carroll - Blackhawk Waterways

Transcription

carroll - Blackhawk Waterways
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www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
to Northwest Illinois
So, whether you’re searching for a family outing, a great escape
or a romantic getaway, you’ll discover hidden treasures and unique
pleasures in this special place in the pines.
Diane Bausman,
Executive Director
Blackhawk Waterways CVB
Promoting tourism in the counties of
Carroll, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside.
Call 815-946-2108
toll free 800-678-2108
[email protected]
About Blackhawk Waterways
Do everything or nothing at all. The Blackhawk Waterways
region is filled with opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking and
biking, boating and fishing, shopping and antiquing, and exploring
our nation’s rich history, or just sitting in an old-growth forest and
reading a book. Blackhawk Waterways is packed with history
and mystery – 2,700 square miles of woodlands and wonderful
attractions, charming small towns and villages, unobstructed views
and pastoral settings that will have you returning to visit.
If nature’s your thing, you’ll discover a region rich in outdoor
opportunities, from 10 state parks and a 2,200-acre state forest to
exceptional golf courses and 125 miles of beautiful boating and
great fishing courtesy of the Rock and Mississippi Rivers. From
catfish, muskie and trout, local streams, rivers and lakes provide
anglers with the perfect settings in which to research their next
big fish story.
Retail therapy enthusiasts applaud the shopping opportunities that
abound in the Blackhawk Waterways region, offering everything
from eclectic hand-crafted gifts and quaint art galleries to antique
treasures and coveted collectibles. And you’ll always be greeted
by friendly shopkeepers who still understand the art of authentic
hospitality.
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4 about blackhawk waterways
8 four-county map
In the rolling hills and old-growth forests of beautiful northwest Illinois, Blackhawk Waterways is a world away from your
regular day. This region encompasses the four counties of Carroll,
Lee, Ogle and Whiteside – 2,700 square miles of genuine smiles,
outdoor adventure and charming villages that dot a landscape
watered by the Rock River and the mighty Mississippi. Scenic
byways, rich history and outstanding special events make Blackhawk
Waterways a preferred destination for hundreds of thousands of
visitors each year.
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History lovers find a new home in the Blackhawk Waterways,
where a treasure trove of museums, monuments and historical sites
capture the imagination. Experience the birthplace and boyhood
home of President Ronald Reagan, travel stretches of the original
Lincoln Highway and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway,
tour the John Deere Historic Site, and learn more about the bloody
battles of the Black Hawk War of 1832 that pitted half of all federal
troops of the U.S. Army (as well as 9,000 volunteers from the
Illinois Militia, including future President Abraham Lincoln) against
Black Hawk, a war chief of the Sauk, Fox and Kickapoo nations,
and his British band of warriors.
Whether you’re seeking a day trip or a week-long adventure,
discover excellent restaurants and diverse lodging choices that
range from primitive campsites and rustic cabins to pampering
B&Bs, comfortable country inns and award-winning hotels – all
just 90 minutes from Chicagoland. For some, the real beauty of
Blackhawk Waterways is found in its natural wonders, which give
pause from a workaday life. For them, the simplicity of a falling
autumn leaf, a browsing deer or a crackling fire are the magnets
that draw them to this special place – a getaway like it used to be!
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
10 events
12 accommodations
16 outdoors
17 golf
21 carroll county
27 lee county
33 ogle county
43 whiteside county
Ready to make a ripple? In the Blackhawk Waterways of Northwest
Illinois you’ll discover 125 miles of watery trails, including rivers,
canals and streams that lead to nesting eagles, spotted fawns,
canopied forests and your own private paradise. Need a canoe,
kayak or even a guide? We’ve got you covered with rentals and
outfitters. Find out more online at visitnorthwestillinois.com.
Then beat it to the backwaters!
Visitor information: For additional copies of this Visitors Guide and advertising inquiries,
call Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau (BWCVB) at 800-678-2108.
Every attempt has been made to verify the accuracy of the information provided and
contained in this publication. As such, BWCVB assumes no liability for incorrect information
contained herein. Further, the information contained in the publication does not constitute an
endorsement or recommendation by BWCVB.
©
Copyright 2015, Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau
201 N. Franklin Ave., Polo, IL 61064.
Printed in the USA 1/2015. 40,000 copies.
Photography by Danny Higgins, Ross Freier Imagery and Jack Hughes.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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In Ronald Reagan’s beautIfully RestoRed
boyhood south CentRal sChool buIldIng.
memorable
visit includes:
“Dutch” Reagan’s Restored Classroom
Rock River Assembly Diorama
Chautauqua Assembly Building Model
Earth from Space Poster Exhibit
Dixon–1846 Diorama
President Reagan History Room
Walgreen History Room
Original Reagan Movie Posters
Original Ronald Reagan Diplomas
Beautifully Restored Gymnasium
Museum Store and Art Gallery
Historical Paintings on every floor
Veterans Interview Center
Please plan a visit soon!
205 West Fifth Street
Dixon, Illinois
Please contact the Center for seasonal hours
815-288-5508
[email protected]
www. nthc.org
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2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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of events
Lee county
CARROLL county
March
September
March 14
Shannon Homecoming
Celebration
NW ILL Model Railroad Club
Open House in Chadwick
Thomson Harvest Festival
Thomson’s Tribute to Agriculture
Labor Day Weekend
3rd weekend
Labor Day Weekend
May
Mt. Carroll Cruise Night
Music & Magic in Savanna
1st weekend
Sept 19
October
Mt. Carroll Mayfest
Mt. Carroll Pumpkin Fest
Memorial Day Weekend
Oct 24
June
Savanna Haunted Forest
Mt Carroll Cruise Night
June 20
Thomson Depot Days
June 19-20
Lanark Old Settler’s Days
4th weekend
October 10, 17, 24, 31
November
Shannon Hometown Christmas
3rd weekend
NW ILL Model Railroad Club
Open House in Chadwick
July
3rd weekend
July 18
Friday after Thanksgiving
March
Dixon St. Patrick’s
Day Parade
March 14
Sublette Toy and Antique Tractor
Show
Dixon Carp Tournament
4th weekend
Amboy Depot Days &
Car Show
Aug 20-23
March
Polo Farm Toy show
1st Saturday
Sublette Cruise N Show
2nd Saturday
JUNE
Cabela’s King Kat Tournament
in Dixon
June 6-7
3rd Saturday
Dixon Scarecrow Festival
4th weekend
October
Loveland Museum Diamond
Anniversary Open House
november
April 18
June
Nov 20-21
Polo Car, Truck & Bike Show
Steward Arbor Day Celebration
last weekend
may
Rochelle Cinco de Mayo
Celebration
May 2
Oregon Chamber
Wine Festival
2nd Saturday
Thomson Sesquicentennial
Festival
December
1st weekend
Mt. Carroll Christmas Walk
Dixon Petunia Festival
1st Saturday
July 1-5
Sunday after Thanksgiving
June 6-7
August
Thomson Christmas Walk
Lee County 4-H Fair
Carroll County Fair
Aug 4-8
Dec 6th
July 23-26
August
Aug 15
Franklin Grove Summer Harvest
Festival
Mt. Carroll Brick
Street Saturday
LHAEA Antique Tractor Show
Mt. Carroll Cruise Night
Aug 29
1st weekend
1st weekend
Reagan Trail Days in Dixon
Aug 4-9
Gardenstock Art & Music
Festival in Dixon
3rd Saturday
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Rock Falls Summer Splash
Oct 11th
Leaf River Summer Daze
Grand Detour Arts Festival
1st weekend
Stillman Valley Fall Festival
august
2nd Sunday
4th weekend
Sept 26
Autumn on Parade in Oregon
1st weekend
Small Business Saturday
Polo Town & Country Days
1st weekend
Fields Project Art Fest in Oregon
Family Harvest Festival
in Rochelle
july
november
July 3 & 4
Saturday after Thanksgiving
december
Dixon Christmas Walk
1st weekend
Sublette Christmas in
the Village
1st Friday
Franklin Grove Christmas in the
Grove
2nd Friday night
4th Sunday
Olde English Faire at Stronghold
Castle
Oct 17
Mt Morris Let Freedom Ring
Festival
Oregon Candlelight Christmas
Walk
Byronfest
december
2nd weekend
Green Iron Days at John Deere
Historic Site
July 31 – Aug 2
Nov 28
Whiteside County Historic
Barn Tour
september
Rochelle Railroad Days
3rd weekend
july
december
Amboy Christmas Walk
Nov 28
Prophetstown Lighted
Christmas Parade
July 11-12
3rd weekend
october
November
July 24-26
Rochelle Lincoln Hwy Heritage
Festival
June
July
June 11-14
Rock Falls Hometown Holidays
Lyndon Annual Car Show
1st Sunday
Dixon Cemetery Walk
Savanna Christmas Walk
3rd Saturday
Fulton Dutch Days
2nd Saturday
Wine on Lincoln in Rochelle
3rd weekend
Ashton 150th
Anniversary Celebration
Mt. Carroll Cruise Night
2nd weekend
Steward Depot Days
Oct 10th
Prophetstown Farm Toy Show
1st weekend
Paw Paw Hometown
Homecoming & Car Show
Autumn on the Prairie at
Nachusa Grasslands
1st weekend
Illinois Renewable Energy Fair
May
May 2
Fulton Fall Festival
april
Ale on Lincoln in Rochelle
Labor Day weekend
Feb. 6th
october
may
Sept 5th
Small Museum Conference at
Loveland Museum
Aug 1st
Reagan Birthday celebration at
Tampico Birthplace
First week
Phidian Art Show
March 31
Summer Country Jam in Rochelle
february
Ogle County Fair
September
Dixon Wine Festival
august
Annual Oregon
Antique Show
4th weekend
3rd weekend
whiteside county
ogle county
Rochelle Christmas Walk
Dec 4
Byron Miracle on 2nd St.
Celebration
Dec 4
Fulton Hometown
Christmas Walk
July 11-12
Dillon Home Museum Victorian
Christmas Walk
Prophetstown Pow Wow
1st weekend
1st weekend
Morrison Christmas Walk
Lincoln Highway National
Yard Sale
1st weekend
2nd weekend
Sterling Sight & Sounds of
Christmas
Whiteside County Fair
1st weekend
Aug 11-15
Tampico Christmas in the
Country
september
Arts on the Square and
Scarecrow Contest
1st weekend
September 5th
Taste of Prophetstown Gala
Dec 5
Hennepin Hundred
Ultramarathon
Sept 12-13
Sterling/Rock Falls Bridge the
Community 5K/10K Run
Sept 12
Morrison “Paint the Town”
Art Festival
3rd Saturday
Morrison Harvest Hammer Run
3rd Saturday
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Two Wheel Inn
4 bdrms., private baths, full kitchen,
living space, views of Mississippi River,
near downtown Savanna & Mississippi
Palisades State Park. Free WiFi. No pets
[email protected].
bluebedroominn.com
Savanna / 321 Main St.
815-541-8684
Located above the Iron Horse Social
Club, a Vintage Motorcycle Museum
& Bar and offers a unique overnight
destination. We’re on Main Street in
downtown Savanna along the bluffs of
the beautiful Mississippi River. Come
enjoy the camaraderie – awesome
museum, great people, great music and
ice cold beer.
[email protected]
www.ironhorsesocialclub.com
Savanna / 314 Main St.
(815) 273-2600
Country Palmer House
Cabins & Cottages
bed & breakfasts &
country inns
Blue Bedroom Inn, The
1911 farmhouse. Hiking, biking,
birding. Full country breakfast. 2 guest
rooms, private baths. Fireplace, TV, spa.
[email protected]
bbonline.com/il/countrypalmer
Mt. Carroll / 17035 Elizabeth Rd.
815-244-2343
Granny O’Neil’s River Inn
Bed & Breakfast
4 bdrm., full breakfast, whirlpool baths.
3 bdrm.-suite guest house. Free WiFi.
[email protected]
grannyoneils.com
Savanna / 31 3rd St.
815-273-4726
Prairie Path Guest House
We offer three guest rooms where
you are surrounded by antiques and
sleep under handmade quilts. Wake
up to the smell of coffee and fresh
baked cinnamon rolls and enjoy our
hearty country breakfast including
Swedish pancakes, sausage or bacon
& our own jams & jellies. Relax while
sitting on the wicker porch swing on
the upstairs veranda and enjoy our
peaceful countryside. Make time to bird
watch, shop in our quilt & gift shop or
explore the historic community we call
home. No pets. Free Wi-Fi. Check us
out on Facebook!
[email protected]
bbonline.com/il/prairiepath
Mt. Carroll / 1002 N. Lowden Rd.
815-244-3462
Standish House Bed & Breakfast
Antique canopy beds, breakfast
by candlelight.
[email protected]
Lanark / 540 W. Carroll St.
toll free: 868-493-2307
Hickory Hideaway
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Campgrounds
Hotels/Motel
7 acres riverfront camping, hunting,
fishing on backwaters of Mississippi
River. Boat, motor, canoe rental & access. Bait shop & concessions.
Thomson / 6284 Riverview Rd.
815-273-3302
Heart of NW Illinois & close to the
Mississippi River, sportsman’s dream
lodging location: hunting, boating,
fishing/bird watching. Handicap
accessible, queen & double beds,
direct TV. 4 miles N of Mississippi
Palisades State Park.
[email protected]
Savanna / 19856 IL Rt. 84
815-273-0138
Fin & Feather Campground
Mississippi Palisades State Park
241 camp sites, 110 sites with
electricity. Water, 2 dump stations,
showers/toilets in 3 buildings open
May 1-Oct. 31. Convenience store
open during summer.
Savanna / 16327A IL Rt. 84,
815-273-2731
Escape to our wooded property in either
a cozy cabin or cottage equipped
with all the comforts of home including
whirlpool tubs, fireplaces and bonfire
pits. We are located a short distance
from state parks and Mississippi River.
hickoryhideaway.com
Shannon / 24366 Payne Rd.
866-333-1333
815-864-2099
Seven Eagles RV Park & Campground
Bluff Cabins
Electric & water hook-ups, boat rental,
gas, bait & tackle, ice, supplies. Closed
during duck hunting season. Ice fishing
after duck hunting season.
Savanna / 8048 Rt. 84 S.
815-273-4595
Log cabins with lofts sleep 6, bathroom
with shower, kitchen, heat, AC, TV.
Open all year. Located near Mississippi
Palisades State Park.
[email protected]
thebluffcabins.com
Savanna / 1000 Calhoun St.
815-238-1080
Nest at Palisades Cabins, The
1 bdrm., private cabins, wooded
acreage above the Mississippi. Jacuzzi,
gas/wood stove, satellite TV, VCR/CD/
DVD. Complimentary bicycles.
[email protected]
thenestatpalisades.com
Savanna / Scenic Ridge Rd.
815-273-7824
Seven Eagles Cabins
3 log cabins, A/C, TV, microwave,
refrigerator, private baths. Linen, towels
and firewood included. Free WiFi.
goseveneagles.com
Savanna / 9734 IL Rt. 84
815-273-7301
Timber Lake Resort
On Spring Lake. New electric heated
pool. Sewer, water, log cabins, private
pond for fishing & paddleboats.
[email protected]
goseveneagles.com
Savanna / 9734 IL Rt. 84
815-273-7301
Spring Lake Resort
Timber Lake Resort
New facilities, 100+ campsites, RV sites
with water, sewer, electric hookups. Log
cabin rentals, lakeside rustic camping.
800 sq. ft. pool, group pavilion rental,
recreation center, general store, lakeside
deck, two spring-fed lakes & Timber
Lake Playhouse.
timberlakeresort.com
Mt. Carroll / 8216 Black Oak Rd.
815-244-1600
U.S.A.C.E. Thomson Causeway
Recreation Area
131 sites located on 64 acres on a
backwater island of the Mississippi
River. RV, tenting, shower houses, dump
station, fishing, hiking & biking paths &
boat launch area. Open April-Oct.
Thomson / Lewis Lane
815-259-2353
New 1 & 2-bdrm. cabins sleep 6, full
bath, kitchenette, AC, TV, porches, view.
[email protected]
timberlakeresort.com
Mt. Carroll / 8216 Black Oak Rd.
800- 485-0145
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Blackhawk Motel
Executive Inn
40 rooms, microwave, refrigerator,
laundry. Whirlpool suite available.
New restaurant/bar. Free WiFi.
Pets OK.
thomsonexecutiveinn.com
Thomson / 800 One Mile Rd.
815-259-7378
Hotel Glenview
1886 historic hotel/boutique.
Shopping, restaurants, nightcaps in
walking distance. Furnished apts., 2
rooms, 2 suites. Cycling info. Pets OK.
[email protected]
hotelglenview.com
Mt. Carroll / 116 E. Market St.
815-244-4058
L & M Motel
Two miles from Mississippi River.
Remodeled, 32 themed rooms,
microwaves, refrigerators, coffee, AC.
Biker-friendly. Free WiFi.
l-mmotel.com
Savanna / 2000 N. Oakton Rd.
815-273-7728
Sandburr Run Golf Resort
44 rooms including King suites with
kitchenettes. We also offer a 9 hole
golf course and The Sand Trap Bar &
Grill.
sandburrrun.com
Thomson / 5020 IL Rt. 84
815-902-6063
Savanna Inn & Suites
Indoor pool, hot tub, continental
breakfast, electrical outlets for boats
& travel trailers. New fitness room!
Conference room for 15. Jacuzzi/
fireplace/celebration/business suites;
microwaves, refrigerators, coffee.
Free WiFi. Pets ok.
savannainnandsuites.com
Savanna /101 Valley View Dr.
815-273-2288
Seven Eagles Motel & Campground
Microwave, refrigerator, coffee, patio,
grill, laundry, heated outdoor pool,
new theater room. Free WiFi.
[email protected]
goseveneagles.com
Savanna / 9734 IL Rt. 74
815-273-7301
Trailside Inn
12 rooms, TV, A/C, refrigerator,
microwave, hair dryers, jacuzzi/
fireplace rooms. General Store, Gift
Loft, mini golf. Panoramic views.
Free WiFi.
[email protected]
trailsideinc.com
Lake Carroll / 2178 Lake Carroll Blvd.
815-493-8484
Resorts/retreat
Sabbath Center, The
A retreat & conference facility with
beds for 40 with walking path through
nature center.
Lanark / 22782 Short Rd.
815-656-4905
www.sabbathcenter.com
Vacation rental
homes
GG’s Guest House
Spacious 3 BR home perfect for
family or group getaway or vacation.
Equipped with a 40 in TV, microwave,
coffeemaker, dishes for 6, refrigerator/
freezer, all the comforts of home. WiFi
access throughout. For information visit
website & click on guest house. Visa/
MC accepted.
grannyoneils.com
Savanna / 629 Chicago Ave.
815-273-4726
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Red Ruby Inn
This beautiful guest house offers three
bedrooms & shared library/sitting
room. 1 BR with private bath - 2 share
a bathroom. Located in a historic brick
home 2 blocks from business district
offering unique shopping, coffee shops,
antique shops & both fine dining &
family friendly restaurants.
By reservation only.
Mt Carroll /102 S Main St.
815-441-4418
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River House, The
Campgrounds
Roberts’ Roost Country Guest House
225 sites, 11 trailer rentals, water,
electric, some sewer hook-ups.
Swimming pools, fishing, basketball,
tennis, mini golf, shuffleboard,
horseshoe pits, volleyball, softball, store,
snack bar, LP gas sales. Weekend rec
programs Memorial Day-Labor Day.
Reservations required.
greenriveroaks.com
Amboy / 1442 Sleepy Hollow Rd.
815-857-2815
[email protected]
Large lakefront & wooded sites
available. Secluded sites, sanitary
station, modern restrooms, showers,
store, firewood, laundry, boat rental,
hiking, game room, family activities.
[email protected]
mendotahillscampground.com
Amboy / 642 U.S. Rt 52
815-849-5930
Beautiful home on the Mississippi River
ready to welcome you for a family
vacation or getaway weekend. Fully
furnished – all you add is food and time
to relax! Full kitchen, LR with fireplace,
2 BR, 2 bathrooms, washer & dryer,
deck overlooking the river and more!
Thomson / 4008 Grandview Pl.
815-823-5925
vrbo.com/430448
[email protected]
900 plus sq. ft., one bathroom
bungalow that features 2 BR’s.
Panoramic country views from every
angle and located just minutes away
from the Mississippi River, Great River
Bike Trail and Palisades State Park. It’s
also 35 minutes from Galena and the
perfect place to spend the weekend
with nature. Please visit us on Facebook.
RobertsRoostCountryGuestHouse.com
Savanna / 12143B Roberts Road
815-565-0024 or 815-656-1542
Sabbath Center, The
A retreat & conference facility with
beds for 40 with walking path through
nature center.
[email protected]
sabbathcenter.com
Lanark / 22782 Short Rd.
815-656-4905
Mississippi River Lodge
Located on the banks of the Mississippi
River between Savanna and Thomson
Illinois with awe-inspiring views from
every angle. 4 BR, 3 baths, LR with
fireplace & big screen TV, deck with
grill, a fully stocked kitchen and more.
Go to our website for a full listing of all
the amenities, printable maps, pictures
and more.
[email protected]
mississippiriverlodge.com
Thomson / 5642 Riverview Circle
815-273-1003
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Bed & Breakfasts
Crawford House Inn
3 bdrms, shared bath, 1 new with
private bath. Italianate-style mansion,
year-round, king-sized feather beds,
reasonable rates. Full breakfast,
corporate discounts, AC, Jacuzzi,
fireplace, TV, VCR. No pets.
crawfordhouseinn.com
Dixon / 204 E. 3rd St.
815-288-3351
Cabins & Cottages
Woodcote
1909 stone/timber cottage in
historic Lowell Park for corporate
retreats, weddings, receptions,
showers, events.
dixonil.com/parks/woodcote
Dixon / 2114 Lowell Park Rd.
815-284-3306
Dixon Super 8 Motel
Green River Oaks Camping Resort
Mendota Hills Camping Resort
O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Jellystone
Park Camp Resort
Tent camping, hookups, cabins,
fully- equipped units. Fishing, 3 heated
pools, spas, kiddie pools, beach,
waterslide. Mini-golf, game room,
arts/crafts, hay wagon rides, karaoke,
dances.
jellystoneamboy.com
Amboy / 970 Green Wing Rd.
800-367-9644
Pineview Campground
Family-style camping, two lakes,
swimming, fishing. Electric, water &
sewer hook-ups, shower, flush toilets on
wooded sites. Open May 1-Oct.
[email protected]
pineviewcampgrounds.com
Amboy / 1273 Sleepy Hollow Rd.
815-857-3964
Hotels & Motels
Comfort Inn - Dixon
Full hot breakfast, heated indoor pool,
waterslide, whirlpool, fitness center, free
WiFi, suites w/microwave, refrigerator
& sleeper sofa available. Meeting/
party space for up to 200 for events &
business functions. Customizable food/
beverage menu for breakfast- dinner.
cidixon.com
Dixon / 136 Plaza Dr.
815-284-0500
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Award-winning motel. 41 renovated
rooms, themed hot tub suite. Free
continental breakfast, 24-hour coffee,
hair dryers, irons & ironing boards. Free
local calls, microfridges, cable TV, HBO,
bus /truck parking, outlets. Free WiFi.
super8.com
Dixon / 1800 S. Galena Ave.
815-284-1800
Magnuson Hotel of Dixon, The
Free breakfast, wi-fi, cable, business
center, in-room microwave, refrigerators
& coffee makers. We also offer meeting
space, outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi
suites and adjoining rooms. Located
next to the Brandywine Banquet Facility
and close to both Dixon and the
Sterling/Rock Falls area.
magnusonhotels.com
Dixon/443 IL Route 2
815-677-9950
ogle
Bed & Breakfasts
Barnacopia
Barnacopia is a farm museum, events
venue and Bed & Breakfast featuring
two fully appointed guest rooms with full
bathrooms and hot tubs all located in a
silo next to the barn and the top floor of
the silo is a library.
www.barnacopia.com
Polo/2570 N. Westbranch Rd.
815-238-1474
Evergreen Farm Inn
1900’s farmhouse, open May–Oct.
[email protected]
evergreenfarminn.com
Forreston / 10003 W. Coffman Rd.
815-938-2198
Harmony Hills Bed & Breakfast
Enjoy country hospitality and charm at
this 5 acre retreat designed especially
for couples seeking time away or small
groups wanting to share time together.
Four suites all with king-size beds
and attached baths. Free Wi-fi. Also
available for meetings, small weddings,
receptions, or reunions.
Oregon /1052 S. Harmony Rd.
815-440-2147
[email protected]
harmonyhillsil.com
Kable House Inn
9 wooded acres on Sunset Golf Course,
5 suites w/ private baths, refrigerators,
microwaves, cable TV, queen beds,
central AC, 2 jacuzzi suites.
kablehouse.com
Mt. Morris / 3160 Sunset Hill
815-734-7297
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On Holden Pond
4 bdrm, 15 acres, stream, pond,
4,000+ sq/ft, fireplace, two-level
cedar deck, big-screen home theatre
center, corporate and private retreats,
events, vacation home, no pets.
onholdenpond.com
Oregon / 5116 W. Penn Corner Rd.
815-946-9100
Patchwork Inn
Restored 1840’s inn, functional
antiques, room telephones, cable TV,
meetings, events. Free WiFi, no pets.
[email protected]
patchworkinn.com
Oregon / 122 N. Third St.
815-732-4113
Pinehill Inn
Modern amenities, 1847 Italianate
country mansion, 7 fireplaces, sterling
silver chandelier, events, parties. Free
WiFi, no pets.
[email protected]
pinehillbb.com
Oregon / 400 Mix St.
815-732-2067
Rochelle Railroad Diamond Lodge
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Lake Louise
Sand beach, 13-acre spring-fed lake,
300 campsites, slides, raft, kiddie
beach, paddleboat, rowboat rentals,
pool & hot tub, beach house offers
food, gifts open April – Oct.
lakelouiseusa.com
Byron / 8840 N. IL Rt. 2
815-234-8483
Lowden State Park
Camping sites, limited electricity,
shower building, dump station, summer
refreshment stand.
Oregon / 1411 N. River Rd.
815-732-6828
River Road Camping & Marina
30-acre campground, public heated
pool, canoe rental, boat ramp &
launch, gas, general store, volleyball,
basketball, game room, playground,
open Apr.-Nov
gocampingamerica.com
Oregon / 3922 River Rd.
