rd., Marseilles, IL 61341 • 815-795-2537 www.trollhollow.com

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3

PLEASANT CREEK CAMPGROUND

19100 Schweitzer Rd., Joliet, IL 60433 • 815-741-3010 www.raceviewfarms.com

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21900 S.W. Frontage Rd., Joliet, IL 60431 • 815-741-9405 www.leisurelakeresort.com 926 N. 2150th Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-431-0936 www.pleasantcreekcampground.com

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3

HOLLYWOOD CASINO JOLIET HOTEL & RV RESORT

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet IL 60436 • 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com/Accommodations

p r s ica s be m m R oo n d ce s u a H Ac N of

1800

FOSSIL ROCK RECREATION AREA

24615 W. Strip Mine Rd., Wilmington, IL 60481 815-476-6784

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Vacation Rental

Public Landing Restaurant, Lockport

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HERITAGE HARBOR OTTAWA

1970 N. 2753rd Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-5000 www.heritageharborottawa.com

3

MADISON STREET LIVING

804 Chapel St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-1500 madisonstreetliving.com

Canal Towns - Route 66 - Starved Rock

3

3

4

3

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800.926.CANAL (2262)

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SERVICES AND ORGANIZATIONS When it comes to planning and attending events or learning about the history of the area, the Heritage Corridor has many different service providers. Joliet’s Riverfront AREA LEGEND I&M Canal Towns

Ar

ea

Route 66

ny pa e m m Co Na MATTHEW BULLOCK AUCTION GALLERY

421 E. Stevenson Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-220-5005 www.bullockauctioneers.com/

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - MINOOKA

500 Bob Blair Rd., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-467-4474 www.hbtbank.com

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - OGLESBY

501 W. Walnut St., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-883-8473 www.hbtbank.com

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - PERU

925 Shooting Park Rd., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-7500 www.hbtbank.com

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - PLAINFIELD

14901 S. Rt. 59, Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-254-6800 www.hbtbank.com

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - SANDWICH

200 East Church St., Sandwich, IL 60548 • 815-786-2115 www.hbtbank.com

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - SHOREWOOD

700 W. Jefferson St., Shorewood, IL 60404 • 815-744-4620 www.hbtbank.com

HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST - WESTERN SPRINGS

4456 Wolf Rd., Western Springs, IL 60558 • 708-246-2200 www.hbtbank.com

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Starved Rock

Outside the Corridor

n l, hs io l en p ble na ont / zat a a p f f o e i c n o O o ic ni i s o as M ys ek nd ces as Se at pe rv ga I f Wh Se Ha Ac D a We Ty S e O r

Auctioneer

7 Days a Week

No

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

Bank

Mon. - Sat.

Yes

No

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


UTICA ois I l lin

WELCOME to North Utica Filled with a rich history and built on tradition. Our town is full of great places, wonderful people and amazing things to see. With a slow pace but plenty to do, Utica makes for a great place to visit for the day or long weekend. So come on, stop on by when you’re passing through, you’ll find out you’ll want to stick around. Visit a town where it feels like home.

— POPULAR EVENTS — FEB 23

JULY 5

Mardi Gras Parade

Utica Fireworks

MAR 9

AUG 17 & 18

St. Patrick’s Day Parade MAY 18

Sip & Snip MAY 25 & 26

Porkfest AUG 24

Craft Beer Festival SEPT 21 & 22

Buffalo Bill Days

Vintage Illinois Wine Festival

JUNE 8 & 9

OCT 6

Utica Garden Faire

Angel of Hope

— ATTRACTIONS — OCT 13

Burgoo (50th anniversary) OCT 17

Witches Night Out NOV 3

Veterans Day Parade & Canal Connection 5K NOV 30 & DEC 1

Old Fashioned Christmas in the Village

Starved Rock State Park Illinois & Michigan Canal & State Trail Buffalo Rock State Park & Lodge Heritage Corridor Visitor’s Bureau Illinois Waterway Visitor Center LaSalle County Historical Museum Matthiessen State Park

utica-il.com The Village of North Utica • PO Box 188 • Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4111


WILL COUNTY

The Perfect Mix Of Work And Play. Will County’s strong economy offers a positive business climate and a wealth of local job opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, education, government, energy, gaming, and more. Our strategic location has access to major interstates, rail lines, and waterways and has helped us to become a global transportation center. Major developments, such as the CenterPoint Intermodal Center – America’s largest inland port, help connect local businesses to the global economy. Will County is also a great place to play. Try your luck at our two world-class casinos, applaud the brightest stars on stage at the beautiful Rialto Square Theater, cheer for the biggest names in auto racing at the Chicagoland Speedway Joliet and the Route 66 Raceway, explore the historic Route 66 Experience, or quietly stand in awe at the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie as you watch herds of bison roam their native land.

