Monday Night Car Shows
Starting in June
Downtown Lockport
Summer Concert Series
June 2, July 7, August 4, and September 8 at 7 PM Lincoln Landing
Illinois is the nation's most populous inland state. Its successful growth is due in large part to the Illinois and Michigan Canal, a revolutionary development that linked the Great Lakes to the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. The I&M Canal was vital to the development of the great City of Chicago and to the economic development of the Midwest; the Canal also fostered the growth of the small settlement that became the City of Lockport. The beautiful Des Plaines River Valley was a portage site for the Des Plaines River for the Miami and Potawatomi, and famed explorers Joliet and Marquette traversed the region on their journeys.
CITYOFLOCKPORT.NET
Celebrate the history of the Illinois & Michigan (I&M) Canal and its contributions to Chicago and the Midwest. Every year, Old Canal Days attracts thousands of residents and visitors to Lockport in celebration of the City of Historic Pride and the I&M Canal’s contributions to the region. This family-friendly summer festival features the annual Lockport parade, live music, craft show, activities, carnival, food trucks, beer garden, wine tent, and much more. Visit oldcanaldays.com for more information!
GAYLORD BUILDING • 200 W. 8th Street
More than 170 years ago, the Gaylord Building played a major role in the creation of the I&M Canal. Today the building serves as a gateway to the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor. Explore the building’s canal exhibits, and enjoy a meal at the Public Landing Restaurant.
HERITAGE VILLAGE • 249 W. 2nd Street
Maintained by the Will County Historical Society, this open-air museum features a historic schoolhouse built in 1856, the Wabash Railroad Depot (Symerton) built in 1881 and a smokehouse which was operational for more than a century.
ILLINOIS STATE MUSEUM • 201 W. 10th Street
One of only four state museums in Illinois featuring rotating exhibits highlighting the art and visual culture of Illinois. The Illinois State Museum is housed in the historic Norton Building along the I&M Canal.
LINCOLN LANDING • 309 Dell Park Avenue
Spectacular open air park and museum. Sharing the I&M Canal lines with a statue of Lincoln contemplating the canal. Bronze medallions are placed with historical information.
WILL COUNTY HISTORIC SOCIETY
803 State Street
In 1972, the building was recognized by the National Park Service with a listing on the National Register of Historic Places. This building is part of the I&M Canal National Heritage Area.
IN OUR PARKS
DELLWOOD PARK*
Route 171 & Woods Drive • 150 acres, with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a disc-golf course, plus athletic fields and trails. Conveniently located State Street just east of the I&M Canal.
THE CANYONS DISC GOLF*
309 Dell Park Avenue • A 27-basket nationally recognized disc golf course in Dellwood Park.
LEGACY PAINTBALL PARK
2807 Canal Street • Over 66 acres of forest, lakes, and cliff side trails featuring a state of the art fully immersive game playing experience.
ON OUR TRAILS
I&M CANAL NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA iandmcanal.org
FOREST PRESERVE OF WILL COUNTY reconnectwithnature.org
ILLINOIS STATE MUSEUM
One of only four state museums in Illinois. Featuring rotating exhibits highlighting art and visual culture of Illinois. The museum is in the historic Norton Building along the I&M Canal.
ROXY THEATER
Performance and event venue holds wedding receptions, parties, movie nights and more. Featuring a completely remodeled interior with authentic art-deco décor.
GALLERY SEVEN
A fine arts gallery located on the 2nd floor of the historic Gaylord Building. Featuring works of art and rotating exhibits by gallery members, community members, and more.
*Maintained by the Lockport Township Park District (LTPD). Learn more about the LTPD at lockportpark.org.
LOCK & MULE – 1025 S. State Street
MAMMA ONESTA’S – 1100 S. State Street
PUBLIC LANDING – 200 W. 8th Street
STAGECOACH – 1028 S. State Street
EMBER’S TAP HOUSE – 933 S. State Street
TALLGRASS – 1006 S. State Street
TACO HEAVEN – 1001 S. State Street
VEGAN CAFÉ – 928 S. State Street
STATE STREET RESTAURANT – 1118 S. State Street
TORRO – 16525 W. 159th Street
COOM’S CORNER – 1225 E. 9th Street
NICKY’S GYROS – 903 E. 9th Street
SUBMARINE CITY – 1130 S. State Street
GODFATHER’S EATERY – 301 S. State Street
PARADISE BAY GRILL & BAR – 105 W. 10th Street
HONEYFIELD RESTAURANT – 984 E. 9th Street
ANTHONY’S PANCAKE HOUSE – 1030 E. 9th Street
GEORGE’S RESTAURANT – 990 N. State Street
CHEEZZY– 1527 S. State Street
MANGIA PIZZA – 132 E. 9th Street
ASIAN HARBOR – 16537 W. 159th Street
VILLA NOVA PIZZA – 874 N. State Street
PAPA JOE’S – 944 E. 9th Street
KRISPY’S NASHVILLE CHICKEN – 703 E. 9th Street
PAGODA – 1044 E. 9th Street
ZAAP ZAAP THAI – 1151 E. 9th Street
SURF’S UP – 16541 W. 159th Street
GREAT WALL – 480 Summit Drive
POP’S ITALIAN BEEF – 16600 W. 159th Street
EL BURRITO HABANERO – 1500 S. State Street
LA MICHOACANA DEL VALLE – 1250 E. 9th Street
EL BURRITO LOCO – 1205 E. 9th Street
TORTACOS – 1800 S. State Street
TACO PATIO – 1022 E. 9th Street
PIZZERIA AT THE POINT – 631 N. State Street
933 SPEAKEASY – 933 S. State Street (3rd Floor)
THE STUDIO – 900 S. State Street
NIK & IVY BREWING CO. – 1026 S. State Street
THE OPEN BOTTLE – 16437 W. 159th Street
JACKIE’S PUB – 1014 S. State Street
STELLA’S ON STATE – 823 S. State Street
MORGAN'S PUB – 14929 S. Archer Avenue
SHOOTER’S – 1605 S. State Street
UNCLE RICHIE’S – 112 E. 9th Street
ROCCO’S PUB – 16716 W. 159th Street
BEANIE’S CANDY SHOP – 1011 S. State Street
COOL CREATIONS – 937 S. Hamilton Street
EAT MORE CAKES – 937 S. Hamilton Street
THE CUPCAKERY BAKERY – 1022 S. State Street
THE DONUT SHOP – 1143 E. 9th Street
The I&M Canal Heritage Corridor covers many quaint I&M CANAL TOWNS , miles of trails and waterways stretching from Chicago Portage to the Starved Rock Area. Explore miles of trails, scenic waterways and boutique downtowns in STARVED ROCK COUNTRY , where you can reconnect with nature at a campsite or enjoy a luxury lodging experience. Explore THE FIRST HUNDRED MILES of America's famed Route 66, shop big names and boutiques, dine or play at the area’s exciting attractions and gaming venues.
The Canal Towns featured in this special edition of the Travel Guide were born from the initial efforts to expand the relatively new United States of America to the uncharted lands of the Midwest. The I&M Canal in Illinois and the Erie Canal in New York created a navigable water highway, connecting the natural waterways from the New York Harbor to New Orleans and bringing forth uninhibited westward travel. The newly established state of Illinois took on the task of building the canal, establishing “canal towns” along 96 miles of water, starting from Lake Michigan in the east and ending in LaSalle-Peru in the west. The rest, as they say, is history, and our authentic canal towns have much to share – both as fascinating windows to the past and as thriving communities in the present.
The charm of the 19th century is alive and well in those towns established by the canal – Lemont, Lockport, Morris, Seneca, Marseilles, Ottawa, Utica, and LaSalle, along with other towns in the orbit of the canal – Joliet, Channahon, Wilmington, Coal City, Carbon Hill, and Peru. Each one has its own unique story, with downtowns and residential areas alike brimming with nostalgia of a by-gone era.
This year, we celebrate the 175th anniversary of the opening of the I&M Canal. Our year-long celebration, from April 2023 to April 2024, includes special celebrations and activities at our favorite sites, as well as unique festivities in each of our Canal Towns. Our area was designated in 1984 as the first National Heritage Area in the country, the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area (IMCNHA), and we are honored to be part of the National Park Service family. You can find two of the most popular National Park programs here in the IMCNHA – several passport stamps for your NPS Passport and a I&M Canal Jr. Ranger program for kids of all ages.
Use this handy guide to mix in a little education with your vacation, or just enjoy the fresh air and the laid-back nature of small town America. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in this historic collection of charming Canal Towns.
- Heritage Corridor Destinations
WELCOME TO HERITAGE CORRIDOR DESTINATIONS. Formerly known as The Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, Heritage Corridor Destinations is a non-profit dedicated to bringing you the latest information on three of Illinois' top vacation destinations –Starved Rock Country, the I&M Canal and The First Hundred Miles of Route 66. Through a trio of travel guides, a comprehensive new website and various social media accounts, you can explore all of the attractions, dining, lodging and shopping that these exciting regions have to offer.
2023 OFFICIAL HERITAGE CORRIDOR TRAVEL I&M CANAL TOWNS
ADDITIONAL COPIES MAY BE OBTAINED BY WRITING TO: HERITAGE CORRIDOR DESTINATIONS 2701 Black Road, Ste. 201 • Joliet, IL 60435 844-94-HCCVB (844-944-2282) 800-926-CANAL (2262) marketing@hccvbil.com
PUBLISHED BY
The Lock 16 Cafe and Visitor Center offers a place to enjoy a handcrafted latte and browse exhibits in downtown LaSalle, one of the many scenic communities you’ll encounter along your journey. Visitors can shop and dine in addition to hiking or cycling the canal path and riding a replica canal boat.
110 W. Jefferson St. • Ottawa, IL 61350 • mywebtimes.com
PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Steve Vanisko
COPYWRITING: Ryan Searl
DESIGN: Julie Barichello
ADVERTISING SALES: Cheryl Brewer
SPECIAL THANKS TO THE CANAL CORRIDOR ASSOCIATION
Ana B. Koval and Britnee Eccles
ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY Shaw Media
A special thank you to our members for your continued commitment to promoting tourism within the Heritage Corridor.
All featured events and business hours are subject to change; contact all business and event hosts before planning your trip.
Every attempt has been made to verify the information in this publication. Heritage Corridor and Shaw Media assume no liability for incorrect, omitted or outdated information contained herein. To ensure a safe and happy trip, call ahead to verify information.
HERITAGE CORRIDOR DESTINATIONS
PRESIDENT & CEO: Robert Navarro, Ph.D.
PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Lauren Las
MARKETING ASSISTANT: Jared Smith
TOURISM MANAGER: Kate Meehan
WELCOME CENTER MANAGER: Debbie Krizel
TOURISM COORDINATORS
Bridget Gervasi
Donna Nordstrom
Pam Rowe
2023-3/35K
Whether you take a plane, train, or automobile, it’s easy to get to. Located just 30 minutes from Chicago and within a oneday 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 chart a course for adventure along the I&M Canal.
11788223557517862
COUNTY 11367216479117780
ROCK STATE PARK 9566240667316287
9921521058126173139247
6076241107104137117209
5980243105123139144203
4398274129109125137188
2810728410595106147194
PORTAGE AREA 1312430015510294158190
HERITAGE CORRIDOR DESTINATIONS
OFFICES AND VISITOR CENTERS
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
2701 Black Rd., Ste. 201, Joliet, IL 60435
800-926-CANAL (2262) • 815-216-9960
OFFICE – BOLINGBROOK (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY)
Conveniently located within the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce
201B Canterbury Ln., Bolingbrook, IL 60440 815-216-9960
STARVED ROCK WELCOME CENTER; AN ILLINOIS MADE GIFT SHOPPE
248 W Canal St , North Utica, IL 61373 800-746-0550 • 815-667-4356
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
I&M CANAL VISITOR CENTER
754 First St. LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-1851
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
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK VISITORS CENTER
Rte. 178 & Rte. 71 Utica, IL 61373
815-667-4726
ILLINOIS
Long before major thoroughfares like Interstate 80 and Route 66 passed through Joliet, this city of industry and excitement welcomed scores of travelers along the storied Illinois and Michigan Canal. Nestled on the banks of the DuPage and Des Plaines Rivers, with half-a-dozen smaller waterways criss-crossing the city, Joliet quickly became a major hub for transportation and manufacturing in Illinois, earning it the nickname “The Cross-Roads of Mid-America”.
Arts and culture soon followed the arrival of industries like quarries, lumber yards and, later, steel mills. Almost overnight, Joliet
grew from a small outcropping of farms into one of the most populous towns in the Midwest. At the height of the waterway’s popularity in 1882, well over a million tons of lumber, stone and grain passed through the Joliet locks. These goods, and this pivotal canal town, would help to expand Chicago into one of the great international cities and transform Illinois from an upstart prairie community into an economic and cultural powerhouse.
While you may not arrive by mule-pulled canal boat for your visit to Joliet today, you will still be treated to the same hospitality and lively atmosphere that gained it fame
nearly 150 years ago. As you walk the streets, you’ll see Joliet is still steeped in canal history and lore. You’ll find traces of the past in the city’s scenic nature areas and public parks, the boutique shops, restaurants and entertainment venues housed in historic downtown buildings, as well as in the museums and public art dedicated to preserving the legacy of this sprawling, and authentic, canal town destination.
Join us as we explore a selection of these historic attractions, and delve into what makes The City of Joliet such a time-tested canal town destination.
Joliet, home to more than 100 eateries, taquerias, microbreweries and diners, is the perfect place to pause your travels and grab a great bite to eat while traveling along the I&M Canal. Step into the past at some of the city’s delectable and historic dining destinations. Housed in and around Joliet’s famed downtown buildings, these restaurants are serving up spectacular dishes, craft beverages and unforgettable ambiance. To help you find some of the best historic dining destinations, here’s a wide-ranging collection of restaurants and bars sure to provide you with vintage atmosphere and
3
MOUSA TAPAS
158 N. Chicago St. MousaTapas.com
Housed in a turn-of-the-century limestone storefront, Mousa Tapas provides a dining experience nothing short of a globetrotting adventure. On their menu you will find shareables and entrees that hail from Greece, Spain, Portugal, France, Algeria, Morocco and more. Popular tapas, or sharable small plate options, include Italian Burrata (imported Burrata paired with Boretanni onion, confit cherry tomato, fig mustarda, grilled crostini) and an Algerian Chermola Salad (roasted cauliflower, red onion, carrot, golden raisin, toasted almond, cilantro). For your entree, try Paella Con Pescado (traditional Paella with squid, shrimp, clams, mussels) or Cataplana (shrimp, clams, garlic, lemon, cilantro, Spanish chorizo, linguini, olive oil, baguette), then close off your evening with a 3,600-year-old recipe for candied dates at this unique canal down dining destination.