815-234-5383
Rock River Christian Camp &
Retreat Center
Cabins & Cottages
Open year round, planned programing
for youth & adults, facility rentals, groups
from 15 to 250, providing recreation &
A/V equipment, housing, meals.
[email protected]
rockrivercc.net
Pol /16486 W IL Rt. 64
815-493-6622
Huge log lodge, 25 small, one-room
cabins, TVs, phones, heat/AC, gas
fireplaces, open Mar.-Dec. Free WiFi.
whitepinesinn.com
Mt. Morris / 6712 W. Pines Rd.
815-946-3817
103 Class B/S campsites w/car
access, Class C camping, 2 youth
group areas, 6 wheelchair-accessible
campsites.
Mt. Morris / 6712 W. Pines Rd.
815-946-3717
3 suites, caboose, picnic tables, no pets.
[email protected]
railfanmotel.com
Rochelle / 215 N. 9th St.
815-561-7076
White Pines Inn Cabins
White Pines State Park
Campgrounds
Hotels & Motels
50 acres Rock River islands, 200+
waterfront campsites, access to river.
campingislands.com
Grand Detour /8195 IL Rt. 2 S.
815-595-4255
6-room lodge, all-season porch with
fireplace, breakfast for groups, AC, TV,
microwave, refrigerator, coffee, private
boat ramp, open year round, pets OK.
blackhawkstraillodge.com
Byron / 10723 IL Rt. 2 N.
815-234-5544
Grand Detour Islands Retreat
Hansen’s Hideaway
Ranch & Campground
Tents, pop-ups, RVs, camping sites:
water, electric, swimming, nature
trails, arcade, snack bar, playground,
horseshoe pits, covered pavilion,
restrooms, showers, sanitary dumping
station, fire rings, firewood & ice
available. Open April 15 – Nov. 1.
hansenshideawaycampground.com
Oregon / 2936 S. Harmony Rd.
815-732-6489
815-973-2920
Lake LaDonna Family Campground & Cabins
Beach lake, waterfall, rope swing,
diving boards, slides, tire swing,
lifeguards, store, playground, sports
courts, horseshoes, showers, water/
electric hook-ups, dump station,
A/C cabins.
lakeladonna.com
Oregon /1302 Harmony Rd.
815-732-6804
Blackhawk’s Trail Lodge
Chateau Lodge
12-room lodge, renovated theme rooms.
Free WiFi, pets welcome
[email protected]
chateauLodge.com
Oregon / 1326 IL Rt. 2 N.
815-973-6195
Comfort Inn & Suites
2003 Silver Award Winner by Choice
Hotels Int’l., 66 rooms, 27 suites,
continental breakfast, business center,
restaurant & lounge, indoor pool,
full-service health club. Free WiFi,
pets ok.
hotelrochelle.com
Rochelle /1133 N. 7th St. (Hwy.251)
815-562-5551
Hillcrest Motel
10 rooms w/ new electric, heat & AC,
reasonable prices, TV.
Rochelle / IL Rt. 251 N.
815-562-8411
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Holiday Inn Express
Voted BEST complimentary hot breakfast
in town. Heated indoor pool and fitness
center, FREE WI-FI, 80 rooms, meeting
space and more! Mention “Blackhawk
Waterways” to receive a discounted
rate on your next stay.
hierochellehotel.com
Rochelle / 1240 S. Dement Rd.
815-562-9994
Mt. Morris Motel
Our room rates are the most reasonable
(as low as $39/day for single
occupancy plus tax). Free US/Canada
phone calls, wireless, free small
refrigerator and microwave
upon request.
[email protected]
home.insightbb.com/~mtmorrismotel
Mt. Morris / 3691 W. Rt. 64
815-734-4114
Paddle Wheel Inn
Vacation Rental
Homes
Hillcrest Farm
Hillcrest Farm rests on 100 acres of
wooded farmland, rolling pasture and
flowing creek. We offer 3 bedrooms,
a formal living room, a formal dining
room, a study with parlor doors for
privacy and a “buttermilk warm” kitchen
to gather for morning coffee plus all
the extras. It is the perfect setting for a
Victorian country wedding, a relaxing
get-a-way, family reunion, romantic
weekend, business meetings or seminars
and any kind of special event.
Dixon / 5412 S. Lowell Park Rd.
877-284-8689
hillcrestfarm1905.com
whiteside
On the Rock River in Oregon, suites
with a balcony offer panoramic views
of the river and the famous Black Hawk
statue. Restaurant next door, continental
breakfast, spa, sauna, meeting and
banquet facilities. Microwave &
refrigerator in each room.
paddlewheelinn.net
Oregon / 1457 IL Rt. 2
815-732-0900
Campgrounds
Red Roof Inn
Erie Campground Inc.
59 rooms, whirlpool suites, cable,
movie channels, coffee, fridge,
continental breakfast, large indoor pool,
whirlpool, exercise room, patio area,
meetings for up to 25. Free WiFi.
Pets ok.
[email protected]
redroofinnrochelle.com
Rochelle / 567 E. Hwy. 38
855-873-6562
Super 8 Motel
63 rooms, cable TV, HBO, queen/king
beds, AC, reasonable rates.
Free WiFi.
Rochelle / 601 E. Hwy. 38
815-562-2468
Village Inn Motel
12 rooms, reasonably priced, AC,
cable TV, HBO, phones, small pets ok.
Polo / 1007 S. Division Ave.
815-946-4066
Resorts/retreat
Kilbuck Creek Resort
This secluded sanctuary is perfect for
your wedding, family reunion, church or
business retreat or romantic getaway.
Our facility offers fully appointed
Tennessee Log Cabin with sleeping
space for up to 40 people; Gathering
Hall; Poolside Den with Indoor pool
and wrap around porch all on 200+
acres of woodlands, complete with
groomed walking paths and creek
flowing throughout.
Monroe Center / 6752 N Kilbuck Rd.
815-393-3247
kilbuckcreek.com
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Crow Valley Campground
Grassy shaded lots with gravel pad on
Rock River. Electric & water or primitive
sites, basketball court, playground,
fishing, pool, bath facilities. Open April
15 – Oct. 15.
crowvalleycampground.com
Sterling / 23807 Moline Rd.
815-626-5376
200 sites on Rock River & lake,
open to the public, electric, water,
playground, restrooms, dump
station, pavilion.
Erie / 9480 Erie Rd.
309-659-7160
Leisure Lake Campground
68 full hook-up sites, 32 pull-thrus 20-30
amp hook-up, 50-amp available, full
laundry, next to 10-acre stocked lake.
Open Apr.-Nov.
Rock Falls / 2304 French St.
815-626-0005
Maple Lane Camping
RV parking, camping, water, electric,
shower houses, dumping station.
5 min. to Mississippi River, gambling,
fishing, boating.
Fulton /18920 Frog Pond Rd.
815-589-3038
Moonlight Bay Marina & Restaurant
Camping w/ electric & water.
Sterling / Moonlight Bay Ln.
815-625-1700
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
92 sites, electricity, grill, table, shower
building, flush toilets. May 1-Oct. 31,
trailer dump station.
dnr.state.il.gov
Morrison / 18750 Lake Rd.
815-772-4708
Prophetstown State Park
Tent & trailer camping, electricity, dump
station, water hydrants, privy toilets,
shower building, flush toilets.
Prophetstown / Riverside Dr.
815-537-2926
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Ruffit Park
Seasonal camping drive-through sites,
electric, water, wooded sites, restrooms,
playground, basketball May 1 – Oct 1.
Sterling / 24832 Rock Falls Rd.
815-626-0221
U.S.A.C.E. Lock & Dam 13
Primitive campsites, fishing, hunting,
marina, picnic shelter, grills, parking,
restrooms, pets ok, open year round.
Fulton / North of Fulton on Rt. 84
815-259-3628
Hotels & Motels
All Seasons Motel
31 deluxe rooms, individual AC &
heating units, some w/ jacuzzi’s,
refrigerators, microwaves. Free WiFi.
Rock Falls / 1904 First Ave.
815-625-3700
Country Inn & Suites of Rock Falls
Located off I-88 (Exit 41) & Rte 30.
Newly renovated rooms: 37” LCD flat
screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators,
complimentary breakfast, local phone
calls, USA Today, indoor pool, jacuzzi,
sauna, fitness center, entertainment/
game room, guest laundry. Whirlpool
suites available. Free WiFi.
countryinns.com/rockfallsil
Rock Falls / 2106 First Ave.
815-625-3200
Days Inn
117 guest rooms, indoor heated pool,
All American bar & grill, free local calls,
cable TV, banquet & meeting facilities
for up to 400, kids eat free, exercise
facility. Free WiFi, small pets allowed.
hotelrockfalls.com
Rock Falls / 2105 First Ave.
815-626-5500
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Fulton Comfort Inn & Suites
Rock Falls Super 8
Maple Lane Motel
Vacation
rental Homes
Cozy 51-room hotel, 1 mile from the
Mississippi River, spacious rooms &
suites, complimentary hot breakfast,
heated indoor pool & whirlpool spa.
Free WiFi.
choicehotels.com/hotel/il241
Fulton / 1301 17th St.
815-589-3333
12 rooms, phones, AC, fridge,
microwave, TV, 5 minutes to the
Mississippi River. Low rates, restaurant
nearby. Free WiFi.
[email protected]
Fulton / 18920 Frog Pond Rd.
815-589-3038
Napp Inn
20 newly remodeled, AC, flat screen
TVs, 120 satellite channels, HBO,
refrigerators, microwaves, all nonsmoking rooms, laundry facilities, The
Bistro restaurant, breakfast & lunch.
Free WiFi.
[email protected]
Rock Falls / 510 W. Rock Falls Rd.
815-625-2324
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60-unit motel, 24-hour desk clerk,
continental breakfast, HBO, fax & copy
service, truck parking. Free WiFi.
super8.com
Rock Falls / 2100 First Ave.
815-626-8800
Captain Young’s Cottage
Captain Young’s Cottage has a
Mississippi River view where you’re
away from it all, yet close to everything. Located on the Historic Great River
Road and adjacent to the Great River
Bike Trail. 3 BR, 1 ½ baths, LR,DR and
a fully equipped kitchen
Albany / 402 S Main St.
815-222-7126
captainyoungscottage.com [email protected]
North House
Enjoy the privacy of this historic
guest house featuring a large front
porch, 4 bedrooms and a 3-season
sleeping porch. North House easily
accommodates large groups of family
and friends. Also, consider North
House for meetings, reunions, receptions
or any special occasion!
northhouseprophetstown.com
Prophetstown / 102 Lafayette
815-590-1060
[email protected]
Pine Motel
9 rooms, 1 cottage, cable TV, kitchenettes, microwaves, coffee makers,
refrigerators, courtesy coffee & tea,
phones, AC, grill, picnic tables, electric
hook-ups for boats, daily & weekly
rates. Free WiFi.
Fulton / 19020 13th St. (Rt. 84)
815-589-4847
Riverside Motel
Located on Rte. 78. Newly remodeled
12 rooms, cable TV, AC, daily weekly
& senior citizens rates available. Free
WiFi, pets allowed.
Prophetstown / 201 Washington St.
815-537-1111
rediscover the charm of the american road
In 1913, few cars were on the roads - and those roads
were bad. The nation’s automobile transportation system was
a mishmash of farm-to-market routes, railroad rights of way
and rutted wagon trails. That year, however, America’s first
paved transcontinental road was established. It was called the
Lincoln Highway.
And 179 miles of the Lincoln Highway cross through Illinois, where
it’s designated an Illinois National Scenic Byway. This historic route
follows U.S. Highway 30, Illinois Highway 31 and Illinois Highway
38. The Lincoln Highway meets the mighty Mississippi River in
Fulton. You’ll find “real” America at every turn. The towns, the
attractions, the history and the heritage of 20th Century America
are preserved along the rural roadways and city streets of the
Lincoln Highway.
of the largest works of public art in the country. Each hand-painted,
200-square-foot mural is a unique work of art that transports you
back in time with an exciting story of the early Lincoln Highway!
The ILHC Interpretive Gazebos offer visitors a fun way to enjoy the
intriguing stories of the Lincoln Highway. Panel displays in each
gazebo present distinct graphics and informative content, depicting
the significance of the famed highway its impact on the communities.
www.drivelincolnhighway.com
Interpretive murals and gazebos
Visit the Lincoln Highway interpretive murals and gazebos. A
series of murals is installed across the Illinois byway corridor, one
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Blackhawk Waterways is the place to be. Consider this: within our four-county region, there are state
parks, preserves and wildlife areas, and a state forest – totaling over 14,000 acres of state-protected natural splendor. From more information
visit visitnorthwestillinois.com
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Palisades State Park
Savanna
The Native American pathfinders along
the rock palisades of the Mississippi
River did as present-day hikers do in
coursing the bluffs — they took the
paths of least resistance. The trails
at Mississippi Palisades, especially
the park’s southern routes, put you in
touch with the past. Walk them and
you’ll trace the footsteps of all those
who came before you, some of whom
came this way nearly a thousand years
ago. Located near the confluence of
the Mississippi and Apple rivers in
northwestern Illinois, the 2,500-acre
Mississippi Palisades State Park is rich
in American Indian history, as well as
sheer natural beauty and tranquility.
MORE INFO: 815.273.2731
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Franklin Creek State
Natural Area
Franklin Grove
Beautiful Franklin Creek flows
throughout the 664-acre park
and includes several large natural
springs, hardwood forests, bedrock
outcroppings. A large variety of
flora and fauna comprise a pristine
ecosystem. Also here are horseback/
equestrian trails, hiking trails, hunting,
fishing, and the Franklin Creek Grist Mill.
MORE INFO: 815.456.2878
Green River State
Wildlife Area
Harmon
This 2,565-acre wildlife area is
popular among hunters, hikers,
birders and other outdoor enthusiasts.
The topography varies from flat to
gently rolling. Swampy slough areas
dominate nearly a third of the acreage,
but the remaining portions are prairie
restorations, open fields, cultivated
areas or timberlands. Many of these
areas have been specially planted and
managed to provide more food and
cover for a variety of wildlife species.
Native prairie plants are found in the
Green River Area.
MORE INFO: 815.379.2324
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Castle Rock State Park
Oregon
Located three miles south of Oregon on
Hwy 2, the park is centrally located in
the Rock River Hills region. Its rolling
topography is drained by the Rock
River. Rock formations, ravines, and
unique northern plants are found here.
A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river,
gave the park its name.
MORE INFO: 815.732.7329
Elkhorn creek
biodiversity preserve
Forreston
The Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity
Preserve contains an impressive
variety of geologic and hydrologic
features, wetlands, hillside prairies
and their associated plant communities
which draw many species of birds,
butterflies & wildlife. Great for bird &
butterfly watching.
Lowden State Park
Oregon
Legend has it that Chief Black Hawk,
as he left the area after the Black Hawk
War, talked of the beauty of the area
and admonished his captors to care
for the land as he and his people had.
The 207-acre park was established not
only to care for the land but to allow
visitors to share in the beauty
as well.
MORE INFO: 815.732.6828
Lowden-Miller
State Forest
Oregon
This 2,225-acre forest offers 22 miles
of maintained trails for hiking and
horseback riding. In the winter, snow
transforms the trails into excellent
cross-country skiing trails. 120-foot
bluffs along the Rock River highlight this
forested beauty.
MORE INFO: 815.732.7329
16 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
White Pines Forest
State Park
Mt. Morris
Located in the heart of the Rock River
valley, this charming 385-acre park
is the south boundary of the old
Chicago-Iowa Trail. History tells us
that this was for years the principal
route east and west across the northern
part of the state. Today the park
provides the perfect recipe for family
getaways. There are plenty of outdoor
recreation activities, such as hiking,
fishing, camping and picnicking.
Lots of serene, picturesque beauty,
and modern lodge facilities amidst a
beautiful forest.
MORE INFO: 815.772.4708
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Big Bend State Fish &
Wildlife Area
Prophetstown
Just 4 miles west of Prophetstown
along the Rock River, the area sports
1,188 acres of remarkable woodlands
and native grasslands, as well as
wetlands and marshes. Its convenient
location, wide open spaces and quiet
forests make it the ideal destination for
sportsman.
MORE INFO: 815.537.2270
Hennepin
Feeder Canal
Rock Falls
The Hennepin Feeder Canal extends
from Rock Falls to Sheffield IL and
opens the door to the parkway
with miles of bike and hiking paths,
canoeing, fishing and historical sites
along the way. At the mouth of the
feeder is Rock Falls’ Hydroelectric
Plant completed in 1988 and is the first
such constructed in Illinois since 1927.
Enjoy biking, hiking, fishing, boating
& canoeing
MORE INFO: 815-380-2300
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Prophetstown
State Park
Prophetstown
On the northeast edge of the city along
the south bank of the Rock River is a
scenic historic area offering a variety of
recreational facilities: hiking, camping,
fishing, picnicking, and more. On the
site of an American Indian village, the
53-acre park derives its name from
the Native American prophet
Wa-bo-kie-shiek.
MORE INFO: 815.537.2926
Rockwood
State Park
Morrison
A large sign in the shape of Illinois,
fashioned from angle iron by a
blacksmith, greets visitors at the
entrance of this picturesque 1,164
acre park. Once inside, choose from
a variety of recreational opportunities.
Beautiful Lake Carlton, a stream-fed
reservoir, features an abundance of
ducks and geese, and is considered
a prime location for fishing. Or plan
a family outing at the Lakeview picnic
area, or just do some bird watching
among the large variety of trees.
MORE INFO: 815.772.4708
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When in Blackhawk Waterways, you’ll want to grab your golf bag and drive the links, because 378 holes await you. Discover manicured
courses, water hazards and sand traps to test your skill, and even mini-golf to challenge the kids.
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Lake Carroll Golf
Course
Lost Nation Golf
Club
Oakville Golf Course
Shady Oaks Golf
Course
18 holes
Lake Carroll / 2911 Ironwood Blvd.
815-493-2808
visitlakecarroll.com/golfcourse
9 holes
Mt. Carroll / 8044 Oakville Rd.
815-684-5295
Palisades Golf
Course
9 holes
Savanna / 18280 IL Rt. 84
815-273-2141
Sandburr run golf
resort
9 holes
Thomson / 5020 IL Rt. 84
815-902-6063
sandburrrun.com
18 holes
Dixon / 6931 S. Lost Nation Rd.
815-652-4212
lostnationgolf.com
18 holes
Amboy / 577 U.S. Rt. 52
815-849-5424
shadyoakscc.com
Timber Creek Golf
Course
18 holes
Dixon / 729 Timber Creek Rd
815-288-5110
timbercreekdixon.com
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Edgewood Golf
Course
Cross Creek Golf
Course
9 holes
Polo / 10684 Edgewood Rd.
815-946-3636
Fairways golf course
18 holes
Rochelle/533 S. 7th St
815-562-6666
fairwaysgolf.com
9 holes
Morrison / 15523 Henry Rd.
815-772-7966
crosscreekgolfandestates.com
Deer Valley Golf Club
18 holes
Deer Grove / 3298 Hoover Rd.
815-438-GOLF
deervalleygolfclubil.com
Prairie View Golf
Club
Emerald Hill Golf &
Learning Center
18 holes
Byron / 7993 N. River Rd.
815-234-4653
prairieviewgolf.com
Silver Ridge Golf Club
18 holes
Sterling / 16802 Prairieville Rd.
815-622-6204
emeraldhillgolf.com
18 holes
Oregon / 3069 Hill Rd.
815-734-4440
silverridgegolf.com
Lake Erie Golf Course
Skare Park Driving
Range
Prairie Ridge Golf
Course
Sunset Golf Club
Prophet Hills
Country Club
Driving range
Rochelle / Flagg Rd.
815-562-7672
rochelleparkdistrict.org
18 holes
Mt Morris/216 Sunset Hill
(815) 734-4839
[email protected]
www.sunsetgolfmm.com
9 holes
Erie / 900 Lakeside Dr.
309-659-2250
18 holes
Morrison / 903 W. Morris St.
815-772-8989
golfprairieridge.com
9 holes
Prophetstown / 4319 Bishop Rd.
815-537-5226
Rock River Golf &
Pool
18 holes
Rock Falls/3901 Dixon Ave.
815-625-2322
rrgap.com
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Towering over the Mississippi River with a commanding view
of the valley and forests below, the 2,500-acre Palisades State Park
in Carroll County is a scenic wonderland and a hiking haven. Steep
cliffs, dense woodlands, free-roaming wildlife and nesting eagles, wild
turkey and numerous species of shorebirds and waterfowl combine to
create a paradise for nature-lovers and a great getaway that attracts
thousands of visitors each year.
havencrest castle
Labor of love for a Savanna couple now open to the public
On a wooded hilltop overlooking the Mississippi River town of Savanna,
there’s an extraordinary 63-room mansion, opulently furnished, filled with
art and -- fortunately for us -- now open for public tours.
and limestone brought in from Indiana. Inside, the mansion featured
indoor plumbing, electricity, birdseye maple, quarter-sawn oak trim
and stained glass windows. The Greenleafs dubbed it Hillcrest.
After more than three decades as the private home and working
studio of artist Alan St. George, his Havencrest Castle was opened in
December 2013 for tours, weddings, receptions and other events.
Francis Greenleaf died in 1944, and Margaret passed away a few
months later. Their four children were no longer in Savanna, so the
house and its furnishings were sold.
Public reaction to the new venue has been tremendous. Visitors have
stared in awe at the oak-paneled Grand Foyer, the vaulted ceiling of
the Flemish Renaissance Dining Room and the lavishly gilded Russian
Rococo Library.
An artist and his muse
And that’s just the first floor.
Perhaps as interesting as Havencrest Castle’s architecture is the
story about how this extravagant castle was created in this small
Midwestern town.
A Newspaper Family
In 1872, Simon and Frances Jane Greenleaf built a modest clapboard
home on the hill overlooking Savanna. It became known as “Hillside.”
(Today, it’s the visitor center for Havencrest Castle.)
Three years later, Simon Greenleaf established a weekly newspaper,
the Savanna Times. In 1885, Greenleaf and his son, Francis,
established the Savanna Journal. Their legacy, the Savanna Times
Journal, is still published today.
Francis and his bride, Margaret, lived in Hillside with his parents for
the next several years while planning to build an impressive home
nearby for themselves.
Savanna, with both rail service and Mississippi River traffic, prospered
as a transportation hub in the late 19th century. The Greenleaf family
prospered with it.
According to the Havencrest website, the Greenleafs’ new home,
completed in 1901, was a Queen Anne mansion built of local brick
20 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
After seven owners in three decades, Alan and Adrianne St. George
fell in love with the mansion. In 1976, the young couple purchased
the property and over the next several years lavishly decorated the
home, added new rooms and turned Hillcrest into a 63-room structure
that deserves to be called a castle.
Outdoor enthusiasts are just naturally engaged by Carroll County,
where they discover miles of scenic biking and hiking on the Great
River Trail, boating and fishing on the mighty Mississippi and its
backwaters, and excellent dining, lodging and shopping options
along the brick-lined streets of Mount Carroll.
Other local villages, including historic Savanna, boast outstanding
shops offering antiques and collectibles, a professional summer stock
theater and, in season, roadside stands featuring vine-fresh melons,
homegrown produce and delectable morel mushrooms. And, visitors
revel in a slate of special events throughout the year, ranging from
Mount Carroll’s Mayfest and Savanna’s Haunted Forest Festival to
Lanark’s Old Settler’s Days.
From a state perspective, Illinois remains rich in native wildlife
and plants, with nearly 3,000 species of plants and 600 species
of vertebrates. In addition, dozens of species of birds pass through
Illinois during yearly rituals of spring and fall migration, while others
spend only winter months within the state. Many of Illinois’ parks
and conservation areas harbor more types of plants and animals per
square mile than national parks such as Yellowstone or the Grand
Canyon. The wildlife you’ll see will depend on where you are, and
the season, but here is just a short list of the animals and creatures that
are here, that you may see and encounter: waterfowl and shorebirds
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(dozens of species), striking pileated woodpeckers, wild turkey,
eagles, hawks, buzzards/turkey vultures, deer, coyotes, gray and red
fox, weasels, woodchucks, badgers, beavers, muskrats, amphibians
and reptiles (lizards, snakes, salamanders, frogs, toads and turtles)
and many species of fish.
The Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center, just south of
Savanna in Carroll County, is an ideal place to observe waterfowl,
migratory birds and other wetland wildlife – plus there’s educational
programs and wildlife displays. Also, all along the Mississippi River,
especially in the winter months, terrific eagle watching opportunities
exist. Visit any of our numerous state parks, conservation areas, state
natural areas or state-owned Fish & Wildlife areas and you’ll be
presented with great chances for great wildlife viewing. And don’t
forget about special wildlife viewing opportunities along or near our
rivers, lakes and streams – especially near the Mississippi River on the
Great River Road National Scenic Byway.
Looking for a reason to get in the car to enjoy a splendid fall
day in the country? Look no further than Carroll County. With so
much to see, experience and do, there’s no better reason, or season,
to discover the hidden treasures and pleasures of the Blackhawk
Waterways region than autumn. When summer slips into autumn, the
2,700 square miles that make up our region transform into some of
Illinois’ most spectacular visual fall offerings.
Travel the Great River Road National Scenic Byway.
This historic treasure of a road travels a total of 557 miles through six
states, but some of its most incredible beauty exists right here where it
meanders its way for 35 miles along the Mississippi River, from Albany
to just north of Savanna. Anytime is a good time to enjoy this journey,
but autumn certainly offers up its own special style of scenic pleasures.
Alan is an artist and entrepreneur who studied at The Chicago
Academy of Fine Arts. In 1972, at age 19, he founded Facemakers
Inc., a company that designs and makes mascots for clients such
as Disney, the White House and thousands of high schools and
universities all over the world.
From 1976 to 1989, he ran the business entirely from Havencrest
Castle. The castle remains the corporate headquarters and Alan’s
personal studio, but production and shipping operations have been
moved to a separate building in Savanna.
As they continued the decorating and expansion of Havencrest
Castle, the St. Georges threw extravagant parties and fundraisers.
Meanwhile, rooms were filled with art pieces created by Alan and
inspired by Adrianne.
Adrianne passed away in 2006. After five years of mourning, Alan
returned to his art and with help from friends, Alan St. George opened
the castle to public tours in 2013.
Adrianne St. George dreamed of using “Havencrest Castle” to host
dream weddings and parties. Today, the castle’s rooms can be rented
for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other events.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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W hiteside
Savanna Public Library
Savanna / 326 3rd St.