©vancefox.com ©vancefox.com

©Bullet ©BulletCommunications Communications

Will county is illinois’ 4th largest county – and growing. Learn more at willcountyillinois.com and discover the perfect mix of work and play in Will County.


Will s ’ y t n u o C Historic Route 66 Experience Will County’s “6 Stops on 66” are the heart and soul of the legendary Mother Road. They are some of the very first experiences shared by travelers and dreamers on their quest to the west. Experience the spirit of adventure on Route 66 in Will County. Shopping, Recreation, & Historic Sites Bolingbrook and Romeoville

Entertainment

Joliet’s RT 66 Museum, Chicagoland Speedway, and Route 66 Raceway

Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Wilmington’s Gemini Giant Historic Downtowns

Manhattan, Elwood, and Braidwood

A present from the past


SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS Ar

ea

ny pa e m m Co Na LASALLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

PO Box 182, LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815-228-9368 www.lasallebusiness.org/

MAINSTREET LOCKPORT, INC.

911 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-834-0700 www.visitlockport.com

MORRIS RETAIL ASSOCIATION

220 Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-0200 www.shopmorrisil.com

PONTIAC TOURISM

115 W. Howard St., Pontiac, IL 61764 • 815-844-5847 www.visitpontiac.org

UTICA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 413, Utica, IL 61373 www.facebook.com/Utica-Business-Association-1378789332370518/

WILMINGTON DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION

222 N. Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 779-875-3149 www.route66wilmington.com

CUTTING EDGE CATERING & EVENTS

904 Cottage St., Shorewood, IL 60404 • 815-725-9001 www.cuttingedgecatering.com

BOLINGBROOK AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

201-B Canterbury Ln., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-226-8420 www.bolingbrookchamber.org

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Business Association

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Business Association

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Business Association

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Business Association

Mon. - Fri.

No

No

Business Association

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Business Association

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Catering & Events

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide



Bolingbrook

For 54 years, the Village of Bolingbrook has grown to provide the best location for living, dining, hospitality and recreation. Reward yourself with a fun-filled night on the town with world-class golfing, fabulous dining and diverse shopping.

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Cheryl’s Candy & Popcorn Chic-Fil-A Chili’s Chipotle Mexican Grill Clementine’s Pub Costco Café Covo Greek Street Food Culver’s 4 Heaven Sake Tasty Bake Dairy Queen Andy’s Frozen Custard Denny’s Restaurant Ashbury’s Desi Diner Auntie Anne’s Doggie Diner Too Baba’s Famous Domino’s Steak & Lemonade Dunkin Donuts Bar Louie Eggs, Inc. BD’s Mongolian Grill El Authentico Burrito Beggar’s Pizza El Balcon Restaurant Boston Market El Burrito Loco Brooks Café European Deli & Subs Brown’s Chicken & Pasta Family Square Restaurant Buffalo Wild Wings Famous Dave’s Bulldog Ale House Fatty Magoo’s Buona Beef Firehouse Subs Burger King Five Guy’s Burgers Cali Girl Cakes Francesca’s Casa Margarita Garden China Charlie’s Restaurant Gigante Bakery at Clow Airport Golden Chopsticks Checker’s

eat

Golden Corral Buffet & Grill Golden Gate Hetman Restaurant Home Run Inn Pizzeria Honey Jam Café I-55 Truck Plaza Restaurant IHOP IKEA Restaurant Islamorada Fish Company Jackie’s Subs & Salads Jersey’s Mike’s Jimmy John’s J&J Fish & Chicken Johnny Tacos KFC Ko Sushi La Michocana Tradicional Little Caesars Longhorn Steakhouse Los Burritos Tapatios Lou Malnati’s Pizza Mandy’s Kitchen & Grill Mago Grill & Cantina McDonald’s McWethy’s Sports Bar Michaels on Main Café Mickey’s Gyros Mod Pizza Mora Asian Fusion

Mr. Burger (coming soon) Las Gorditas de Don Angel Nancy’s Pizzeria Neveria Acoiris Plus Neveria Michoacana Noodles & Company Noodles Pho U Oberweis Dairy Olive Garden Osaka Grill Otobo Sushi & Bar Paleteria El Sabor de Michoacana Panda Express Panera Bread Papa John’s Pizza Penn Station East Coast Subs Pita Zone Pizza Hut Prenos Popeye’s Chicken Portillo’s Hot Dogs Potbelly Sandwich Shop Red Lobster Red Mango Red Robin Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery Rosati’s Pizza