BISHOPS HILL
310 Bridge St. BishopsHill.com
Once the headquarters for the Joliet Catholic Diocese, and before that the estate of a German brewmaster, this striking limestone castle is now home to an award-winning winery and tasting room.
MYGRAIN BREWING
Indulge in its popular 2018 cab sav, which is currently on sale, or the 2020 Petite Sirah that took gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. During the structure’s extensive restorations, much of the original on-site brewery was discovered and painstakingly restored with reclaimed materials. This grotto-like building houses Bishops Hill’s processing equipment, tanks and barrel aging rooms. Not only is the wine spectacular, but the atmosphere will keep you returning to the castle. 3
50 E. Jefferson St., #106 MyGrainBrewing.com
Not just a destination for great locallymade craft beers, this brew pub is also cooking up some signature burgers, steaks, wings, tacos and special weekly brunches. Located in the heart of Joliet’s historic downtown, directly inside the opulent Joliet Union train station, you’ll marvel at this Beaux Arts Classical style structure, designed by architect Jarvis Hunt in the and built in 1912. MyGrain’s taproom has ambiance to spare and sports a robust dining menu, featuring favorites like Braised Short Rib Risotto, Nashville
CUT 158 CHOPHOUSE
110 N. Chicago St. Cut158Chophouse.com
This trendy steakhouse, located directly next to the legendary Rialto Square Theatre, is your ideal destination for a high end meal and craft cocktail along the I&M Canal corridor. Cut 158’s menu is packed with fresh high-quality beef, seafood and veggie offerings, alongside an expansive selection of craft beers, house wines and whisky. You will find their menu packed with freshly sourced delicacies like Steak Tartar, Grilled Swordfish, 45 Day Aged Boneless Ribeye 16oz and Garlic-Crusted Roasted Rack of Lamb. 5
JULIET’S TAVERN
205 N. Chicago St. Julietstavern.com
Traditional Italian cuisine is paired with a welcoming sports atmosphere at this newly revamped downtown fine dining destination. The building that houses this delectable and casual New American tavern was originally constructed in the 1890’s and has, over the following century, housed several businesses including a grocer, shoe store, dentist and theater.
1The Wauponsee Glacial Trail, named after an ancient glacial lake that covered the region 13,000 years ago, winds south of Joliet towards the majestic Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. In just a few short miles, this trek will take you from the tree-lined urban
streets of Joliet to sprawling open farmland and reclaimed tallgrass prairie. The 22-milelong path follows the route of two historical railroad lines: the Illinois, Iowa & Minnesota Railway and the Wabash Railroad. The trail is paved through Joliet, but is crushed stone the rest of the way.
2The Gaylord Donnelley Trail, a beautiful stretch of the modern recreational canal path that runs from Lockport into the heart of Joliet. On this 11-mile partially paved trail, that parallels the original canal bed and towpath, you’ll encounter the remnants of aqueducts, lock gates and other infrastructure, dating back nearly two centuries. This easy to navigate trail is the perfect familyfriendly biking spot and a handson way to familiarize yourself with the waterway that shaped the city of Joliet. The Gaylord Donnelley Trail can be accessed via 10th Street in Lockport or at the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site.
3You’ll find the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site perched along the banks of the canal, just a few blocks north of the city’s beautiful downtown. This 52-acre preserve was once home to the second largest steel mill in the United States, and one
of Joliet’s defining industries during the latter days of the canal. Ironically enough, the mill also played a key role in bringing about the end of the I&M Canal. At this factory thousands of miles worth of railroad rails were rolled out, beginning in 1873, helping to jumpstart the industry that would soon replace the famed waterway. Within just a few short years Joliet Iron and Steel Co. rails could be found on train lines across the nation. Despite this boom, the mill shuttered its doors by the early 1900s. Unable to compete with growing operations on the east coast, mother nature began slowly reclaiming the grounds. That is until the Forest Preserve District of Will County acquired the land in mid-’90s and started the process of converting the mill’s ruins, including the original blast furnaces and other structures from the days of the canal, into a fascinating self-guided interpretive site with .59 miles of paved recreation trails.
No trip along the I&M Canal is complete without a visit to Joliet’s Lower Rock Run Preserve
Part of the extensive Rock Run Preservation System, this 372-acre park is a natural oasis of untouched forest, prairie, savannah and wetland, the very same habitats that lined the waterway when it first opened to the public in 1848. Situated right on the banks of the canal, with easy access to the State Trail, this park is brimming with a variety of hard to find plant species and wildlife, from white water lilies to eastern kingbirds. The park’s 11.24 mile paved Rock Run Greenway Trail is suitable for a wide variety of family friendly nature activities like biking, hiking, in-line skating, cross-country skiing and even snowshoeing. You’ll find two access points to the park, one on Channahon Road and the other on McClintok Road.
204 N. Ottawa St., Joliet JolietMuseum.org
Return to the heyday of the I&M Canal at the Joliet Area Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center. Located in a historic building that once housed the Ottawa Street Episcopal Methodist Church, this grand example of Neoclassic Revival architecture now houses amazing displays like a replica I&M Canal lock, a turn-of-the-century streetscape, an Old Joliet Prison guard tower and a state-of-the-art Lunar Landing simulator. Be sure to explore the museum’s Route 66 Welcome Center, a wing dedicated to the history and significance of the famed Mother Road that hosts a plethora of themed selfie spots and exhibits. Explore the museum’s brand new exhibit dedicated to “The Blues Brothers,” the seminal comedy filmed in Joliet. You’ll also find other photo-worthy exhibits, like a recently added 3D Route 66 selfie sign - located near the entrance of the museum.
The museum also hosts a variety of live music events and informational lectures throughout the year, many of which discuss the significant role Joliet played in the heyday of the I&M Canal. Free Parking for the Museum can be found at the corner of Ottawa and Webster Streets. Several free admission days are offered every year, courtesy of Heritage Corridor Destinations, to see a list of these days, visit jolietmuseum.org.
1125 Collins St., Joliet JolietPrison.org
Looking to experience an authentic piece of the city’s history first hand? The Joliet Area Historical Museum is now offering a series of special guided tours at the famed Old Joliet Prison. Originally constructed in 1858, this gigantic limestone penitentiary remained in operation until 2002, and has famously been featured in movies like The Blues Brothers. This facility isn’t just steep in fascinating pop-culture history; in its early years, Joliet held a mixture of regional offenders and Civil War POWs. After its closure, operation of the vacant facility was taken over by the Joliet Area Historical Museum, who now offer a series of special guided tours at the famed correctional facility.
If you’re looking for a more personal take on prison history, consider booking a Guard Tour. These 1.5 hour walking tours are led by two docents who worked at the prison while it was still in operation, they’ll tell you about the daily life at the prison during their time working there. Both tours are strongly recommended for guests age 16+, all minors must be accompanied by a guardian. To see a full listing of tours, visit jolietmuseum.org
Located across all of the canal towns, you’ll spot like-sized Cor-Ten steel silhouettes of notable historical figures who shaped the waterway and the surrounding communities. These glimpses into the past provided little-known historical insight into day-to-day life and history altering events that took place around the era of the I&M Canal. Join us as we explore some of these historical markers located around Joliet.
1
WALTER OLIN, STEELWORKER
Wheeler and Woods St.
Before people owned cars or had easy access to public transportation, they often had to walk long distances to work. In the 1920s, Walter Olin rode his bicycle to his job at the Joliet Iron Works. In the winter months, he put chains on his bicycle’s wheels and bundled up in his warmest clothes for the long ride to the steel plant.
In the late 1800s, bicycles became a popular means of transportation in Joliet. Much like today, bicycle clubs planned social rides and races. By 1895, so many people were riding bicycles that the city passed an ordinance requiring the use of lamps on bicycles at night and established a speed limit of 6 miles per hour.
2
PETER BAUM AND JOHN STENDER, QUARRY WORKERS
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
Hundreds of immigrants toiled in Joliet’s many quarries. The Irish were the first to come to Joliet, but by the 1860s many laborers were German, including many young men in their 20s. Among them were John Stender and Peter Baum, both in their 20s.
3
PATRICK SMITH, IRISH RAILROAD WORKER
Marion and Raynor St.
Irish immigrants first came here to dig the I&M Canal. By the 1870s, when Joliet was a railroad hub, many, like Patrick Smith, did the backbreaking work of laying tracks.
Workers used picks, shovels and sledgehammers to clear the ground and drive in spikes. They worked long hours in the warmer months but often had to find other jobs in the winter.
4
HARPO AND GROUCHO MARX, ENTERTAINERS
Clinton and Chicago St. Bad farmers, great entertainers
– The Marx Brothers, one the most famous comedy teams of the 20th century, once owned a chicken farm near the I&M Canal. But, according to Groucho, they failed as farmers because they spent too much time watching baseball at Wrigley Field and not enough minding the chickens. In the 1930s, the Marx Brothers performed at the Rialto Theatre.
5 MARY SETINA, CANDY STORE OWNER, 1873-1937
Clay and Joliet St.
Mary Setina, a Slovenian immigrant, came to Joliet in 1903. She lived in the St. Joseph’s neighborhood, known as “Slovenian Row, and owned a store there. Children on their way home from St. Joseph’s school stopped in the store, pennies in hand, to buy candy, ice cream, or school supplies from her. Men going home from the mills bought tobacco at the store.
6 GEORGE KISER, IRON WORKS LABORER
Columbia and Scott St.
George Kiser, an AfricanAmerican man, moved to Joliet from Missouri in the early 1900s. A laborer at the Joliet Iron
Works, he usually worked 12 hours a day in noisy, hot and dangerous conditions. The mill employed workers from all over the world – migrants from the south, like Kiser, were joined by Poles, Swedes, Germans, Bohemians and others.
Bluff and Jefferson St.
Born in Scotland, James Bruce learned of the local dolomite stone as an I&M Canal construction foreman. Canal workers had to blast through the stone, and used it to build the canal’s locks and walls. Bruce later used the stone to make his fortune, opening quarries in Joliet and Lockport that employed hundreds of workers.
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
In 1860, Hoffmann worked as one of Joliet’s many stone masons. Born in Holland, the 40-year-old Hoffmann first came to Wisconsin before moving to Joliet. His wife Agnes was also born in Holland, but their four children were born in the U. S. Stonemasons took the quarried limestone and transformed it into magnificent buildings, many of which are still part of Joliet’s landscape.
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
The American Aristotle – The last of 10 children, Lester Frank Ward (18411913) was born in Joliet, at Joliet and Benton streets. His father owned a quarry at what is now the site of the Illinois State Penitentiary, but Ward lived in Joliet only a short time. A true Renaissance man, Ward was wounded in the Civil War and took degrees in law and medicine, but gained lasting fame as a paleontologist and sociologist. 10
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
Sophia Demmond (1804-1895), born Sophia Murray, married merchant Martin Demmond in New York in 1831, and they were among Joliet’s earliest residents when they arrived in 1834. The Demmonds built Joliet’s first stone building from limestone quarried from local bluffs. They lived on the third floor and operated a general store on the first floor. Fewer than 50 people lived in Joliet during the winter of 1834-1835. The Demmonds were supporters of educational efforts, and they helped fund the construction of the first school building in Joliet.
In April 1848, the Illinois & Michigan Canal officially opened. By connecting Lake Michigan to the Illinois River (which in turn led to the Mississippi River), the canal offered–for the first time–an inland, all-water route from the East Coast to the Gulf of Mexico.
Travel, transportation and industry boomed; canal communities blossomed and the city of Chicago, a hub on this route, grew to become a major metropolitan center.
From April 2023 through April 2024, we’ll celebrate this anniversary. Enjoy our outdoor activities shown here, or check out the many events held throughout the I&M Canal National Heritage Area, including: Celebrations, Historical Lectures, Site Explorations, Re-enactments, Music Festivals, Special Tours, Jr. Ranger Days and so much more!
The first idea of a canal connecting Lake Michigan to the rivers of Illinois was recorded by French explorers in 1673, as they needed to portage their canoes 10 miles west of the lake front. Their suggestion was based on the ongoing construction of the Canal DuMidi in France.
The Chicago Portage Site and Marquette & Joliet Sculpture
4800 S. Harlem Ave., Forest View
The Illinois & Michigan Canal got its name because it connected Lake Michigan to the Illinois River. The young country of America wanted to build a canal here before Illinois was even a state, to expand the country by settling the population westward. Early advocates for the creation of a canal included the fourth U.S. President, James Madison. One reason for moving the northern border of Illinois 40 miles north was to facilitate the building of the canal in one state, thus allowing Illinois to have Lake Michigan waterfront. Without this move, our Chicagoans would now be “cheeseheads.”
Canal Origins Park was the eastern end of the canal 2701 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago
The I&M Canal was hand-dug primarily by Irishmen, but workers from several parts of the world were part of the labor pool. The standard pay for canal diggers was $1/day and a gill of whiskey (about 4 oz). The State of Illinois didn’t sanction the whiskey, but contractors did what they needed to do to keep their workers. The pay wasn’t bad, but the work was hard. Officially, no one died while building the canal but...
n WHERE TO SEE
St. James of the Sag Cemetery has many graves of canal workers
10600 Archer Ave., Lemont
The I&M Canal moved both passenger and freight traffic. Passengers only rode on the canal for five years until the railroad opened parallel to the water. The real impact of the canal was its ability to move freight cheaply until the early 1900s. The I&M Canal allowed the rapid growth of Chicago and Illinois because the heavy goods needed to build a civilization were easy and cheap to transport – stone, gravel, lumber. Other common types of freight were furniture, fabric, and pianos from the east; fur pelts from west; and oranges, molasses, and warm weather items from the south. In 1848, when the canal opened, the Chicago Board of Trade was created to manage the buying and selling of the corn and other grains grown in this region. Water transport was and still is the cheapest means of transportation.
Ottawa’s Toll House (1221 Columbus St., Ottawa), where all canal boats paid their tolls, and The Illinois Waterway Visitors Center (950 N. 27th Rd./Dee Bennett Rd., Ottawa) – the perfect place to see the evolution of water transport to today.
Before the I&M Canal was built, it took days of bone-jarring travel on rutted turnpike roads that baked rock-hard every summer and became a sea of mud after each winter. Pioneers had two main choices for travel: by wagon and horseback over muddy roads, or by canoe. The marshy prairie rivers were unreliable for shipping.
n WHAT TO SEE Halfway House (a hotel for stagecoach passengers) 41°19’23.4”N 88°57’47.5”W
The I&M Canal opened on April 10, 1848. At the time, a ticket from Chicago to Lasalle-Peru, or vice-versa, was priced at $4 and the 96-mile trip took roughly 22 hours on one of the regularly scheduled line boats. Teams of horses pulled the passenger boats, often called packet boats for the packet of mail they carried, as they were faster than mules. Freight boats were heavier and had to be pulled by teams of mules, which were stronger than horses.
n WHERE TO SEE
Meet Old Nell, a silhouette of the most famous mule on the canal (before Larry and Moe showed up in 2008) at Canal Port Park in Morris.