815-273-3714
100 years old, historic memorabilia &
area’s best children’s libraries.
Savanna-Sabula Bridge
Attractions
Adventure Sports
Mc MotoPark
Mt. Carroll / 13137 IL Rt. 78
815-238-1614
mcmotopark.com
1 mile north of Mount Carroll. 40 acres
of fun, challenging track of natural
terrain. Elevation changes, jumps,
obstacles for beginners to pros.
The Arts
Alan & Adrianne St George Center for
the Arts
Savanna / 800 Chicago Ave.
815-273-3944
facemakersincorporated.com/
theatre/index.html
Castle Players, The
Savanna / 800 Chicago Ave.
815-273-3944
thecastleplayers.com
Timber Lake Playhouse
Mt. Carroll / 8215 Black Oak Rd.
815-244-2035
timberlakeplayhouse.org
Biking & Hiking
Arnold’s Bicycle Shop
Thomson/831 Main St.
815-259-8289
arnoldsbikes.com
Located near the Great River Bike Trail.
Specializing in recumbent bikes & trikes
sales & service and offering bike
rental service.
Great River Trail
Community Parks
Marquette Park
Savanna / Wayne King Dr.
815-273-4487
1-acre park on the Mississippi River,
restrooms, boat launches, fishing,
canoe access, picnic tables & parking.
Old Mill Park
Savanna / Chicago Ave.
815-273-4487
85 acres. Restrooms, parking, concessions.
Point Rock Park
Mt. Carroll / S. Mill St.
800-244-9594
25 acres. Restrooms, parking, hiking,
frisbee golf course.
Portland Skate Park
Savanna / 1500 Portland Ave.
(815) 273-2722
savannail.com
Professional skate park. Open to all
skaters, dawn to dusk daily. Helmets are mandatory.
Shannon Village Park
Shannon / Hickory & Bradshaw St.
815-864-2111
Lighted tennis & basketball courts,
gazebo, picnic tables, shelter house,
fireplace, historic Civil War cannon
Family Fun &
Amusement
Carroll County Farm Tours
815-244-3001
See a hog or dairy farm in operation,
or arrange a soil conservation farm
tour. By reservation only.
greatrivertrail.com
The Great River Trail recreational path
extends 62 miles from the Quad Cities
to Savanna, providing fantastic biking,
hiking, running & walking opportunities.
Carroll County Virtual Barn Tour
Boat/Canoe
Rentals
Thomson/7071 Riverview Rd
815-273-2732
stewardsumrr.org
Interesting, hands-on exhibits, gift shop,
dramatic view of the Mississippi River.
Hours are 7:30a-4p Mon-Fri and Sat
9a-4p. Closed on federal holidays.
Fin & Feather
Thomson / 6284 Riverview Rd.
815-273-3302
Boat & canoe rental.
visitcarrollcountyil.com/virtual-tours
See a Virtual Tour of some of the
existing barns in rural Carroll County.
Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center
Lazy River Marina
Savanna / 4202 Rt. 84 N.
815-273-2955
Mississippi River boat & canoe access.
22 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Savanna
815-273-2722
Ranks among the greatest examples of
steel truss construction.
Mt. Carroll Bowling Center
Mt Carroll/206 Main St
815-244-7467
mtcarrollbowl.com
[email protected]
We offer a wide array of activities for
the family, for teens, and for adults.
We offer bowling, dinning, video
games, darts and a full service bar for
your enjoyment. We also have a party
room complete with stage, bar, dining
area, and dance floor.
Raven’s Grin Inn Haunted House
Mt. Carroll / 411 N. Carroll
815-244-4746
hauntedravensgrin.com
A real haunted house, built in 1870.
About one hour tour. No chainsaws or
gore. Hide & Seek parties & special
occasion tours available.
Trailside Mini Golf
Lake Carroll / 2178 Lake Carroll Blvd.
815-493-8484
Set in a gentle slope, this 18-hole
course is challenging & fun for all ages.
Golf
Lake Carroll Golf Course
Lake Carroll / 2911 Ironwood Blvd.
815-493-2808
Open to public during midweek only.
18 holes, clubhouse, proshop, cart/
rentals, range, banquet facility.
Oakville Golf Course
Mt. Carroll / 8044 Oakville Rd.
815-684-5295
Nine-hole public golf course. Clubhouse, proshop, banquet facility.
Palisades Golf Course
Savanna / 18280 IL Rt. 84
815-273-2141
Nine-hole public golf course.
Clubhouse, proshop, cart/equipment
rental, driving range.
History &
Heritage
Campbell Center for Historic
Preservation Studies
Mt. Carroll / 203 E. Seminary St.
815-244-1173
campbellcenter.org
14-acre campus listed on National
Register for Historic Places, 3-5
day courses, collections care &
conservation.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
County Courthouse
Mt. Carroll / 301 N. Main St.
815-244-0255
The northernmost & oldest section of the
current courthouse built in 1843; on the
National Register for Historic Places.
Lanark’s Historic Business District
Lanark / Downtown
815-493-2307
Lanark’s Paint the Town Project colored
the 1880s era buildings to their unique
architecture & hues.
Market Street Commons at the Kraft
Building
Mt. Carroll / 320 N. Main St.
800-244-9594
mtcarrollil.org
Downtown, in Mt. Carroll historic
district, in the old Kraft Building. The
building houses the Welcome Center,
Community Development organizations,
the Chamber of Commerce & offers
business friendly office & retail space.
Monument Park
Savanna / Main St.
815-273-2722
This small area describing early
settlement in Savanna hosts the
monument commemorating the Aaron
Pierce family, the first white settlers
of Savanna.
National Register Historic District
Mt. Carroll / Downtown
800-244-9594
Visit Mt. Carroll’s Historic District. More
than 30 different historic sites.
Oakville Complex
Mt. Carroll / Between Rts. 78 & 30
815-244-3474
Consists of an 1888 schoolhouse, two
log cabins, a blacksmith shop and
granary. Open by appointment.
Owen P. Miles Museum
Mt. Carroll / 107 W. Broadway
815-244-3474
1873 Italianate home depicts
1800s life.
Savanna Historical Museum
Savanna / 406 Main St.
815-273-0316
savannamuseum.com
Over 80 mannequins in authentic Civil
War uniforms, native son & famous
big-band musician Wayne King
memorabilia, railroad artifacts.
Savanna Train Car Museum
Savanna / 25 Main St.
815-273-3292
Home to railroad artifacts &
memorabilia for generations to explore
& gain an understanding of history.
Shannon Water Tower
Shannon / 1 E. Elizabeth St.
815-864-2735
Built after the disastrous fire of 1892,
this unique tower stands 82 feet high &
holds 55,000 gallons of water.
Soldiers & Sailors Monument & Annex
Mt. Carroll / Courthouse Lawn
815-244-0221
Monument by Lorado Taft dedicated
in 1891 to commemorate the 1284
Carroll County men who lost their lives
in the Civil War.
Thomson Depot Museum
Thomson / 907 Main St.
815-259-8292
Built in the late 1800s. Exhibits, old
photographs, newspapers, land grants,
railroad memorabilia, furniture &
clothing.
Horse/Equestrian
Eagle Point Stable & Horseback Riding
Milledgeville / 5399 Maple Rd.
815-225-7473
Country riding for experienced rider.
Scenic Bluff Ranch
Savanna/14267 Messmer Rd
815-244-6232
[email protected]
scenicbluff.com
We’re on 350 acres with access to
over 24 miles of trails. We cater to
all disciplines and breeds and we
have plenty to offer everyone from the
inexperienced to the seasoned rider.
Full range of services offered.
Guides
Rack & Wing
Lanark / 29232 Harvest Rd.
815-493-6443
rackandwing.com
Game bird preserve. NW Illinois hunts,
whitetail, wild turkey & sporting clays.
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Marinas/Boat
Ramps
State Parks &
Forests
family
restaurants
Savanna / 1 Main St.
815-273-2955
Four launches, campsites, dry dock
spaces with unlimited launching
privileges, wet slips & winter storage.
Concessions, restrooms, showers, gas,
pump out, bait.
Savanna / 16327A IL Rt. 84
815-273-2731
2500 acres. Beautiful scenery,
restrooms, parking, dump station,
boat launches, camping, canoe
access, fishing, hiking, hunting, nature
preserves, cross-country skiing.
Lanark / Hwys. 73 & 52
815-493-2555
Savanna Marina
T.U.S.A.C.E. Thomson Causeway
Recreation Area
Thomson / Lewis Lane
815-259-2353
64 acres. Restrooms, parking, boat
launches.
Upper Mississippi River National
Wildlife & Fish Refuge/Ingersoll
Wetlands Learning Center
Thomson / 7071 Riverview Rd.
815-273-2732
midwest.fws.gov
55,000 acres: fishing, canoeing,
hiking, biking, boat launches, wildlife
observation area.
U.S.A.C.E. Big Slough
Thomson / Riverview Rd.
815-259-3628
Mississippi River boat launching, canoe
access, fishing, restrooms & parking lot.
Miscellaneous
Big River Taxidermy
Mt. Carroll / 405 W. Cole Ave.
815-244-3115
Award-winning professional taxidermist
with 15 yrs. experience in all forms.
See our wildlife gallery!
Havencrest Castle
Savanna / 140 N. 5th St.
815-990-7159
havencrestcastle.com
An amazing 2.5 hour tour through 63
rooms featuring original art work and
sculptures. Call for reservations.
MC Motopark
Mt. Carroll / 13137 IL Rt. 78
815-238-1614
mcmotopark.com
1 mile north of Mt. Carroll.
40 acres of fun, challenging track of natural terrain. Elevation changes,
jumps, obstacles for beginners to pros.
Recreation
Centers
Answer Fitness & Tanning
Savanna / 319 Main St.
815-273-3747
fitness-tanning.com
On The Move Community Fitness Center
Lanark / 125 W. Locust
815-493-8213
Cardio equipment, strength machines
weights, group exercise classes, more.
Mississippi Palisades State Park
Mt. Carroll / 505 E. Seminary St.
815-244-3483
Outdoor pool open to the public.
Lessons for all ages offered at
various times.
Savanna Community Swimming Pool
Savanna / 500 Cragmoor
815-273-3887
On rainy or sunny days, visit the indoor
swimming pool.
Food &
Dining
Café Crumbles
Savanna / 1030 Viaduct Rd., Rt. 84 S.
815-273-4516
poopys.com
Shannon Café/The Other Side Bar
Shannon / 29 East Market St
815-309-2233
Thomson / 800 One Mile Rd.
815-259-4663
Fine Dining
Lake Carroll Clubhouse
Savanna/411 Main St
815-273-0210
Lake Carroll / 99 Lake Carroll Blvd.
815-493-2810
lakecarrollassociation.com
Heirloom Café
Molly’s Kitchen & Bar
Thomson / 2200 N. Rt 84
815-259-4552
theheirloommarket.com
Mt Carroll / 110 W Market St.
815-906-0052
facebook.com/mollyskitchenandbar
Rt 84 Coffee & Bistro
Savanna / 734 Viaduct Rd.
815-273-4528
javahut.biz
Pizza, Grills
& Pubs
Bella Pizza
Tina’s Ice Cream Shoppe
Lanark / 119 N. Broad St.
815-493-8003
Mt Carroll / 409 N. Main St
815-906-0084
Charlie’s Bar & Grill
espresso/coffee
AJ’s Coffee House & Bistro Coffee Shop
Mt. Carroll / 320 N. Main
815-244-0055
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Poopy’s Pub & Grub
Sunrise Restaurant
Mt. Carroll / 320 N. Main
815-244-0055
Savanna / 112 Chicago Ave.
815-273-1688
Mt. Carroll / 314 N. Main St.
815-244-1700
Mt. Carroll / 121 W. Market
815-244-7553
AJ’s Coffee House & Bistro
New China Restaurant
Mount Carroll Cafe
Sievert’s Steaks ‘N’ Stuff
Cafes & delis
Ethnic
Lanark / 109 E. Carroll St.
815-493-6838
facebook.com/thecrookedroof
Savanna / 1811 Chicago Ave.
815-273-2700
Mount Carroll Community
Swimming Pool
Savanna / 734 Viaduct Rd.
815-273-4528
javahut.biz
Crooked Roof, The
Kountry Kettle
Swimming
Rt 84 Coffee & Bistro
Brothers Inn Family Restaurant
Mt Carroll / 123 W Market St
815-244-0777
Dusty’s Pizza Plus
Thomson / 817 Main St.
815-259-4511
Henry’s Double K
Mt Carroll/834 S Jackson St
815-244-0181
facebook.com/HenrysDoubleK
Iron Horse Social Club
Savanna / 314 Main St.
815-273-2600
ironhorsesocialclub.com
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JJ’s Come Back Inn
Milledgeville / 335 Main
815-225-7714
Manny’s Pizza
Savanna / 211 Main St.
815-273-4259
Mr Z’s Sports Bar & Restaurant
Thomson/800 One Mile Rd
815-259-4663
Ozzy’s Burgers & Brew
Savanna / 421 Main St.
815-273-0272
Poopy’s Pub & Grub
Savanna / 1030 Viaduct Rd. Rt. 84 S.
815-273-4516
poopys.com
Ridge Runners Bar & Grill
Savanna / 800 Main St.
815-565-7137
Riverview Bar & Grill
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Convention
& Reception
Space
Havencrest Castle
Savanna / 140 N. 5th St.
815-990-7159
havencrestcastle.com
Henry’s Double K
Mt Carroll/834 S Jackson St
815-244-0181
facebook.com/HenrysDoubleK
Manny’s
Savanna / 211 Main St
815-273-4259
SHOPPING
Thomson / 5403 Riverview Rd.
815-273-2339
Antiques
Sievert’s
Lanark / 306 SE Lanark Ave.
815-493-6487
Mt. Carroll / 121 W. Market St
815-244-7553
Quick-service food
Bear’s Drive Inn
Thomson/1905 IL Rt 84
815-259-2586
DQ Grill & Chill
Mt. Carroll / 401 S. Clay St.
815-244-2760
Land of Oz
Mt. Carroll / 855 South Mill St.
815-244-3739
Rt 84 Diner
Thomson / 1865 IL Rt. 84
815-259-2705
Shivers Ice Cream Parlor
Savanna/720 Main St.
815-273-2824
Subway
Savanna / 44 Main St.
815-273-7821
Wineries, Wine
Bars & Tasting
Rooms
Driftless Area Stillroom
Mt. Carroll / 320 N. Main St.
815-244-4058
Silver Moon Winery
Lanark / 21305 Zier Rd.
815-493-6888
silvermoonwineryinc.com
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End of the Road Antiques
Frank Fritz Finds
Savanna / 324 Main St.
815-273-2661
We showcase unique collectibles &
antiques for sale by Frank Fritz,
co-star of the History Channel’s
American Pickers.
Heritage Market Antiques, Etc.
Mt. Carroll / 107 W. Market St.
815-244-4054
Ideas N Designs Antiques
Mt. Carroll / 116 W Market St
815-244-7875
ideasndesigns.com
Riverview Antique Mall
Mt Carroll/409 N. Main St
815-409-0084
Artisan Works
Bill Delp’s Studio & Gallery of Fine
Photography
Savanna / 10423 Zion Rd.
815-273-2803
billdelpphotography.com
Charlotte Arvelle Glass
Mt. Carroll / 118 W. Market St.
815-244-3554
charlottearvelle.com
New Morning Glass
Mt. Carroll / 113 W. Market St.
815-244-6000
newmorningglass.com
Original works of stained glass art,
classes & more.
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Now & Zen Gallery
Mt Carroll/108 W Market St
563-212-7155
facebook/now&zengallery
Plein Air Studio
Mt. Carroll / 112 W. Market St.
815-990-9337
[email protected]
W hiteside
Thomson / 2200 N Rt 84
815-259-4552
theheirloommarket.com
Lanark Farmer’s Market
Lanark / Lanark City Park
815-541-0557
Mount Carroll Farmers Market
Mt. Carroll / Courthouse Square
815-244-CALL
mountcarrollil.org
Gifts &
Collectibles
Blarney Stone Popcorn & Gifts
Shannon / 2 W. Market St.
815-864-2100
blarneystonepopcorn.com
Country Floral Too
Milledgeville / 411 N. Main Ave.
815-225-5611
Country Peddler Floral & Gifts
Savanna / 353 Chicago Ave.
815-273-5020
Special Touch/The Other Side
Lanark / 504 W. IL Rt. 64
815-493-6366
specialtouchflowers.net
Trailside General Store
Lake / 2178 Lake Blvd
815-493-8484
Specialty
shopping
Country Girl Boutique
Mt Carroll / 902 S. Jackson St.
815-244-2242
Heirloom Market
Thomson / 2200 N Rt 84
815-259-4552
theheirloommarket.com
Hollow Fencepost, The
Lanark / 124 E. Carroll St.
815-493-9066
thehollowfencepost.com
Kromer Rocking Horses
Savanna / 327 Main St.
815.541.7315
kromerart.com
Land of Oz Porcelain Dolls
Dollinger Christmas Tree Farm
Plein Air Studio
Flower Fan-A-See
Mt. Carroll / 112 W. Market St.
815-244-0034
[email protected]
Mt. Carroll / 904 S. Clay St.
877-645-0625
flowerfanasee.com
Sassy Stems
Land of Oz
Savanna Marketplace
Mt. Carroll / 855 S. Mill St.
815-244-3739
Now & Zen Gallery
Mt Carroll/108 W Market St
563-212-7155
facebook/now&zengallery
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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Savanna / 321 Main St.
815-273-0336
savannamarketplace.com
Mt. Carroll / 116 E. Market St.
815-244-4058
dabluz.com
Shannon / 23882 Payne Rd.
815-864-2437
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River Valley Designs
Savanna / 1723 Portland Ave.
815-565-0024
[email protected]
landofozdolls.com
By appointment only
Dabluz Boutique
O gle
Savanna / 1030 Viaduct Rd.
815-273-2363
poopys.com
Savanna Marketplace
Heirloom Market
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Poopy’s Inc.
Thomson / 16295 Argo Fay Rt.
815-259-2132
Thomson / 966 Creamery Rd.
815-499-1856
fairhavenfruitfarm.com
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Mt. Carroll / 101 W. Market St.
815-244-2171
Savanna / 218 Main St.
815-273-2325
Fair Haven Fruit Farm
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Pharmacy Center
Country Markets
Argo Acres
Carroll
Savanna / 1029 Main St.
815-273-7668
Savanna / 321 Main St.
815-273-0336
savannamarketplace.com
Twice-Sold Tales Bookstore
Lanark/504 W. IL Rt 64
815-219-3367
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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When the world was deciding the locations for historic
sites, Lee County may have been first in line. In the small towns of
this unique and exciting county, visitors encounter friendly smiles, the
boyhood home of President Ronald Reagan, the National Headquarters
of the Lincoln Highway Association, railroading history, art galleries, and
locally coveted fried-chicken dinners served in virtually every restaurant
and roadside tavern.
thomson to celebrate 150 years
Thomson, on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River
an hour’s drive north of the Quad Cities, is known for its great
camping, boating, fishing and outdoor recreation. The area’s rich,
alluvial farmland produces corn, beans, potatoes, melons and pumpkins.
However, Thomson also has a rich history dating back to the advent
of railroads, the opening of the West and the importance of the
Mississippi River in the Midwest economy.
That history will be on display throughout 2015 as Thomson
celebrates the 150th anniversary of its founding. Sesquicentennial
celebrations are planned throughout the year, including Melon Days in
honor of the agricultural product for which the town was once famous.
It was the railroad that put Thomson on the map in 1865. In fact, the
village is named for George A. Thomson, one of the Western Union
Railroad men who platted its original location.
According to Thomson resident Lawrence Bruckner, the railroad
needed three things: level land, a good site for a bridge and an area
of high ground with little chance of flooding. Thomson found all three
on the site that now bears his name.
By 1877, according to one account, “Thomson numbers about
twenty business houses of various kinds, all of which seem to do good
business. It is a shipping port for a district of country of ten by fifteen
miles in extent, that is rich and well improved.”
Over the years, Thomson prospered as as a transportation center
for the region’s agricultural producers. Watermelons grown in the
Thomson area were shipped by rail directly to Chicago and points
beyond, and Thomson began calling itself the “Melon Capital.”
Thomson’s once-bustling railroad station has been preserved and now
is the Thomson Depot Museum. Located on Thomson’s Main Street, the
museum is open weekends from May through September.
In addition to the Depot Museum in Thomson, there are a number of
other things to see and do in the region:
• The Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center just a few miles north of
Thomson sits on the edge of a 36-acre wetlands that offers excellent
birding, wildlife viewing and vistas of the Mississippi River.
26 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
• Sandburr Run Golf Course along Route 84 is a nine-hole course
with a number of challenging holes, including the par 5, 477-yard
first hole.
• Lock and Dam 13 south of Thomson offers a look at one of
the points along the Mississippi River where the river has been
corralled but still affords riverboat traffic. From the observation
deck, you can see the river pilots maneuver huge barges into the
seemingly narrow locks.
• The Thomson Causeway Recreation Area, along the Mississippi
River just outside Thomson, has a full campground, boat launch and
places for hiking, biking and fishing along the Mississippi River. There’s
also a 1,500-year-old Native American burial mound.
• French Bluff Natural Area rises from the river bottomlands just east of
Thomson and offers high bluffs, jutting plateaus and rocky shelves and
natural beauty.
On a quiet street in Dixon, a well-kept, white, two-story house
at 816 S. Hennepin Ave., replete with a wonderful porch and
gingerbread trim, recounts the boyhood experiences and remarkable
accomplishments of the 40th president of the United States – Ronald
Wilson Reagan. A life-sized bronze statue of Dixon’s most celebrated
resident pays tribute to the president in Reagan Memorial Park, next to
his boyhood home.
The newly refurbished Northwest Territory Historic Center at 205 W.
Fifth St. is home to more Reagan memorabilia, a small theater, and
a library and research center. Just a few blocks away, the beautiful
1854 brick building at 113 W. First St. hosts The Next Picture Show, a
community fine arts center with a flair for featuring outstanding work by
local artisans.
Ronald Reagan Trail– Making of an Amerian President
Maybe it’s something in the water, or maybe it’s Illinois’ warm, pragmatic
nature. Four American Presidents have called Illinois their home at one
time or another but one of them stands above them all in Northwest
Illinois. Ronald Reagan, 40th American President, the man who helped
end the Cold War, Hollywood movie star and hometown hero of the
Blackhawk Waterways region. The Reagan Trail allows visitors to walk
in the footsteps of this young man’s life and witness the communities,
neighborhoods, parks and churches that shaped his personal character,
and ultimately, the character of the United States. This self-guided driving
tour takes you to 13 Illinois cities, from his birthplace in the small town
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of Tampico, Illinois to the grounds of Eureka College where Reagan
graduated in 1932.
You can begin your trek along the Ronald Reagan Trail in historic,
downtown Dixon where a sculpture titled “Begins the Trail,” sits
majestically along the bank of the Rock River. The life-size bronze
sculpture is the centerpiece of Dixon’s new Heritage Crossing. The $4.5
million project transformed the riverfront into a pedestrian-friendly outdoor
plaza with a pavilion, performance spaces, places to sit, places to walk
and places to enjoy the view of the Rock River. The sculpture depicts a
young, smiling Ronald Reagan astride a horse. Artist Donald Luppen
Reed named his piece “Begins the Trail” to illustrate that the values
Reagan developed in Northwest Illinois served him through his long
political life. A short walk up Hennepin Ave. from the Reagan statue will
lead you to many of the buildings and institutions that shaped his life in
Dixon. In the 1990s, the Illinois cities that figured prominently in Reagan’s
early life banded together to create the Ronald Reagan Trail. Their goal
was to make it easier for history buffs and admirers of the 40th president
to see the places that shaped Reagan as an adult. The Illinois General
Assembly officially designated the Ronald Reagan Trail on May 21, 1999.
The Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home is a simple Victorian
era farmhouse that has been lovingly restored to life as it was in the
1920s. The Northwest Territory Historic Center is where Reagan
attended grade school, the Dixon Public Library, the First Christian
Church, Loveland Museum all have been restored to what life was
like in small town America. Don’t forget to visit Lowell Park where a
teenage Reagan worked as a lifeguard on Rock River and reportedly
saved 77 lives from drowning. Each August, Dixon celebrates Ronald
Reagan Trail Days. For more information about the Ronald Reagan
Trail, visit ronaldreagantrail.net.
Thomson Sesquicentennial
Summer Events
May 23: 150th Anniversary High School Prom for
all ages.
June 19-20: Thomson Depot Days.
July 24-26: 150th Celebration, with a parade, a
pageant, a carnival, fireworks and other events.
September 5-7 (Labor Day Weekend):
Annual Tractor Pull, Softball Tournament and Harvest
Days Festival.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
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First Carson Pirie Scott Store Plaque
Amboy / 55 SE. Ave
In 1854, Samuel Carson left Ireland,
found his way to Amboy, & opened a
dry goods store called Carson Pirie &
Company, it became the foundation of
the retail department store chain.
Franklin Creek Grist Mill & Interpretive Center
ATTRACTIONS
Family Fun/
Community
parks/recreation
centers
Amboy Pharmacy
Amboy / 202 E. Main St.
815-857-2323
Old-fashioned pharmacy, soda
fountain. Homemade chocolate,
old-fashioned sodas, shakes & malts,
flavored cokes, phosphates, old-time
atmosphere, old cabinets, penny
candy & more. Closed major holidays.
Ballou Park
Dixon / 600 E. 7th St.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Playground, picnic shelters & tables,
softball diamonds, basketball courts.
Dixon Family YMCA
Dixon /110 N. Galena Ave.
815-288-9622
dixonymca.org
Indoor pool, gymnasium, wellness
center, fitness center, programs for all
ages & lifestyles.
EC Smith Park
Dixon / 455 W. 7th St.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Tennis courts, playground equipment,
picnic area and a sledding hill.
Grace Johnston Park
Dixon / S. Highland Ave.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Basketball courts, picnic area, softball
diamonds, playground.
John Dixon Park
Dixon / 515 N. Galena Ave.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Dixon’s oldest; playground, shelter.
Lowell Park
Dixon / 2114 Lowell Park Rd.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
240 acres, Nature Center, restrooms,
parking, boat launches & Rock River
access, fishing, hiking, nature preserve,
cross country skiing, shelters, grills,
playground & more.
Lowell Park Nature Center
Dixon / 2114 Lowell Park Rd.