Salerno’s Pizza Salina’s Pasta & Pizza Salt Sports Bar Sesame Chinese Cuisine Shrimp Max of Bolingbrook Snow Factory South Sea Oriental Cuisine Starbucks Coffee Company Steak & Shake Subway Taco Bell Taco Dále Tailgater’s Sports Bar & Grill Taqueria Coral Ted’s Montana Grill That Burger Joint The Beer Market The Nest The Patio Tilted Kilt Tony’s Finer Foods Wendy’s White Castle Wing Stop Woodgrain Neapolitan Pizza Zen House


play

Bolingbrook Golf Club

Designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, in 2014-2015 Bolingbrook Golf Club was voted by the Golf Range Association of America as one of the “Top 50 Public Golf Ranges in America”. 2001 Rodeo Drive 630-771-9400 bolingbrookgolfclub.com

Bolingbrook Performing Arts Center

Concerts, theater, movies, community events, the hidden “jewel” of Bolingbrook. Performances all summer and indoor winter programs. 375 W. Briarcliff Road 630-226-8400

shop

The Promenade Bolingbrook

The Promenade Bolingbrook is a pedestrianfriendly gathering place for shopping, dining and entertainment anchored by Macy’s and Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. shoppingpromenade.com

Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

Clow International Airport & Illinois Aviation Museum

The ultimate outdoor sporting gear store, Bass Pro offers everything under the sun for the outdoor enthusiast.

Fabulous Pelican Harbor Indoor-Outdoor Water Park

At Macy’s stores, the guest is always first. This guest-focused approach has inspired millions of shoppers to look to Macy’s for fashion leadership, superb guest service and commitment to community involvement.

Come experience the history of aviation, from the invention of the first airplane to the wonders of modern air travel. 130 Clow International Parkway bbclowairport.com illinoisaviationmuseum.org Enjoy family-friendly water play all year long. Lazy river, water slides, diving well with a drop slide, water slides, beach volleyball and more. 200 S. Lindsey Lane 630-739-1777 bolingbrookparks.org

Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm

Four small lakes are stocked with a variety of fish year round. There is also an area for picnicking or just relaxing in this beautiful setting. 475 Trout Farm Road 630-759-2381

stay Aloft Bolingbrook

500 N. Janes Ave. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-410-6367

Macy’s

IKEA

A 300,000 square-foot facility offering the best in home interiors.

Costco

A membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing it’s members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise.

Best Western Plus Bolingbrook

Hilton Garden Inn Bolingbrook

Quality Inn

Residence Inn

Hampton Inn & Suites Bolingbrook

Holiday Inn & Suites Bolingbrook

Bolingbrook

Springhill Suites by Marriott

225 W. South Frontage Rd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-226-1669

175 Remington Boulevard by Marriott 135 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 180 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-378-5300 630-771-1500 630-332-5200 Ramada by Wyndham

520 S. Bolingbrook Drive 165 Remington Boulevard 205 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-972-9797 630-759-7100 630-679-1600

125 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-759-0529

For more information about the Village of Bolingbrook, call 630-226-8400 or visit www.bolingbrook.com


SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS Art in the Park

FINE ART SHOW & SALE

WASHINGTON PARK, OTTAWA, ILLINOIS AUGUST 2nd 9 - 4 & AUGUST 3rd 10 -4 35 Midwest artists showing paintings, ceramics, wood, photography, metal, and jewelry. For more information about shows and meetings go to www.OttawaArtLeague.org

Come Join Us Memorial Day 2019 at Crest Hill City Hall by the Veterans and Police Memorial Garden

Thresherman’s Reunion, Pontiac

Discover Dwight

Local Events:

-Red Carpet Corridor Festival -Buzz the Gut Cruise Night -Harvest Days Festival Weekend -Illinois Bassett Waddle -Down Home Christmas Parade

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Dwight, Illinois www.dwightillinois.org www.facebook.com/DwightTourism

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


City of Morris Welcomes You!

SHOP DINE ENJOY

VOTED ONE OF THE BEST DOWNTOWNS IN ILLINOIS!