211-299 W. Illinois Ave., Morris
An Island in the Des Plaines River where nature and history meet!
An Island in the Des Plaines River where nature
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, visit LaSalle County. This oasis of unexpected natural wonders is home to the legendary Starved Rock State Park and picturesque small towns, lined with exciting eateries and boutique shopping opportunities. Whether you’re looking to tour museums and mansions, or sample locally made wine and craft beer, there’s an adventure awaiting you in LaSalle County.
• DOWNTOWN STREATOR - Murals, boutiques, dining and more
• MATTHIESSEN SUNFLOWER - A picturesque sea of sunflowers
• AUGUST HILL WINERY/ILLINOIS SPARKLING CO. - Taste award-winning wines at two locations
• KISHAUWAU CABINS - Family-friendly four season cabins near Starved Rock
• STARVED ROCK COUNTRY WELCOME CENTER - Browse brochures and the Illinois Made Gift Shoppe
• DOWNTOWN OTTAWA - Vibrant downtown and family-friendly fests
• HEGELER CARUS MANSION - Step back into history
• STARVED ROCK STATE PARK - Beautiful trails for all experience levels
• STARVED ROCK LODGE - Cabins, hikes, tours, & outdoor dining
FIND OR REQUEST MORE INFORMATION AT ENJOYLASALLECOUNTY.COM
KISHAUWAU CABINS
HEGELER CARUS MANSION
DOWNTOWN STREATOR
Heritage Corridor Destinations
AUGUST HILL WINERY/ ILLINOIS SPARKLING CO.
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK
STARVED ROCK LODGE
DOWNTOWN OTTAWA
STARVED ROCK COUNTRY WELCOME CENTER
MATTHIESSEN SUNFLOWER
An oasis of small-town charm and recreational opportunities to be explored close to Chicago.
Picturesque Lemont is known for its church spires, limestone buildings, and neighborhoods rising on the bluffs above its downtown. Three waterways – the narrow I&M Canal, the wide Sanitary and Ship Canal, and the marshy Des Plaines River – help define the community. Native Americans traveled the river by canoe on their trading trips between the Mississippi and Lake Michigan. The I&M Canal made this natural passageway navigable for commerce in 1848, and in 1900, the Sanitary and Ship Canal created a modern shipping channel. Today, you can enjoy a walkable downtown, boutiques, restaurants, a
brewpub, a bike trail with rental bikes, and nearby active recreation at the quarries. For the history buffs, the Lemont Historical Society is located in the Old Stone Church, with the St. James of the Sag Church and Cemetery nearby.
The town that built the canal. Lockport is a must-stop if you are exploring the I&M Canal, and it’s only 30 miles from Chicago. Lockport was selected by the Canal Commissioners to be their headquarters in 1830, and you can still see the influence of that decision today. The canal, the headquarters, a two-block-long public landing, and the Gaylord and Norton buildings flanking the public landing still
form the center of the community and offer visitors history, architecture, and trails, all within easy walking distance of each other. Take a five-minute trail walk south of downtown to Lock 1, or rent a bike for a longer trail exploration. In addition to historical exhibits, amenities include an art museum – the Illinois State Museum –Lockport Gallery, several restaurants and bars, and unique shops.
An important transportation hub known as the “Crossroads of Mid-America.”
Second only to Chicago as the largest I&M Canal town, Joliet attracted workers from around the world to quarry stone, manufacture steel, and build the railroads
9 unique communities along the historic waterway
that turned this tiny town into a 19th century powerhouse. Forty miles from Chicago, the Joliet segment of the I&M Canal has been submerged underneath the Illinois Waterway and is no longer visible, but there are plenty of other things to see.
Like many “rust belt” industrial towns, Joliet suffered greatly during the 1970s and ’80s, but has recently revitalized its downtown center by featuring entertainment, such as casinos and baseball. Downtown Joliet contains numerous businesses and institutions, including the spectacular 1926 Rialto Square Theatre. While you’re exploring this notable downtown, be sure to visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum. Located at the historic crossroads of Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway, this award-winning museum features exhibits about local history and
serves as a Route 66 Welcome Center.
Before you leave, head over to Bicentennial Park to view Joliet’s impressive lift bridges, watch boats and barges on the waterway, and visit the Old Joliet Prison.
Step right into nature and recreation right off I-55, 50 miles from Chicago.
While some of the other canal towns are all about history, Channahon is all about nature and recreation. Recall the sounds of the forest as you walk along a favorite path: birds calling among pastel hues of springtime, crickets chirping while hidden in the deep greens of summer, fall’s festival of colors as gold and russet leaves fall and crunch underfoot, and the still
silence of winter’s soft snows glittering in sunlight.
Channahon was the local Potawatomi word for “meeting of the waters,” for the four waterways in the area – the DuPage River, the Des Plaines, the Kankakee River, and finally the larger Illinois River. Because of the area’s historic topography, a lock and lock tender’s house, one of two remaining houses today, were built for the I&M Canal. It is one of the most scenic areas along the canal with the trail running parallel to the canal on one side and the river on the other. In addition to the canal and rivers, with boating, kayaking, fishing, and associated activities, this is a great place for hiking, biking, and camping. Other amenities include the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center and the Heritage Bluffs Golf Course.
70 miles from downtown Chicago, but a world away.
Morris is a quintessential rural Midwestern town filled with unique, small shops – some old and some new – most in historic buildings, sitting right along the I&M Canal, just a stone’s throw from the Illinois River and many recreational activities. The I&M Canal made Morris an important center for agriculture, industry, trade, and government. Downtown still thrives as the seat of one of Illinois’ most fertile agricultural counties. A huge grain elevator, visible over the treetops along the Illinois River, is a reminder that corn is still a vital part of Morris’ economy today. There is a lot of pride in this community, with events happening all year long. Stroll past the historic homes and downtown buildings, rent a bike for a scenic ride along the canal, or visit the Grundy County Historical Museum.
Town of two rivers and site of important I&M Canal landmarks. Situated on the Fox and Illinois rivers, Ottawa was platted by the Canal Commissioners at the same time as Chicago, 90 miles away. Ottawa prospered because the canal made it possible to transport the sand, gravel, and clay that were mined in the area. Ottawa has two of the canal’s most important landmarks – the huge Fox River Aqueduct and the last remaining tollhouse, a tiny wood frame structure on Columbus Street. By 1871, boat captains had paid enough tolls to retire the debt that the state incurred in building the canal.
Other landmarks in Ottawa include the ornate Reddick Mansion, nearby Third District Appellate Court Building, and the historic downtown, surrounding the impressive LaSalle County Courthouse. Ottawa’s Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum features exhibits about the history of Scouting in the United States as well as a section devoted to local Ottawa history. William D. Boyce, the founder of American Scouting, bought and later built a mansion in Ottawa, his adopted hometown, and was buried in Ottawa Avenue Cemetery in 1929.
Some Ottawa citizens participated in the Underground Railroad, including John Hossack, who used his Greek Revival manor house on the south bluff overlooking the Illinois River as a “station” on the secret route. A prominent Ottawa businessman, Hossack became an abolitionist hero when he was prosecuted for harboring a fugitive slave.
You’d better bring your appetite while visiting our Canal Towns! There are plenty of restaurants serving a wide variety of good food, and an abundance of drinking establishments, including wineries, brew pubs, and whiskey distilleries.
The gateway to Starved Rock, situated 98 miles from Chicago. Workers digging the I&M Canal discovered a large vein of limestone in the Utica area. This stone was ideal for making cement, which was used to construct the canal’s locks. Utica’s cement industry was its economic backbone through the 1800s. Today, its limestone and sandstone are still mined for gravel and sand. Visit the LaSalle County Historical Society Museum, housed in an 1840s canal warehouse built from area sandstone. Utica is the gateway to Starved Rock State Park, and its Main Street offers shopping and plenty of food and drink, including the August Hill Winery Tasting Room. The I&M Canal State Trail runs through the town and a nearby I&M Canal Bike Share station offers rentals to ride both east and west.
The western terminus of the I&M Canal, 98 miles southwest of Chicago.
Established by the Canal Commissioners as the canal’s western terminus after several dry years during the construction of the canal, LaSalle was an economic crossroads where I&M Canal boats met Illinois River steamers. From here, finished goods from the east streamed west, products from the south came north, and raw materials from the Midwest poured into Chicago and eastern markets.
In the 1970s, this part of the canal was restored by volunteers and the State of Illinois jumped in and restored Lock 14, resulting in a lock with lock gates and a canal with a reliable level of water. Those improvements led to the construction of a 76-foot replica canal boat. In 2008, it was christened The Volunteer, and under “mule” power, it began to ply the waters of the canal for the first time in 70 years.
The I&M Canal Visitor Center was opened in a rehabilitated 1910 carriage shop two blocks away in the historic downtown, and includes a café and gift shop. Today, after years of disinvestment, downtown LaSalle offers a rich selection of shopping, dining, and theatre.
River town, home of Westclox watch factory, 105 miles southwest of Chicago.
Peru was a river town at the time of the construction of the canal and lost its bid to be the western terminus of the canal. The Canal Commissioners selected LaSalle because they controlled the land there. Peru prospered, much like LaSalle, thanks to canal traffic and Peru’s abundant coal mines. Together, the twin cities attracted industry, and Peru became an industrial powerhouse in the 1800s and into the 1900s, with companies including Maze Lumber, Maze Nails, and Illinois Zinc. Westclox was the largest clock factory in the world producing over 1 million alarm clocks each year and is now being converted into an arts and entertainment venue with the Star Union Spirits Distillery in the building. Note the statue of Peru native Maud Powell on Main Street. Born in 1868, she was a world-renowned concert violinist. Peru’s downtown first developed along the riverfront, but was eventually moved up the bluff away from flooding. See the historic waterfront buildings and dine in the eclectic restaurants.
Located just 22 miles southwest of Chicago, The Forge: Lemont Quarries has something to exhilarate, educate, and entertain adventurers of all ages and abilities.
Plan your day of family fun activities, including climbing, ziplining, laser tag, biking, kayaking, archery, axe throwing, scavenger hunts, and more!
Celebrate the year-long (April 2023 to April 2024) 175th Anniversary of the opening of the I&M Canal with a grand adventure! Download the Heritage Corridor app to find our self-guided Cruisin’ the Canal tour and explore the 175+ places loved by locals and visitors alike in the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area (IMCNHA). Locations run from Chicago to LaSalle/Peru, encompassing a variety of historic, natural, and cultural places, all sorts of recreational spots, and unique food, drink, and shopping opportunities. It is easy to checkin at each location and keep track of how many places you’ve visited. Start today by downloading the app and you have until April 10, 2024 to see how many places you can visit. Details at iandmcanal.org.
Most people think that the I&M Canal was short-lived and insignificant, left in the dust by the inevitable rise of the railroads, but that is not the real story. While passenger travel on the I&M Canal was short-lived (1848-1853), and the routine of scheduled line boats that chartered between Chicago and LaSalle diminished, freight traffic was the game changer that the I&M brought to this area. The canal remained the back bone of transporting heavy goods, such as grain, lumber and stone, long after the railroads came to Illinois. The canal also kept the railroad fees reasonable, serving as the main competition, and was actually taken over by larger waterways – the Sanitary & Ship Canal (1900) from Chicago to Joliet, and the Illinois Waterway (1933). The large panel exhibits at the I&M Canal Visitor Center show the inland water route which the I&M completed in 1848, allowing Chicago, Illinois, and the Midwest to grow from the western frontier to the industrial powerhouse it is today. Visit the I&M Canal Visitor Center at 754 First St. in LaSalle to learn more.
Other interesting stories include the French explorers to our area, the stone quarries of Lemont, Lockport, and Joliet, and the role this area played in the Underground Railroad.
Other places to go to experience these stories:
v Isle a la Cache
v Lemont Historical Museum
v Gaylord Building
v Will Co. Historical Society
v Iron Works Site
v Seneca Area Historical Society
v Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum
Most people don’t realize the significant role coal mining played in the canal region or know much about the extensive coalfield which helped to shape the early industrial scene. Coal at Morris generated a profitable venture with 37 private or shipping mines on the map. By 1860, local farmers operated nine shafts near the Jugtown pottery works. Following the Civil War, coal replaced wood to fuel locomotives, fire steel mill furnaces, and heat public buildings, making the coal bed that stretched across the prairie into the southwest corner of Will County valuable and prosperous. In one year, eleven shafts were operating in the new coal camp of Braidwood in Will County, and by 1882, more than 100 mine openings were reported in Grundy County. Early mining by immigrants recruited from Scotland, England, Wales, and Europe, such as Czechs, Poles, Germans, Bohemians, Italians, French, created dozens of coal camps across the prairie, spurring a number
of growing communities. Between 1841 and 1974, hundreds of shaft mines and dozens of strip mines defined the landscape. The slag piles and water-filled pits still mark their spots today. Visit the Carbon Hill Historical Museum to learn more about the coal history and the immigrants who came to work in the mines. 875 N. Second St., Carbon Hill.
Aspiring paleontologists might be surprised to learn that we have 300 million yearold fossils right here in northeastern Illinois. The Mazon Creek region near Morris is world-famous for its fossils, which contain wellpreserved specimens of plants and animals from the Pennsylvanian period, Illinois’s Coal Age. Although older land plants and animals have since been discovered in other parts of the world, the Mazon Creek Fossil Beds continue to be the best and most prolific source of these fossil organisms. Such sites, where such fragile fossils are both common and well-preserved, are exceedingly rare in the geologic record, and fossil biota of this region was studied by some of the most famous paleontologists of the 19th and 20th century. The Mazon Creek locality was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1997, and while the area is inaccessible to the public today, a vast collection of these fossils can be seen on display at the Museum of the Grundy County Historical Society at 510 W. Illinois Ave., Morris.
the middle of North Central Illinois heartland, Bureau County is a hidden treasure �ll of simple pleasures.
In 1920, the Radium Dial Company moved its headquarters to Peru, Illinois, to be closer to the Westclox Company, which, at the time, produced over 1 million alarm clocks per year. The Westclox Company subcontracted dial painting through Radium Dial, but because of the difference in pay between a dial painter and a clock maker, Westclox soon asked the company to relocate to Ottawa, as they could not compete with the pay and did not want to lose their workforce. In 1922, the headquarters moved to Ottawa, Illinois, and the Radium Dial Co. began hiring young, working-class women to become dial painters, many of whom were first-generation immigrants. By 1925, the Ottawa location had become the largest dial painting studio in the United States, producing 4,300 dials a day. In order to prevent their paint brushes from losing their fine, precise tips, the girls were encouraged to reshape the brushes with their mouths, using their tongues to keep the tips sharp. The paint that was used for the dials was a mixture of radium salt, zinc sulfate, and water, and while it created a very popular glow-in-the-dark effect, it also exposed the girls to hazardous levels of radiation, the dangers of which had been kept from them by their employers.