815-288-5209
dixonparks.com
Nature Center has a variety of displays
that bring awareness of the park
surroundings. Also live animals to
educate young & old in the intricacies
of nature. Great exploration for all
ages. Admission is free.
Meadows Park
Dixon / Lowell Parkway
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Biking/hiking trails; wooden playland
area; soccer fields; mini golf complex;
picnic areas; Rock River shoreline
fishing access; snowmobile &
equestrian trails.
Mendota Hills Windfarm
Paw Paw / Chicago Rd. & Bingham Rd.
The largest commercial windfarm in
Illinois with 63 towering windmills.
Midway Drive-In Theater
Vaile Park
Dixon / 251 Custer Ave.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Picnic shelter, volleyball courts,
playground, horseshoe courts
Farm Tours/
Agri Tourism
West Wind Alpacas
Amboy / 341 Rockyford Rd.
815-719-1557
alpacasonly.com
Tours of facility; see unique members of
the camel family.
Fishing Guides
Rock River Professional Guide Service
Dixon / 1521 S. College Ave.
815-288-6855
Denny Halgren’s guided fishing parties
for trophy flathead catfish, walleye &
channel cat. 6 hour trips from Oregon
to Erie on the Rock River.
Dixon / 91 Palmyra Rd
847-647-3124
themidwaydrivein.net
Pack up the kids and enjoy the
nostalgia, comfort and fun of attending
a drive-in theater! One of only 20
remaining drive-in theaters in Illinois.
We host MAJOR events including
celebrity guest appearances, concerts,
Flea Markets, an authentic 50’s diner
serving classic fare, and much more!
Go to our website for a full listing of
upcoming movies & events and friend
us on Facebook!
Golf
O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Jellystone Park
Timber Creek Golf Course
Amboy / 970 Green Wing Rd.
815-857-3860
jellystoneamboy.com
3 heated pools, 3 kiddie pools,
5 bathhouses, double flume
waterslide, paddle boats, kayaks,
mini-golf & more.
Page Park
Dixon / 251 Custer Ave.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
45-acres next to Rock River, boat ramp,
ADA dock, bank fishing, hiking, picnic
shelters, ball diamonds, tennis courts.
Plum Hollow Family Center
Dixon / 1933 IL Rt. 26
815-288-7102
bowldixon.com
Bowling, laser tag, indoor rock
climbing & more. Perfect for parties!
28 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Lost Nation Golf Club
Dixon / 6931 S. Lost Nation Rd.
815-652-4212
18-hole public golf course with
clubhouse, proshop, cart/
equipment rental.
Shady Oaks Golf Course
Amboy / 577 U.S. Rt. 52
815-849-5424
shadyoakscc.com
18 holes, clubhouse, proshop, club/
equipment rental, banquet facilities.
Dixon / 729 Timber Creek Rd
815-288-5110
timbercreekdixon.com
18 holes
History &
Heritage
Amboy Depot Museum
Amboy / E. Main St.
815-857-4700
amboydepotmuseum.org
A former depot built in 1876 served as
division headquarters of the IL. Central
Railroad in Amboy. Architecturally
unique, the two-story building is built
of brick.
Ashton Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural
Ashton / 810 Main St.
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg.15
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Begins the Trail’ Reagan Statue
Dixon / River St.
815-284-DIXON
discoverdixon.com
Local artist Don Reed’s bronze statue
of Ronald Reagan on his palomino
horse is the centerpiece of the open-air
plaza Heritage Crossing, on River St,
downtown Dixon.
Burma Shave-Like Signs
Sublette / Hwy 52 S.
815-849-5582
subletteweb.com
Sublette was awarded the Burma
Shave-like signs by Reminisce Magazine, the only such site in IL.
Chaplin Creek Historic Village
Franklin Grove / 1715 Whitney Rd.
815-990-5090
chaplincreek.com
An evolving, full-scale historical
restoration project depicting a prairie
settlement typical of the middle 19th
century. Several historically significant
buildings & artifacts have been
relocated from the surrounding area.
Open May - Sept., Sat. & Sun.
12pm-4pm, or by appointment.
Dixon Lincoln Highway Interpretive Gazebo
Dixon / S. Galena & River St.
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
Franklin Grove / 1893 Twist Rd.
815-456-2718
Watch the four-ton waterwheel power
the millstone to grind corn like in the
1800s at this reconstructed, timber
frame, four-story 1847 grist mill.
Dixon / Lincoln Statue Dr.
815-288-1840
A statue of 23-year-old Lincoln as he
served as a volunteer soldier in the
Black Hawk Indian War of 1832.
Loveland Museum
Dixon / 513 W. Second St.
815-284-2741
lovelandcommunityhouse.org
Photos of Ronald Reagan, fossils,
Civil War weapons, pioneer tools &
interactive exhibits.
Lowell Park Nature Center
Mills & Petrie Memorial Building
Dixon / River St.
815-973-0931
discoverdixon.com
Dixon’s Riverfront Renewal project
which turned two blocks of riverfront
parking into a downtown open-air
gathering place. Features walking
& biking trails, performance space,
restrooms, & life-sized statue of Ronald
Reagan. Tent rentals for weddings,
receptions, parties & events.
H.I. Lincoln Building
Franklin Grove / 136 N. Elm St.
815-456-3030
franklingroveil.org
Originally built in 1860 by Abe
Lincoln’s cousin as a dry goods store,
headquarters of the Lincoln Hwy
Association, a museum & gift shop.
Historic Dixon Theater
Historic Lee County Courthouse
Dixon / 113 S. Peoria
815-284-2224
Museum showcases the newspaper
& its role in Dixon’s history. Displays
include an old fashioned 1850’s
printing press, historic newspapers &
four walls of photographs showcasing
the Telegraph & Dixon’s past.
Lincoln Statue
Heritage Crossing
Dixon’s Railroad Street Arches
Dixon Telegraph Museum
|
Franklin Grove /119 N. Elm St
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
for more information see page 15
Dixon / 106 W. River Rd.
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
Dixon / First, Second & Third Sts.
815-284-1134
leecountyhistory.com
On National Register of Historic
Places, three limestone arches built in
1855 to support IL Central Railroad
trains as they passed through Dixon.
Lee
Dixon / 2114 Lowell Park Rd.
815-288-5209
Natural resource education & exhibits
of native plants & wildlife; USFWS/
IDNR-licensed live educational birds
of prey.
Franklin Grove Lincoln Highway Mural
Dixon / 114 S. Galena Ave.
815-284-2715
dixontheatre.com
One of the most beautiful theaters
from Chicago to Des Moines, it
recently underwent major restoration
& again hosts concerts & acclaimed
performances.
Dixon Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural
|
Dixon / 112 E. Second St.
815-288-5676
Completed in 1901 & built on land
donated by the founder of Dixon,
“Father” John Dixon. A stone marker
commemorates Abraham Lincoln’s
address to an assembly on the
courthouse lawn.
Lee County Historical Society
Dixon / 113 Madison Ave.
815-284-1134
leecountyhistory.com
History information including complete
burial records, 1820-1930 census
records, Dixon Telegraph microfilm
from 1851-present, & more.
Ashton / IL Rt. 38
Named after a pair of Civil War
veterans that “adopted” the town, the
building houses city offices, the public
library & meeting space.
Mormon Cemetery
Amboy / Rocky Ford Rd.
815-857-3814
Contains the grave of one of Brigham
Young’s wives.
Mormon Plaque
Amboy / 59 SE. Ave.
815-288-3814
One of the first Mormon Church
settlements, includes a memorial
plaque on the early history of the
Church of Latter Day Saints.
Northwest Territory Historic Center
Dixon / 205 W. 5th St.
815-288-5508
nthc.org
A History Research & Learning Center
housed in President Ronald Reagan’s
boyhood South Central School; in his
hometown of Dixon.
Old Settlers Log Cabin
Dixon / Lincoln Statue Dr.
815-284-1134
Built in 1894, the log cabin was
relocated to the former site of Fort
Dixon as a lasting tribute to the area’s
early settlers.
Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home &
Visitors Center
Dixon / 816 Hennepin Ave.
815-288-5176
reaganhome.org
Boyhood home restored to 1920s era,
when Ronald Reagan & family lived
there. Guided tours; gift shop.
Ronald Reagan Trail
ronaldreagantrail.net
13 Communities in NW Illinois
celebrating the legacy of President
Ronald Reagan. Many historic
landmarks, museums, & events
honoring this great man.
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Steward Depot
Steward / 206 Tyler Ave.
stewardil.com
Built in 1896, it was deeded to the
village in 1976 by the Burlington
Northern Railroad.
Sugar Grove Church & School
Dixon / 352 Timbercreek Rd.
815-284-9881
Over 100 years old, it’s been restored
& used for social gatherings.
Hunting,
Preserves &
Guides
Green River State Wildlife Area
Harmon / 375 Game Rd.
815-379-2324
2563 acres, parking, dump station,
camping, hiking, horse trails, hunting.
Rock River Professional Guide Service
Veteran’s Memorial Park
Dixon / 1521 S. College Ave.
815-288-6855
Denny Halgren, with 30 years of
experience, guided fishing parties
for trophy flathead catfish, walleye &
channel cat. 6 hour trips Oregon to
Erie on the Rock River.
Reagan Peace Park
Ohio / 727 Maytown Rd.
815-379-2427
rogershuntclub.com
Public hunting & memberships for
pheasant, quail, chuckar partridge,
Hungarian partridge, wild turkey,
doves & deer in season.
Veteran’s Memorial Arch
Dixon / S. Galena Ave.
Lighted historic memorial arch has
honored veterans of war since 1919.
Dixon / IL Rt. 2 W.
honorourvets.org
Dedicated to all veterans of military
service. Fountain, flags, Lest We Forget
arbor, & artifacts from war such as
a 155 Howitzer, a Cobra AH-1F
helicopter, & M-60 tank.
Dixon / Galena Ave. & 2nd St.
Donated by a Bulgarian immigrant,
the sculpture includes a full-size replica
of a section of the Berlin Wall, &
recognizes President Reagan’s efforts to
attain peace & freedom.
Wood Carvings at Amboy City Park E.
Amboy / E. Main St.
815-857-3814
More than 30 tree trunk wood
carvings depict the lives of Reagan,
Lincoln & Grant.
THEATRE/
NIGHT LIFE
Dixon Stage Left
Dixon / 306 W. 1st St.
312-420-8715
dixonstageleft.com
Lakes & Rivers
Lowell Park
Dixon / 2114 Lowell Park Rd.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
240 acre Nature Center, restrooms,
boat launches to Rock River, fishing,
hiking, nature preserve, cross country
skiing, shelters, grills, playground &
more. Young Reagan saved 77 lives
here as a lifeguard.
Encounter
the fun
Hometown Festivals
and Unique Sites of
Lee County, Illinois
Historic Dixon Theatre
Dixon / 114 S Galena Ave
dixontheatre.com
Foolery Improv
Dixon / 107 S Peoria Ave
fooleryImprov.com
Rosbrook Studio
Dixon / 107 S. Peoria Ave.
facebook.com/RosbrookStudio
Horse/Equestrian
Franklin Creek State Natural Area
Franklin Grove/1872 Twist Rd.
815-456-2878
rrha.tripod.com/rrtha
12 miles of trails, shelter house,
drinking water, rest rooms & outdoor
show area. Go to website for events.
Meadows Park
Rogers Hunting Club, Inc.
Dixon / Washington Ave.
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
567 acres, restrooms, fishing, bike &
horse trails, hunting.
• Amboy Depot Days
• Ashton Summer Celebration
• Dixon Petunia Festival
• Franklin Grove Summer
Harvest Festival
• Paw Paw Labor Day Celebration
• Sublette Farm Toy & Tractor Show
... and so much more!
Call or
visit our
website
to request
our FREE
Visitor’s
Guide
815.288.1840
encounterleecounty.com
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
29
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Meadows Park
Dixon / Lowell Parkway
815-284-3306
dixonparks.com
Biking/hiking trails; wooden playland
area; soccer fields; mini golf complex;
picnic areas; Rock River shoreline
fishing access; snowmobile &
equestrian trails.
Marinas/
Boat Ramps
Custer Avenue Boat Dock
Dixon / 2000 W. First St.
815-284-3306
Parking lot, boat launches, canoe
access, fishing.
Dixon Boat Ramp
Dixon / 1485 Fellows Ave.
815-288-1485
Boat launches, canoe access, fishing.
Lowell Park Boat Ramp
Dixon / 2114 Lowell Park Rd
dixonparks.com
Page Park Boat Ramp
Dixon / Page Park
815-284-3306
Parking lot, boat launches, canoe
access, fishing.
State Parks &
Forests
Amboy Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary
Amboy/US 52 & Mormon Rd.
illinoisaudubon.org
272 acre of wetlands offering a rare
and fragile ecosystem, which includes
endangered turtles, many birds and
unique plant life. It is located near
the intersection of U.S. Rt 52 and
Mormon Road 3 miles south of Amboy.
Open to the public 7 days a week for
walking and bird-watching. No dogs
allowed due to sensitive plant and
wildlife.
Franklin Creek State Natural Area
Franklin Grove / 1872 Twist Rd.
815-456-2878
664-acre nature preserve park. Hiking,
equestrian area, snowmobiling, crosscountry skiing, fishing, hunting, picnic
areas. Franklin Creek Grist Mill.
Nachusa Grasslands
Franklin Grove / 8772 S Lowden Rd.
815-456-2340
nature.org
Hiking, bird watching. 1500 acres
includes dry gravel hill prairie, black
oak & bur oak savanna, calcareous
fern & seeps & sedge meadows.
Food &
Dining
Bakery
Baker Street
Dixon / 111 W. First St.
815-285-2253
Lee
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Folsom’s Bakery
Dixon / 847 N Galena Ave.
815-622-7870
www.folsomsbakery.com
Cafés & Delis
Ginko Tree Café
Dixon / 216 W First St.
815-677-9144
Ethnic
Bangkok Gardens
Dixon / 504 S. Galena Ave.
815-667-9038
bangkokgrardens.net63.net
Basil Tree Ristorante
Dixon / 123 E. First St.
815-288-7555
Fiesta Cancun
Dixon/200 Keul Rd.
815-284-0881
La Fiesta
Sublette / 107 W. Main St.
815-849-9224
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Red Apple Family Restaurant
Dixon / 1130 Franklin Grove Rd.
815-284-4549
River’s Edge Inn
Dixon / 2303 W. 1st St.
815-288-7396
Sunset Inn Restaurant
Amboy / 1578 US Rt. 30
815-857-3482
Town & Country Restaurant
Dixon / 1135 N. Galena Ave.
815-288-1016
Fine Dining
319 Bistro
Dixon / 319 W 1st St.
815- 677-9379
Basil Tree Ristorante
Dixon / 123 E. First St.
815-288-7555
www.basiltree2008.com
Galena Steak House
Mr. Tequila Bar & Grill
Dixon / 1101 N. Galena Ave.
815-285-1625
Salamandra’s Mexican
Amboy / 55 SE. Ave.
815-857-3486
Touch of Thai
Dixon / 308 W. First St.
815-677-9341
oromrestaurant.net
Dixon / 844 N Galena Ave.
815-677-9280
Dixon / 105 W. First St.
815-285-0874
Dixon / 221 W. First St.
815-284-8499
Espresso/
Coffee Bars
Baker Street - Dixon
Dixon / 111 W. First St.
815-285-2253
Family
Restaurants
Amboy Family Restaurant & Pizza
Junction
Amboy / 211 E. Main St.
815-857-3985
Arthur’s Garden Deli
Long Branch Saloon
Orom Restaurant
Pizza, Grills &
Pubs
Al & Leda Pizzeria
Dixon / 325 W. Everett
815-284-3932
Alley Loop Saloon
Dixon / 80 S. Hennepin Ave.
815-285-2253
Amboy Family Restaurant & Pizza
Junction
Amboy / 211 Main St.
815-857-398v5
Angelo’s III
W hiteside
Don’s Alley
Lee / 101 S. Viking Vie
815-824-8405
First Street Pub
Dixon / 222 W. 1st St.
815-288-2395
Gathering Place, The
Paw Paw / Chicago Rd.
815-627-3421
Huddle Cafe & Pizza
Ashton / 802 Main St.
815-453-2677
huddlecafe.com
Joe’s Pizzeria
Dixon / 119 S. Peoria Ave.
815-288-3371
Jones Tap
Paw Paw / Chicago Rd.
815-627-8971
Last Alarm Firehouse Pub, The
Amboy / 43 S East Ave.
815-857-3483
Mama Cimino’s
Dixon / 114 N. Peoria Ave.
815-288-4448
MaMa Maria Pizzaria
Amboy / 203 E. Short St.
815-857-4477
Maria’s Pizza
Dixon / 420 W. 3rd St.
815-288-6969
Mr. Tequila Bar & Grill
Dixon / 844 N Galena Ave.
815-677-9280
Railside Bar & Grill
Nelson / 207 S. Butler
815-251-4633
Ralphie and Lu Lu’s
Ashton / 812 Main St.
815-453-2103
Road House Pizzeria & Pub
Sublette / Rt. 52
815-849-9999
Sow Belly’s
Dixon / 1133 N. Galena Ave.
815-288-1110
Dixon / 800 N Galena Ave.
815-285-0055
angelospizzeria.net
Bogeys Bar & Grill
Bogeys Bar & Grill
Stables, The
Flynnie’s Diner
Bombdigity Bar & Grill
Quick-Service
Food
Dixon / 729 Timber Creek Rd.
815-288-5110
Dixon / 609 Depot Ave.
815-973-8129
Huddle Cafe & Pizza
Dixon / 729 Timber Creek Rd.
815-288-5110
Dixon/628 Palmyra Rd
815-288-6300
www.bombdigitydixon.com
Ashton / 802 Main St.
815-453-2677
huddlecafe.com
Centennial Bar & Grill, The
Lincolnway Cafe
Corner Spot, The
Franklin Grove / 137 Elm St.
815-456-2235
Railside Bar & Grill
Nelson / 207 S. Butler
815-251-4633
30 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Paw Paw / 347 Chicago Rd.
815-627-3212
Dixon/510 Chicago Ave.
815-677-9095
Depot, The
Amboy / 49 SE. Ave.
815-857-3555
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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Bavaria Haus Antiques
Country Markets
Unique Embroidery
Wineries, Wine
Bars & Tasting
Rooms
Happy Trails Antique Shop
Dixon / Hay Market Square
815-288-5043
Waterfront Gifts
Dixon / 219 W. 1st St.
815-285-3496
thecrystalcork.com
Dixon / 710 S. Galena Ave.
815-288-1178
Sublette Fast Stop
Sublette / 508 N. Pennsylvania
815-849-9013
Crystal Cork Wine Shoppe, The
Meeting,
Convention
& Reception
Space
Brandywine, The
Dixon / 441 IL RT 2
815-284-8484
Loveland Community House
Dixon / 513 W 2nd St.
815-284-2741
lovelandcommunityhouse.org
Post House Ballroom
Dixon / 100 W. 2nd St.
815-288-0892
posthouseballroom.com
Timber Creek Amber Room
Dixon / 729 Timber Creek Rd.
815-288-5110
timbercreekdixon.com
Shopping
Antiques
Amboy Arts & Antiques
Dixon / 404 N. Lincoln Ave.
815-288-3133
Dixon / 221 S. Peoria Ave.
815-284-0400
Mr. & Mrs. P’s Antiques
Reubin’s Relics
Dixon / 1112 S. Galena Ave.
815-994-0709
Yesterday’s Furniture & Antiques
Dixon / 316 S. Lincoln Ave.
815-284-4616
Artisan Works
Busy Bee Crafts
Sublette / 1869 Tower Rd.
815-440-2131
Crystal Cork Art Quarterly
Dixon / 219 W. First St.
815-285-3496
distinctivegardensinc.com
This visual arts venue offers quarterly
exhibitions of local to internationallyacclaimed artists.
dezine99
Dixon/711 N. Brinton Ave.
815-284-2084
www.dezine.net
H.I. Lincoln Store
Franklin Grove / 136 N. Elm St.
815-456-3030
franklingroveil.org
Next Picture Show, The
Amboy / 231 Main St.
815-780-4880
Dixon / 113 W. First St.
815-285-4924
thenextpictureshow.org
Atrium Antiques
Scheffler Art & Gallery
Dixon / 404 N Galena Ave.
815-440-5280
Attic Treasures
Dixon / 639 Palmyra Rd.
815-973-9062
Franklin Grove/107 Elm St.
Jerryschefflerarts.com
T M Ceramics
Sublette / 251 Wolf Rd.
815-849-9011
Dixon Farmer’s Market
Franklin Grove / 123 Rt. 38
815-456-3023
Dixon / 212 W. 1st St.
815-288-4500
Paw Paw Farmer’s Market
Paw Paw / Community Center
815-627-9404
Specialty Shopping
Sublette’s Farmers Market
Sublette / Sublette Centennial Park 3rd
& W. St.
815-849-5425
subletteweb.com
Gifts &
Collectibles
Aubrey’s Walk-In Closet
Dixon / 221 S. Peoria Ave.
815-973-7230
Books on First
Dixon / 202 W. First St.
815-285-2665
Cottage Garden Quilts
Amboy Pharmacy
Ashton / 705C N. 1st St.
815-453-7534
Amboy / 202 E. Main
815-857-2323
Crystal Cork Wine Shoppe, The
Distinctive Gardens
Dixon / 219 W. First St.
815-285-3496
thecrystalcork.com
Dixon / 2020 Lowell Park Rd.
815-285-0014
distinctivegardensinc.com
dezine99
Dixon Floral Galleria
Dixon / 116 E. First St.
800-472-1270
Dixon/711 N. Brinton Ave
815-284-2084
www.dezine.net
Frame Works, The
Downtown Sports
Dixon / 1202 S. Galena Ave.
815-284-2255
downtownsportsonline.com
Dixon / 210 W. First St.
815-288-2400
From: Me To: You Gift Shop
Franklin Grove / 217 E. Lincoln Hwy.
815-456-3600
Palmyra Greenhouse
Dixon / 489 Palmyra Rd.
815-285-2800
palmyragreenhouse.com
Pam’s Hallmark
Dixon / 1331 N. Galena Ave.
815-288-6600
Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home &
Visitors Center
Dixon / 816 Hennepin Ave.
815-288-5176
reaganhome.org
Palmyra Greenhouse
Dixon / 489 Palmyra Rd.
815-285-2800
palmyragreenhouse.com
Petals to Parties
Dixon/123 W. 1st St.
815-288-7496
Poppin’ on the Rock Gourmet
Popcorn Shop
Dixon / 78 S. Hennepin Ave.
815-288-1325
Weeds Floral & Gifts
Dixon / 732 N. Galena Ave.
815-288-3041
weedsdesigns.com
Dixon / 92 S. Peoria Ave.
815-288-1234
Dixon / 87 S. Galena Ave.
815-288-9329
BBY Carry-Out Chicken
Dixon / 216 W. River Rd.
815-288-4991
Beef Hut, The
Amboy / 305 E. Bluff
Rose’s Chicken Shack
Sublette / 1922 Tower Rd.
815-849-5456
Sow Belly’s
Dixon / 92 S Peoria Ave.
815-288-1234
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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Sandstone bluffs, old-growth forests, sedate state
parks, rippling waters, railroad history and the iconic Black Hawk
The Prince of the Prairie Returns
Majestic American bison herd reintroduced to Nachusa Grasslands
If you tried to build an animal ideally suited to thrive on the vast prairie
of Illinois, you’d be hard pressed to design a better beast than the
American bison.
Tough, resilient and nearly weatherproof, these magnificent beasts
once numbered in the millions across the North American landscape.
Their hides and flesh supported and sustained the continent’s human
population for thousands of years.
With European settlement, however, the American bison nearly
disappeared. Its habitat turned into cropland and its numbers
decimated by hunting, the bison population plunged to about 1,000
animals by the turn of the last century.
Through various conservation efforts the mighty bison is making
a comeback. One such project is taking place at the Nachusa
Grasslands in the heart of the Blackhawk Waterways region of Illinois.
In October 2014, the Nachusa was reintroduced to an old friend
-- the American bison. The Nature Conservancy, which operates the
Nachusa Grassland, introduced 30 bison to a 1,500-acre section of
the grassland.
It took years of preparation: the diverse mix of grasses had to be
restored to a suitable habitat. The bison themselves were taken from a
genetically pure bison herd that roams near Wind Cave National Park
in South Dakota.
The sight of an American bison is breathtaking. They typically stand
6 feet at the shoulder and weigh more than 1,000 pounds. Despite
their bulk, the animals are amazingly agile. They can run as fast as a
horse, and turn quickly. Unlike cattle or other domestic livestock, they
don’t tolerate herding or penning. (There’s an old saying -- you can
herd a bison anywhere it wants to go.)
32 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
This is Illinois’ first conservation herd -- not raised on a ranch for meat,
but for the purpose of restoring a piece of the North American plains
ecosystem. The bison will be kept as wild as possible and virtually
unmanaged by humans. The only exception is the one day a year they
are corralled for minimal veterinary care.
Statue signal your arrival in Ogle County, where the wonders of the
natural world blend beautifully with magnificent man-made attractions
and special events. Ogle County is home to the region’s most
recognizable landmark – sculptor Lorado Taft’s famous 50-foot tribute
to Native Americans, commonly called the Black Hawk Statue. This
536,770-pound work of art, which originated from an 8-inch sketch,
gazes across the Rock River from its eastern bank, perched 125 feet
above the waterway. At its dedication on July 1, 1911, Taft noted that
the statue, which he called The Eternal Indian, had essentially grown
from the ground. And what a ground it is! Ogle County is home to
many of the region’s quintessential attractions, including White Pines
Forest State Park, where virgin stands of pine, log cabins, lodge
dining, live theater and natural beauty abound. Just 90 miles west of
Chicago, the scent of towering pines permeates this place, where
guests find solace on moss-covered hiking trails, in cozy one-room
cabins, and around crackling campfires at night.
Just minutes from White Pines, visitors discover nature preserves, parks,
go-cart rides, golf and mini-golf, canoeing and kayaking, specialty
shops and historic sites. One of the most popular is the John Deere
Historic Site in nearby Grand Detour, where the famous inventor built
his family home in 1836 and revolutionized farming.
Throughout its small towns and villages, Ogle County celebrates its
Ogle
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heritage with frequent family-friendly events ranging from Rochelle’s
Railroad Days and Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival to Oregon’s
Autumn on Parade and Candlelight Christmas Walk.