2019 EVENTS FE B RUARY 8

A Sweet Night Out M ARC H 1 -8

Vintage Shop Hop M AY 3

Girls Night Out M AY 1 1

3 French Hens French Country Market M AY 27

Memorial Day Parade and Observance M AY 31 – J U N E 2

Morris Tractor Ride JUNE 6

City of Morris’ Concert on the Courthouse Lawn JUNE 7

Grundy Bank’s Brown Bag Friday – Hot Dog Eating Contest JUNE 8

3 French Hens French Country Market and Cruise Night J U N E 8 -9

Gebhard Woods Dulcimer and Traditional Music Festival J U N E 20

City of Morris’ Concert on the Courthouse Lawn J U LY 3

Liberty 5k Run/Walk J U LY 1 3

3 French Hens French Country Market and Cruise Night J U LY 1 8

City of Morris’ Concert on the Courthouse Lawn J U LY 1 8 -20

Liberty Arts Festival J U LY 1 9

Grundy Bank’s Brown Bag Friday – Ice Cream Social

CITY OF MORRIS

morrisil.org

J U LY 27

Sizzlin’ Summer Sidewalk Sales AU G U ST 1

City of Morris’ Concert on the Courthouse Lawn AU GU ST 1 0

3 French Hens French Country Market and Cruise Night AU GU ST 1 5

City of Morris’ Concert on the Courthouse Lawn

MORRIS RETAIL ASSOCIATION

shopmorrisil.com

AU G U ST 23

Grundy Bank’s Brown Bag Friday – Band Day S E PT E M B E R 1 4

3 French Hens French Country Market and Cruise Night S E PT E M B E R 25 -29

71st Annual Grundy County Corn Festival S E PT E M B E R 27

MORRIS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP

Grundy Bank’s Brown Bag Friday – Corn Festival O CTO B E R 1 2

downtownmorris.com

3 French Hens French Country Market and Cruise Night

For more information call Morris Downtown Development Partnership at 815-941-0245

Ghouls Night Out

O CTO B E R 1 8

N OV E M B E R 8 -9

#shopmorrisIL

3 French Hens Holiday Market N OV E M B E R 1 1

Veterans Day Parade and Observance N OV E M B E R 29 -D EC E MB ER 1

Home For The Holidays and Festival of Trees D EC E M B E R 6

Midnight in Morris


SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS Ar

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ny pa e m m Co Na GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND VISITOR CENTER/CHANNAHON AND MINOOKA

500 Bob Blair Rd., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-942-0113 www.grundychamber.com./

GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND VISITOR CENTER/COAL CITY

660 S. Broadway St., Coal City, IL 60416 • 815-634-8662 www.grundychamber.com

GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/MORRIS

909 Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-0113 www.grundychamber.com

ILLINOIS RIVER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

135 Washington St., Marseilles, IL 61341 • 815-795-2323 www.iracc.org

ILLINOIS VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1320 Peoria St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-0227 www.ivaced.org

JOLIET REGION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

63 N Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60434 • 815-727-5371 www.jolietchamber.com

LEMONT AREA CHAMBER

418 Main St., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-257-5997 www.lemontchamber.com

LOCKPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

922 E. 9th St., 3rd Flr., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-838-3357 www.lockportchamber.com

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Tues.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Start planning your trip now HeritageCorridorCVB.com

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ny pa e m m Co Na PLAINFIELD AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

24109 W. Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544 • 815-436-4431 www.plainfieldchamber.com

ROMEOVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

10 Montrose Dr., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-886-2076 www.romeovillechamber.org

WEST SUBURBAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

9440 Joliet Rd., Hodgkins, IL 60525 • 708-387-7550 www.wscci.org

FOUR RIVERS ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER

25055 W. Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL 60410 • 815-722-9470 www.reconnectwithnature.org/visitor-centers/freec

LEWIS UNIVERSITY

One University Pkwy., Romeoville, IL 60446 • 815-836-5250 www.lewisu.edu

NORTH CENTRAL ILLINOIS ARTWORKS

408 5th St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-228-1253 www.nciartworks.com

CHAPIN'S EAST BANQUETS AND TWIN RAIL PUB

502 Twin Rail Dr., Minooka, IL 60447 • 815-735-9250 www.chapinsproperties.com

CORVETTES UNLIMITED

2001 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-715-3644 www.corvettesunlimited.net

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Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Chamber

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Education

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Education

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Education

Mon. - Fri.

No

No

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

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SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS Ar

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n l, hs io l en p ble na ont / zat a a p f f o e i c n o O o ic ni i s o as M ys ek nd ces as Se at pe rv ga I f Wh Se Ha Ac D a We Ty S e O r

ny pa e m m Co Na GRUNDY COUNTY CORN FESTIVAL

P.O. Box 22, Morris, IL 60450 • 815-942-CORN (2676) www.cornfestival.org

HIGGINS HALL

307 N. Main St., Seneca, IL 61360 • 815-587-4715 www.facebook.com/Higgins-Hall-393607187837609/

JOLIET CITY CENTER PARTNERSHIP

116 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-774-6066 www.jolietdowntown.com

MARSHALL-PUTNAM FAIR ASSOCIATION

915 University Ave., Henry, IL 61537 • 309-364-2814 www.marshallputnamfair.org

MORRIS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP, INC.

105 E. Main St., Ste. 201, Morris, IL 60450 • 815-941-0245 www.downtownmorris.com

THE BARN AT HORNBAKER GARDENS

22937 1140 N. Ave., Princeton, IL 61356 • 815-659-3282 www.hornbakergardens.com/thebarn

THE JACOB HENRY MANSION ESTATE

20 S. Eastern Ave., Joliet, IL 60433 • 815-722-1420 www.jacobhenrymansion.com

THE LEVY CENTER

251 Canterbury Ln., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-759-3411 www.dupagetownship.com/banquets-weddings/

Events & Festivals

Wed. - Sun.