The first signs of radium poisoning in the dial painters were often associated with the mouth, gums, and teeth, including dental pain, loose teeth, and tooth extractions that refused to heal. Bones in the jaw could become brittle and honey-combed, making them susceptible to breakage. One woman, Catherine Donahue, actually had her own jaw break in the middle of a conversation. Increased rates of cancer were documented among the women, and while the Radium Dial Co. would initially deny that the girls’ illnesses were caused by radium poisoning, the evidence soon grew too great to refute. Catherine Donahue led the charge for the “living dead girls,” and brought a significant case against the company. The girls inevitably won, but the compensation was far too little for the damages they endured.
Today, the Radium Girls exhibit at the LaSalle County Historical Society consists of personal letters between the Radium Girls of Ottawa which detail their first-hand experiences, media coverage, and the documentary “Radium City” which thoroughly examines this tragic story. More information on this topic can be found at the Westclox Museum in the original factory building at 350 5th St, Peru, Illinois, and at the LaSalle County Historical Society at 101 E. Canal St., North Utica.
The Village of Bolingbrook has grown to provide the best location for living, dining, hospitality and outdoor recreation. Reward yourself with a fun-filled night on the town with world-class golfing, fabulous dining and diverse shopping.
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
The Roger C. Claar 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
Clow International Airport & Illinois Aviation Museum
Come experience the history of aviation, from the invention of the first airplane to the wonders of modern air travel.
The Promenade Bolingbrook
The Promenade Bolingbrook is a pedestrian-friendly gathering place for shopping, dining and entertainment anchored by Macy’s and Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. shoppingpromenade.com
Costco
• Ashbury’s at Boughton Ridge
• Beggars Pizza
• Bulldog Ale House
• Charlie’s Restaurant
• Eiffel Waffle
• Fill-A-Pita
• Goat & Vine Restaurant + Winery
• KO Sushi
• McWethy’s Sports Bar
• The Nest at Bolingbrook Golf Club
• The Port of Peri Peri
• Slice Factory
• Taqueria El Valle
• Tasty Biscuit
130 Clow International Parkway bbclowairport.com illinoisaviationmuseum.org
Pelican Harbor Indoor-Outdoor Aquatic Park, Bolingbrook Park District
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 an area for picnicking or just relaxing in this beautiful setting.
475 Trout Farm Road 630-759-2381
Rocket Ice Arena
Your premier destination for ice skating and hockey lessons for any age and ability level. Two full-sized rinks allow for lessons, clubs, parties, and free skate year-round.
180 Canterbury Lane 630-679-1700
Wilderness Falls
Play minigolf on top of a 40-foot waterfall, tip toe through Big Foot’s cave, navigate the racing rapids, and most of all...have fun at Wilderness Falls!
145 Clow International Pkwy. 630-378-8888
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Bolingbrook
165 Fernwood Drive Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-378-0380
Hampton Inn & Suites
Aloft Bolingbrook
500 N. Janes Ave.
Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-410-6367
Bolingbrook 165 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-759-7100
Hilton Garden Inn Bolingbrook
135 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-771-1500
Holiday Inn & Suites
Bolingbrook
205 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-679-1600
One of the largest retailers in the world, find electronics, furniture, outdoor living, appliances, jewelry, groceries, and more!
830 E. Boughton Road
IKEA
A 300,000 square-foot facility offering the best in home interiors. 750 E. Boughton Road
Quality Inn 175 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-378-5300
Ramada by Wyndham Bolingbrook
520 S. Bolingbrook Drive Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-972-9797
Residence Inn by Marriott 180 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-332-5200
Springhill Suites by Marriott 125 Remington Boulevard Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-759-0529
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.
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
Shopping, Recreation, & Historic Sites
Bolingbrook and Romeoville
Bolingbrook and Romeoville
Entertainment
Entertainment
Joliet’s RT 66 Museum, Chicagoland Speedway, and Route 66 Raceway
Joliet’s RT 66 Museum, Chicagoland Speedway, and Route 66 Raceway
Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery
Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
Wilmington’s Gemini Giant
Wilmington’s Gemini Giant
Historic Downtowns
Historic Downtowns
Manhattan, Elwood, and Braidwood
Manhattan, Elwood, and Braidwood
A present from the past
A present from the past
The Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area (IMCNHA) is full of trails and natural areas, including prairies, gardens, and interesting cemeteries. The tow path along the I&M Canal is where the horses and mules pulled the canal boats between the opening of the canal in 1848 and the conversion to steam power in the 1880s. This tow path trail is actually four different sections of trails. The I&M Canal State Trail is 61.5 miles long, stretching from Rockdale (just south of Joliet) to LaSalle
(milemarkers 35-96), with 18 trail access points that each have a free parking lot and signage. The trail is flat with mostly a crushed limestone surface. On the north side of Joliet, the trail begins again and runs 8 miles to Lockport and beyond, to 135th Street in Romeoville (milemarkers 25-32). The third section is in Lemont and runs 5 miles through town and through the quarry area (milemarkers 17-21). The fourth section, which is part of the original towpath of the canal, is in Willow Springs. There, a loop trail runs on both sides of the canal and is 9 miles long (milemarkers 12-16).
Because the IMCNHA has been a thriving place since the 1830s and 1840s, there are several cemeteries with canal workers’ graves, Native American graves, and Civil War-era graves. If you are one of those people who loves to explore history through cemeteries, the IMCNHA has many to choose from. Three are listed below.
St. James at Sag Bridge is known to be the oldest working Catholic church in Northern Illinois, and its cemetery is the oldest Catholic cemetery in the Chicago region, dating to the early 1830s. The location has been significant for centuries, as it was first inhabited by American Indians as a lookout, then later a French Fort was located at the site. The first Catholic Cemetery was called “Haytown” and was located approximately 2 miles east of Lemont. When St. James Church and Cemetery were first organized, many of the bodies were moved from Haytown Cemetery, as it was infringed upon for quarry purposes. The parish began predominantly by Irish immigrant laborers, many who worked on the I&M Canal, as early as 1833, the date chiseled in the capstone over the entrance to St. James. The oldest tombstone in the cemetery is dated 1816, and there is even an area where Civil War soldiers are buried. Also, one of the more notable interred at St. James is one of the founders of National Biscuit Company (Nabisco).
This cemetery includes a ring of cement grave tablets which mark the Civil War Soliders’ section of the cemetery. The cemetery also houses the grave of a local American Indian chief named Shabbona (1775?-1859), marked by a boulder with his family buried nearby. A muscular bear of a man, Shabbona was born a member of the Ottawa tribe, but became a Potawatomi chief through marriage. During the War of 1812, Shabbona fought with the British against the Americans, but he later became friends with early Illinois settlers. In 1832, Shabbona opposed Black Hawk’s War and warned white settlers of oncoming attacks. After the war, most Indians in Illinois were forced to settle west of the Mississippi River. Shabbona, however, was given a large tract of land in DeKalb County. Returning home after a long absence from a visit to his tribe, he found that his land had been stolen. Fortunately, sympathetic friends bought him a plot of land near Seneca. He died at the age of 84 in 1859.
A historic, nondenominational cemetery established in 1874. It is the final resting place of several local historical figures, including Alexander Campbell, US Congressman and advisor to Abraham Lincoln; Edward Hegeler, founder of Matthiessen & Hegeler Zinc and Open Court Publishing; Frederick Matthiessen, founder of Western Clock Manufacturing (Westclox) and Matthiessen & Hegeler Zinc; and William T. Bedford, owner of the LaSalle Tribune.
In addition to trails along the canal, there are 34 miles of trails at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, with 22 of those miles designated for shared use among hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians. While at Midewin, you can visit the bison by going to the Iron Bridge Trailhead.
With the I&M Canal Bike Share, you can choose to rent a bicycle in one of eight locations near the I&M Canal State Trail and at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. All you need is a credit card and cell phone with WiFi and Bluetooth capability. The charge is $5/hour. TIP: Download the app while you have internet so you aren’t waiting on the cell connection. For more information, iandmcanal.org.
Be sure to check out some of the others trails in the IMCNHA, including the Centennial Trail, the Cal-Sag Trail, the Rock Run Trail, the Joliet Junction Trail, Old Plank Road Trail, and the Tinley Creek Trail.
Another great place to walk is at the Lake Renwick Preserve in Plainfield. Trail travelers on this 3.35-mile paved path are likely to see a wide variety of birds, including the great blue heron and the great egret that make their
homes in the nearby Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve. This preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, and trail users will enjoy a view of the lake and marsh areas.
The IMCNHA has a variety of gardens to enjoy, including English Gardens, Botanical Gardens, Pollinator Gardens, a Children’s Garden, and a prairie seed garden. A full list of our gardens can be found at iandmcanal.org/ gardens, but some of our favorite include:
Sitting on 2 acres in Streator, Weber House & Garden immerses visitors in storybook/ Tudor architecture and English-style gardens while providing an intimate look at American history. The garden is made up of 10 “rooms,” each with its own design, theme, and purpose. A stunning variety of plants, flowers, and trees ensure that the garden changes visually as the year goes on, with new splashes of color appearing as different plants come into season. Statues, fountains and other ornamental features have been added to give each room its own character. Make reservations for a tour. 1503 Baker St., Streator, IL 61364
Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is an 85-acre non-profit park that includes woodlands, prairie, wetlands, gardens, and a 10-acre lake. It’s a wonderful place to explore, learn, and discover some of nature’s wonders. Come see why they call it the great outdoors! 7402 Lake Katherine Dr., Palos Heights, 60463
Buzz by the Isle a la Cache Pollinator Garden to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the paths at Isle a la Cache Museum, where flowers and plants native to Illinois fill the landscape beds and the terraced pollinator garden that overlooks the lagoon. Flowering trees and shrubs, along with prairie grasses and flowers, are abundant at this island oasis. Interpretive signs provide information about the important role of pollinators, and seasonal labels identify many plants. Be sure to check out the three pollinator hotels to spot any activity! 501 E. Romeo Rd., Romeoville, 60446
The Elwood Children’s Garden was started in 1997 and provides an enlightening and educational experience for the young and the young at heart who enjoy nature and
gardening. The garden is dedicated to enriching the minds, hands, and hearts of all who share a common bond with nature, while offering daily exploration that invites play and interaction with the natural environment. 801 N. Chicago Ave., Elwood, 60421
Although some types of wild seed are available from specialized native plant nurseries, many are not, which prompted the creation of the Midewin Seed Production Gardens. Midewin’s three native seed production gardens produce seeds of native grasses and wildflowers that cannot be obtained from other sources. Come explore this fascinating collection of rare, hard-to-find plants that once thrived on the prairie! Route 53, Wilmington, 60481
The Morris Butterfly Garden, located in Canalport Park, features over 300 native pollinator plants that will attract and support butterflies, along with a pedestrian path with edging and signage that explains the positive impact of butterfly gardens on the environment. 211-299 W. Illinois Ave., Morris, 60450
The Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area (IMCNHA) has many great family friendly places and activities. The suggestions below include indoor and outdoor activities, both educational and recreational. Please check with each location for specific details. Many places are free, supported by tax dollars, while others have modest fees.
l BECOME A JR RANGER (AGES 5 TO 95). The IMCNHA has one of the favorite National Park Service programs - the Juni Ranger program. It is easy to earn your badge by completing the activities in the book. You can always stop at the I&M Canal Visitor Center (754 First Street, LaSalle, 61301) or Isle a la Cache Museum (501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville, IL 60446) to pick up your Jr. Ranger book and/or to return your book for your Jr. Ranger badge. In addition, there are days and locations throughout the IMCNHA and throughout the anniversary year to attend a Jr. Ranger Day to do both and meet a National Park Service Ranger. Check iandmcanal.org for details.
l I&M CANAL BOAT. This 76-foot boat is the first on the canal in over 70 years, but the star of the show for adults and kids alike is Moe the Mule, who pulls the boat and passengers down the canal for a brief glimpse of what canal travel was like in 1848, when Chicago was the western frontier. The ride is about an hour long, enough to learn the history from the guide and the recorded history, but not too long for the kids. You are allowed to walk around the boat, sit in the cabin, or explore the upper deck. Catch a view of turtles sunning themselves on the rocks, while birds, fish, and other animals may make an appearance. Kids can become a Jr. Captain and visit the stern of the boat to see the rudder in action. Tickets are required. iandmcanal.org, 754 First St., LaSalle, 61301
l I&M CANAL STATE TRAIL is a perfect place to let your kids explore. The trail is flat, with either a crushed limestone or paved surface, making it ideal for walking, running, skipping, pushing a stroller, or bicycling. The trail has many access points in and near our canal towns, with 18 free parking lots along the 61 miles. Kids can see a variety of birds, animals, and fish; including herons, turtles, and deer, and sometimes an eagle. The trail is usually not too busy, and it can be easily shared by walkers and cyclists. There are many interpretive signs and mile markers along the way, many of them with QR codes offering local information, including nearby food.
l Escape to an island for a family adventure! ISLE A LA CACHE MUSEUM is situated on a scenic island in the Des Plaines River in Romeoville. Visit the museum to learn about the 17th century fur trade in Illinois Country. Find out about the allimportant beaver, go inside a wigwam, check out a voyageur camp, and experience more kid-friendly exhibits and activities. Then, head outside to explore the Native American Lifeways exhibit, stroll through the pollinator gardens, or look for wildlife along the Shoreline Trail. Isle a la Cache Museum is a hidden gem where you and the kids will discover rich local history and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. For more information on the services offered or programs available, visit reconnectwithnature.org. 501 E. Romeo Rd., Romeoville, 60446
l The LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE NATURE CENTER in Willow Springs has educated and delighted generations of families with live animals, exhibits, and self-guided trails. When visiting, be sure to explore the interactive children’s room, which features hands-on natural materials for exploration. Our interpretive children’s programs offer nature exploration, science-based activities, and learning through play. Programs can be found at fpdcc.com. 9800 Willow Springs Rd., Willow Springs, 60480
l The FOUR RIVERS ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER in Channahon is right off the I&M Canal State Trail. Start your hike there and head west to the McKinley Woods –Kerry Sheridan Grove Preserve, or go inside the center to explore the new exhibit hall with a hands-on river table, create your own watershed on the interactive sand table, and view our local fish species in the 2,000 gallon aquarium. Take a stroll around the building on the All Persons Trail with its interactive sensory kiosks and paved walkways. Four Rivers is an inclusive facility welcoming people of all abilities. reconnectwithnature.org, 25055 W. Walnut Ln., Channahon, 60410
l Within the LASALLE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY COMPLEX is the 1865 Aitken One Room Schoolhouse, originally established as District One in Troy Grove Township, home of “Wild Bill” Hickok. Since 1990, the society has been providing a 4th Grade School Program for local school children to experience what life was like at a one-room schoolhouse. Families can enjoy our look back at a 19th-century school from mid-April through mid-October during open museum hours. On the right side of the school is the herb garden, containing herbs and flowers native to Illinois. Many of the exhibits within our other buildings are of interest to families, including the Radium Dial Girls. lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org, 101 E. Canal St., North Utica, 61373
Exploring the I&M Canal? We’d love to see your photos! Use the hashtag #HeritageCorridor on social media.