Rochelle Railroad Park is a “must see” for railroading fans
young and old. With over 80 trains per day, it’s an ideal spot for
train watching. A raised platform allows viewers to experience and
photograph two Class One rail lines crossing at the “diamond”.
Tune your radio to 106.9 FM to listen to radio transmissions from
dispatchers to locomotive engineers. The gift shop sells merchandise
from Railroad Relics which includes items such as railroad timetables,
dining car china, engineer data books, logoed items, books,
commemorative spikes, railroad employee clothing, model train items,
and many more railroad related items. Also available for sale are
“Atlas” O, N & HO gauge trains. They also have an active ATCS
display which shows locations of trains in the area so you can be
ready for their arrival. Snacks, drinks and souvenirs are also available
along with plenty of train displays and memorabilia. Open year round
10am - 5pm everyday except Tuesday.
Flagg Rochelle Historical Society Museum holds a large
collection of antiques and genealogical information. One of the
more important artifacts is the 1915 Partin-Palmer automobile built
in Rochelle, which is the only known one in existence. Group tours
available for a nominal fee. Call for hours and special events.
Visitors are welcome
When the bison were first introduced in the fall of 2014, they were
kept fairly isolated so they could acclimate to their new surroundings.
In 2015, however, the public will be able to see the Nachusa bison.
This summer a visitor use facility is scheduled to open. It will afford
visitors a rare chance to view the American bison in their natural
surroundings.
The Nachusa Grasslands are located four miles northwest of Franklin
Grove, on Lowden Road. The site is also a short drive from Oregon,
Dixon and Grand Detour. From Chicago, the Nachusa Grasslands are
a 2-hour drive. The Grasslands have long been a popular place for
day hikes, birding and other low-impact outdoor activities.
The information kiosk, at the visitor entrance on Lowden Road, is a
good place to start. A few things to keep in mind when you visit:
• Wear long pants, sturdy shoes, and sun protection.
• Bring a bottle of water.
• A Port-a-John is located by the visitor kiosk.
• Hiking only, no pets, bikes, camping.
• You can hike on or off trails.
• No collecting of any kind.
• Open dawn to dusk.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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On Any Sunday Motorcycle Museum
Polo / 208 W. Mason St.
815-622-6870
90 motorcycles on display featuring
European bikes from 1928 - 1978.
Open by appointment only.
Pride of Oregon Paddle Wheel Boat
ATTRACTIONS
Adventure Sports
Byron Dragway
Byron / 7287 River Rd.
815-234-8405
byrondragway.com
Playground of power!
¼ mile IHRA dragstrip.
Chicagoland Skydiving Center
Oregon Sculpture Trail, The
Oregon
815-732-1338
oregonil.com/sculpture-trail
Beginning in 1911 with Lorado Taft’s
sculpture, the trail’s legacy of art has
expanded to numerous pieces.
Polo Area Community Theatre
Polo / 117 N. Franklin Ave.
polotheatre.org
Rochelle / 1207 Gurler Rd.
Koritz Field
815-797-9272
skydivecsc.com
The best skydiving school in the
US. Now located at Koritz Field in
Rochelle. More first-time skydivers than
any other skydiving center in Chicago
& the Midwest. Brand new skydive
aircraft & we maintain our safety record
& reputation as the best.
Vince Carney Community Theater
Da Worm Wagon Bait & Tackle
Byron Recreational Path
Byron / Rock River Boat Dock
815-871-2150
Live bait. Open seasonally.
KI Tracks
Oregon / 5067 W. Pines Rd.
815-732-3073
kitracksmx.com
35 acres family fun! Cross country
trails, a large mud pit, MX track,
800-foot grass drag strip, & kids only
pee-wee track. Dirt bikes & ATVs.
Rock River Outfitters
Oregon / 114 N. River Rd.
815-732-9999
rockriveroutfitter.com
Source for fishing & hunting
supplies. Live bait, tackle, firearms,
ammo, hunting & fishing licenses.
Rock River Riders M/C
Polo / 6719 W. Pines Rd.
815-732-4649
rrrmc.tripod.com
AMA-sanctioned motocross hill climbs
(semi-pro), dirt drags & trial race.
TJ’s Canoe Rentals
Oregon / 305 First St.
815-732-4516
tjscanoerental.com
Five or 12-mi. trip; camp on the river.
The Arts
Byron Civic Theater
Byron / 850 N. Colfax
815-234-3000
bctmagic.com
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Rochelle / Hickory Grove Civic Center
1127 N. 7th St.
815-764-ACTS
vcctrochelle.org
White Pines Inn Dinner Theatre
Mt Morris / 6712 W. Pines Rd.
815-946-3817
whitepinesinn.com
Biking & Hiking
815-234-5500
byronforestpreserve.com
Biking, running & walking path starts
at Byron Forest Preserve, crosses the
Rock River.
Carnation Park
Oregon/1 Webster St.
815-732-3101
www.oregonpark.org
Carnation Park consists of
approximately 5.5 acres along the
scenic Rock River. Amenities: Parking;
Portable seasonal restrooms; Bike trail;
Fishing; Observation deck
Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve
Forreston / corner of W. Grove &
Freeport Rd.
nwilaudubon.org/elkhorn-creek.asp
The Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve
contains an impressive variety of
geologic and hydrologic features,
wetlands, hillside prairies and their
associated plant communities which
draw many species of birds, butterflies
& wildlife
Four Sisters Bike Path
Rochelle / 735 N. 2nd St.
815-562-7813
rochellechamber.org/parkdist
4-mile bike path along beautiful
Kyte River.
Boat/Canoe
Rentals
TJ’s Canoe Rentals
Oregon / 305 1st St.
815-732-4516
tjscanoerental.com
Rock River canoe rentals. 5 or 12 mile
trip or canoe camp on the river.
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Willow Creek Realty, Ltd.
Grand Detour / 8195 S. Rt. 2
815-652-8791
Rental of pontoon boats, kayaks
& canoes.
Weld Memorial Park
Stillman Valley / 5935 Weld Park Rd.
10-acre county park with hiking,
recreation areas, parking, restrooms.
Community Parks
Family Fun &
Amusement
Rochelle / 735 N. 2nd St.
815-562-7813
rochellechamber.org/parkdist
Manages several parks & rec facilities
Polo/2570 N. Westbranch Road
815-946-2500
www.barnacopia.com
Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District
MC Park
Monroe Center / 400 West St.
monroecenter61052.com
Baseball & softball diamonds,
playground, picnic area with grills
Mix Park
Oregon / IL Rt. 2 S.
815-732-3101
oregonpark.org
Park District facility, hosts annual Fields
Project Art Festival & showcases
sculpture.
Oregon Park District, The
Oregon / 304 S. Fifth St.
815-732-3101
oregonpark.org
140 plus acres at 10 different
parks, baseball/softball diamonds,
playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis
courts, walking trails, sand volleyball
courts, a concert area, 2 horseshoe
courts & more.
Oregon Park East
Oregon / River Rd.
815-732-3101
oregonpark.org
23-acre site access above & below
Oregon dam: fishing & canoeing.
Observation deck east side of the
Oregon Dam overlooking Rock River
Valley & Downtown Oregon.
Oregon Park West
Oregon / Oregon Trail Rd.
815-732-3101
oregonpark.org
Tennis courts, lighted basketball courts,
baseball diamonds, soccer fields,
sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits,
playgrounds, cooking grills & picnic
tables. Circling bike trail.
Skare Park
Rochelle / Flagg & Brooklyn Rd.
815-562-7813
rochellechamber.org/parkdist
320-acre park includes horse trails,
hiking/biking trails, ball fields,
grilling/picnic areas, horseshoe pits,
playgrounds, shelters, & more. Includes
Historic Skare Homestead Museum.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Barnacopia
Blackhawk Model Railroad Club
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-918-4468
blackhawkmodelrailroad.com
Large HO scale layout. Free open to
the public Sat. 10a-4p/Sun 1-4p/
Wed. noon-3p. Groups by appt.
Byron Dragway
Byron / 7287 River Rd.
815-234-8405
byrondragway.com
The playground of power! ¼ mile
IHRA dragstrip
Byron Forest Preserve & Jarrett Prairie
Center
Byron / 7993 N. River Rd
815-234-8535
byronforestpreserve.com
Hundreds of acres of prairie &
woodlands. Landscape gives
opportunity to see how most of Illinois
looked hundreds of years ago. Enjoy
hiking trails, picnic shelters & an
observatory.
Chelle-Crest Family Bowling Center
Oregon / 1469 IL Rt. 2
815-732-6761
maxsons.net
Authentic102-foot paddle-wheel boat.
This 150-passenger vessel is docked
at Maxson’s Riverside Restaurant and
offers luncheon & dinner cruises on the
Rock River. Wheelchair accessible.
Open April 1st – Nov 15th.
Rochelle Railroad Park & Visitor Center
Rochelle / 124 N. 9th St.
815-562-7031
rochellerailroadpark.org
Over 80 trains daily. Ideal spot to train
watch from raised platform. Exhibits
of railroading history plus gift shop
& visitor information area. Authentic
Whitcomb Locomotive is on site.
Summer Fun Recreation
Oregon / 6030 W. Pines Rd.
815-732-7004
Go-karting, miniature golf, a shooting
gallery & summer breeze concessions:
ice cream, food & drinks.
Tabernacle of David Gardens, The
Monroe Center / 5389 Kilbuck Rd
936-649-5062
hamishkandavid.org
Ha Mishkan David (the Tabernacle of
David) Gardens is 8 acres of beautiful
landscaping & gardens open for
weddings and special ceremonies. Go
to website for a full listing of services
TJ’s Canoe Rentals
Oregon / 305 S. 1st St.
815-732-4516
tjscanoerental.com
Enjoy a day on the beautiful Rock River.
Take a 5 mile or 12 mile trip or canoe
camp on the river.
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Oregon Golf Club
Weiskopf Observatory
PrairieView Golf Club
White Pines Roller Rink
Silver Ridge Golf Club
Rochelle / 1172 Lincoln Hwy.
815-562-4822
Bowling, restaurant & bar.
Byron / 7993 N. River Rd.
815-234-8535
byronforestpreserve.com
11” Celestron reflecting telescope.
Mt. Morris / 6929 W. Pines Rd.
815-946-9988
skatingfun.com
N IL’ largest roller rink. Top 40 music,
live DJ, snack bar, & arcade.
Farm Tours/Agri
Tourism
Dreamswept Alpaca Farm
Byron / 3097 Marrill Rd.
815-954-6210
[email protected]
dreamsweptalpacas.com
Learn how alpaca fiber is processed.
Alpaca products, yarn, roving & raw
fiber available for purchase; also
handmade soaps & bath products.
Tours by appt.
Hailey’s Winery
Byron / 114 S. Franklin St.
815-234-2220
haileyswinery.com
Family owned, quality homemade
wines, 8 different varieties for tasting &
by the glass, can pair with homemade
bread, cheeses or chocolates.
Willow Bend Alpaca Farm
Forreston / 11971 W. East Rd.
815-482-1298
[email protected]
willowbendalpaca.com
Offering tours by appt. only.
Golf
Edgewood Golf Course
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Atwood Park Veterans Memorials
Oregon / 250 S Daysville Rd.
815-732-1232
9 holes
Rochelle / 20th St. & 10th Ave.
815-562-7813
rochellechamber.org/parkdist.asp
Built by local Boy Scouts to honor local
war veterans, these are unique as the
only war memorials in the United States
built by youth.
Byron / 7993 N. River Rd.
815-234-4653
prairieviewgolf.com
18-hole
Barnacopia Farm Museum
Polo/2570 N. Westbranch Rd.
815-946-2500
www.barnacopia.com
Oregon / 3069 Hill Rd.
815-734-4440
18-hole
Battleground Memorial Park
Stillman Valley / 218 W. Main St.
815-645-2603
Veterans of the Black Hawk War
(1832) were buried here after the only
war in Illinois.
Skare Park Driving Range
Rochelle / Flagg Rd.
815-562-7672
rochellechamber.org/parkdist.asp
Golf driving range.
History & Heritage
1870 Buffalo Grove Lime Kiln
Polo / Galena Trail Rd.
815-946-4142
polohistoricalsociety.org
This lime kiln produced mortar, an
indispensable building ingredient for
early pioneers. Completely restored
& placed on the National Register of
Historic Places in 2002.
1878 Henry School
Polo / Rt. 26
815-946-4142
Was a school until 1957. Restored
in 2001, displays of the 1832 Black
Hawk War, Trail Tales & a Hemp Mill.
1918 Standard Oil Filling Station
Rochelle / 500 Lincoln Ave.
815-562-7031
rochelletourism.com
First gasoline filling station in Rochelle
& first one built along the Lincoln Hwy
in IL. Restored to original design,
now Rochelle Tourism & Visitor
Association office.
Polo / 10684 Edgewood Rd.
815-946-3636
9-hole
Billy Barnhart Museum
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd
815-732-3950
Features rooms of vintage toys,
collectibles, sleighs, farm equipment
& relics.
Black Hawk Statue
Oregon / Lowden State Park
815-732-6828
Created by artist Lorado Taft &
dedicated as a study in the character
of the American Indian, the lighted
figure stands 50 ft above the Rock
River.
Burns House
Polo / 201 N. Franklin Ave.
815-946-2108
visitnorthwestillinois.com
The first brick house built in Polo is
now a tourist information center and
home of the Blackhawk Waterways
Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Bryon Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural
Creston / 110 N. Main St.
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg. 15
Rochelle / 201 Powers Rd. (Rt. 251)
815-562-8618
Bowling, restaurant & bar.
Chicagoland Skydiving Center
Rochelle / 1207 Gurler Rd.
815-797-9272
skydivecsc.com
The best skydiving school in the
US. Now located at Koritz Field in
Rochelle. More first-time skydivers than
any other skydiving center in Chicago
& the Midwest. Brand new skydive
aircraft & we maintain our safety record
& reputation as the best.
New Town & Country Lanes
Mt. Morris / 4031 W. Mudcreek Rd.
815-734-7787
Bowling, food, pool, darts, air hockey,
arcade games for all ages, party &
banquet areas available.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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Byron Museum of History & Lucius
Read House
Byron / 110 Union St.
815-234-5031
byronmuseum.org
Featuring local history & Lucius Read
house (circa 1843), exhibits include
“Into the Outhouse”, “Clamming on
the Rock”, information about local
professional baseball player A.G.
Spalding, the Underground Railroad
& more.
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Nash Home / Ogle County Historical Museum
Oregon / 111 N. 6th St.
815-732-7545
oglecountyhistoricalsociety.com
Step back & enjoy memorabilia
from the N Illinois area. From Lorado
Taft’s Eagles Nest to “Patriotic” room
depicting Ogle County’s history.
Natural History Museum
Oregon / River Rd.
815-732-3101
Two-room schoolhouse, built in 1883,
was recently restored. Living history
programs, school artifacts & more.
Byron / Jarrett Prairie Center
815-234-8535
byronforestpreserve.com
Discover several prairie, woodlands,
& wetland exhibition areas depicting
appearance prior to the arrival of
European settlers. Snakes, turtles & live
honeybee hive delight all.
Civil War Cannons
Official Illinois Freedom Bell
Chana School
Oregon / Ogle County Courthouse
815-732-1110
Two Civil War cannons grace the lawn
of the courthouse.
Creston Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural & Gazebo
Creston / 110 N. Main St.
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg. 15
Flagg Rochelle Historical Society Museum
Rochelle / 518 4th Ave.
815-562-3040
flaggtownshipmuseum.org
Holds large collection of antiques &
genealogical information, including
the last existing 1915 Partin-Palmer
automobile built in Rochelle.
Forreston Veteran’s Memorial
Forreston / Walnut & Cherry Sts.
Honoring area residents who served &
died in wars from the Civil War
to present.
Genealogical Research Library
Holcomb / 305 N. First St.
815-393-4110
Ogle County genealogical records,
early marriages, plat maps from 1850
to1872, more.
Historic Skare Homestead Museum
Rochelle / Flagg & Brooklyn Rds.
815-562-7813
Historic homestead of Norman Skare.
John Deere Historic Site
Grand Detour / 8334 S. Clinton St.
815-652-4551
johndeereattractions.com
John Deere’s restored pioneer home &
a special archaeological exhibit of the
original blacksmith shop.
Leaf River Historical Museum
Leaf River / 201 E. 3rd St. Rt. 72
In a former church built in 1895,
exhibits include a dog treadmill from
the 1800s, military artifacts, farm &
agriculture equipment, country school &
railroad memorabilia.
Mt. Morris / Wesley Ave.
815-734-6425
Liberty Bell replica. The Mt. Morris
Kable Band summer concerts.
Ogle County Courthouse
Oregon / Corner 4th & Washington
815-732-1110
Built in 1892 & on the National
Register of Historic Places.
Old City & Town Hall Museum
Rochelle / 4th Ave. & 6th St.
815-562-7873
Founded in 1971 & enrolled on the
National Register of Historic Sites in
1992, collection includes artifacts from
Rochelle’s history.
Oregon Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural & Gazebo
Mural:103 W. Washington St.
Gazebo: Rt. 2 & IL Rt. 64 courthouse sq
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg. 15
Polo Historical Society/ Aplington House
Polo / 123 N. Franklin Ave.
815-946-4142 or 800-678-2108
Built in 1853, houses Polo artifacts,
exhibits & pictures, a collection of
Civil War hats, & extensive
genealogical collection.
Polo History Museum
Polo / 113 N. Franklin Ave.
815-946-4142
polohistoricalsociety.org
Vintage printing machines & military
memorabilia, surveying tools used to
plot the Galena Trail in 1833, historic
agricultural tools & many other
vintage artifacts.
Polo Public Library
Polo / 302 N. Mason
815-946-2713
This classic revival-style structure was
funded by the Carnegie Foundation,
opened in1904 & has been on the
National Register of Historic Places
since 1995.
Rochelle Fire Department Museum
Rochelle / 401 5th Ave.
815-562-2121
Contains beautifully restored 1924 fire
engine called “Old Gertie” & other
antique fire department equipment.
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Rochelle Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural & Gazebo
Marinas/
Boat Ramps
Mural: Downtown on Lincoln Hwy.
Gazebo: 124 N. 9th St. Rochelle
Railroad Park
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg. 15
Rochelle Public Library Building
Rochelle / 619 4th Ave.
815-562-3431
Erected in 1912 by steel magnate
Andrew Carnegie. Oak woodwork &
large bay windows. On the National
Register of Historic Places in 1973.
Rochelle Railroad Park & Visitor Center
Rochelle / 124 N. 9th St.
815-562-7031
rochellerailroadpark.org
Over 80 trains daily, ideal spot to
train watch from a raised platform.
Railroading history includes an
authentic Whitcomb locomotive.
Gift shop & area visitor info.
Soldier’s Monument, The
Oregon / Ogle County
Courthouse Lawn
815-732-1110
Sculpted by Lorado Taft, serves as a
permanent record & reminder of the
contribution of the men of Ogle County
who served in the Civil War.
Horse/Equestrian
Diamond “G” Ranch & Western Store
Rochelle / 4564 Knoll Rd.
815-562-4050
Large western store stocked with
everything for horse & rider. Indoor/
outdoor arenas; boarding.
Plum Creek Equestrian
Rochelle / 7135 S. Locust Rd.
815-384-5031
Training, sales, teaching for beginner
to advanced & boarding facility.
American saddle-bred horses, Morgans
& Arabians.
White Pines Ranch
Oregon / 3581 Pines Rd.
815-732-7923
whitepinesranch.com
A real dude ranch on 200+ acres!
Offers a variety of horse riding
experiences, youth summer camps &
outdoor education programs. Bunk
houses, swimming pool, great food;
open all year.
Lakes & Rivers
He-Leo Two Rivers Preserve
Byron / IL Rt. 2
byronforestpreserve.com
The entrance is adjacent to the
Rockvale Township Building on Ill Rt 2
south of Byron and offers amenities for
boating traffic. There are boat slips,
restrooms, a picnic shelter with grills,
and sand volleyball for boaters to take
a break in the shade. Please note that
this property is not a boat launch area.
Lyle Kunde Recreation Area / Lake Sule
Rochelle / 735 N. Second
90-acre recreation area: Lake Sule,
boat launches, fishing, parking &
restrooms.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Byron Boat Ramp
Byron / IL Rt. 2
815-234-5500
Restrooms, parking, boat launches,
canoe access.
Oregon Boat Launch
Oregon / 3922 River Rd.
815-234-5383
Boat launches, canoe access, fishing.
Miscellaneous
Byron Dragway
Byron / 1060 N. River Rd.
815-234-8405
byrondragway.com
NHRA championship drag racing.
Recreation Centers
Byron Park District
Byron / 696 N. Colfax
815-234-8435
byronparkdistrict.com
Aquatic programs & lap/open swim
times. Fitness & weight room, indoor
jogging track & courts, golf/batting
cages, racquetball/wallyball courts.
Nash Recreation Center
Oregon / 304 S. 5th St.
815-732-3101
oregonpark.org
25-meter indoor pool, whirlpool, locker
rooms, 2 racquetball courts, a double
gym, adult fitness center, indoor track,
snack bar, children’s center, multipurpose rooms.
C arroll
On The Move Fitness Center
Polo / 317 N. Jefferson Ave.
815-946-2883
Cardio equipment, strength machines,
weights, group exercise classes, more.
Rochelle Swim & Fitness
Rochelle / 1127 N 7th St, IL Rt 38
815-561-8504
rochelleswimfitness.com
Olympic size pool and full range
of strength training and workout
equipment. Personal training, team
fitness, group fitness, pool classes.
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Spring Lake Aquatic Park
Rochelle / Ave. B & 8th St.
815-562-6659
rochelleparkdistrict.org
Outdoor Olympic-size pool,150-foot
water slide, two diving boards & large
wading pool.
Food &
Dining
Ogle
Fritz Wooden Nickel
Costa’s Italian Ristorante
Grubsteakers Restaurant
El Sol
Iron Skillet Restaurant
Lee Gardens
Mason’s Restaurant
Leombruni’s Italian Village
Pepper Mill, The
Rochelle/233 May Mart Dr.
815-562-8879
Oregon / Conover Square Mall 210
N. 3rd St.
815-732-2545
Byron / 110 W. 2nd St.
815-234-2696
leombrunis-italian-village.com
Conover Bakery
Byron / 7993 N. River Rd.
815-234-8535
byronforestpreserve.com
Enjoy hiking trails, picnic shelters, an
observatory, seeing rare & endangered
prairie plants.
Cafes & Delis
New China Buffet
Oregon / 810 S. 10th St.
815-732-3252
Restaurant Tecalitlan
Castle Rock State Park
Oregon / IL. Rt. 2 S.
815-732-7329
2,000-acre park rock w/ formations,
ravines, unique plant life & marked
hiking trails. Picnic amenities: tables,
shelters, grills, toilets, drinking water,
playground equipment & a public boat
ramp/parking facility.
Jarrett Prairie Center
Byron / 7993 N. River Rd.
815-234-8535
byronforestpreserve.com
Free educational center overlooks acres
of prairie & woodlands. Interpretive to
enjoy, appreciate & interact with nature
through educational programs, hiking,
& tours.
Lowden State Park
Oregon / 1411 N. River Rd.
815-732-6828
207-acre state park: restrooms, hiking
trails, dump station, boat launches,
camping, fishing, nature preserves, &
more; Lorado Taft Black Hawk Statue.
Lowden-Miller State Forest
Oregon / Nashua Rd.
815-732-7329
2225-acre state forest with scenic
marked trails: hiking, biking, horseback
riding, cross-county skiing & hunting.
White Pines Forest State Park
Mt. Morris / 6712 W. Pines Rd.
385-acre state park: scenic Pines
Creek, fishing, towering White Pines,
concessions, hiking, picnic areas,
shelters, & more.
Swimming
Oregon Public Outdoor Pool
Oregon / 5th St. & Franklin
815-732-6321
Rochelle Swim & Fitness
Rochelle / 1127 N 7th St, IL Rt 38
815-561-8504
rochelleswimfitness.com
Olympic size pool and full range
of strength training and workout
equipment. Personal training, team
fitness, group fitness, pool classes.
Oregon / 416 W. Washington St.
815-732-1583
Espresso/
Coffee Bars
Rochelle / 903 7th St.
815-562-9563
McKendrie Street Café
Mt Morris / 500 Evergreen Lane
Pinecrest Grove Community Center
Naple’s Delicatessen
Rochelle / 703 Jones Rd.
815-562-8545
New York Bagel & Coffee
Rochelle / 340 May Mart Dr.
815-562-2435
Spring Valley Restaurant
Oregon / 300 E. Washington
815-732-4877
Sunrise Family Restaurant
Rochelle / 1181 N. 7th St.
815-562-4877
Family Restaurants
Bailey’s Edge Pub & Restaurant
Forreston/8785 N Baileyville Rd.
815-938-2411
Rochelle / 1165 Lincoln Hwy.
815-562-5530
Leaf River / 110 N. Main St.
815-738-6107
Polo / 124 E. Mason St.
815-946-3321
Sandwich Shop, The
Dogwood Inn Restaurant
Alvarez
Spanky’s Byron Inn
Rochelle / 340 May Mart Dr.
815-562-2435
Depot, The
Rochelle / 1115 Turkington Terrace
815-562-3312
Smoking Harry’s Fine Foods
New York Bagel & Coffee
Royal Blue Cafe
Alfano’s Pizzeria
Oregon / 807 S. 7th St. (Pines Rd. & Rt. 2)
815-732-2300
rhouse.org
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-7017
conovercoffees.com
Dad’s Bar & Pinecricker Cafe
Ethnic
Roadhouse, The
Byron / 216 N. Union St.
815-234-2692
Robin’z Nest
Oregon / Conover Square Mall 201 N. 3rd St.
815-723-2349
Oregon / 116 N. Third
815-732-4343
Conover Coffees & Chocolates
Rich’s Kitchen at The Polo Room
Stillman Valley / 130 N. Walnut St.
815-645-1188
Riverside Family Restaurant
Rochelle / 408 4th Ave.
815-562-2627
Country Leaf Cafe
Oregon/117 N. 4th St.
815-973-0728
Leaf River / 118 Main St.
815-738-2781
Creston/Rt 38 E. & Woodlawn Rd.
815-384-6702
Butterfly Restaurant
Polo/ 712 N. Division St.
815-946-2886
Peters Family Restaurant
Coffee Cup, The
Off The Wall Café
Rochelle / 422 Lincoln Hwy.
815-561-6093
Mt. Morris / 10 E. Hitt St.