Yes

Yes

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Events & Festivals

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

No

Yes

Events & Festivals

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Events & Festivals

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

September October

April - October

City Of Spring Valley, IL

ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE

Check our website for a list of current happenings www.spring-valley.il.us

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Pine Hills Golf Club, Ottawa

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CANAL CORRIDOR ASSOCIATION

754 First St., LaSalle, IL 61301 • 815-220-1848 www.iandmcanal.org

LASALLE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

101 E. Canal St., Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-4861 www.lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org

LEMONT AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

306 Lemont St., Lemont, IL 60439 • 630-257-2972 www.lemonthistorical.org

LOCKPORT AREA GENEALOGICAL & HISTORICAL SOCIETY

222 E. 9th St., Lockport, IL 60441 www.lockporthistory.org

SENECA HISTORICAL GUILD

431 N. Main St., Seneca, IL 61360 • 815-769-5077 www.senecahistory.com/

WILL COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND RESEARCH CENTER

803 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-838-5080 www.willhistory.org/

WILMINGTON AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM

114 N. Main St., Wilmington, IL 60481 • 815-476-9311 www.facebook.com/Wilmington-Area-Historical-Society-Illinois-2059407644333612/

Historic Association

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Historic Society

Fri. - Sun.

No

No

Historic Society

Tuesday and Fri. - Sun.

No

No

Historic Society

Wed. and by appt.

Yes

No

Historic Society

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Historic Society

Wed. - Sun.

No

No

Historic Society

Sat. or by appointment

No

No

Hospital

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

ILLINOIS VALLEY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

925 West St., Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-3300 www.ivch.org

MAY 18-19 Marseilles Spring Rummage Sales

8am to 3pm

JUNE 15 Freedom Run and after party

Memorial Wall & Main Street

JULY 8-14 Fun Days JULY 11-14 Carnival JULY 12-14 Crafts and activities

South Main Street, 9am to 3pm

JULY 20TH Marseilles Firefighters Annual Car Show

Main Street

SEPT 14 Marseilles Renaissance Faire

555 Commercial Street, 9am to 3pm

SEPT 21 Marseilles Fall Rummage Sale

8am to 3pm

OCT 25-27 Marseilles Haunted Pool House

555 Commercial St., 6pm-9pm

DEC 7 Holiday Magic Lighted Santa Parade

200 Riverfront Drive, 5pm

DEC Marseilles Holiday Basketball Tournaments 26-28 & 30 Marseilles Elementary School

Chestnut Street Inn, Sheffield

Services & Organizations

cityofmarseilles.com 800.926.CANAL (2262)

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ny pa e m m Co Na JOLIET PUBLIC LIBRARY

Library

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Lodging

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Marina

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Outdoor Recreation

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Park District

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Park District

7 Days a Week

No

No

Park District

Facility Dependent

Yes

Yes

Preservation

7 Days a Week

No

No

150. N. Ottawa St., Joliet, IL 60432 • 815-740-2660 www.jolietlibrary.org

WILL COUNTY LODGING ASSOCIATION

3231 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL 60431 • 630-935-4603 www.willcountylodging.org

STARVED ROCK MARINA

1130 N. 27th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-433-4218 www.starvedrockmarina.com

RUN STARVED ROCK COUNTRY

719 Canal St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-228-7253 www.facebook.com/RUNSRC

BOLINGBROOK PARK DISTRICT

201 Recreation Dr., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-739-0272 www.bolingbrookparks.org

LOCKPORT TOWNSHIP PARK DISTRICT

1911 S. Lawrence Ave., Lockport, IL 60441 • 815-838-1183 www.lockportpark.org

NAPERVILLE PARK DISTRICT

320 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville, IL 60540 • 630-848-5000 www.napervilleparks.org

CATHEDRAL AREA PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION OF JOLIET (CAPA)

PO 3662, Joliet, IL 60434 • 815-726-4163 www.capajoliet.net

Facility Dependent

WHEN YOU NEED RESULTS!

620 Division St. Utica, IL 61373 Phone: 815-667-9990 Fax: 815-371-2763 www.starvedrockrealty.net starvedrockrealty@comcast.net

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• Specializing in Residential and Commercial Sales • Corporate Relocations • Individual, Family and Corporate RENTALS (short and long term)

Serving the Lasalle County area for over 22 years

Heritage Quarries Recreation Area, Lemont

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


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tio

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of F ame

“... from age 57 to 6 at the end of the day, every member of our family voted our visit to Pontiac as a top-notch experience! We will absolutely be back again!! - Hope, Peoria, IL

Downtown Wilmington

so

nd Museum akla cO tia n Po

IL R o u t

Credit: Wilmington Area Historical Society

SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS

tourism@pontiac.org 815-844-5847 visitpontiac.org

2019 IN E V E N TS JOLIET DOWNTOWN

PAWS ON 66 Sunday, June 9th 11:00am - 3:00pm

RACE FAN RALLY

Wednesday, June 26th 5:00 - 10:00pm

THE ART MOVEMENT, INC. PRESENTS “IN THE MAKING” Saturday, July 20th

KIDZFEST

Saturday, August 3rd 10:00am - 3:00pm

BLUES & BREWS on 66

Saturday, August 17th

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL AND PARADE Friday, November 29th