Photos with the animals along the canal are always a hit. Moe, the mule who pulls the I&M Canal Boat, is a favorite subject and is almost always ready for a photoshoot, often because he thinks he is getting a treat! Many people also take photos of the bison at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, though they are a bit harder to find, as they have a large prairie pasture to roam.
Moe the mule
Moe, who pulls the I&M Canal Boat, in his corral along Route 351 and the I&M Canal, LaSalle
The historic buildings and natural areas of the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area offer some great photo opportunities. Many of the most interesting photos we have seen of the canal are taken from a nearby bridge. Two suggestions are the Aux Sable Locktender’s House, Lock, and Aqueduct, and the Route 351 bridge over the canal in LaSalle, where you can photograph the I&M Canal Boat, Lock 14, and the waterway to the Illinois River.
Lock 14 is the only lock which still has lock gates. Shown is the view toward the Illinois River from the Route 351 bridge, LaSalle.
One of the most scenic parts of the I&M Canal State Trail. Aux Sable is between Morris and Channahon, you can ride the trail or drive along Old Cemetery Road to get there.
It is always fun to take your photo with people from the past, and our Canal Towns offer many statutes, silhouettes, and other can’t-miss photo ops. Along the I&M Canal you’ll spot life-size photo-ops of historic luminaries like Abraham Lincoln,Wild Bill Hickok, and Chief Shabbona, along with modern icons like the Blues Brothers.
Celebrate our French heritage with a photo of the silhouette of French explorer Rene-Robert Cavalier de LaSalle (1643-1687). During the winter of 1682-83 he established Fort St. Louis atop Starved Rock for protection from the Iroquois. 754 First St., LaSalle
In the 1920s, Walter Olin rode his bicycle to his job at the Joliet Iron Works. In the winter months, he put chains on his bicycle’s wheels, and bundled up in his warmest clothes for the long ride to the steel plant. Wheeler and Woods Sts., Joliet
JOLIET | This Neo-Baroque landmark, built in 1926, is considered to be one of the “150 great places in Illinois” by the American Institute of Architects. The Rialto’s famous marquee, chandelier, rotunda, and stage are just a few of the photo-worthy opportunities that await you at this wonder of Route 66.
ROMEOVILLE | The Isle a la Cache Museum immerses visitors in the cultural heritage and natural history of the I&M Canal region. The museum transports visitors back to the 18th century, showing how the worlds of French voyageurs and Potawatomi intertwined.
As it was nearly 200 years ago, adventure is still at the heart of any trip along the I&M Canal. Today, you can browse fascinating museum collections that transport you back in time, soar more than 100 feet in the air on a zipline, find your zen at a local yoga center or gain a new perspective while skydiving above sprawling farm fields. No matter what level of adventure you’re looking for, you’re bound to find some fascinating and unexpected activities to take part in when you visit these eclectic canal towns.
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
1170 N. 27th Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
630-567-4653
www.kayakmorris.com
SKYDIVE CHICAGO
3215 E. 1969th Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-0000
www.skydivechicago.com
THE CLIFFS INSANE TERRAIN OFF-ROAD PARK
2681 U.S. 6 Marseilles, IL 61341
815-795-5200
www.thecliffsinsaneterrain.com
THE FORGE: LEMONT QUARRIES
1001 Main St. Lemont, IL 60439
www.lemontquarries.com
GRAND BEAR RESORT
AT STARVED ROCK
2643 N. Route 178 Utica, IL 61373
866-399-3866
www.grandbearresort.com
HAUNTED TRAILS ENTERTAINMENT PARK & PICNIC GROVES
1423 N. Broadway St. (Route 53) Joliet, IL 60435
815-722-7800
www.hauntedtrailsfun.com
RAGING WAVES WATERPARK
4000 N. Bridge St. Yorkville, IL 60560
630-882-6575
www.ragingwaves.com
ALTER BREWING COMPANY
2300 Wisconsin Ave., #213 Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-541-9558
www.alterbrewing.com
HICKORY CREEK BREWING COMPANY
1005 W. Laraway Rd. New Lenox, IL 60451 779-803-3974
www.hickorycreekbrewingil.com
IKE & OAK BREWING COMPANY
6315 Main St. Woodridge, IL 60517 331-998-2907
www.ikeandoakbrewing.com
MAD HATCHET BREWING
913 Brookforest Ave. Shorewood, IL 60404 815-733-5380
www.madhatchetbrewing.com
MISKATONIC BREWING COMPANY
1000 N. Frontage Rd., Unit C Darien, IL 60561
630-541-9414
POLLYANNA BREWING COMPANY
431 Talcott Ave.
Lemont, IL 60439
630-914-5834
www.pollyannabrewing.com
RT66 OLD SCHOOL BREWING
110 Bridge St. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-2220
www.rt66oldschoolbrewing.com
SKELETON KEY BREWERY
8102 Lemont Rd., Unit 300
Woodridge, IL 60517
630-395-9033
www.skeletonkeybrewery.com
WHISKEY HILL BREWING COMPANY
1115 Zygmunt Cir.
Westmont, IL 60559
630-442-7864
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., Suite 135 Peru, IL 61354
815-205-1234
www.starunionspirits.com
BILLIE LIMACHER BICENTENNIAL PARK AND THEATRE
201 W. Jefferson St. (at Bluff Street) Joliet, IL 60432
815-724-3761
www.bicentennialpark.org
LITTLE MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY THEATRE
800 Porter St. Lemont, IL 60439
www.littlemountaintheatre.org
RIALTO SQUARE THEATRE
102 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-726-7171
www.rialtosquare.com
STAGE 212, INC.
700 1st St. LaSalle, IL 61301
815-224-3025
www.stage212.org
THE EAGLE PERFORMING ARTS & CONFERENCE CENTER
319 N. Plum St. Pontiac, IL 61764 815-844-1187
www.pontiaceagle.com
&
EXIBIT GALLERY & FINE ARTS CENTER
315 Bedford Rd., Suite A Morris, IL 60450 815-258-5191
www.facebook.com/ theexibitfineartscenterandgallery
GALLERY SEVEN
200 W. 8th St. (2nd floor) Lockport, IL 60441 815-483-4310
www.galleryseven.net
GARDNER STREETCAR DINER
5650 Highway 53 S Gardner, IL 60424
GAYLORD BUILDING HISTORIC SITE
200 W. 8th St. Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-9400
www,gaylordbuilding.org
GREATER LIVINGSTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL 209 W. Madison St. Pontiac, IL 61764 815-419-2472
www.pcartcenter.com
I&M CANAL VISITOR CENTER & BOAT TOURS 754 First St. LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-1851
www.iandmcanal.org
ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 SCENIC BYWAY 1045 S. 5th St. Springfield, IL 62403 217-414-9331
www.illinoisroute66.org
MIDWEST SOARRING FOUNDATION
133 W. 13th St. Lockport, IL 60441
773-585-8613
www.midwestsoarring.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
WEBER HOUSE AND GARDEN
1503 Baker St. Streator, IL 61364 815-510-0627
www.weberhouseandgarden.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
GRUNDY COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM
510 W. Illinois Ave. Morris, IL 60450 815-942-4880
HEGELER CARUS MANSION
1307 Seventh St. LaSalle, IL 61301 815-224-5892
www.hegelercarus.org
LEMONT | The Forge: Lemont Quarries outdoor adventure park is home to The Eight Towers Adventure, considered to be the crown jewel of Midwest climbing destinations. This record breaking aerial challenge course offers an unbeatable view of the Canal Corridor.
HUME-CARNEGIE MUSEUM
901 Washington St. Mendota, IL 61342
815-539-3373
www.mendotamuseums.org
ILLINOIS ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME ON ROUTE 66
9 W. Cass St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-927-1540
www.roadtorock.org
JOLIET AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM
204 N. Ottawa St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-723-5201
www.jolietmuseum.org
KIDSWORK CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
11 S. White St. Frankfort, IL 60423
815-469-1199
www.kidsworkchildrensmuseum.org
LASALLE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
101 E. Canal St. Utica, IL 61373
815-667-4861
www.lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org
MENDOTA MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY
901 Washington St., P.O. Box 433
Mendota, IL 61342
815-539-3373
www.mendotamuseums.org
OLD JOLIET PRISON
1125 N. Collins St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-723-5201
www.jolietprison.org
OTTAWA HISTORICAL AND SCOUTING HERITAGE MUSEUM
1100 Canal St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-431-9353
www.facebook.com/OttawaHistorical AndScoutingHeritageMuseum
PUTNAM COUNTY
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
327 Old Highway 26 Hennepin, IL 61327 815-925-7560
www.putnamcountyhistoricalsociety. org
ROMEOVILLE AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
14 Belmont Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 815-552-9080
www.romeohistory.org
SEATTLE SUTTON MARSEILLES MUSEUM
151 Washington St. Marseilles, IL 61341 815-795-7976
www.ssmmi.org
SENECA AREA HERITAGE MUSEUM AND RESOURCE CENTER
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
WILL COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S HERITAGE VILLAGE
249 W. 2nd St. Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-5080
www.willhistory.org
BOGGIO’S ORCHARD AND PRODUCE
12087 Route 71 Granville, IL 61326 815-339-2245
www.boggiosorchardandproduce.com
BRONKBERRY FARMS
18061 S. Bronk Rd. Plainfield, IL 60586 815-436-6967
www.Bronkberryfarms.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
GOOSE LAKE PRAIRIE
PARTNERS, INC.
5010 N. Jugtown Rd. Morris, IL 60450
815-942-2899
www.gooselakeprairie.org
HEAP’S GIANT PUMPKIN FARM
4853 U.S. Highway 52 Minooka, IL 60447 815-475-7373
www.heapsgiantpumpkinfarm.com
HERITAGE HARBOR
OTTAWA
1851 Old Chicago Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-5000
www.heritageharborottawa.com
HORNBAKER GARDENS, INC.
22937 County Rd. 1140 N Princeton, IL 63156 815-659-3282
www.hornbakergardens.com
I&M CANAL STATE TRAIL 401 Ottawa St. Morris, IL 60450 815-942-9501
MIDEWIN NATIONAL TALLGRASS PRAIRIE
30239 S. Route 53 Wilmington, IL 60481 815-423-6370
www.fs.usda.gov/midewin
SPIRIT FARMS
3874 N. Route 71 Sheridan, IL 60551 815-695-5667
www.spiritfarms.com
STARVED ROCK HIKERS
LaSalle County, IL 61354
www.starvedrockhikers.com
WOODHAVEN LAKES
509 LaMoille Rd. Sublette, IL 61367 815-849-5209
www.woodhavenassociation.com
DAYTON BLUFFS
2997 Route 71 Ottawa, IL 61350
630-428-4500
www.theconservationfoundation. org/about-us/dayton-bluffs
HERITAGE QUARRIES RECREATION AREA
1001 N. Main St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-1550
HISTORIC SHABBONA PARK
4165 E. 16th Rd.
Earlville, IL 60518
815-434-0518
www.lasallecounty.org/shabbonapark-history
MATTHIESSEN STATE PARK
2568 E. 950th Rd.
Oglesby, IL 61348
815-667-4726
www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/ Matthiessen.aspx
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK
Route 178 & 71 Utica, IL 61373
1-815-667-5351
www.dnr.illinois.gov
LOUIS JOLIET MALL
3340 Mall Loop Dr. Joliet, IL 60431
815-439-1000
www.shoppinglouisjolietmall.com
OPEN SPACE ART
GALLERY AND STUDIOS
223 W. Madison St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-293-7099
www.osartstudios.com
PRAIRIE STATE ROAD RUNNERS
P.O. Box 293
Channahon, IL 60410
www.psrr.org
RUN STARVED ROCK COUNTRY
719 Canal St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-228-7253
www.runstarvedrockcountry.net
SAINTE GENEVIEVE RIVERBOAT
231 Albin Stevens Dr. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-200-4781
www.stegenriverboat.com
ST. GEORGE ORTHODOX CHURCH
211 E. Minnesota St. Spring Valley, IL 61362
815-664-4540
www.springvalleyorthodox.com
SPORTS
AXE FACTOR THROWING
13717 S. Route 30
Plainfield, IL 60544
779-252-1300
www.axefactorthrowing.com
BOLINGBROOK GOLF CLUB
2001 Rodeo Dr. Bolingbrook, IL 60490
630-771-9400
www.bolingbrookgolfclub.com
ILLINOIS VALLEY
PISTOL SHRIMP
2600 Plank Rd.
Peru, IL 61354
JOLIET SLAMMERS
BASEBALL
1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr. Joliet, IL 60432
815-722-2287
www.jolietslammers.com
TAP HOUSE
ORANGE & BREW BOTTLE SHOP
1027 Burlington Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-541-3880
www.orangeandbrewbottleshop.com
ARTISTIC DENTISTRY
14811 S. Founders Crossing
Homer Glen, IL 60491
708-301-6060
www.artisticdentistry-pc.com
ARTISTIC MEDSPA
14811 S. Founders Crossing
Homer Glen, IL 60491
708-301-6060
www.artisticmedspa.com
BREATHE SALT THERAPY
2611 N. Bridge St.
Yorkville, IL 60560
234-273-2843
www.breathesalttherapy.net
BRONKBERRY FARMS
18061 S. Bronk Rd. Plainfield, IL 60586
815-436-6967
www.Bronkberryfarms.com
GERI’S THE DAM HAIR SALON
110 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-1004
INTUITIVE ARTS & SCIENCES
P.O. Box 2244
Ottawa, IL 61350
510-908-7319
www.startwithlovenow.com
SALTTREEYOGA
310 1/2 W. Main St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-343-2751
www.salttreeyoga.com
THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
8430 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Chicago, IL 60631 815-373-5114
www.alz.org
WINE BAR
BLUE HORSE WINE & MARTINI BAR
115 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-926-2026
CAT’S EYE - A WINE BAR
724 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-481-1389
www.facebook.com/ catseyewinebar
MONTAGE WINE BAR & SPIRITS
307 Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450
815-941-1006
www.montagewinebar.com
ONE ELEVEN WINE BAR AND MARTINI PARLOUR
111 Stephen St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-410-8229
www.111wineandmartini.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
WINERY
AUGUST HILL WINERY & ILLINOIS SPARKLING CO. 106 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373 815-667-5211
www.augusthillwinery.com
BISHOP’S HILL - WINERY 310 Bridge St. Joliet, IL 60435 312-617-1116
www.bishopshill.com
SABLE CREEK WINERY
14912 S. Eastern Ave., Unit 103 Plainfield, IL 60544 815-214-9463
www.sablecreekwinery.com
A rich history. Built on tradition.