815-734-4141
Yoshinos Japanese Restaurant
Conover Coffee & Chocolates Café
Eddie’s Café
Polo / 118 W. Mason
815-946-3703
Rochelle / 1071 N. Caron Rd.
815-561-7576
Chisums Café
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-7017
conovercoffees.com
Rochelle / 900 Petro Rd.
815-562-5840
Rochelle / 444 W. IL Rt. 38
815-562-8012
Rochelle / 1001 N 7th St.
815-561-6087
Rochelle / 411 Cherry Ave.
815-562-6568
Rochelle / 14698 E. State Rt. 64
815-562-3430
Rochelle / 509 4th Ave.
815-562-1851
BAKERY
Chili Pepper Cafe
Stillman Valley / 208 N. Walnut St.
815-645-9828
Byron / 133 E. Blackhawk, Rt. 2
815-234-4707
Rochelle / 700 Carrie Ave.
815-562-2505
10th Street Café
W hiteside
China Wok
State Parks &
Forests
Byron Forest and Jarrett Prairie Preserve
|
Forreston / 314 W. Main St.
815-938-2025
Polo / 2452 N. IL 26
815-946-2499
Eddie’s Café
Rochelle / 903 S. 7th St.
815-562-9563
Fiesta Palace
Mt. Morris / 4449 W. # 64
815-734-6105
Rochelle / 1071 N. Caron Rd.
815-562-7744
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Sunrise Family Restaurant
Byron / 101 W. 2nd St.
815-234-4229
Sunrise III Family Restaurant
Oregon / 116 N. Fourth
815-732-2022
Sunrise IV Family Restaurant
Monroe Center / 5532 N.
Limestone Rd.
815-393-3800
Swedish Pancake House
Byron / 127 W. 2nd St.
815-234-7600
Tom & Jerry’s
Rochelle / 501 Hwy. 38
815-562-7211
FIne Dining
Abraham’s Food and Drink
Rochelle / 1127 N. 7th St.
815-562-5668
Beacon on the Green
Rochelle / 533 S. 7th St.
815-562-7279
beacononthegreen.com
Blackhawk Steak Pit
Oregon / 1429 N. IL Rt. 2
815-732-2500
blackhawksteakpit.com
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
37
C arroll
LaVigna Restaurant
Oregon / 2190 S. Daysville Rd.
815-732-4413
Maxson’s Riverside Restaurant
Oregon / 1469 IL Rt. 2
815-732-6761
maxsons.net
White Pines Inn
Mt. Morris / 6712 W. Pines Rd.
815-946-3817
whitepinesinn.com
Pizza, Grills
& Pubs
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Rock-N-Country Sports Pub & Grill
Rochelle / 640 S. 7th Street
815-562-7200
Salamone’s Pizza
Polo / 122 W. Mason
815-946-3344
Vince’s Pizza
Rochelle / 1071 N. 7th St./ Hwy.
251 N
815-562-7300
Quick-Service Food
Country School
Aldo’s Pizza
Rochelle / Hwy. 251 N.
815-562-6039
Alfano’s Pizzeria
Oregon / 107 W. Washington St.
815-732-2396
Rochelle / 418 Lincoln Hwy.
815-562-3456
Rochelle / 1115 Turkington Terrace
815-562-3312
Alfano’s Restaurant
Oregon / 810 S. 4th St.
815-732-4110
Jay’s Drive Inn
Polo Sub Stop
Polo / 104 W. Mason
815-946-3223
Sam’s Drive Inn
Bailey’s Edge Pub & Restaurant
Byron / 705 W. Blackhawk Dr.
815-234-8281
Breaker’s Saloon & Eatery
Wine Bars &
Tasting Rooms
Forreston / 8785 N Baileyville Rd.
815-938-2411
Oregon / 100 S. 2nd St.
815-732-3319
Cave Inn Bar & Grill
Byron / 111 W. 2nd St.
815-234-4301
Chisums Grille
Rochelle / 411 Cherry Ave.
815-562-6568
Cimino’s Pizza
Polo / 107 E. Mason St.
815-946-9123
Cimino’s Pizza
Rochelle / 126 May Mart Plaza
815-561-9777
deVine Wine Bar
Rochelle/1127 N. 7th St.
815-562-5668
Hailey’s Winery
Byron/114 S. Franklin St.
815-234-2220
haileyswinery.com
Meeting,
Convention
& Reception
Space
Ogle
|
Oak Lane of Oregon Wedding &
Event Venue
Oregon / 3261 S Daysville Rd.
(815) 871-0948
oaklaneoforegon.com
W hiteside
Roadhouse Antiques
Creston / 124 E. Rt. 30
815-384-3222
Silo Antiques
Gifts & Collectibles
Split Decisions
Polo Room, The
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd
815-732-4477
Stillman Valley / 202 N. Walnut
815-645-8270
beasbasketcase.com
Oregon / 250 S. Daysville Rd.
Oregon, IL 61061
815-732-1232
Polo / 712 N. Division St.
815-946-2886
Stronghold Castle Conference Center
Oregon / 1922 IL Rt. 2 N.
815-732-6111
strongholdcenter.org
White Pines Inn
Mt. Morris / 6712 W. Pines Rd.
815-946-3817
whitepinesinn.com
White Pines LaBranche
Polo / 610 S. Division
815-946-2400
whitepinesinn.com
Shopping
Antiques
Artifacts
Oregon/221 W Washington Street
Bill’s Trading Post
Rochelle / 408 4th Ave.
815-562-2627
Earth Reclaimer’s
Oregon / Conover Square Mall –
201 N. 3rd St.
815-713-5063
Flamingo Palace, The
Oregon / 109 S. Third St.
815-751-6609
Houston’s Hen House
Oregon / 201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-3250
houstonshenhouse.com
Trotter Restorations & Antiques
Polo / 115-117 W. Mason St.
815-946-2592
trotterantiques.com
Vintage Cupboard, The
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-7100
thevintagecupboard.com
Artisan Works
Art Casting of Illinois/Adagio Fine Art
Oregon / 5 Madison St.
815-732-7475
harryspell.com
Beryl’s Country Ceramics
Stillman Valley / 5618 N. Armour Rd.
815-645-2590
Cat & the Fiddle Too, The
Jeff Adams’ “Images in Bronze”
Mt. Morris / 309 W. Wesley Ave.
815-734-7578
inbronze.com
Mystical Mountain Jewelry & More
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
815-732-3950
Stitches In Time Quilt Shop
Hub City Express
Harmony Hills
Momz Treasurez
Country Markets
Jeff’s Refs
Hickory Grove Banquet & Conference Center
Neighbor’s Antiques & Collectibles
Polo / 113 W. Mason
815-946-2860
Maggie’s Idle Hour
Mt Morris / 115 S. Wesley
815-734-4110
maggiesonline.com
Messie’s Bar and Grill
Oregon / 17 N. River Rd.
815-732-4645
Mimmo’s Pizza and Lounge
Forreston / 111 Main St.
815-938-2406
mimmoslounge.com
38
Rochelle / 1127 N. 7th St.
815-562-5668
Kilbuck Creek
Monroe Center / 6752 N. Kilbuck Rd.
815-393-3247
kilbuckcreek.com
Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center
Oregon / 1834 S IL Rt. 2
815-732-2220
lomc.org
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Oregon / Conover Square Mall –
201 N. 3rd St.
815-881-8260
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-543-4230
Our House Antiques
Polo / 510 E King St.
815-441-4533
[email protected]
Priscilla’s Parlor
Creston / 124 E. Hwy 38
815-562-6165
priscillasparlor.angelfire.com
Ray’s Merchandise
Rochelle / 316 N. 6th St.
815-562-2855
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Colonial Flowers and Gifts
Rochelle / 408 Lincoln Hwy.
800-239-0974
floristrochelleil.com
Conover Coffees & Chocolates
Slip & Slurry Pottery
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
815-732-3367
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Oregon / 300 Mix St.
815-732-2969
merlinsgreenhouseandflowers.com
Mount Morris Country Crafts
Mt. Morris / 1 E. Center St.
815-734-7858
Petro Travel Plaza
Rochelle / I-39 & Rt. 38
815-562-5922
Split Decisions
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-4477
Stitches In Time Quilt Shop
Oregon / 304 W. Washington St.
815-732-4599
Sweet Blessings
Country Floral & Freight Room Framing
Oregon/306 Washington St
815-732-0115
Polo / 101 N. Division
815-946-3952
Country Heart Creations
Oregon / 3920 W. Oregon Trail Rd.
815-734-7761
Oregon / Hwy. 64 & 1st St.
815-732-2523
Oregon / 807 Pines Road
815-732-3413
Houston’s Hen House
Oregon / Conover Square 201 3rd St
815-732-3250
houstonshenhouse.com
John Deere Historic Site Gift Shop
Grand Detour / 8334 S. Clinton St.
815-652-4551
johndeereattractions.com
|
Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers/The
Other Side
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-7017
conovercoffees.com
Frameworks II, The
Oregon / 109 S. Third St.
815-751-6609
Rochelle/506 Lincoln Ave.
815-562-5620
hubcitymall.com
Rochelle / 900 Petro Rd.
815-561-9595
Rochelle / 501 5th Ave.
815-562-4591
catfid2.com
Flamingo Palace, The
Fifth Alarm Firehouse Pub
Oregon / 1052 S. Harmony Rd.
815-732-7300/815-440-2147
harmonyhillsil.com
Cat & The Fiddle Too, The
Eagle’s Nest Gifts & Gallery, The
Hub City Antique Mall
Polo / 2570 N. Westbranch Rd.
815-946-2500
barnacopia.com
Bea’s Basketcase
Rochelle / 501 6th Ave.
815-562-4591
catfid2.com
Barnacopia
Byron / 120 N. Union St.
815-234-7000
fifthalarm.com
Rochelle/5th Ave. & Main St.
815-562-7813
rochelleparkdistrict.org
Oregon / 1490 N. IL Rt 2
815-732-4042
Bailey’s Edge Pub & Restaurant
Forreston / 8785 N Baileyville Rd.
815-938-2411
Rochelle Harvest Market
Oregon Golf Club
Father & Son Pizzeria of Oregon
Oregon / 117 N. 4th St.
815-732-9700
C arroll
Rochelle / 304 N 6th
815-562-6165
This & That Accessories
Vanaseys
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
815-732-7877
vanaseys.com
Where the Dragon Fly
Oregon/Conover Square 201 N
3rd St.
815-234-5629
wherethedragonfly.com
White Pines Inn Gift Shop
Mt. Morris / 6712 Wt. Pines Rd.
815-946-3817
whitepinesinn.com
Ogle
|
W hiteside
Specialty Shopping
Arbor on Market Flower Shop
Byron / 105 Market St.
815-234-4682
Rochelle / 405 Lincoln Hwy.
815-561-6466
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N 3rd St
815-234-2724
Bella’s Apparel, Accessories & Gifts
Rochelle/1161 N. 7th St (Hwy 251)
815-561-6729
Colonial Flowers & Gifts
Rochelle / 408 Lincoln Hwy.
815-562-8101
floristrochelleil.com
Byron / 7 28 W. Blackhawk
815-234-8332
Joyeria Ruby Jewelry
Rochelle / 406 Lincoln Hwy.
815-561-9093
Leaf River / 6679 W. IL Rt. 72
815-738-2855
[email protected]
Conover Books
Rochelle / 405 N. Main St.
815-562-8987
conoverbooks.com
me-n-buddy gift shop
Rochelle / 8815 S. IL Rt. 251
815-264-3590
me-n-buddy.com
Cypress House, The
Rochelle / 718 10th Ave.
815-562-4159
cypresshouse.net
Diamond “G” Ranch & Western Store
Rochelle / 4564 Knoll Rd.
815-562-4050
Monica’s Never Know What I Got What
Not Shop
Oregon / 307 W. Washington St.
815-508-7337
Oregon Soap Shoppe & Green Art Etc
Oregon / 91 S. Daysville Rd.
866-411-6614
oregonsoapshoppe.com
Flower Patch, The
Oregon / 120 N 4th St
815-732-7031
flowerpatchoregonil.com
Split Decisions Sports Apparel
Granny’s Berries
Rochelle / 3405 S. White Rock Rd.
815-562-4462
grannysberries.com
Gypsy Sister Retail
Oregon / 215 Washington St.
815/973-0211
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-4477
Stiches In Time Quilt Shop
Oregon / 304 W. Washington St.
815-732-4599
Vintage Cupboard, The
Oregon / 201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-3950
conoversquare.com
Headon’s Old Fashion Meat Market
Mt. Morris / 1 E. Center St.
815-734-7858
Joann’s Doll Shop
Leaf River Quilt Co.
Malls
Mount Morris Country Craft Mall
Chana / 462 S. Chana Rd.
815-751-4162
hiddentimbergardens.com
In the Beginning Naturals
Barniture
Hailey’s Winery
Conover Square Mall
Hidden Timber Gardens
Byron / 114 S. Franklin St.
haileyswinery.com
Oregon / Conover Square Mall
201 N. 3rd St.
815-732-7100
thevintagecupboard.com
Creston / 103 S. Main St.
815-384-3620
headons.com
Oregon / 304 W. Washington St.
815-732-4599
Barnhardt’s Stone Corner Organic Farm
Market
Oregon / 2169 E. Honey Creek Rd.
815-732-7815
barnhardtsstonecornerorganic
farmmarket.com
Byron Farmer’s Market
Byron / Sunshine Park - Rt. 2
815-234-5500
Granny’s U-Pick Berries
Rochelle / 3405 S White Rock Rd.
815-562-4462
facebook.com/GrannysBerries
Oregon Farmer’s Market
Oregon / Nash Rec Center
304 S. 5th St.
815-732-3101
oregonpark.org
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
39
Celebrating 20 years of murals with the addition of a 20th mural coming in the Summer
of 2015; Downtown Sterling has something for everyone. With a wide variety of unique
shops, great restaurants and bars, and its rich history depicted in murals throughout
the Downtown, come and discover Sterling, Illinois.
Next time you’re passing through, be sure to
visit the STERLING WELCOME CENTER
& GALLERY. Featuring the works of local
artists; community information; and a gift
shop, you’ll be sure to find that unique
something special you’ve been looking for.
HOURS: Thurs-Sat: 10am-6pm;
Sun: Noon-4pm
LOCATION: 318 First Avenue
The TWIN CITY MARKET is the area’s only
year-round, indoor farmer’s market. Your
source for fresh baked goods; locally raised
beef, pork, chicken & eggs; seasonal produce;
and hand-crafted goods. You can also enjoy
breakfast or lunch at its Scarecrow Café.
HOURS: Every Saturday 8am-Noon
LOCATION: 106 Avenue A
AIRPLAY SPORTS & ESPRESSO is Sterling’s #1 disc golf and espresso
bar. Our fantastic drinks can be ordered with simple words like small,
medium and large. Fresh baked scones, muffins, cookies, breads and other
goodies made from scratch every morning.
HOURS: Mon-Sat: 7am-6pm
LOCATION: 115 E. 3rd Street
PHONE: 815-585-4327
UOI BOUTIQUE offers a large selection of
trendy clothing, footwear, scarves, handbags,
jewelry, children’s footwear and other unique
accessories. Our amazing staff will work oneon-one with you to help you find the perfect
something. Shop online at www.uoionline.com
HOURS: Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm; Sun: 12pm-5pm
LOCATION: 311 First Avenue
JJM PRINTING, INC. is downtown
Sterling’s premier choice for custom screen
printing. JJM also specializes in embroidery
and features a wide selection of athletic apparel
and promotional products.
HOURS: Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm; Sat: 9am-2pm
LOCATION: 311 First Avenue
PHONE: 815-632-3913
Fine wine and weird beers abound at THE RUSTY FOX WINE AND
ALEHOUSE downtown. Let the knowledgeable and friendly staff suggest
a wine or beer from their massive drink list, and grab a cheese and
charcuterie plate to go with it!
HOURS: Tues-Thurs: 4pm-10pm; Fri & Sat: 4pm-1am
LOCATION: 1 E. 3rd Street
PHONE: 815-625-4708
If you are looking for a truly one-of-a-kind shop, be sure to visit
SBM BUSINESS EQUIPMENT CENTER where you can wander
through 20,000 square feet of office furniture, find the latest gadgets for
the office and distinctive gifts for any occasion. The full service Copy &
Print Center can handle all your personal or business needs for things like
business cards, wedding invitations, posters and more!
HOURS: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm; Sat: 9am-1pm
LOCATION: 501 Locust Street
WEB: callsbm.com
PHONE: 815-625-4375
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Shop Small Saturday – May 9
Main Street Car Show – May 31
Movies at Grandon – Every other Tuesday throughout the Summer
Music Under the Stars – Every Wednesday Mid-June – Mid-August
Sterling Fest – July 21-26
Main Street Music Fest – July 25
Hot Dog Day – August 7
Bridge the Community 10K/5K – September 12
Harvest Moon Festival – October 10
Sights & Sounds – December 1-6
www.SterlingMainStreet.org • 17 E. 3rd Street
815.626.8610 • [email protected]
An endless assortment of candles are hand-poured
onsite at GOLDEN KEY GIFTS & CANDLE CO.
Enjoy the cozy atmosphere as you browse a wide
variety of gifts, home decor & more! Shop online at
www.goldenkeygifts.com. Nationwide shipping for
both retail and wholesale orders.
HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9am- 5pm; Sat: 10am-3pm
LOCATION: 702 W. 4th Street
PHONE: 815-622-3903
New items are brought in daily at SHOWPLACE
ANTIQUES & TREASURES. Spend the day
browsing this multi-level antique mall in the heart
of Sterling. Featuring seasonal items, house wares,
vintage jewelry & clothing, you never know what
treasure you’ll find. Follow us on Facebook!
HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9am- 6pm; Sat: 9am-5pm;
Sun: 11am-4pm
LOCATION: 307 First Avenue
WWW.STERLINGMAINSTREET.ORG
WWW.STERLINGMAINSTREET.ORG
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Whether you’re getting lost in a corn maze, visiting a
restored village from yesteryear or marveling at a massive barge
maneuvering its way through a Mississippi River lock, when in
Whiteside County you’ll never be at a loss for things to do and see.
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The Hennepin Canal is one of northwestern Illinois’ most historic
At Albany Indian Mounds State Historic Site, visitors are fascinated
by one of the largest prehistoric Hopewell Mound groupings in
Illinois, where interpretive exhibits explore an Indian culture that
existed more than 2,000 years ago. With hiking, biking and crosscountry ski trails, as well as picnic tables and free admission, this is a
favored place.
waterways. The canal, originally known as the Illinois and Mississippi
Canal, was a project that would reduce the distance from Chicago to
Rock Island by 419 miles and was conceived in 1834. Construction
finally began in 1892 and the first boat went through in 1907. It was
mainly used by small barges hauling coal and grain. An account made
by the Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society said that the peak of the
canals’ success was made in 1927 when 30,000 tons of freight moved
down her calm waters. From that point on she saw a steady decline in
use, as railroads and trucking companies took over the freight industry.
This, however, was a blessing for the Illinois sportsman. The canal is
home to 78 miles of canoeing and kayaking opportunities and is snaked
by parks and a beautiful walking path. This waterway is perfect for
beginners as the waters are very calm, there are no obstructions and
wildlife is abundant. There is a boat landing south of Rock Falls off Route
40, providing access and many take-out places along the way.
Whiteside County’s Lake Carlton is pegged as the state’s premiere
spot for muskie fishing. And, throughout the year, this region is
home to an endless array of entertaining special events, including
the Prophetstown Pow Wow, Rock Falls Summer Splash, Fulton Fall
Festival, and Dillon Home Museum Victorian Christmas Walk.
There are many other creeks and small rivers running through the Blackhawk
Waterways Region, just waiting to be explored. Speak to your outfitter about
other canoeing or kayaking opportunities and examine local maps to find the
trip that’s perfect for you, your family and your skill level. Now, throw on that
life jacket, grab those paddles and go!
History buffs explore the community of Tampico, where tours tell the
tale of President Ronald Reagan’s 1911 birth in a flat above the town
bakery at 111 S. Main Street Other travelers are attracted to the
early-American village of Heritage Canyon in Fulton, where special
events and historical re-enactors hearken back to life in the 1800s.
see where john deere
revolutionized farming
With its definitive green tractors and agricultural
equipment, John Deere is one of the world’s most recognized
brands for farmers, construction companies, landscapers, loggers and
homeowners.
On your visit to the Blackhawk Waterways Region of Illinois, you
can see the place where it all began. The John Deere Historic Site in
Grand Detour offers a fascinating look at how this worldwide brand
got its start.
In 1964, the site became a National Historic Landmark. Yet
archeological digs and new exhibits reveal fresh details about the man
named John Deere and his contributions to American manufacturing.
and hard to till with rough-surfaced plows of the day.
So in 1837, using a discarded steel saw blade, Deere crafted a
polished, self-scouring plow that was shaped to easily cut through
the rich soil. It was a huge success, the first of many for Deere &
Company.
Visitors to the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour can tour John
Deere’s home and a replica of his blacksmith shop. However, it is
much more than a living history display. It’s a working shop where
modern blacksmiths practice the ancient art of forging and shaping
metal into useful tools and appliances.
It’s tempting to think that John Deere invented the tractor. However, it
was a more basic, more revolutionary innovation that launched the
worldwide John Deere brand. It was a plow.
In recent years, archaeologists unearthed the exact location of John
Deere’s original blacksmith shop. The dig site is protected under the
roof of a specially built exhibit hall. There are also photos, displays
and artifacts that tell the story of Deere & Company’s humble start.
Back in 1836, blacksmith John Deere set up shop in the tiny village of
Grand Detour. As he did back in his home state of Vermont, he started
pounding out cast-iron plow blades for area farmers. However, he
soon discovered a problem. The rich Midwestern soil was wet, sticky
A seasonal attraction, the John Deere Historic Site is open to the public
from May through October. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday
through Sunday. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and older. For more
information, call 815-652-4551 or visit johndeerattractions.com.
42 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
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2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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Propheter Park
Sterling / 506 E. 6th St.
sterlingparks.org
Basketball courts, playground, open
play areas & Lincoln statue.
Robert A. Millikan Park
Morrison / W. Main St.
Icons of Morrison’s past: hitching post,
railroad crossing signal, horse trough,
& historic brick pathways.
Attractions
Adventure Sports
Air Play Sports
Sterling / 115 E. 3rd St.
815-564-2787
airplaysports.com
Alternative sporting goods. Northern
Illinois’ largest selection disc golf
supplies, stunt kites, boomerangs
& more. Open Mon-Sat. 7am –
6pm. Live inventory on our website.
Facebook & Twitter.
Bike Barn, The
Morrison / 13524 Black Rd.
815-778-3641
unitedoffroadracing.com
Motocross & 4 wheel tracks
Bait & Tackle
Morrison Rockwood Marina
Morrison / 18301 Lake Rd.
815-772-3613
Oppold Marina Harbor House
Sterling / 532 Stouffer Rd.
815-622-2262
sterlingparks.org
Free boat launching facilities, boat
slip rentals, gas, concessions, picnic
shelters, bait & cross-country skiing.
Schreiner’s Bait & Tackle
Rock Falls / 1308 1st Ave.
815-625-4200
catfishacademy.com
Biking & Hiking
Great River Trail
Fulton / 815-589-4545
greatrivertrail.com
20-plus miles of dedicated & shareduse biking or hiking trail, with six-mile
loop around & through the City of
Fulton, with Mississippi River & Fulton’s
Dutch Windmill overviews.
Green River Cyclery
Sterling / 201 13th Ave
815-622-8180
greenrivercyclery.com
Located adjacent to Sterling’s Multipurpose and Recreational Trail and is
easily accessible from the Trail or
street. at the corner of 13th Avenue
and 2nd Street.
Hennepin Canal Parkway
Rock Falls / 209 Emmons Ave.
815-380-2300
visitrockfalls.com
From Rock Falls to Sheffield. Miles of
bike & hiking paths, canoeing, fishing
& historical sites along the way.
Mead’s Bike Shop
Sterling / 414 Locust St.
815-626-4601
meadsbikeshop.com
We offer a wide selection of bicycles
plus repair service, bike rentals
and have a large selection of bike
accessories and apparel.
Morrison Rockwood State Park &
Marina
Morrison / 18750 Lake Rd.
815-772-4708
Prophetstown State Recreation Area
Prophetstown / Park Ave. & River Dr.
Near Rt. 172 & 78
815-537-2926
53-acre state park: boat launches,
fishing, camping, electrical service,
restrooms/showers, playground, small
picnic shelters, horseshoe pits, dump
station & hiking. Between Rock River &.
Coon Creek a nature trail.
Sinnissippi Dam Walkway
Community Parks
Fulton / 10th Ave.
Grills, pavilion, restrooms, parking,
playground & basketball courts.
Morrison / E. High St.
3.4 acre park: professionally designed
9-hole Frisbee golf course, tennis
courts, picnic area, new playground &
walking path.
Cattail Park
Kilgour Park
10th Ave School Park
Fulton / 100 19th St.
Community bldg., pavilion, picnic
area, outdoor grills, playground.
Centennial Park
Rock Falls / 11th St. & Ave. D
815-625-0272
colomatownshippparkdistrict.com
50 acre park: canoe rentals,
fishing, biking, picnic area,
playgrounds & more.
Den Besten Park
Fulton / 1st St.
Picnic tables, restroom, interpretive kiosk.
Drives Athletic Park
Fulton / 1300 Park Dr.
Baseball & soccer fields, picnic
pavilion, playground
Eberly Park
Sterling / Douglas Dr. & W. Lefevre Rd.
sterlingparks.org
Cross-country skiing, walking course
Sterling / 10th Avenue & 2nd St
(behind the Dillon Home Museum)
815-622-6200
sterlingparks.org
The Sinnissippi Dam Walkway
provides a link between the ever
expanding trail system in Sterling and
the Hennepin Feeder Canal in Rock
Falls. The Feeder Canal ties into the
main Hennepin Canal and becomes
part of the Grand Illinois Trail. The
Sinnissippi Dam Walkway offers
bicyclists, runners, walkers and other
recreational users a safe and scenic
route across the Rock River.
French Creek Park
Boat/
Canoe Rentals
Sterling / 3807 Woodlawn Rd.
sterlingparks.org
Cross-country skiing, picnic area,
playground equipment, open play
areas & S.M.A.R.T. Trail System (paved
walking course).
Centennial Park
Rock Falls / E. 11th St. & Ave. D
815-625-0272
50-acre park with canoe rentals,
fishing, hiking & more.