For more information & additional events, visit jolietdowntown.com

Reddick Mansion, Ottawa

Services & Organizations

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ny pa e m m Co Na HALO BRANDED SOLUTIONS

15039 S. 82nd Ave., Orland Park, IL 60462 • 708-226-4990 www.joemccorry.com

IMPRESS PRINTING & DESIGN

1325 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-730-9440 www.myimpressprinting.com

DAILY HERALD

PO Box 280, Arlington Heights, IL 60006 • 630-955-6161 www.dailyherald.com

STARVED ROCK COUNTRY MAGAZINE

110 W. Jefferson St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-431-4200 www.starvedrockcountry.com

CENTURY 21 WINDSOR REALTY

2715 Columbus St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-2122 www.windsorsellshomes.com

STARVED ROCK REALTY - DEE BARRERA BROKER/OWNER

620 N. Division St. (Route 178), Utica, IL 61373 • 815-667-9990 www.starvedrockrealty.net

MARK'S SERVICE CENTER

4303 W. Jefferson, Shorewood, IL 60404 • 815-725-9098 www.marksservicecentershorewood.com

ROUTE 66 FOOD N FUEL

2401 South Chicago Rd., Joliet, IL 60436 • 815-724-0300 www.route66foodnfuel.com

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Promotions

Mon. - Fri.

No

No

Promotions

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Publication

Mon. - Fri.

Yes

No

Publication

Mon. - Fri.

No

No

Realty

Mon. - Fri.

No

No

Realty

Mon. - Fri.

No

No

Service Center

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Service Center

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Transportation

Sat.

Yes

No

Transportation

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Transportation

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

BOLINGBROOK'S CLOW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

130 S. Clow International Parkway Bolingbrook, IL 60490 • 630-378-0479 www.clowairport.com

CHICAGOLAND TRANSPORTATION, INC.

PO 3835, Joliet, IL 60434 • 815-741-4900 www.chicagolandtransportation.com

ILLINOIS RIVER ROAD

11304 N. Prairie Rd., Lewistown, IL 61542 309-547-2730

SENECA SHIPYARD DAYS

Wednesday, June 26 – Saturday, June 29

SENECA CRUISE NIGHT Hoffman Tower, Lyons

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Saturday, August 3

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WINDY CITY LIMOUSINE & BUS

2801 S. 25th Ave., Broadview, IL 60155 • 847-916-9300 www.windycitylimos.com

HERITAGE CORRIDOR CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (CVB)

2701 Black Rd., Ste. 201, Joliet, IL 60435 • 815-216-9960 www.heritagecorridorcvb.com

HERITAGE CORRIDOR CVB - UTICA

801 E. US Hwy 6, Utica, IL 61373 • 815-216-9960 www.heritagecorridorcvb.com

ILLINOIS WATERWAY VISITOR CENTER

950 N. 27th Rd., Rte. 1, Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-667-4054 www.mvr.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Illinois-Waterway/

NATIONAL HERITAGE CORRIDOR VISITORS CENTER: CIVIC CENTER AUTHORITY

7800 W. 65th St., Bedford Park, IL 60501 • 708-496-0193 www.civiccenterauthority.org

OTTAWA VISITORS CENTER

1028 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL 61350 • 815-434-2737 www.pickusottawail.com

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER

2668 E. 873 Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348 • 815-667-4726 www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks/I&M/EAST/STARVE/PARK.HTM

Transportation

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Visitors Information

Mon.-Fri.

Yes

No

Visitors Information

Mon.-Fri.

Yes

Yes

Visitors Information

Fri.-Mon.

Yes

No

Visitors Information

Sat. and some Sun.

No

Yes

Visitors Information

7 Days a Week

Yes

No

Visitors Information

7 Days a Week

No

No

Labor Day Memorial Day Wed.-Mon.

February November

Map Your Next Adventure!

HellsGate Haunted House, Lockport

Services & Organizations

800.926.CANAL (2262)

139


LOOKING FOR

LINCOLN

Lawyer Abraham Lincoln spent his pre-presidential years on the Eighth Judicial Circuit and as a congressman traveling on horseback, riding in horse-drawn carriages and later aboard trains across 10,000 square miles of vast tallgrass prairies and wetlands in Central Illinois. During his career spent in the region, Lincoln met some of his dearest friends and forged professional political alliances that propelled him to the American presidency.

Credit: Instagram lukoweir

By Kit Bernardi

Now, although visitors exploring the Illinois & Michigan Canal Heritage Corridor see mostly farm fields instead of Lincoln-era landscapes, they still discover his rich legacy through historic sites, museums and folklore.