Utica 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.
Visit
It takes more than a day to truly explore all the sights and sounds of the I&M Canal Corridor, and there’s no shortage of wonderful lodging destinations where you can refresh and recharge for another fun-filled day of biking, boutique shopping or craft beer sampling. From secluded cabins surrounded by untouched nature to the cozy convenience of new chain hotels, there’s a perfect lodging option for everyone along the I&M Canal. This comprehensive accommodation guide will help you find the perfect place to get some R&R.
ALOFT BOLINGBROOK HOTEL
500 Janes Ave. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-410-6612
www.aloftbolingbrook.com
AMERICINN HOTEL & SUITES STREATOR
1705 N. Bloomington St. Streator, IL 61364
AMERICINN LODGE & SUITES PRINCETON
2120 Claude Bailey Pkwy. Princeton, IL 61356
BAYMONT BY WYNDHAMJOLIET
1730 McDonough St. Joliet, IL 60436
815-725-8855
www.wyndhamhotels.com/ baymont/joliet-illinois/baymont-bywyndham-joliet
BEST WESTERN OGLESBY
900 Holiday St. Oglesby, IL 61348
815-883-3535
www.bestwestern.com/en_US/ book/hotels-in-oglesby
BEST WESTERN PLUSJOLIET
3231 Norman Ave. Joliet, IL 60431
815-439-4200
www.bestwestern.com
BEST WESTERN PLUS BOLINGBROOK
225 W. South Frontage Rd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
BEST WESTERN PONTIAC INN
1821 W. Reynolds St. Pontiac, IL 61764
815-842-2777
www.bestwestern.com
Lander’s House Bed
Inn and cottages is located in the heart of charming downtown Utica, IL and just minutes from breathtaking Starved Rock and Mattiessen State Parks.
Our Bed and Breakfast is designed with you in mind. We’ve tailored each room, our hospitality and amenities to make your stay as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. We hope that our attention to detail and desire to pamper you shines through each and every moment of your stay.
CLARION HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER
JOLIET
411 Larkin Ave. Joliet, IL 60436
COMFORT INN - MORRIS
70 W. Gore Rd. Morris, IL 60450
COMFORT INN - OTTAWA / STARVED ROCK AREA
120 E. Stevenson Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-0029
www.choicehotels.com/illinois/ ottawa/comfort-inn-hotels/il504
COMFORT INN JOLIET
WEST I-80
1520 Commerce Ln. Joliet, IL 60431
COMFORT INN NORTHJOLIET
3235 Norman Ave. Joliet, IL 60435
815-436-5141
www.choicehotels.com/illinois/ joliet/comfort-inn-hotels
COMFORT INN
ROMEOVILLE
1235 Lakeview Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446
COUNTRY INN & SUITES BY CARLSON
1265 Lakeview Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446
DAYS INN AND SUITES
MORRIS
80 Hampton Drive Morris, IL 60450
DAYS INN OGLESBY/ STARVED ROCK
120 N. Lewis Ave. Oglesby, IL 61348
815-883-9600
www.wyndhamhotels.com/ days-inn/oglesby-illinois/days-innoglesby-starved-rock/overview
DAYS INN PRINCETON
2238 N Main St. Princeton, IL 61356
DAYS INN ROMEOVILLE
1280 W. Normantown Rd. Romeoville, IL 60446
ECONO LODGE PRINCETON
2200 N. Main St. Princeton, IL 61356
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BOLINGBROOK
165 Fernwood Dr. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES JOLIET NORTH/ PLAINFIELD
3239 Norman Ave. Joliet, IL 60435
815-436-6577
www.marriott.com/mdwfi
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES
OTTAWA - STARVED ROCK
3000 Fairfield Ln. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-431-8955
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ mdwot-fairfield-inn-and-suitesottawa-starved-rock-area/
FAIRFIELD INN AND SUITES- PERU
4385 Venture Dr. Peru, IL 61354 815-223-7458
www.marriott.com/sqipr
FAIRFIELD INN SOUTH
1501 Riverboat Center
Joliet, IL 60431 815-741-3499
www.marriott.com/mdwfs
GRAND BEAR RESORT AT STARVED ROCK
2643 N. Rt. 178 Utica, IL 61373
HAMPTON INN & SUITES
165 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
HAMPTON INN & SUITES MINOOKA
621 Bob Blair Rd. Minooka, IL 60447 815-828-6450
www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com/ en/hotels/illinois/hampton-inn-andsuites-minooka-JOTMIHX/index. html
HAMPTON INN & SUITES PERU
4421 N. Peoria St. Peru, IL 61354 815-220-8400
www.hamptoninn.hilton.com
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 HILTONOTTAWA
4115 Holiday Ln. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-6040
www.hilton.com/en/hotels/otwilhxhampton-ottawa-starved-rock-area/ 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
HILTON GARDEN INNBOLINGBROOK
135 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
HOLIDAY INN & SUITES
205 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-679-1600
www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/ en/bolingbrook/chibb/hoteldetail
HOLIDAY INN CLUB
VACATIONS FOX RIVER RESORT
2558 N. 3653rd Rd. Sheridan, IL 60551
855-427-6329
www.ihg.com/ holidayinnclubvacations
HOLIDAY INN COUNTRYSIDE
6201 Joliet Rd. Countryside, IL 60525
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESSOTTAWA
2850 Columbus St. Ottawa, IL 61350
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES PERU
5253 Trompeter Rd.
Peru, IL 61354
815-224-2500
www.hiexpress.com//lasalleperu
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES ROMEOVILLE
722 N. Center Blvd.
Romeoville, IL 60446
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AND SUITES - LOCKPORT
16223 W. 159th St. Lockport, IL 60441
815-306-1200
www.holidayinnexpress.com/ LockportIL
HOLIDAY INN HOTEL AND SUITES ROCK RUN
CONVENTION CENTER
1471 Rock Creek Blvd.
Joliet, IL 60431
779-206-2915
www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/ en/joliet/jotrc/hoteldetail
HOLLYWOOD CASINO
JOLIET HOTEL & RV
RESORT
777 Hollywood Blvd. Joliet, IL 60436
888-436-7737
www.hollywoodcasinojoliethotel.com
HOME2 SUITES HOTEL
4095 Hennepin Dr. Joliet, IL 60431
815-727-3310
www.jolietplainfield. home2suitesbyhilton.com
LA QUINTA INN AND SUITES - PERU
4389 Venture Dr. Peru, IL 61354
MARRIOTT TOWNEPLACE
SUITES JOLIET
1515 Riverboat Center Dr. Joliet, IL 60431
815-741-2400
www.marriott.com/mdwts
MOTEL 6 JOLIET SOUTH
1850 McDonough St. Joliet, IL 60436
MOTEL 6 NORTH
3551 Mall Loop Dr. Joliet, IL 60431
815-439-1332
www.motel6.com
PLEASANT HILL MOTEL
14556 Archer Ave. Lockport, IL 60441
815-838-0373
www.PleasantHillMotel.com
QUALITY INN - OTTAWA
510 E. Etna Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
QUALITY INN AND SUITES
135 S. Larkin Ave. Joliet, IL 60436
815-744-1770
www.choicehotels.com/illinois/joliet/ quality-inn-hotels/il071?source=lb
QUALITY INN
BOLINGBROOK
175 W. Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
QUALITY INN MORRIS
200 Gore Rd. Morris, IL 60450
815-942-6600
www. qualityinnmorris.com
QUALITY INN PERU
5240 Trompeter Rd. Peru, IL 61354
815-223-8585
www.choicehotels.com/illinois/peru/ quality-inn-hotels/il069?source=lb
QUALITY INN PONTIAC
1823 W. Reynolds St. Pontiac, IL 61764
815-844-4444
www.choicehotels.com/illinois/ pontiac/quality-inn-hotels
Heritage Harbor is located about 80 minutes from Chicago’s South-West Suburbs, offering luxurious living in the heart of Starved Rock Country. Experience the tranquil beauty of every season right outside your door. Heritage Harbors’ scenic waterfront location grants you a carefree, relaxing lifestyle.
Explore the beauty at Heritage Harbor and our multiple award-winning marina located on the Illinois River. Enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, biking and more. Dine on tasty bites at our waterfront restaurant, Red Dog Grill. Explore the beauty of Heritage Harbor by renting a quaint cottage, discover our real estate opportunities and experience life at the harbor.
OGLESBY | The Starved Rock Lodge is one of Illinois’ foremost lodging destinations for those looking to enjoy hiking, outdoor adventure, history and architectural landmarks. Within the Lodge, you’ll find historic ambiance in the main dining room where the atmosphere is friendly and casual.
RAMADA BY WYNDHAM BOLINGBROOK
520 S. Bolingbrook Dr. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
RED ROOF INN JOLIET
1750 McDonough St. Joliet, IL 60436
RESIDENCE INN BOLINGBROOK
180 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
630-332-5200
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ chirk-residence-inn-chicagobolingbrook
SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT
125 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440
630-759-0529
www.marriott.com/chibl
STARVED ROCK LODGE AND CONFERENCE CENTER
One Lodge Ln. Oglesby, IL 61348
815-667-4211
www.starvedrocklodge.com
SUPER 8 - DWIGHT
14 E. Northbrook Dr. Dwight, IL 60420
SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM
500 E. Etna Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-2888
www.super8.com
SUPER 8 JOLIET
3401 Mall Loop Dr. Joliet, IL 60431
SUPER 8 PERU
1851 May Rd. Peru, IL 61354
SUPER 8 PONTIAC
601 S. Deerfield Rd. Pontiac, IL 61764
SUPER 8 ROMEOVILLE
1301 Marquette Romeoville, IL 60446
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.wyndhamhotels.com/ wingate/joliet-illinois/wingate-bywyndham-joliet/overview
WOODSPRING SUITES ROMEOVILLE
1093 Windham Pkwy. Romeoville, IL 60446
CHESTNUT STREET INN
301 E. Chestnut St. Sheffield, IL 61361 800-537-1304
www.chestnut-inn.com
FOX RIVER BED AND BREAKFAST
3367 E. 2072nd Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-579-2368
www.foxriverbnb.com
HERITAGE HARBOR
OTTAWA 1851 Old Chicago Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-433-5000
www.heritageharborottawa.com
MADISON STREET LIVING
224-226 W. Madison St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-1500
www.madisonstreetliving.com
THE BICKERMAN BUILDING LODGING
166 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373
www.airbnb.com/rooms/51488989
THE PLAINFIELD INN 15106 S. Fox River St. Plainfield, IL 60544 815-355-1361
www.theplainfieldinn.com
CABINS AT STARVED ROCK LODGE
One Lodge Ln. Oglesby, IL 61348 815-667-4211
www.starvedrocklodge.com
FOSSIL ROCK RECREATION AREA
24615 W. Strip Mine Rd. Wilmington, IL 60481-0087 815-476-6784
HOLLYWOOD CASINO JOLIET HOTEL & RV RESORT 777 Hollywood Blvd. Joliet, IL 60436 888-436-7737
www.hollywoodcasinojoliethotel.com
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
1170 N. 27th Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350 630-567-4653
KISHAUWAU CABINS
901 N. 2129th Rd. Tonica, IL 61370 815-442-8453
www.kishauwaucabins.com
NATURE’S WAY RV PARK 756 N. 3150th Rd. Utica, IL 61373 815-667-4988
www.natureswayrvpark.com
PLEASANT CREEK CAMPGROUND
926 N. 2150th Rd. Oglesby, IL 61348 815-431-0936
www.pleasantcreekcampground.com
TROLL HOLLOW CAMPGROUND
2265 N. 2453 Rd. Marseilles, IL 61341 815-795-2537
www.trollhollow.com
LOCKPORT | Experience fresh brewed beer, born and raised in Lockport along the I&M Canal. This family-owned business is turning out delicious craft brews incorporating locally grown hops and farm products, infusing innovative flavor notes into tried and true ales, stouts and lagers.
Exploring all the I&M Canal has to offer can really work up an appetite. Lucky for you, some of the state’s most exciting new restaurants and fan-favorite hidden gems can be found near the banks of this historic waterway. Canal towns like Lockport, Joliet, Morris, Ottawa and more are home to exciting downtown dining districts, packed with brew pubs, fusion eateries and throwback diners that are sure to please every palate. For your convenience, we’ve assembled a dining guide highlighting some of the must-try restaurants you’ll find along the I&M Canal.
9TH STREET PUB
253 Ninth St. LaSalle, IL 61301
815-223-8960
www.9thstpub.com
Grills & Pubs | B | L | D | $
AL’S STEAK HOUSE
1990 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, IL 60435
815-725-2388
www.alssteaks.com
Steakhouse | L | D | $$$
ANNIE’S HIDEAWAY
323 Railroad Ave.
Naplate, IL 61350
815-433-9686
www.facebook.com/Annies-Hideaway-489509721159135/
American | D | $$$
BARREL SOCIETY
930 N. Main St. Princeton, IL 61356
630-973-3478
www.facebook.com/barrelsociety
Ale Trail | L | D | $
BASH (BURGER AND SUSHI HOUSE)
1012 N. LaSalle St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-2274
www.burgerandsushihouse.com
Asian | L | D | $$$
BIG FISH GRILLE
27425 S. Will Rd. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-9331
www.bigfishgrille.net
Seafood | L | D | $$$
BLUE EYED RASCAL BAKERY
121 E. Main St. Streator, IL 61364
815-712-0793
www.blue-eyed-rascal-bakingcompany.square.site
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
BRUCE & OLLIE’S 166 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373
815-691-8034
www.bruceandollies.com
Dessert | B | L | D | $
BURGER THEORY
1471 Rock Creek Blvd.
Joliet, IL 60431
630-229-6074
www.facebook.com/
BurgerTheoryJoliet
American | B | L | D | $$
CAJUN CONNECTION
2958 N. Route 178 Utica, IL 61373
815-667-9855
www.ronscajunconnection.com
Cajun | D | $$
ELDER BREWING COMPANY
218. E Cass St. • Joliet, IL 60432
815-953-0127 • www.elderbrewingco.com
EVIL HORSE
1338 Main St. • Crete, IL 60417 708-304-2907 • www.evilhorsebrewing.com
HONEST ABE’S TAP AND GRILL
3585 Rt. 47 • Morris, IL 60450 815-941-2485 • www.honestabestapandgrill.com
LOCK & MULE BY TANGLED ROOTS
BREWING COMPANY
1025 S. State St. • Lockport, IL 60441 815-324-9549
MAD HATCHET
913 Brook Forest Ave. • Shorewood, IL 60404 815-733-5380 • www.madhatchetbrewing.com
MISKATONIC BREWING COMPANY 1000 N. Frontage Rd., Unit C • Darien, IL 60561 630-541-9414
MYGRAIN BREWING
50 E. Jefferson St., Suite 106 • Joliet, IL 60432 815-345-3339 • www.mygrainbrewing.com
NIK & IVY BREWING CO. 1026 S. State St. • Lockport, IL 60446 815-524-4857 • www.nikivybrewing.com
NOON WHISTLE 800 E. Roosevelt Rd. • Lombard, IL 60148 • 630-376-6895 1748 W. Jefferson Ave. • Naperville, IL 60540
331-431-4882 www.noonwhistlebrewing.com
ORANGE & BREW BOTTLE SHOP
1027 Burlington • Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-541-3880 • www.orangeandbrewbottleshop.com
POLLYANNA BREWING COMPANY
431
OTTAWA | Housed inside a former dairy barn, this fan-favorite rural restaurant is serving up premium hand-cut steaks, authentic Italian favorites and hearty country classics in a oneof-a-kind atmosphere. Hank’s is also home to a bountiful buffet, served every Sunday with a changing variety of dishes including 14 feet of desserts.