Morrison Rockwood Marina
Morrison / 18301 Lake Rd.
815-772-3613
44 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Kelly Park
Morrison / Portland Ave. S. IL Rt. 78
16-acre park, soccer fields, walking
path, playground & picnic area
Gartner Park
Sterling / W. Lefevre Rd.
sterlingparks.org
Lighted & unlighted ball diamonds
Harry Kidd Field
Sterling / 1219 W. 7th St.
sterlingparks.org
Football field
Hoover Park
Joshua Park
Rock Falls / Riverdale Rd. & A St.
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
18 hole disc golf course, family picnic
shelter, modern restrooms, basketball
court, playground area, baseball
diamond. Handicapped accessible
parking lot.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Scheid Park
Sterling / Woodburn Ave. &
W. 11th St.
sterlingparks.org
Unlighted ball diamond, outdoor
basketball courts, playground, open
play areas, shelters & soccer fields.
Sterling / 400 W. 15th St.
sterlingparks.org
Outdoor basketball courts, historical &
national site, picnic area, playground
equipment, Imagination Station, open
play areas, outdoor tennis courts &
walking course.
Seward Riverside Park
Kiwanis Park
Rock Falls / 9th Ave. & W. 22nd St.
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Pavilion, picnic tables,
playground, ball diamonds,
horseshoe courts, concessions.
Morrison / N. Genesee St
Rolle Bolle court, playground &
picnic area.
Lawrence Park
Sterling / Ave. G
815-622-6205
sterlingparks.org
Boat launches, bike trails, fishing &
recreational areas.
Logan Memorial Park
Rock Falls / E. Rt. 30
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Ball diamonds, family picnic shelter,
playground equipment, restrooms.
Lower Dam Park
Rock Falls / Downtown riverfront
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
1- acre park: exciting view of the Rock
River, excellent fishing, boat ramp just
below the Lower Dam.
Rock Falls / E. 2nd St. & Ave. C
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Boat launch area, picnic area,
playground & ducks to feed.
Sieglinger Memorial Park
Sinnissippi Park
Sterling / E. Lincolnway Hwy.
815-622-6200
sterlingparks.org
150-acre park: fishing, hiking,
restrooms, recreational areas, disc golf.
Thomas Park
Sterling / 2301 12th Ave.
sterlingparks.org
Unlighted ball diamond, outdoor
basketball courts & ice skating, picnic
area, playground & open play areas.
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Wallingford Park
Rock Falls/ E. 8th St. & Ave. C
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
3 baseball diamonds, restrooms,
concession stand, a family picnic
shelter, outdoor basketball court and
playground
WaterWorks Park
Morrison / W. Winfield St.
12.4 acres baseball diamond,
sand volleyball courts, tennis courts,
playground, picnic area, new
playground, walking path & new
shelter.
Family Fun/
Amusement
Blue Goose Run
Sterling / 14609 Blue Goose Rd.
815-772-7200
bluegooserun.com
Illinois Corn Maze (Aug. thru Oct.)
3-acre formal garden with pond &
windmill, giant outdoor chess/checkers
set, volleyball, croquet & badminton
available. Horse-drawn/tractor-drawn
hayrack rides, picnics 7 bonfires
available.
Cage, The
Morrison / 222 W. Main
815-441-8566
Indoor Batting , Pitching Mounds,
Golf Tees
Crystal Lake Recreation
Rock Falls / 511 E. Rt. 30
815-622-5974
crystallake1.com
Go-karts (800-foot track), sun bathing,
trampoline, big floating raft, food &
more
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Disc Golf Course
New River Model Railroad Museum
Fulton / S. 4th St.
815-589-4545
A nine-hole disc golf course on the
banks of the Mississippi River.
Duis Recreation Center
Sterling / 211 E. St. Mary’s Rd.
815-622-6200
sterlingparkdistrict.com
Indoor swimming pool, 2 basketball
courts, outdoor skatepark & volleyball
courts; full fitness facility available.
Fun Jump
Sterling / 505 W Lynn Blvd
815-535-1520
funjump.us
We offer 8,140 sq ft of fun! We
are a children’s activity center with
6 inflatable structures that are a
combination of bounce houses,
obstacle courses and slides. We host
birthday parties, events and school
groups. Check website for details.
Happy Trails
Sterling / 2300 W. LeFevre
815-626-3115
5-acres: walking paths, water gardens,
greenhouse, 5-hole mini golf, swings &
gardens. All designed & maintained by
the developmentally disabled.
Hilltop Lanes
Morrison / 629 E. Lincolnway
815-772-2217
Open & league bowling
NASCAR-Themed Event Planning
Sterling / 1005 E. Third St.
815-622-6202
sterlingparks.org
Tours, Weddings & Formal Events
Paone’s Blackhawk Lanes
Sterling / 2325 E. Lincolnway
815-625-0771
blackhawklanes.com
20-lane bowling, pro shop, lounge
Rainbow Falls Adventure Golf
Rock Falls / 1109 W. Rt. 30
815-535-6556
Mini golf fun for the whole family.
Rock Falls Billiards Club
Rock Falls / 211 First Ave
815-718-0202
We offer darts, video games, disc
jockey, air hockey, pool and dart
supplies and pool cue repair. We also
sell pizza, candy, chips. Next door
is The Other Side Teen Club/Family
Center. It offers pool, darts, air hockey,
and a disc jockey every Friday and
Saturday. It’s a club for people 13
and older. Children younger than 13
must be accompanied by a parent or
guardian. Check us out on Facebook.
Sauk Valley Predators Semi-Pro
Basketball
Sterling
866-416-0083
chapman-motorsports.com
Everything you need for NASCARthemed events for special occasions.
Dillon Home Museum
Sterling / 17845 Rigler Dr.
815-625-7699
Diesel & steam locomotives run on a
double main line through the elaborate
& highly detailed model railroad
landscape. includes mountains, tunnels,
villages, industrial areas & much more.
By appointment only.
Rock Falls
saukvalleypredators.com
See website for ticket & schedule info.
Selmi’s Farm Market
Rock Falls / 1206 Dixon Ave.
815/626-3830
selmi.com
Haunted house & wagon ride, corn
maze, little spooks house, petting
farm, outdoor play area, & more fun!
Pumpkins, gourds, home decorating,
Pumpkin Masters, Pez Candy dispenser
headquarters.
Morrison Sports Complex
Morrison / E. Rt. 30 & Bishop Rd.
815-772-6139
morrisonil.org
35 acre: baseball/softball & football
fields, sledding hill, nature trail &
walking path.
Nims Park
Rock Falls/E. 3rd St. & Ave. E
815-625-0272
Picnic shelter, restrooms, playground,
basketball court, a Frisbee golf
course, baseball diamond, offers
fishing & canoeing.
Optimist Park
Rock Falls/14th Ave. & Prophet Rd.
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Restrooms, playground, picnic tables &
ball diamonds.
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Triple Play Bowling Center
Fulton / 1601 9th Ave.
815-589-3215
Open & league bowling, banquet
facilities, pizza & snack bar. Tues.- Sun. lunch & supper.
Westwood Sports & Expo Center
Sterling / 1900 Westwood Dr.
815-622-6201
gowestwood.org /sterlingparks.org
18 basketball & volleyball courts,
expositions, trade shows, meetings,
200-meter indoor track, fitness
facilities, 4 indoor/6 outdoor tennis
courts, batting cages, walleyball &
racquetball, private trainer, gymnastics
& tumbling, roller hockey.
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Prairie Ridge Golf Course
Morrison / 903 W. Morris St.
815-772-8989
golfprairieridge.com
18-hole course. Rolling fairways, large
mature trees. Driving range & practice
putting green. Clubhouse offering full
service bar & snack shop. The Oak
Room Restaurant is also available for
casual fine dining.
Prophet Hills Country Club
Prophetstown / 4319 Bishop Rd.
815-537-5226
9-hole public course: clubhouse,
proshop, cart/equip. rental &
banquet facility.
Rock River Golf & Pool
Fulton / 21919 Hillside Rd.
815-772-3175
Alpaca farm.
Rock Falls / 3901 Dixon Ave.
815-625-3287
rrgap.com
18-hole public golf course with
clubhouse, proshop, cart/equipment
rental, driving range and
banquet facilities.
Muller’s Lane Farm
History & Heritage
Farm Tours/
Agri Tourism
Circle C Alpacas
Rock Falls / 9767 Hickory Hills Rd.
815-625-2607
mullerslanefarm.com
Farm tours for children young & old.
Make butter, ride in a 100-year-old
farm wagon, be greeted by rare
heritage chickens, turkeys & geese.
Spring Valley Farm
Albany Indian Mounds State
Historic Site
Albany / Cherry St. & 12th Ave.
309-887-4335
Free! One of the largest prehistoric
Hopewell Mound groups in Illinois.
Interpretive displays, bike trails, crosscountry ski trails, picnic tables.
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Dutch Windmill
Fulton / First St. & 10th Ave.
815-589-4545
cityoffulton.us
Authentic Dutch Windmill prefabricated
in The Netherlands & erected by Dutch
craftsmen. Fully operational windmill on
the flood control dike overlooking the
Mississippi River. Fresh ground flour
available. Open May- Oct.
Eclipse Square Memorial Park
Prophetstown / 301 Washington St.
815-537-5598
Named after the Eclipse Lawnmower
which originated in Prophetstown,
park was created to honor all those
who served such as veterans, law
enforcement, fire fighters, & EMTs.
Firehouse Ministries Fire Museum
Rock Falls / 402 W. 2nd St.
815-622-9490
firehouseofgodministries.com/
firemuseum.htm
The museum displays vintage
firefighting equipment and offers family
friendly tours and children’s educational
activities.
Henry C. Adams Memorial Library
Emerald Hill Golf & Learning Center
Sterling / 16802 Prairieville Rd.
815-622-6204
18-hole public course: clubhouse,
proshop, cart/equip. rental, driving
range, banquet facilities.
Morrison / Crosby Rd.
815-772-3757
On the road to Morrison-Rockwood
State Park, at 148 feet, the two-span
covered bridge is much larger than
those you will find elsewhere.
Lake Erie Golf Course
Dillon Home Museum
Deer Valley Golf Club
Erie / 900 Lakeside Dr.
309-659-2250
9-hole course at the Lake Erie Country
Club facility: 3,069 yards of golf from
the longest tees for a par of 36, course
rating 34.6 & slope of 108.
Civil War Cannon
Prophetstown / 400 E. 3rd St.
815-537-5139
prophetstown.net
Statue of Civil War soldier.
Covered Bridge
Sterling / 1005 E. 3rd St.
815-622-6202
sterlingparks.org
Built in 1858, Italian Renaissance
period, listed on the National Register
of Historic Places. Features: history of
Dillon family, NW steel, wire & fine
antiques, belonging to Dillon family.
46 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
Lyndon Area Historical Society Museum
Martin House Museum
Deer Grove / 3298 Hoover Rd.
815-438-GOLF
deervalleygolfclubil.com
18-hole public course: clubhouse,
proshop, cart/equip. rental, driving
range, banquet facilities.
Morrison / 15523 Henry Rd.
815-772-7966
crosscreekgolfandestates.com
9-hole public course, clubhouse,
proshop, cart/equip. rental,
banquet facilities.
Rock Falls / 512 E. 11th St.
Replica of an early 19th-century
American one-room schoolhouse.
Fulton’s Ronald Reagan Trail Link
Civil War Monument
Cross Creek Golf Course
Prophetstown / 680 E. 3rd St.
815-537-5139
prophetstown.net
First frame house built in 1839
by Whiteside County’s first settler.
Restoration in progress.
Little Red Schoolhouse Museum
Fulton /10th Ave. & 3rd St.
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg. 15
Fulton Lincoln Highway Interpretive
Gazebo & Mural
Prophetstown / 400 Block of
Washington & Riverside Dr.
815-537-5139
prophetstownil.com
WWI brass naval cannon on carriage.
Golf
Asa Crook Home
Sterling / 607 E. 3rd St.
815-622-6215
svonline.net
Abraham Lincoln, then 47, came
to Sterling to speak at a rally for
presidential candidate, John C. Fremont.
On July 18, 1856, a twist of fate
brought Mr. Lincoln to the home of
Sheriff William Manahan to spend the
night. He slept on a sofa with two chairs
placed at its end to accommodate his
long legs. In the morning he left Sterling
for a speaking engagement in Chicago
and the rest is history! The home has
been restored & its interior, furnishings,
& facade reflect the time when Lincoln
visited in the late 1850’s.
Lyndon/405 W 4th St
815-499-4015
lyndonareahistoricalsociety.org
Located in a 130 yr old former church.
The chapel has beautiful stained glass
windows and is an ideal setting for
small intimate weddings and events.
The lower level showcases the area’s
history through both permanent and
seasonal displays. Open by appt only.
Fulton Catholic Cemetery
815-589-4545
ronaldreagantrail.net
Ronald Reagan’s ancestral lineage
began in Fulton in the mid1800’s. President Reagan’s parents
were born & married in Fulton, IL. The
former President’s father, John Edward
Reagan, worked in a dry goods store
in downtown Fulton & his mother, Nellie
Clyde Reagan, worked as a milliner in
Fulton. Several of the former President’s
relatives including grandparents, aunts
& uncles, are buried in the Fulton
Catholic Cemetery.
Fulton / 21919 Hillside Rd.
815-772-3175
springvalleyfarm.4mg.com
Dairy farm offering tours by appt.
Lincoln Manahan Museum
Prophetstown / 209 W. 3rd St.
815-537-5462
Erected in memory of Henry Adams
who was founder of Eclipse Lawn
Mower, was built in Prophetstown.
Heritage Canyon
Fulton / 515 N. 4th St.
815-589-4545
cityoffulton.us
A restored mid-1800s settlement
including home sites, church, one-room
school house, doctor’s office, covered
bridge, swinging bridge & more.
Historic Lyndon Bridge
Lyndon/126 6th Ave W
The Lyndon Bridge, located on the
Rock River Trail, is a metal Parker Pratt
through-truss bridge built in the late
1890’s and restored by the village
of Lyndon in 2003 to be used as a
walking bridge.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
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Muller’s Lane Farm
Rock Falls / 9767 Hickory Hills Rd.
815-625-2607
mullerslanefarm.com
Farm tours for children young & old.
Make butter, ride in a 100-year-old
farm wagon, & be greeted by rare
heritage chickens, turkeys & geese that
stroll around the barnyard.
Murals of Prophetstown
Prophetstown/downtown business
district
815-537-5139
prophetstownil.com
Depicts the history of the community &
received a state of Illinois 2005 “ArtsFriendly Community” award.
Passport to Reagan Roots in NW Illinois
Rock Falls Tourism
815-380-2300
visitrockfalls.com
Contact Rock Falls Tourism for a
passport that will take you through the
towns & sites in NW Illinois where
Ronald Reagan was born & raised.
Rock Falls Chamber South Loop
Tourism Project
Rock Falls / 601 W. 10th St.
815-625-4500
rockfallschamber.com
Golf, see President Ronald Reagan
birthplace & learn about our rich
heritage with the Hennepin Canal.
Fulton / 707 10th Ave.
815-589-4545
cityoffulton.us
The Fulton Historical Society is located
in this Civil War-era home which
houses several antiques and Fulton
memorabilia.
Rock Falls Lincoln Highway
Interpretive Mural
Morrison’s Heritage Museum
Tampico / 111 S. Main
815-438-2130
Apartment where Ronald Reagan
was born, restored & decorated in
early 1900s. Gift shop & museum.
Donations. Open Apr.-Dec.
Morrison / 202 E. Lincolnway
815-772-8889
Collections include: toys, Post Office,
antique farm tools, women’s finery,
one-room school house, wooden trains
& local Morrison history.
Morrison Lincoln Highway
Interpretive Mural
Morrison/208 E. Main St.
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg. 15
Morrison Welcome Center
Morrison / 221 W. Main St.
815-772-3757
morrisonchamber.com
Maps & visitor info available.
Morrison Veteran’s Park
Morrison/E. High St.
Dedicated to area veteran’s flags,
memorial tablets & Howitzer field
artillery.
Rock Falls / 1412 W. Rock Falls Rd.
Rt 30
drivelincolnhighway.com
For more information see pg, 15
Ronald Reagan Birthplace
Ronald Reagan Trail
ronaldreagantrail.net
13 communities in NW Illinois
celebrating the legacy of President
Reagan. Historic landmarks, museums,
& events honoring this great man.
Sterling Lincoln Highway
Interpretive Mural
Sterling /424 Locust St
866-455-4249
drivelincolnhighway.com
Sterling Mural Society
Sterling / Downtown
815-625-2400
sterlingmurals.com
17 beautiful & colorful murals
downtown area that depict the history
of our community. Walking tours.
Sterling Rock Falls Historical Museum
Sterling / 1005 E. 3rd St.
815-622-6215
svonline.net/~srfhs
Museum traces history from prehistoric
days to the modern industrial era.
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Tampico Area Historical Museum
Tampico / 119 S. Main St.
815-438-6175
tampicohistoricalsociety.citymax.com
Includes: family history library &
research center, family & local histories,
Ronald Reagan photos & documents,
memorabilia from the HY&T railroad
& more.
Tri-Township Heritage Museum
Albany / 306 Lime St.
309-887-4085
Collection of historical items &
memorabilia from three townships:
Albany, Garden Plain & Newton.
Historical pictures, books, journals &
papers.
Windmill Cultural Center
Fulton / 111 10th Ave.
815-589-4545
cityoffulton.us
Collection of 21 European windmills
in sizes between 3 ft. & 6 ft. tall from
10 European countries. Interpretive
exhibits, children’s activities, gift shop,
fresh stone-ground flour, Delft pottery &
souvenirs of Fulton. Special exhibits will
be featured throughout the year. Open
May to mid Nov – call for days &
hours of operation
Horse/Equestrian
Double G Farms
Sterling / 24236 Lincoln Rd.
815-626-4213
Full-service horse facility: quality barrel
horse prospects, stallion service.
Western store, indoor & outdoor arena,
horse shows & much more.
Fancy Boot Riding Ranch
Prophetstown / 29366 2400 E.
815-537-2299
Board your horses here or rent ours,
lessons & trail rides. Lessons for
beginners, training, beautiful setting.
Enjoy the other animals: miniature
donkeys, goats, cows, bull, calves,
peacocks, pheasants, bunnies, kittens,
deer, wild turkey.
Free Rein Tack Shop
Prophetstown / 13760 Cooper Rd.
815-537-5100
Tack shop, horse supplies, feed,
bedding, antiques, collectibles, crafts,
gifts. Western setting.
Morrison Rockwood State Park
Morrison / 18750 Lake Rd.
815-772-4708
Hunting, Preserves
& Guides
Big Bend State Fish & Wildlife Area
Prophetstown / Van Damme Rd.
815-537-2270
1188-acre state fish & wildlife area:
fishing, hunting & hiking.
Exner’s Sportsman’s Paradise
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Hilltop Meadows Hunt Club
Fulton / 7737 Long Rd.
815-535-1056
hilltopmeadowshuntclub.com
Private hunt club 350 acres grasslands,
food plots, ponds & wooded areas.
Morrison Pheasant Hunting Club
Morrison / 21887 Pigeon Rd.
815-772-3394
224 acres: hunting Sept. 1st -Apr.
15th. Sporting clay courses, dog
training area, camping & fishing
nearby at Lake Carlton in MorrisonRockwood State Park.
Nishkawee Preserve
Morrison / 21887 Pigeon Rd.
815-772-3394
Hunting Pheasants, Chuckars, Quail &
Hungarian Partridges. Memberships &
daily hunting for nonmembers.
Lakes & Rivers
Erie Boat Ramp
Erie / Erie Road
815-946-2108
Rock River boat launches, fishing &
parking.
Fulton Marina
Fulton / 1800 4th St.
815-589-2222
Boat launches, camping, fishing,
concessions, restrooms.
Harry Oppold Marina
Sterling / Stauffer Road
815-622-6203
sterlingparks.org
30-acre marina on the Rock River: boat
launches, concessions, fishing, & more.
Jim Arduini Boat Launch Area
Rock Falls / E. 2nd St. at Upper Dam
815-625-4500
Boat launches, parking.
Lawrence Park
Lawrence Park
Sterling / 13650 Ave. G
sterlingparks.org
Free boat launch facilities, fishing,
horseshoe courts, picnic area,
playground, open play areas, shelters.
Sterling / 13650 Ave. G
sterlingparks.org
Free boat launching, fishing,
horseshoes, picnic areas, playground,
open play areas, shelters & outdoor
swimming pools.
Oppold Marina
Lower Dam Park
Thomas Park
Moonlight Bay Marina & Restaurant
Sterling / 532 Stouffer Rd.
815-622-6203
sterlingparks.org
Free boat launching facilities, boat
slip rentals, gas, concessions & picnic
shelters.
Sterling / 2301 12th Ave.
sterlingparks.org
Unlighted ball diamond, outdoor
basketball & tennis courts& ice skating,
picnic area, playground, open play
areas.
Marinas/
Boat Ramps
Albany Marina
Albany / First Ave. & Water St.
309-887-4064
Boat launching & marina services
Bitler Marina
Albany / 202 2nd Ave. N.
309-887-4804
[email protected]
fishingworld.com/vDealers/IL/
BitlerMarine/
Rock Falls/Downtown riverfront
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
1 acre park, exciting view of the Rock
River: fishing & boat ramp below the
Lower Dam.
Sterling / Moonlight Bay Ln.
815-625-1700
Boat launches, restrooms, parking,
concessions.
Morrison/Rockwood Marina
Morrison/18301 Lake Rd.
815-772-3613
Roadside Park Boat Ramp
Como / W. Lincolnway
Rock River boat launches.
Seward Riverside Park
Rock Falls / E. 2nd St & Ave. C
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Boat launch area, picnic area,
playground equipment
South Shore Marina
Fulton / 100 19th St.
815-589-3902
Boat launches, fishing, hiking,
restrooms.
Rock Falls / 1409 Shore Acres Rd.
815-626-9326
On the Rock River. Seasonal slip rental,
bait & tackle, prop service, indoor
storage, gasoline, oil & supplies. Open seasonally.
Cattail Slough
U.S.A.C.E. Lock & Dam 13
Cattail Park
Fulton / Diamond Rd.
815-259-3628
Mississippi River boat launching,
parking, restrooms, fishing.
Morrison / 101 W. Lincolnway
815-772-2405
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Fulton / 4999 Lock Rd.
815-259-3628
Summer, view the big barges traveling
the Mississippi. Winter, watch eagles
dive for fish. Fishing, hunting, primitive
campsites, picnic shelter, grills, public
parking, restrooms, boat launches, more
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 47
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Recreation Centers
B-Fit
Morrison/126 E. Lincolnway
815-704-2049
Curves For Women
Fulton / 1008 4th St.
815-589-4999
Duis Rec Center
Sterling / 211 E. 23rd St.
815-622-6200
Open to the public year-round: 5-lane
pool, gymnasium, & more!
Prophetstown Pool & Recreation Center
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RKR & Associates Arboretum
Morrison / 9585 Henry Rd.
815-778-3664
7-acre mini arboretum over 250
different trees, shrubs & perennials,
prairie grass & pine trees, natural
habitat for animals.
Swimming
Duis Recreation Center
Sterling / 211 E. St. Mary’s Rd.
815-622-6200
sterlingparks.org
Indoor swimming pool, 2 basketball
courts, outdoor skatepark, fitness facility.
Prophetstown / Park Ave. & River Dr.
815-537-2093
Indoor/outdoor pool, aerobic classes,
open swims, volleyball, basketball
court. Fully equipped weight & training
paraphernalia.
Morrison Swimming Pool
Sterling-Rock Falls YMCA
Prophetstown/ 410 W. Riverside Dr.
815-537-2093
Sterling / 2505 YMCA Way
815-535-9622
srfymca.org
Indoor pool, gymnasium, wellness &
fitness centers, programs for all.
Triple Play Bowling Center
Fulton / 1601 9th Ave.
815-589-3215
Westwood Sports & Expo Center
Sterling / 1900 Westwood Dr.
815-622-6201
sterlingparks.org
Basketball & volleyball courts,
expositions, trade shows, meetings,
200-meter indoor track, fitness facilities,
indoor & outdoor tennis courts, batting
cages, volleyball & racquetball,
trainer, massage therapist, gymnastics,
tumbling.
Woodlawn Arts Academy Dance Studio
Sterling / 3807 Woodlawn Rd.
815.626.4278
woodlawnartsacademy.com
Morrison / 643 Genesee
815-772-7570
Indoor pool located in the Morrison
High School. Call for hours.
Prophetstown Park District Pool
Sterling-Rock Falls YMCA
Sterling / 2505 YMCA Way
815-535-9622
srfymca.org
Indoor pool, gymnasium, fitness center
Theatre/Night life
Starlight’s Theatre & Lounge
Sterling / 314 1st Ave.
815-564-9430
starlightstheatre.com
Premier venue ready to accommodate
private or semi-private party & special
event. VIP lounge area & balcony
available for private use. Formerly the
old “State Movie Theater” renovated into
“big city style” nightclub, feature a preevent lobby/reception area, full service
cocktail bar, 35ft stage & large dance
floor. Open Fri. & Sat. 8pm - 1am.
Hours & days vary for private events.
Food &
Dining
State Parks
& Forests
Hennepin Feeder Canal
Rock Falls
815-625-4500
5,400-acre recreation area boasts
boating, fishing, hiking/biking trails,
horse trails, nature preserves & more!
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
Morrison / 18750 Lake Rd.
815-772-4708
1152-acre state park: fishing, boating,
concessions, hiking, cross-country skiing
& more
Prophetstown State Recreation Area
Prophetstown / Park Ave. & River Dr.
Near Rt. 172 & 78
815-537-2926
53-acre state park: boat launches,
fishing, camping, electrical service,
restrooms/showers, playground, small
picnic shelter, horseshoe pits, dump
station, hiking. Between Rock River &
Coon Creek & nature trail.
Bakery
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Sterling / 406 Ave G
815-626-2253
Baked by Liz
Morrison / 119 E. Main St.
815-772-2253
bakedbyliz.com
Donnybrook Bakery Café
Morrison / 203 W. Main St.
815-772-7600
Folsom’s Bakery
Rock Falls / 319 1st Ave.
815-622-7870
www.folsomsbakery.com
Krumpets Café & Bakery
Fulton / 1016 4th St.
563-650-3880
W h i t e s id e
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Cafés & Delis
El Tapatio
Happy Joe’s
Rock Falls / 1405 1st Ave.