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Credit: Aerial Sky Productions

Credit: Aerial Sky Productions

LOOKING FOR LINCOLN Pontiac While working as an itinerant circuit attorney, Abraham Lincoln practiced law and cut his political teeth in Central Illinois county seat courthouses including Pontiac’s in Livingston County. A downtown wall mural portrays Lincoln’s Pontiac connections.

Visitors to Pontiac gain rich insights into Lincoln’s life following the town’s portion of the state-wide Looking for Lincoln Trail. Pontiac’s nine sites marked by informative storyboards tell of Lincoln’s experiences including arguing cases and debating his future 1858 senatorial seat and 1860 presidential candidacy opponent Stephen A. Douglas, stumping during the 1860 presidential campaign and staying overnight at lawyer-friends’ homes. Sites include the Prebyterian Church and the Strevell House, currently under painstaking restoration,​ where Lincoln was an overnight guest of Jason W. Strevell. In 1840, Lincoln and Douglas opposed one another trying Livingston County’s first jury trial held in a log building on the serene Vermilion River. The rivals also engaged in an impromptu debate outside the Pontiac courthouse where a statue of young lawyer Lincoln stands.

Strevell House, Pontiac

Livingston County Courthouse, Pontiac

Look for this logo indicating officially recognized Looking For Lincoln sites

Looking for Lincoln

Fell Park, Pontiac

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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Credit: Instagram luke_schneider

LOOKING FOR LINCOLN

The Reddick Mansion and Washington Square, Ottawa

Ottawa Abraham Lincoln’s first of seven U.S. Senate seat debates against Stephen A. Douglas occurred in Ottawa, LaSalle County’s government seat. Held on August 21, 1858 in Washington Square amidst festive fanfare, a reported 20,000 attendees came to hear the “Railsplitter” and “Little Giant” square off on abolishing slavery. The square’s massive bronze statues poised on a platform among fountains portray animated Lincoln and Douglas seemingly paused in mid-debate.

Anchored by leafy Washington Square, Ottawa’s National Historic District encompasses 1800s buildings including the Italianate Style Reddick Mansion built before the Civil War. Lincoln traveled to Ottawa to argue court cases in the LaSalle County

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courthouse and was f riends with Ottawa attorney T. Lyle Dickey. The Lincoln-Douglas debate and other Ottawa historical events are portrayed in colorful murals downtown.

The horse-drawn, elegant black leather carriage Lincoln rode in from the Rock Island train station to the Ottawa senatorial Douglas debate is exhibited in Utica’s LaSalle County Historical Society Museum. The museum in a former Illinois & Michigan Canal warehouse built in 1848 also displays a silver tea set Lincoln purportedly sipped from at Ottawa Mayor J.O. Glover’s home after the debate. The cruet set from LaSalle Mayor Alexander Campbell ‘s home adorned his dining room where Lincoln supped as they likely discussed his congressional run, evidenced by the exhibit’s copy of a letter Lincoln wrote dated June 25, 1858 confirming a $500 campaign contribution promise Campbell made back in 1851.

More

Lincoln Sites

These towns also connect their history to Abraham Lincoln’s.

Lockport Long before the first boat passed through the Illinois & Michigan Canal locks, Abraham Lincoln supported the canal project from concept to completion. The Will County Historical Museum and Research Center is located in the 1837 Illinois & Michigan Canal’s headquarters building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1852, Lincoln was appointed a canal commissioner. Canalfront history park Lincoln Landing interprets his canal connections.

travel - I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide


Credit: Instagram sumoflamodandquirky

Credit: Aerial Sky Productions

Lincoln sculpture, Joliet

Mural, Ottawa

Lincoln Landing, Lockport

Joliet At a political rally held on October, 1856 in former Demmonds Woods on Joliet’s West Side, Lincoln made a speech for the new Republic Party, of which he cofounded, supporting its presidential candidate General John C. Fremont and congressional candidate, abolitionist Owen Lovejoy from Princeton. A bronze Lincoln orator statue marks the historic site at the corner of Charlotte Street and Plainfield Road.

Princeton On Bryant Woods Drive, a plaque marks the site where Lincoln gave a speech on July 4, 1856 in woodlands surrounding Princeton city father John H. Bryant’s home. Brother of 19th century American poet William Cullen Bryant, John Bryant was one of Bureau County’s earliest settlers, an ardent abolitionist and a delegate who nominated Lincoln for president at Chicago’s 1860 Republican Convention. In 1862, Lincoln appointed Bryant a congressional district internal revenue collector position.

LaSalle When U.S. Representative Lincoln and his family journeyed home to Springfield, Illinois from Washington, D.C., they traveled aboard an Illinois & Michigan Canal boat from Chicago to LaSalle, disembarking on October 8, 1848. Looking for Lincoln

At age 23, Lincoln re-enlisted in Ottawa for military service and marched through LaSalle County as a militiaman in the Black Hawk War of 1832.