CASA MIA
219 18th Ave. Naplate, IL 61350
815-434-0758
www.facebook.com/CasaMia-Restaurant-OttawaIL-103710913006200/ Steakhouse | D | $$$
CHERRY HILL CAFE
2635 E. Cass St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-726-0881
www.facebook.com/CherryHillCafe99
Breakfast | B | L | $
CHESDAN’S PIZZERIA AND GRILLE
CHUCK’S SOUTHERN COMFORTS CAFE & BANQUETS
8025 S. Cass Ave. Darien, IL 60561
331-431-4000
www.chuckscafedarien.com
BBQ | B | L | D | $$
CLAYTON’S TAP
122 W. Washington St. Morris, IL 60450
815-942-3811
www.claytonstap.com
Grills & Pubs | B | L | D | $$
CORNER STONE TAVERN 103 Stephen St.
815-667-4211 • www.starvedrocklodge.com
THE LONE BUFFALO BY TANGLED ROOTS
812 LaSalle St. • Ottawa, IL 61350 815-324-9549 • www.tangledrootsbrewingco.com
WHISKEY HILL BREWING COMPANY
1115 Zygmunt Circle • Westmont, IL 60559 630-442-7864
WILL COUNTY BREWING COMPANY
1142 W. Jefferson St. • Shorewood, IL 60440 815-600-9450 • www.willcountybrew.com
15764 S. Bell Rd. Homer Glen, IL 60491 708-301-8300
www.chesdanspizza.com
Pizza | L | D | $$
CHICAGO STREET PUB
75 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432 815-727-7171
www.chicagost.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $
Lemont, IL 60439
630-863-7735
www.cornerstonelemont.com
American | L | D | $$
CUT 158 CHOPHOUSE
110 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-409-7411
www.cut158chophouse.com
Steakhouse | L | D | $$$$
DELL RHEA’S CHICKEN BASKET
645 Joliet Rd. Willowbrook, IL 60527
630-325-0780
www.chickenbasket.com
American | L | D | $$
DOC WATSON’S SMOKEHOUSE
444 N. Weber Rd.
Romeoville, IL 60446
815-524-3774
www.DocWatsonsSmokehouse.com
BBQ | L | D | $$
DOCK ROTZ TAVERN
859 S. Ridge Rd.
Minooka, IL 60447
815-467-2200
www.dockrotztavern.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
EMBERS TAP HOUSE
933 S. State St.
Lockport, IL 60441
815-552-3031
www.emberstaphouse.com
American | L | D | $$
FOX’S PIZZA & IRISH PUB
9655 W. 143rd St.
Orland Park, IL 60462
708-349-2111
www.foxspubs.com
Pizza | L | D | $$
FOX’S PIZZA & IRISH PUB
11247 W. 187th St.
Mokena, IL 60448
708-478-8888
www.foxspubs.com
Pizza | L | D | $$
GARAGE BAND BREWING
15025 S. Des Plaines St. Plainfield, IL 60544 815-592-4055
www.garagebandbrewing.com
Ale Trail | L | D | $
H & H FAMILY RESTAURANT
116 Stephen St. Lemont, IL 60438
630-257-5228
Mexican | B | L | D | $$
HAMBURGERSERIA
1015 Essington Rd. Joliet, IL 60435
815-725-2883
www.hamburgerseria.com
American | L | D | $$
HANK’S FARM RESTAURANT
2973 N. Route 71
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-2540
www.hanksfarm.com
American | L | D | $$$$
HANOVER & HARDY’S PUBLIC HOUSE
205 Remington Blvd Bolingbrook, IL 60440
630-679-1600
www.facebook.com/
hanoverandhardys
American | B | D | $$
HAYDEN’S CROSSING
107 N. Water St.
Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-5925
www.haydenscrossing.com
American | B | L | D | $$
HAZE SMOKEHOUSE
159 Bucklin St. LaSalle, IL 61301 815-780-8374
www.hazesmokehouse.com
BBQ | L | D | $$
HOME CUT DONUTS
815 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, IL 60435 815-727-3511
www.homecutdonuts.com
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | D | $
HONEST ABE’S TAP & GRILL 3585 N. Route 47 Morris, IL 60450 815-941-2485
www.honestabestapandgrill.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
HOPSCOTCH & VINE
24047 W. Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544 815-230-5609
www.hopscotchandvine.com
American | L | D | $$
HUGHIE MCCLAFFERTY’S
118 Stephen St. Lemont, IL 60439 630-312-8152
www.hughiemcclaffertyspub.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
IRISH TYME PUB
24027 W. Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544
815-733-5280
www.facebook.com/Irish-TymePub-1625810597630846
Grills & Pubs | D | $$
JEREMIAH JOE COFFEE
807 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
www.jeremiahjoecoffee.com
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
JIMMY JOHN’S GOURMET SANDWICHES
2971 E. 8th St. Utica, IL 61373
815-667-4160
www.jimmyjohns.com
American | L | D | $
JITTERS COFFEE HOUSE
178 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-740-0048
www.Jittersjoliet.com
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
JOHN AND RINA’S 131 E. Church St. Utica, IL 61373
815-228-2553
www.facebook.com/johnandrinas
Deli | B | L | $
JOY AND ED’S INN 113 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373
815-667-4850
www.utica-il.gov/business/joy-edsbar-restaurant
American | B | L | D | $
JULIET’S
205 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-630-5654
www.julietstavern.com
Italian | L | D | $$
KREMA COFFEE HOUSE
24038 W. Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544
815-616-6933
www.facebook.com/ kremacoffeehouse
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
LOCK 16 CAFE
754 First St. La Salle, IL 61301
815-223-1851
www.iandmcanal.org
American | B | L | $
LOCK & MULE BY TANGLED ROOTS BREWING COMPANY
1025 S. State St. Lockport, IL 60441 815-324-9549
Gastropub | L | D | $$
LODI TAP HOUSE - UTICA
101 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373
815-667-4324
www.loditaphouse.com
American | L | D | $$
MACIANO’S PIZZA & PASTARIA
850 Brookforest Ave. Shorewood, IL 60404 815-773-0800
www.macianos.com
Italian | L | D | $$
MARK’S ON 59
714 Cottage St. Shorewood, IL 60404 815-744-3043
www.markson59.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $
MERICHKA’S
604 Theodore St. Crest Hill, IL 60403 815-723-9371
www.merichkas.com
American | L | D | $$
MILLSTONE BAKERY
821 1st St. LaSalle, IL 61301
815-250-0877
www.millstonebreads.com
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
MIMI’S CAFE
209 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
779-875-6475
www.mimiscafeshop.com
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
MORRIS CHOP SHOP
701 N. Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450
815-710-5006
www.chopshopgrille.com
Steakhouse | L | D | $$$$
MYGRAIN BREWING
50 E. Jefferson St., Suite 106 Joliet, IL 60432
815-345-3339
www.mygrainbrewing.com
Gastropub | L | D | $$
NELLY’S RESTAURANT ON ROUTE 66 140 Bridge St. Wilmington, IL 60481 815-476-9590
www.nellysonroute66.com
American | L | D | $$
NEXT MEX 319 Front St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-312-8636
www.next-mex.com
Mexican | L | D | $$
NICK’S TAVERN
221 Main St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-6564
www.nickstavern.net
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
NIK & IVY BREWING CO.
1026 S. State St. Lockport, IL 60446
815-524-4857
www.nikivybrewing.com
Ale Trail | L | D | $
NONIE’S BAKERY
522 S. Clark St. Utica, IL 61373 815-691-5002
www.facebook.com/Nonies-BakeryCafe-390141894351056/
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
OLD LOG CABIN 18700 Old Route 66 Pontiac, IL 61764 815-842-2908
www.route66oldlogcabin.com
American | B | L | $$
OLD ROUTE 66 FAMILY RESTAURANT 105 S. Old Route 66 Dwight, IL 60420 815-584-2920
www.route66restaurant.com
American | B | L | D | $$
JOLIET | This upscale American restaurant, one of the oldest in the city, is famed for their classic charbroiled steaks and variety of fresh seafood. Al’s is your top destination for mouthwatering Grecian style cuts of steak, made exclusively with angus beef and served with a double baked potato. Don’t miss Al’s generous salad bar and local favorite Sunday brunch.
OPERA HOUSE STEAK & SEAFOOD
24027 W. Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544
815-782-5916
www.operahouseplainfield.com
Steakhouse | D | $$$$
PELICAN HARRY’S
14807 S. Founders Crossing Homer Glen, IL 60491 708-301-5555
www.pelicanharryssportsgrill.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
PESCIOLINO OSTERIA
24554 S. Pheasant Ln. Channahon, IL 60410
815-255-6901
www.pesciolinoosteria.com
Italian | D | $$
POLK-A-DOT DRIVE IN 222 N. Front St. Braidwood, IL 60408
815-458-3377
American | L | D | $
PUBLIC LANDING RESTAURANT AND BANQUET CENTER
200 W. 8th St. Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-6500
www.publiclandingrestaurant.com
American | L | D | $$
RICH & CREAMY 920 N. Broadway Joliet, IL 60432 815-740-2899
Dessert | L | D | $
ROSEBUD LEMONT
12350 Derby Rd. Lemont, IL 60439 630-599-6000
rosebudrestaurants.com/locations/ rosebud-lemont
Steakhouse | D | $$$$
ROSEMARY CAFE
1730 Essington Rd.
Joliet, IL 60435
815-782-4094
www.rosemary-cafe.com
Breakfast | B | L | $$
RUBI AGAVE
12622 W. 159th St.
Homer Glen, IL 60491
708-301-8006
www.rubiagave.com
Mexican | D | $$
SKOOG’S PUB & GRILL
155 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373
815-667-5800
www.skoogspubandgrill.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
TAVERN IN THE GLEN
15761 S. Bell Rd. Homer Glen, IL 60491 708-645-4763
www.tavernintheglen.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
THAYER BROTHERS DELI & GRILL
753 Ruby St. Joliet, IL 60435
815-726-8990
www.facebook.com/pages/ThayerBrothers/113336372034527
American | L | D | $$
THE CHEESE SHOP ‘N’ DELI
1219 Fulton St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-0478
www.thecheeseshop.biz
American | L | D | $
THE CORNER TAP
201 N. Water St.
Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-6146
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
THE GREAT AMERICAN BAGEL
1101 Essington Rd. Joliet, IL 60435
815-744-9630
www.gabgrub4me.com
Bakeries & Coffee Shops | B | L | $
THE HI-WAY RESTAURANT
210 W. Norris Dr. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-431-9431
www.hiwayrestaurant.com
American | B | L | D | $$
THE LAUNCHING PAD DRIVE-IN
810 E. Baltimore St.
Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-6535
www.facebook.com/
thelaunchingpadroute66
American | L | D | $
THE LONE BUFFALO BY TANGLED ROOTS BREWING COMPANY
808 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-324-9549
www.thelonebuffalo.com
Gastropub | L | D | $$
THE NEW CHALET RESTAURANT
514 State St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-2746
www.thenewchalet.com
American | B | L | $
THE PUB MORRIS 200 Gore Rd. Morris, IL 60450
815-942-4200
www.thepubil.com
Grills & Pubs | L | D | $$
THE RED DOG GRILL 1970 N. 2753rd Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-4406
www.reddoggrill.com
Seafood | L | D | $$
THYME CRAFT KITCHEN 405 5th St. Peru, IL 61354
815-780-8774
thymecraftkitchen.com
American | L | D | $$
UPTOWN GRILL
601 First St. LaSalle, IL 61301
815-224-4545
www.uptowngrill.com
American | L | D | $$
VERUCCHI’S RISTORANTE
600 N. Greenwood Spring Valley, IL 61362
815-663-6431
www.verucchis.com
Italian | D | $$$
WINE AND CHEESE CO. 24104 W. Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544
815-436-3499
www.wineandcheese.co
Wine Bars | L | D | $$
Looking for a relaxing way to get to know the picturesque towns nestled along the I&M Canal?
Nothing beats spending an afternoon exploring the boutique and artisan retailers that line these thriving main streets and antique shopping districts. Whether you’re a window shopper who’s just taking the scenery or a hardcore bargain hunter who dives into every clothing rack, there are plenty of exciting niche retailers to be found along the I&M Canal.
B DOMINIQUE BOUTIQUE
542 W. Norris Dr. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-993-5828
www.shopbdominique.com
ITISAMAZING
76 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-582-4995
www.itisamazing.biz
JILLEY’S BOUTIQUE
117 Stephen St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-914-5895
www.facebook.com/jilleysboutique
LADY DI’S
715 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-3232
www.ladydisnow.com
OLEANDERS BOUTIQUE
304 Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450
815-513-5642
www.oleandersboutique.com
PEACES OF FASHION
918 1st St. LaSalle, IL 61301
815-228-1116
T’S MIDWEST BOUTIQUE
124 Mill St. Utica, IL 61373
815-691-8032
www.shoptsmidwestboutique.com
THE MILK MOUSTACHE
944 N. Main St. Princeton, IL 61356
815-875-6455
www.themilkmoustache.com
WEETA’S BOUTIQUE
1134 N. 27th Rd.
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-1587
www.facebook.com/WeetasBoutique-695707497181991
WILD HEARTS BOUTIQUE
214 E. Main St. Streator, IL 61364
815-674-7558
www.yourwildhearts.com
PRAIRIE FOX BOOKS
719 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-7323
www.prairiefoxbooks.com
RPS TOYS
820 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-4233
www.rockpaperscissors.toys
BLAIN’S FARM & FLEETOTTAWA
4140 Columbus St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-4536
www.farmandfleet.com
BLAIN’S FARM & FLEETROMEOVILLE
451 S. Weber Rd.
Romeoville, IL 60446
815-905-3333
www.farmandfleet.com
APPLEBEE’S BAIT SHOP
2956 N. Route 178 Utica, IL 61373 815-667-7036
FLOWERS BY JULIA
811 E. Peru St. Princeton, IL 61356
www.flowersbyjuliaprinceton.com
THE FLOWER LOFT
221 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481 815-476-5638
www.tfloft.com
229 “ESTATES”
229 W. Main St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-324-9201
www.229estates.business.site
A MESS OF THINGS
726 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-481-2389
www.facebook.com/messofthings
AMAZING FANTASY
BOOKS & COMICS
113 E. 9th St. Lockport, IL 60441
815-834-1658
www.afbooks.com
CANAL CARGO MARKET
737 1st St. LaSalle, IL 61301 (815) 342-2555
www.fb.com/CanalCargoMarket
CAT & HOUND
221 Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450
815-941-9311
CELTIC TRINITY KNOT
119 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-1818
CITY FOLK URBAN DECOR
722 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-386-5533
www.cityfolkottawa.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
HEARTLAND BY HAND
231 W. Main St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-324-9298
www.heartlandbyhand.com
WOMEN’S
715-717 LA SALLE ST. OTTAWA, IL 815.434.3232
LADYDISNOW.COM
NORTH UTICA | Utica’s Clarks Run Antiques is home to a full wine bar, outdoor patio and the village’s largest selection of quality antiques and vintage pieces. Located just a short walk from bustling Mill Street, you’ll find over seventy experienced and professional vendor spaces selling exceptionally well-curated collections of antiques.