815-625-5566
First Wok
Isle of Rhodes
Arthur’s Garden Deli
Arthur’s Garden Deli
Sterling / 2312 E. Lincolnway
815-625-5566
Cobblestone Ice Cream & Deli
Sterling / 603 Freeport Rd.
815-626-9999
cobblestoneicecream.com
Donnybrook Bakery Café
Morrison / 203 W. Main St.
815-772-7600
Elli’s Bistro
Prophetstown / 348 Washington St.
815-537-9019
Harbor Cafe & Pizzeria
Fulton / 1901 S. 4th St.
815-589-4747
Krumpets Café & Bakery
Fulton / 1016 4th St.
563-650-3880
Mom’s Diner
Sterling / 23 E. 3rd St.
Sunnyside Café
Rock Falls / 606 12th Ave.
815-535-0805
Espresso /
Coffee BAR
Air Play Sports Espresso Bar
Sterling / 115 E. 3rd St.
815-564-2787
airplaysports.com
Beans Coffeehouse & Music Café
Sterling / 121 E. 3rd St.
815-590-2752
beansbooksandbeliefs.org
Koffie Pub, The
Fulton/1701 10th Ave
815-589-4644
Michelle’s Coffee & Ice Cream
Aurelio’s Bake Shop
48 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
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Fulton/1115 4th St.
563-650-3880
Ethnic
Angelo’s I
Rock Falls / 608 12th Ave.
815-625-5163
Angelo’s II
Sterling / 2525 E. Lincolnway
815-625-5451
China House, The
Morrison / 222 W. Main St.
815-772-8868
El Jacalito
Sterling / 1225 W. 4th St.
815-625-3404
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Rock Falls / 1100 1st Ave.
815-564-0510
Rock Falls / 1110 1st Ave.
815-625-8878
Fung Ming Restaurant
Sterling / 216 1st Ave.
815-626-3030
Kelly’s
Sterling / 218 Locust St.
815-625-7969
Morrison / 109 W. Main St
815-772-7840
Morrison / 111 W. Main St.
815-772-7431
Julie’s Cafe
Perna’s Pizza
Rock Falls / 200 W. Rt. 30
815-625-8180
Willy’s Restaurant
Sterling / 3210 W. Lincolnway
815-626-0401
Family Restaurants
Albany Mississippi Cafe
Albany / 306 S. Main (Rt. 84)
309-887-9014
Arnie’s Happy Spot
Deer Grove / 1667 Hoover Rd.
815-438-5282
Blue Goose Run
Sterling / 14609 Blue Goose Rd.
815-772-7200
bluegooserun.com
Don’s Seafood & Chicken
Sterling/405 5th Ave.
815-564-0542
Morrison / 18301 Lake Rd.
815-772-3613
Parkway Village Family Restaurant
Sterling/1804 E. 4th St.
815-625-7601
Prophet Family Restaurant
Prophetstown/344 Washington St
815-537-9959
Red Apple Restaurant
Rock Falls / 2004 1st Ave.
815-625-6574
Red Apple Restaurant
Sterling / 2511 N. Locust
815-625-5160
Spot, The
Sterling/2900 E Lincolnway
815-535-0031
Sunrise Family Restaurant
Fulton / 927 14th Ave.
815-589-4880
Wagon Wheel Restaurant & Lounge
Sterling / 1711 W. 4th St.
815-625-6680
Sterling / 1501 W. 4th St.
815-622-0258
Fine Dining
Eggs in Paradise
Sterling/3506 E. Lincolnway
815-654-0735
Sterling / 14609 Blue Goose Rd.
815-772-7200
bluegooserun.com
Eureka Inn
Candlelight Inn
Prophetstown / 110 E. 3rd St.
815-537-5571
Family Chef
Morrison / 701 W. Lincolnway
815-772-4785
Family Table Restaurant
Rock Falls / 1204 W. Rt. 30
815-622-0305
Friendship House
Rock Falls / 1120 W. Rt 30
815-625-2255
Gazi’s Restaurant
Rock Falls / 3901 Dixon Ave.
815-625-3287
rrgap.com
Toby’s
Deer Grove / 3298 Hoover Road
815-631-8080
Rock Falls / 2105 First Ave.
815-626-5501
Fulton / 305 11th St.
815-589-2520
Niccoli’s
Morrison/123 E. Main St
815-772-8226
Rock River Supper Club
Manny’s Too
Morrison-Rockwood Restaurant &
Marina
Original Taco
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Pizza/Grills/Pubs
Maple Pancake House
Prophetstown/44 Grove St.
815-989-6016
L ee
Albany / 108 South Main
815-887-4320
La Familia Restaurant
Rock Falls / 201 W. Second St.
815-626-0158
lafamilia1.com
|
Blue Goose Run
Rock Falls / 2200 First Ave.
815-626-1897
Candlelight Inn
Sterling / 2907 N. Locust St.
815-625-2600
Forest Inn Restaurant & Lounge
Morrison / 20657 Lincoln Rd.
815-772-4557
Martin’s Steaks & Spirits
Sterling/14 E 3rd St.
815-632-0761
All American Bar & Grill
O gle
Meeting,
Convention
& Reception
Space
Precinct, The
Sterling / 113 E. Third St.
815-622-4078
Stadium Sports Bar & Grill
Fulton / 1601 9th Ave.
815-589-4376
Barn at Allen Acres Wedding and
Reception Venue, The
Stars Pizzeria
Morrison / 633 E Lincolnway
815-772-8781
Rock Falls / 2206 Prophet Rd.
847-687-3348
[email protected]
thebarnatallenacres.com
Whiskey Barrel Saloon
Angelo’s I
Rock Falls / 305 W. Second St.
815-716-8061
facebook.com/
whiskeybarrelsaloon305/info
Angelo’s II
Pubs/Bars
Rock Falls / 608 12th Ave.
815-625-5163
W h i t e s id e
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Days Inn
Rock Falls / 2105 1st Ave.
815-626-5500
hotelrockfalls.com
Da-Bar
Lake View Club House
Morrison / 109 E. Main St.
815-772-4415
Sterling / 23319 Hazel Rd
815-626-2886
Par & Grill
Rock River Supper Club
Prophetstown / 4319 Bishop Rd.
815-537-5226
Sterling / 103 W. 3rd St.
815-548-9550
Rock Falls / 3901 Dixon Ave.
815-625-3287
rrgap.com
Quick-Service Food
Westwood Sports & Expo Center
Champ’s Sports Bar & Grill
Rock Falls / 208 W. 10th St.
815-622-4999
Sterling / 2525 E. Lincolnway
815-625-5451
Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar
Sterling / 3920 E. Lincolnway
815-535-0528
Bullseye Bar & Grill
Sterling / 216 Locust St
815-626-6003
Cochran’s Pub
B&T’s Chicken Coop & More
Carey’s Place
Sterling/13464 Galt Road
Prophetstown / 701 Swanson Drive
779-200-5150
Elli’s Bistro
Dari-DeLite and Grill
Prophetstown / 348 Washington
815-537-9019
Fat Boy’s Bar & Grill
Morrison/201 E Main St
815-772-3978
Happy Joe’s Pizza
Rock Falls / 109 1st Ave.
815-626-5000
JW’s Third Base
Rock Falls / 207 W. 2nd St.
815-632-2074
KJ’s Bar & Grill
Morrison / 115 W. Main St.
815-772-8788
Long Shot’s Bar & Grill
Rock Falls / 3312 W. Rock Falls Rd.
815-625-7138
Manny’s Pizza
Sterling/312 Locust St
Apron Strings Antiques
Morrison / 200 N. Base St.
Sterling / 318 1st Ave
815-973-0880
Morrison DQ Grill & Chill
Morrison / 200 N. Sawyer
815-772-7070
Color of Country Antique Mall
Rock Falls / 1118 1st Ave.
815-625-5860
Subway - Morrison
Morrison / 412 E. Lincolnway
815-772-7827
Derek’s Antiques
Albany / 301 S. Main St.
815-887-9275
Prophetstown / 323 Washington St.
815-537-5888
Grapevine Wine & Martini Bar, The
Rock Falls / 205 W. 2nd St.
815-716-8649
thegrapevinewinebar.com
Manny’s Too
Fulton / 305 11th Ave.
815-589-2520
Maria’s Pizza
Morrison / 111 W. Main St.
815-772-7707
Paddle Wheel Pizza & Pub
Fulton / 1112 4th St.
815-589-2001
Antiques
Albany / 305 S. Main St.
309-887-4850
Hardee’s
Wine Bars &
Tasting Rooms
Shopping
Albany True Value Antiques
Prophetstown / 710 Swanson Dr.
815-718-1650
Subway - Prophetstown
Sterling / 1900 Westwood Dr.
815-622-6201
gowestwood.org
Flashbacks For You
Prophetstown / 341 Washington St.
563-212-5358
flashbacksforyou.com
Great River Road Antiques
Fulton / 23080 Waller Rd.
815-589-3355
Old Hotel Antiques & Collectibles
Morrison/130 E Main St
815-772-4810
River Huis Traders
Fulton / 1105 4th St.
815-589-3160
Showplace Antiques & Treasures
Sterling / 307 1st Ave.
815-564-9376
Silver City Treasures
Sterling / 117 E. Third St.
630-209-8749
Rock Falls / 901 1st Ave.
815-626-4294
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 49
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Victorian Grace Antiques & Accents
Country at Heart
Dancer’s Hut
Artisan Works
Country Orchids
Fitzgerald Pharmacy
Golden Key Gifts
Free Rein Farm Tack Shop
Imprintable Memories, Inc.
Fulton Meat Market
Prophetstown / 215 E. 3rd St.
815-537-2450
Added Touch Gallery
Erie / 8549 Springhill Rd.
309-659-2851
Between Friendz
Morrison/112 E Main St
Country at Heart Quilt & Gift Shop
Sterling / 318 First Ave.
815-625-7484
Fulton / 1019 4th St.
815-589-4045
Sterling / 702 W. 4th St.
815-622-3903
Sterling / 1910 E. 4th St.
815-625-7484
Rock Falls / 106 E. 3rd St.
815-535-0931
imprintablememories.com
Sterling Welcome Center & Gallery
Lacy’s Amazing Vase Too
Sterling / 318 1st Ave.
815-626-8610
sterlingmainstreet.org
Woodlawn Arts Academy
Sterling / 3807 Woodlawn Rd.
815-626-4278
woodlawnartsacademy.com
Country Markets
Country Lane Market
Tampico / 4515 Tampico Rd.
815-438-3022
Morrison Farmers’ Market
Morrison / 204 E. Lincolnway
815-772-3757
morrisonfarmersmarket.com
Rock Falls Farmer’s Market
Rock Falls/Corner of 2nd St &
2nd Ave
815-625-4500
Selmi’s Greenhouse
Rock Falls / 1206 Dixon Ave.
815-626-3830
selmi.com
Twin City Farmer’s Market
Sterling / 2nd St. & Ave. A
815-535-0509
twincityfarmersmarket.com
Gifts & Collectibles
Accents
Sterling / Northland Mall
815-625-1999
Beautiful You Boutique
Sterling / 3512 E Lincolnway
815-622-0007
Behren’s Country Village
Prophetstown / 3 Victoria Dr.
815-537-2731
Little Chocolatier, The
Sterling / 317 First Ave.
815-626-2752
Lundstrom Florist
Sterling / 1709 E. Third St.
815-625-0080
McCormick’s Nursery & Florist
Sterling / 3602 E. Lincolnway
815-626-4422
Selmi’s
Rock Falls / 1206 Dixon Ave.
815-626-3830
selmi.com
Sweet Woodruff
Fulton / 1102 4th St..
815-589-2937
Wilson’s Greenhouses & Florists
Northland Mall
Sterling / 2900 E. Lincolnway
815-626-5390
shopsatnorthland.com
Specialty Shopping
A Cook’s Corner
Sterling / 2501 Ave. E.
815-625-7040
Blue Goose Run
Country Lane Market
Sterling / Northland Mall
2900 E. Lincolnway
815-622-5996
bbcandle.com
Fulton / 211 11th Ave.
815-589-3213
Girlfriends Boutique
Prophetstown / 338 Washington St.
815-989-6019
Interiors, Etc.
Fulton / 1102 4th St.
815-589-9014
Jackie’s Custom Interiors
Rock Falls / 1001 Regan Rd.
815-626-2121
Jamie’s Candle Loft
Sterling / 2713 Locust St
815-626-0048
K & R Greenhouse
Morrison / 15543 Bishop Rd.
815-772-4595
Long’s Garden
Fulton / 18510 Sand Rd.
815-589-4121
longsgarden.com
Mead’s Bike Shop
Prim Pickins
Country at Heart Quilt & Gift Shop
Bushel Basket Candle Company
Prophetstown / 13760 Cooper Rd.
815-537-5100
Words of Wisdom
Christian Books & Gifts
Rock Falls / 1512 Prophet Rd.
815-625-5116
behrensflowershed.com
Sterling / 14609 Blue Goose Rd.
815-772-7200
bluegooserun.com
Morrison / 124 E. Main St.
815-772-3415
Sterling / 414 Locust St.
815-626-4601
meadsbikeshop.com
Malls
Sterling / 1910 E. 4th St.
815-625-7484
Tampico / 4515 Tampico Rd.
815-438-3022
Country Orchids
Fulton / 1019 4th St.
815-589-4045
countryorchids.com
50 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com
W h i t e s id e
Morrison / 123 W Main St
815-772-4653
Fulton / 1006 4th St.
815-589-2128
Fulton / 1021 4th St.
815-589-2998
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Sterling/607 Griswold Ave.
815-499-7754
Quilt Supplies For U
Rock Falls / 620 E. Route 30
815-622-9413
[email protected]
quiltsuppliesforu.com
Rigler’s Sports Supply
Sterling / 1111 First Ave.
815-625-3319
Simply Sweet, Inc
Tegeler’s Amish Furniture
Morrison / 13459 Crosby Rd.
815-772-3533
tegeleramishfurniture.com
TLC Country Store and Timber Lane
Christmas Tree Farm
Fulton / 7250 Garden Plain Rd.
309-887-4892
timberlanetreefarm.com
Wilson’s Floral & Gifts
Fulton / 1006 4th St.
815-589-2128
Wilson’s Greenhouse & Florists
Morrison / 103 N. Heaton St.
812-772-2126
Workman’s Harley Davidson
Rock Falls / 1903 Harley Davidson Dr.
815-626-1213
workman-hd.com
Sterling / 2522 E. Lincolnway, Suite E.
815-632-3577
candybouquet.com
Spangler’s Landscape Design
Morrison / 12540 Lincoln Rd.
815-772-4318
spanglerslandscapedesign.com
Susan’s Calico Creations
Fulton / 1108 4th St.
815-589-2221
susancalicocreations.com
With two dams and over 500’ of tail water to fish from, eagles often
nest along the Rock Falls’ riverfront.
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
815-380-2300 • 800-466-4168
Vi s i t R o c k F a l l s . c o m
PAID FOR BY ROCK FALLS TOURISM
Local
Favorites
Local
Favorites
The Cooler
312 W. 2nd Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-632-3010
American Bar & Grill
2105 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-1041
Corner Tap
120 W. 2nd Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-4463
Froggy’s Bar & Grill
215 W. 2nd Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-4783
The Grapevine Wine &
Martini Bar
205 W. 2nd Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-716-8649
JW’s 3rd Base Bar & Grill
109 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-632-2070
Brenda’s Chicken Coop
208 W. 10th Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-622-4999
Rock Falls Uptown District
At the heart of a once thriving industrial-era
community, the Rock Falls Uptown District is quickly
transforming into a hot spot for travelers looking
to enjoy a peaceful day in the outdoors followed
by a spirited nightlife in one of its many bars and
restaurants that often host live music.
Longshots Bar & Grill
3312 W. Rock Falls Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-7138
Over the last few years, several investors have
committed to opening businesses in the Uptown
District of Rock Falls. Recently, a Holiday Inn Express
began construction of a hotel along the riverfront
and the City has announced plans for an adjacent
green space that will include an amphitheater, water
feature, skate park and trail path.
Nick’s Tavern
1301 Prophetstown Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-1470
The Uptown District is walking distance from both
the Rock River and Hennepin Canal State Park. With
the presence of two dams, the Uptown District’s
section of the Rock River is abundant with fish and
PJ’s II
109 W. 2nd Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-9394
Skybox Sports Bar
1118 E. Rock Falls Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-7022
wildlife, while the Hennepin Canal provides the area
with over 30 miles of recreational opportunities.
In 2014, the famous Rock Falls River Chase made
its return and boat racing enthusiasts turned out in
droves to show their support. Details for this this
event and many others can be found at
www.visitrockfalls.com
Family Table Restaurant
1204 W. Route 30
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-622-0305
Rock Falls Treats
Angelo’s spaghetti pizza
The original Angelo’s Pizzeria is a quaint Italian diner
found along 12th Avenue on Rock Falls’ west side.
Locals flock to Angelo’s for their distinctive Italian
cuisine. Hands down the most lip smacking item on
the menu is their “Spaghetti Pizza.” Served with hearty
meatballs and a tangy sauce this pie is truly amazing.
Angelo’s Pizzeria
600 12th Ave., Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-5163
angelospizzeria.net
candlelight inn’s chicken george
Invented in the mid-70s by employee George Rose,
Chicken George has become a staple of the Midwest
dining experience. Travelers from near and far come
daily to enjoy these crispy, tender, succulent strips of
chicken; which by the way come accompanied with a
special recipe Jan’s sauce.
Candlelight Inn
2200 1st Ave., Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-1897
candlelightinnrestaurant.com
Arthur’s choice
Arthur’s Garden Deli has been a dining tradition of the
Sauk Valley since 1977. Voted “Best Place for Lunch”
by local diners, Arthur’s features deli sandwiches,
soups, stuffed potatoes, salads and more. Arthur’s
Choice is one of eighteen sandwiches on the menu.
This local favorite comes with generous portions of
Turkey, Ham, Swiss, Cheddar and Veggies.
Arthur’s Garden Deli
1405 1st Ave., Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-0101
Dave’s coffee cakes
Made with pride at a local Rock Falls bakery, Dave’s
Coffee Cake’s are wonderfully moist and creamy. Choose
from over forty flavors, ranging from your basic cinnamon
to a wide variety of cakes blended with chocolates,
creams and fruit fillings. Dave’s Coffee Cake’s can be
found locally at Save-a-Lot and County Market.
201 W. 2nd St., Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-0158
davescoffeecakes.com
Whiskey Barrel Saloon
305 W. 2nd Street
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-716-8061
PAID FOR BY
ROCK FALLS TOURISM
Vi s i t R o c k F a l l s . c o m
folsom’s thumbprint cookies
A favorite of Rock Falls since 1942, Folsom’s Bakery
on First Avenue produces some of the most delightful
treats in the region. Known for their famous Thumbprint
Cookies, these bite-sized short-bread delicacies come
topped with buttery frosting in a variety of colors.
Folsom’s Bakery
319 1st Ave., Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-622- 7870
folsomsbakery.com
El Tapitio
1100 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-564-0510
Gazi’s Restaurant
901 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-4294
Perna’s Pizza
200 W. Rock Falls Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-8180
Red Apple Restaurant
2004 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-6574
Rock River Supper Club
& Golf
3901 Dixon Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-2387
Toby’s Fine Dining
3298 Hoover Road
Deer Grove, Illinois 61243
815-631-8080
PAID FOR BY
ROCK FALLS TOURISM
Local
Favorites
Coloma Park District
508 11th Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-0272
colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Crow Valley Campground
23807 Moline Road
Sterling, IL 61081
815-626-5376
crowvalleycampground.com
Deer Valley Golf Course
3298 Hoover Road
Deer Grove, IL 61243
815-438-4653
dvforegolf.com
Gieson Motorsports
800 E. Route 30
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-1751
giesonmotorsports.com
Jeff Bright RV Center
2109 Industrial Park Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-7878
jeffbrightrv.com
Kokomo’s Shaved Ice
528 W. Route 30
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-441-0357
Leisure Lake Campground
2303 French Street
Rock Falls, IL 6071
815-626-0005
leisurelakecampgroundil.com
Poci’s Market & Greenhouse
9571 Hoover Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-0630
Rainbow Falls Adventure Golf
1109 W. Route 30
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-535-6556
Rigler’s Sports Supply
1111 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-3319
riglerssports.com
PAID FOR BY
ROCK FALLS TOURISM
Country Inn & Suites
By Carlson
2106 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-3200
Rock Falls Attractions
Crystal Lake Recreation Park
Crystal Lake Recreation Park has something to offer
for every member of the family. The park property
includes a large man-made swimming lake, go karts,
aqua golf and a soon-to-be-opened RV campground.
Crystal Lake features a sandy beach with many
climbing obstacles, a blob and zip lines for water fun.
recognizable businesses and attractions in Rock
Falls with Workman Harley Davidson. Located on 1st
Ave., Workman HD has a great showroom floor with
great deals on new or used Harleys, a fully-equipped
service center and all the Harley apparel and gear you
could ever need. Stop in and say hi or visit the website
for more information.
Located along IL Route 30, Crystal Lake Recreation
Park is easily accessible from IL Route 40 and
Interstate 88. The park operates on a seasonal
schedule, with the lake closing daily at 6:00pm,
and the go karts and aqua golf having extended
hours. For more information please visit Crystal
Lake’s website.
1903 1st Ave.,
Rock Falls, Illinois 61071
815-626-1213
workmanhd.com
511 East Route 30
Rock Falls, Illinois 61071
815-622-5974
crystallake1.com
Selmi’s Greenhouse & Farmer’s Market
Selmi’s Green House & Farmer’s Market has been
a family tradition for more than 60 years. Open
from Mid-February to Christmas Eve, Selmi’s offers
something for all the seasons of your life. From the
flowers in the spring to the pumpkins in the fall, all
products are planted, grown and picked at the Selmi’s
farm in Rock Falls. For more information on seasonal
hours or available items please visit Selmi’s website.
1206 Dixon Ave.,
Rock Falls, Illinois 61071
815-626-3830
selmi.com
Workman Harley-davidson
What started as a hobby in 1968 has today grown
into a full-fledged, successful business for Vern
and Jane Workman. The Workmans have spent
the past four decades creating one of the most
firehouse
ministries
fire museum
Located at the
former Rock
Falls Fire Station
in Uptown
Rock Falls.
The Firehouse
Ministries Fire Museum takes a look into the history
of firefighting in the Rock Falls area. The museum
displays vintage firefighting equipment, as well as,
offers family friendly tours and children’s educational
activities.
Come have your kids enjoy a water fight, crawl
through the smoke house or take a fire truck ride.
The Firehouse Ministries Fire Museum is full of history
and play for kids of all ages. For more information or
a calendar of special events go to the Fire Museum’s
website.
403 West 2nd St.,
Rock Falls, Illinois 61071
May thru October,
Saturdays 10:00am to 2:00pm
815-622-9490
firehouseofGodministries.com
Rock Falls Events
June 26-27 - Summer Splash Festival
September 12 - Bridge The Community 5K/10K
June 27-28 - River Chase Boat Races
September 12 - Fiesta Day Celebration
July 17-18 - Pink Heals Tour
November 19-21 - Hometown Holidays
August 1 - Touch-a-Truck Festival
For more information on events in the Rock Falls
area go to: www.visitrockfalls.com
Rock Falls Lodging
Country Inn & Suites by carlson
For the perfect combination of comfortable
accommodations, diverse services and an unbeatable
location, choose the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson.
The hotel’s spacious rooms and suites come with free
high-speed Internet access, and everyone is treated
to the complimentary, hot “Be Our Guest” breakfast
buffet each morning. While staying at County Inn &
Suites take advantage of the on-site fitness center,
heated indoor pool or curl up with a book from the
Read It & Return Lending LibrarySM.
super 8
Super 8 offers plenty of practical amenities to ensure
a relaxing break. As an ideal home base for your
excursions in the Sauk Valley, Super 8’s convenient
location puts you within easy reach of area attractions.
Enjoy a free 8-item SuperStart breakfast bonanza in
the morning or grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee for
the road. The Super 8 hotel in Rock Falls is equipped
with free Wi-Fi Internet, handicapped-accessible
rooms, RV/Truck parking and complimentary stays for
children under 17 with an adult chaperone.
2106 1st Ave.
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-3200
countryinns.com
2100 1st Ave.
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-8800
super8.com
days inn rock falls
Whether
traveling for
business
or leisure,
Days Inn is a
comfortable
choice when
staying in the
Rock Falls area. Days Inn is located just off Interstate
88 and provides easy access to nearby communities
including Rock Falls, Sterling, Dixon and Morrison.
Days Inn offers free continental breakfast, Wi-Fi
Internet and an indoor pool; as well as, an onsite
American Bar and Grill, large meeting rooms and fullyequipped business center.
All seasons motel
Centrally located in Rock Falls, the All Seasons Motel
offers 31 deluxe rooms with individually controlled air
conditioning and heating. Rooms are very clean and the
amenities include microwaves, refrigerators and Jacuzzis.
Located off I-88 at Exit 41, the All Seasons Motel can be
conveniently found across from the local Walmart and
Culver’s restaurant.
2105 1st Ave.
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-5500
daysinn.com
Days Inn - Rock Falls
2105 1st. Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-5500
daysinn.com
Super 8
2100 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-626-8800
super8.com
All Seasons Motel
1904 1st Avenue
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-3700
1904 1st Ave.
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-3700
the napp inn
The Napp Inn of Rock Falls features newly renovated
accommodations, free wireless Internet and close
proximity to Interstate I-88. The Napp Inn is a traditional
motel that provides affordable accommodations and
specializes in extended stay hospitality. The Napp Inn is
walking distance from shops and dining establishments.
510 W. Rock Falls Rd.
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-2324
The Napp Inn
510 W. Rock Falls Road
Rock Falls, IL 61071
815-625-2324
PAID FOR BY
ROCK FALLS TOURISM
C arroll
|
L ee
|
O gle
W h i t e s id e
|
enjoy
Rochelle
open spaces & friendly faces
Rochelle is a thriving Midwestern community offering an experience for all
tastes – from relaxation to exhilaration – with that hometown feel.
www.enjoyrochelle.com
April
May
June
Ale on Lincoln
Cinco de Mayo
Railroad Days
July
August
Independence Day Summer Country Jam
Movie in the Park
Lincoln Highway
Family Swim Night
Heritage Festival
September
October
December
Wine on Lincoln
Family Harvest
Festival
Old Fashioned
2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide
Christmas Walk
Santa House
www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 56