Hennepin Hennepin, named after early Illinois explorer Father Hennepin, is Putnam County’s government seat. Circuit court lawyer Lincoln likely tried small claims cases in the Putnam County Courthouse built in 1825, one of the few courthouses still existing from Lincoln’s circuit lawyer career. Inside the columned courthouse’s vestibule there’s an engraved replica of a letter Lincoln penned on October 3,1845 to locals Williamson and Madison Durley recapping their conversation while they dug potatoes on their farm then located near the courthouse. The Putnam County Conservation District on the Illinois River Road preserves tallgrass prairies, oak-hickory forests and wetlands reminiscent of the landscapes Lincoln once traveled. Here, it’s easy to imagine Lincoln sitting in the shade, his back against a tree, open law book on his knee.

“The Lincoln Special” On May 2, 1865 thousands of mourners lined the St. Louis and Alton Railroad tracks as Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train called “The Lincoln Special” traveled to Springfield through Lemont, Lockport, Elwood, Wilmington, Braceville, Gardner, Dwight, Odell, Cayuga, Pontiac and Ocoya. 800.926.CANAL (2262)

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I&M Canal Map

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Small Town Charm reational Treasur A Rec e

• Breathtaking hills, valleys, rivers, canals and fields frame Lemont, just 25 miles southwest of Chicago. • Numerous festivals and events bring together residents, businesses and visitors alike. • The Lemont area has an abundance of recreational and leisure opportunities for the whole family to enjoy. • We’re not just a place to live, work in or visit – we’re a place to experience.

• Explore Heritage Quarries Recreation Area – a 100 acre nature park to hike, bike, picnic, bird watch, boat and fish, with a 6-mile crushed stone marked trail. • Take a guided tour of the quarry area in the spring or fall with the Lemont Historical Society. Call 630-257-2972 for available dates and times. • Challenge yourself at Ruffled Feathers Golf Club, with a championship level course, enjoy our many parks or swim at Lemont Park District’s Centennial Outdoor Aquatic Center.

wntown Lem oric Do ont t s i H

• Our historic downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places. • Visit many preserved historic sites, charming limestone buildings, and public art displays. • The Old Stone Church at 306 Lemont Street houses the Historical Society and Museum. • Take a guided tour of downtown with the Lemont Area Historical Society (call 630-257-2972) or stop in Smokey Row Antiques, 112 Stephen Street, for a self-guided tour booklet and map.

Enjoy Our Scene! | www.lemont.il.us Lemont welcomes visitors from all corners of the world. Located 25 miles southwest of Chicago, Lemont is one of the oldest communities in the state, dating back to its founding in 1836. With our unique combination of natural assets and rich history, Lemont is a refreshing and unexpected sanctuary from surrounding communities. Amenities such as state-of-the-art recreational facilities, accessible transportation and top-performing schools provide big-city comforts with a small town charm.


Pubs | Brewery

Art | Murals Public

• Enriching the cultural landscape of downtown Lemont are many murals and public art displays. • Lemont Center for the Arts displays special artists exhibits all year. Visit them on Facebook. • Visit the many art and cultural centers: • Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago • Lemont Artists Guild • Lemont Center for the Arts • Lithuanian World Center and Museum • Little Mountain Community Theatre

ue Shopping & Dining

Uniq

• Lemont boasts many family-owned businesses unique to Lemont. • Downtown Lemont features distinctive boutiques and quaint shops nestled within late 19th century buildings. • Experience our flavors and flair in our many one-of-a-kind restaurants for any palate. • Find your treasure in an antique shop.

• Walk along the streets of the infamous Smokey Row strip, which was wilder than Dodge City back in the 1800’s. • Mingle with the locals at our mix of longtime taverns and pubs. • Enjoy new and contemporary hot-spots scattered throughout the town. • Take a tour and have a craft beer at Pollyanna’s Brewing Company.

Visit www.LemontEvents.com to see what’s happening around town. 2019 EVENTS Saint Patrick’s Day Parade March 9 | Historic Downtown Lemont

Quarryman Challenge 10 Mile & 5K Race May 11 | Historic Downtown Lemont

Lemont Legends Cruise Nights Wednesday Evenings | June through August Historic Downtown Lemont

Sunset Soiree FREE Summer Concert Series

Halloween Hoedown | Lemontster Days

Thursday Evenings, June 13 • June 27• July 18 • July 25 • August 1 Historic Downtown Lemont

October 26 | Historic Downtown Lemont Lemontster Days events throughout October

Independence Day Extravaganza

Hometown Holiday

July 3 | Lemont Centennial Park

December 7 | Historic Downtown Lemont

Lemont Heritage Fest

Frigid 5K

July 13 | Historic Downtown Lemont

December 8 | Lemont Park District



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