JOBST MONUMENTS & GIFTS
402 W. 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
LE FLEUR DE LIS
BOUTIQUES & ANTIQUES
219 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-9566
www.facebook.com/ Le-Fleur-De-Lis-BoutiquesAntiques-303178500631826
LIONSMARK AUCTIONS
202 N. Water St Wilmington, IL 60481 630-660-8234
www.lionsmarkauctions.com
LOCK 16 CAFE & GIFT SHOP
754 First St. LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-1851
www.iandmcanal.org
PARAPHERNALIA ANTIQUES
112 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481 815-476-9841
www.facebook.com/ paraphernaliaantiques
POPS POP UP
517 W. Howard St. Pontiac, IL 61764
815-674-4979
www.popspopupshopllc.com
RACHEL RENE
BATH AND BODY
620 S. Main St. Princeton, IL 61356 815-915-2001
www.rachelrenebath.com
RICK’S RELICS ON 66 116 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481 815-260-4602
www.facebook.com/ricksrelics66
ROUTE 66 KITES AND BOARD GAMES
222 N. Main St. Pontiac, IL 61764 815-953-8303
www.route66kites.com
SINCERELY, SALLI’S
118 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
708-715-4010
www.sincerelysallis.com
SMOKEY ROW ANTIQUES SHOP
112 Stephen St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-1112
THE OLD WOOD STORE
908 S. State St. Lockport, IL 60441
630-709-3628
www.oldwoodstorereviews.com
THE ROCK AND SOUL
229 N. Clark St. Utica, IL 61373
815-228-1983
www.therockandsoul.com
TREASURE COVE
215 N. Water St. Wilmington, IL 60481
815-476-7555
www.facebook.com/ treasurecove215
TRUE NORTH
539 Bedford Rd. Morris, IL 60450
815-705-0161
www.shoptruenorth.com
HOLLINGWORTH CANDIES, INC.
926 N. State St. Lockport, IL 60441
800-807-2275
www.hollingworthcandies.com
HOUSE OF JERKY
723 S. Clark St. Utica, IL 61373
www.southendbait.com
POPUS GOURMET POPCORN
2004 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, IL 60435
815-280-5133
www.popusgourmetpopcorn.com
SWEET TOOTH
108 Washington St. Morris, IL 60450
815-942-1003
www.facebook.com/SweetTooth-220642897593
HANDY FOODS
604 W. Main St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-2300
www.handyfoodsiga.com
HUFENDICK MARKET
24032 Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544
815-436-8997
www.hufendickfarmmarket.com
MABEL’S MARKET
307 Canal St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-0901
www.mabelsmarket.com
SHERI LAW ART GLASS
12551 W. 159th St. Homer Glen, IL 60491
708-301-2800
www.sherilaw.com
HERMAN’S LIQUOR AND WINE STORE
504 W. Main St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-0075
KENWOOD LIQUORS
12037 W. 159th St.
Homer Glen, IL 60491
708-590-8210
www.kenwoodliquors.biz
POTTERY
FINE FIELD POTTERY COMPANY
216 E. Main St. Streator, IL 61364
815-878-1284
www.finefieldpottery.com
SEWING AND QUILTING
THIMBLES
940 S. State St. Lockport, IL 60441
815-836-8735
www.thimblesquilts.com
LASALLE | If you’re looking for fascinating local history, unique gifts and a delicious bite to eat, chart a course for the Lock 16 Café & Visitors Center. This historic brick building serves as the headquarters of the I&M Canal National Heritage Area and features exhibits on the history, and lasting impact, of this man-made waterway.
It’s no secret that the communities along the I&M Canal host some of the best festivals and events you’ll find in Illinois. Whether you’re looking to host a gathering of your own, or learn more about the history of these towns or and bustling shopping districts, there are a number of services you should be acquainted with, while planning your trip to the I&M Canal.
FIRST STATE BANK
706 Washington St. Mendota, IL 61342
800-362-9623
www.firststatebank.biz
HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANYOGLESBY
501 W. Walnut St. Oglesby, IL 61348
815-883-8473
www.hbtbank.com
HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANY - PERU
925 Shooting Park Rd. Peru, IL 61354
815-223-7500
www.hbtbank.com
HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANYPLAINFIELD
14901 S. Route 59 Plainfield, IL 60544
815-254-6800
www.hbtbank.com
HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANYSANDWICH
200 E. Church St. Sandwich, IL 60548 815-786-2115
www.hbtbank.com
HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANYSHOREWOOD
700 W. Jefferson St. Shorewood, IL 60404 815-744-4620
www.hbtbank.com
HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANYMINOOKA
500 Bob Blair Rd. Minooka, IL 60447 815-467-4474
www.hbtbank.com
LASALLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 182 LaSalle, IL 61301 815-228-9368
www.lasallebusiness.org
MORRIS RETAIL ASSOCIATION
220 Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450 815-941-0200
www.facebook.com/ morrisretailassociation
UTICA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 413 Utica, IL 61373
www.facebook. com/Utica-BusinessAssociation-1378789332370518
BOLINGBROOK AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
201-B Canterbury Ln. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-226-8420
www.bolingbrookchamber.org
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
NORTH UTICA | Pay a visit to the Heritage Corridor Destinations Starved Rock Country Welcome Center and Illinois Made Gift Shoppe, located in downtown Utica. This visitors center and souvenir stop is the perfect first stop before you start exploring nearby Starved Rock State Park or popular canal attractions like the LaSalle County Historical Society Museum.
GRUNDY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/ MORRIS
909 Liberty St. Morris, IL 60450
815-942-0113
www.grundychamber.com
HERITAGE CORRIDOR BUSINESS ALLIANCE
416 Main St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-5997
www.MyHCBA.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
116 N. Chicago St., Suite 110 Joliet, IL 60432 815-727-5371
www.jolietchamber.com
LOCKPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
222 E. 9th St. Lockport, IL 60441
815-838-3357
www.lockportchamber.com
PLAINFIELD SHOREWOOD AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
24109 W. Lockport St. Plainfield, IL 60544 815-436-4431
www.plainfieldchamber.com
WEST SUBURBAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
9440 Joliet Rd. Hodgkins, IL 60525
708-387-7550
www.wscci.org
WILMINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
P.O. Box 724
Wilmington, IL 60481 815-476-5991
NORTH CENTRAL ILLINOIS ARTWORKS
P.O. Box 1251 LaSalle, IL 61301 815-228-1253
www.nciartworks.com
FESTIVAL 56
316 S. Main St. Princeton, IL 61356 815-879-5656
www.festival56.com
GRUNDY COUNTY CORN FESTIVAL
P.O. Box 22 Morris, IL 60450 815-942-2676
www.cornfestival.org
JOLIET CITY CENTER PARTNERSHIP
203 N. Ottawa St. Joliet, IL 60432 815-774-6067
www.jolietccp.com
RENAISSANCE CENTER
214 N. Ottawa St. Joliet, IL 60432 815-280-1404
www.renaissancecenter.net
THE JACOB HENRY MANSION ESTATE
20 S. Eastern Ave. Joliet, IL 60433 815-722-1420
www.jacobhenrymansion.com
CANAL CORRIDOR ASSOCIATION
754 First St. LaSalle, IL 61301 315 E. Illinois St. Lemont, IL 60439
815-220-1848
www.iandmcanal.org
WILL COUNTY
HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND RESEARCH CENTER
803 S. State St. Lockport, IL 60441
815-838-5080
www.willhistory.org
LEMONT AREA
HISTORICAL SOCIETY 306 Lemont St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-2972
www.lemonthistory.org
LOCKPORT AREA
GENEALOGICAL & HISTORICAL SOCIETY
222 E. 9th St. Lockport, IL 60441
www.lockporthistory.org
LIBRARY
JOLIET PUBLIC LIBRARY 150 N. Ottawa St. Joliet, IL 60432
815-740-2660
www.jolietlibrary.org
LEMONT PUBLIC LIBRARY 50 E. Wend St. Lemont, IL 60439
630-257-6787
www.lemontlibrary.org
WILL COUNTY LODGING ASSOCIATION
2405 Essington Rd., #181
Joliet, IL 60435
630-935-4603
www.willcountylodging.org
STARVED ROCK MARINA
1130 N. 27th Rd.
Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-4218
www.starvedrockmarina.com
PARK DISTRICT
LOCKPORT TOWNSHIP PARK DISTRICT
1811 S. Lawrence Ave.
Lockport, IL 60441
815-838-1183
www.lockportpark.org
CATHEDRAL AREA PRESERVATION
ASSOCIATION OF JOLIET (CAPA)
P.O. Box 3662
Joliet, IL 60434
815-726-4163
www.capajoliet.net
IMPRESS PRINTING & DESIGN
1325 W. Jefferson St.
Joliet, IL 60435
815-730-9440
www.myimpressprinting.com
RAGUSA’S PROMO ADVERTISING
Joliet, IL 60435
815-922-2725
www.ragusaspromoadvertising.com
DAILY HERALD P.O. Box 280
Arlington Heights, IL 60006
630-955-6161
www.dailyherald.com
GRANDMA GOES TO...
248 W. Canal St.
Utica, IL 61373
www.grandmagoesto.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.windsorrealty.c21.com
STARVED ROCK REALTYDEE BARRERA BROKER/ OWNER
620 N. Division St. (Route 178)
Utica, IL 61373
815-667-9990
www.starvedrockrealty.net
THE CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
2997 Route 71 Ottawa, IL 61350
630-428-4500
www.theconservationfoundation. org/about-us/dayton-bluffs
ROUTE 66 FOOD N FUEL
2401 S. Chicago Rd.
Joliet, IL 60436
815-724-0066
www.foodnfuel.net
LaSalleCountyisrichincultural andhistorical significance;fromconnectionstoAbraham Lincoln,CharlesLindberghand WildBill HickoktopopulardestinationsliketheI&M Canal,Starved RockState Park andtheIndian CreekMassacresite.
You’lllearn aboutthedarkhistoryofThe RadiumGirlsandDeathCitytomorejoyful countyconnectionswithSesameStreetand Baskinand Robbins.Exploreourhistoryof industryincluding:farming,coal,zinc,sand, andglass.
Learn aboutthehistoryof Westclox,oncethe largestclockmanufacturerinthe world,the richNative Americancultureofour regionand storiesoftheProhibitionEratiestoAlCapone and whypartofthecountry wasoncecalled Little Reno.
101ECanalSt,Utica,IL61373
• 53rd Annual Burgoo Festival October 7-8, 2023
North Central Illinois largest festival with over 350 vendors, car show, and our world famous Burgoo Stew
• 4th Annual Wild Bill Days May 27-28, 2023
Includes live re-enactments and special exhibits
• Weekly Canal Markets: Memorial Day Weekend through September 24 (Every Saturday & Sunday 10-4pm) Antiques, vintage collectables, and handmade or homegrown products
• LaSalleCountyHistoricalMuseum Friday-Sunday12-4
Specialtours availableby appointment
BOLINGBROOK’S CLOW
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
130 S. Clow International Pkwy. Bolingbrook, IL 60490
630-378-0479
www.clowairport.com
NATIONAL CHARTER BUS CHICAGO
3550 W. Peterson Ave., Suite 104 Chicago, IL 60659
312-392-0239
www.nationalbuscharter.com/ chicago-charter-bus
TOTAL CHARTER BUS CHICAGO
10 S. LaSalle St., Suite 1950 Chicago, IL 60603
312-766-2242
www.totalcharters.com/chicagocharter-bus
CHAPIN’S EAST BANQUETS AND TWIN RAIL PUB
502 Twin Rail Dr. Minooka, IL 60447
815-735-9250
www.chapinsbanquets.com
HIGGINS HALL
307 N. Main St. Seneca, IL 61360
815-587-4715
www.facebook.com/HigginsHall-393607187837609
NORTHFORK FARM
1998 Johnson Rd. Oswego, IL 60543
815-768-5400
www.nforkfarm.com
THE BARN AT HORNBAKER GARDENS
22937 County Rd. 1140 N Princeton, IL 61356
815-659-3282
www.hornbakergardens.com/thebarn
THE LEVY CENTER
251 Canterbury Ln. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-759-3411
www.dupagetownship.com/ banquets-weddings
AWESOME OTTAWA TOURS 629 Court St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-343-4940
www.awesomeottawatours.com
I&M CANAL VISITOR CENTER
754 First St. La Salle, IL 61301 815-223-1851
www.iandmcanal.org
ILLINOIS WATERWAY VISITOR CENTER
950 N. 27th Rd., Route 1 Ottawa, IL 61350
815-667-4054
www.mvr.usace.army.mil/ Missions/Recreation/IllinoisWaterway
OTTAWA VISITORS CENTER 1028 LaSalle St. Ottawa, IL 61350
815-434-2737
www.pickusottawail.com
STARVED ROCK COUNTRY
WELCOME CENTER & ILLINOIS MADE GIFT SHOPPE
248 W. Canal St. Utica, IL 61373
815-667-4356
www.heritagecorridorcvb.com
STREATOR TOURISM
204 S. Bloomington St. Streator, IL 61364
815-672-2055
www.streator.org
For warm, Midwestern hospitality & authentic experiences
e heart of Illinois beats true and strong in the communities along the ILLINOIS RIVER ROAD NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY. We’re proud of our history, heritage and culture, as well as local shops, markets and festivals. Our parks, museums and recreational areas are renowned. And we welcome the chance to share it all with you!
Discover more at IllinoisRiverRoad.org
Funding provided in part by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
Morris is known for lively events and festivals, boutiques and specialty shops, great eateries, and yearround recreation. Nestled an hour southwest of Chicago along the Illinois River and I & M Canal, Morris is where you can connect to nature, recharge Downtown, and make memories for a lifetime.
