carroll - Blackhawk Waterways
Transcription
carroll - Blackhawk Waterways
2 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 3 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. 4 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 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. 4 welcome 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 5 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 6 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 7 C arroll 8 | www.visitnorthwestillinois.com L ee | O gle | 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide W hiteside C arroll | L ee | O gle 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide | W hiteside www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 9 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside 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 10 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide 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 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 11 Carroll CARROLL | L ee | 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 O gle | 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 12 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide C arroll W hiteside 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 | 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 | O gle | W hiteside 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 L ee lee 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 13 C arroll 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 | L ee | 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 14 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com O gle | W hiteside 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 C arroll 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 | L ee | O gle 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 | W hiteside 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 15 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside 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 CARROLL 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 lee 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 ogle 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 whiteside 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 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside 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. CARROLL lee 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 ogle whiteside 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 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 17 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside Carroll | L ee | 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 O gle | W hiteside (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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 21 Carroll | L ee | O gle | Carroll 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. | L ee | O gle | W hiteside 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 23 Carroll 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 | L ee Meeting, 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 | 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. 24 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com O gle | 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 W hiteside 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 | 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 | Poopy’s Inc. Thomson / 16295 Argo Fay Rt. 815-259-2132 Thomson / 966 Creamery Rd. 815-499-1856 fairhavenfruitfarm.com L ee Mt. Carroll / 101 W. Market St. 815-244-2171 Savanna / 218 Main St. 815-273-2325 Fair Haven Fruit Farm | 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 25 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside C arroll | Lee | 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 O gle | W hiteside 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 27 C arroll Lee | | O gle | W hiteside C arroll 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. O gle | W hiteside 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 C arroll 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 | 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 | O gle | 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 C arroll | Lee | O gle | W hiteside 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 31 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside C arroll | L ee | 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 | W hiteside 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 33 C arroll | L ee | Ogle | W hiteside C arroll 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 34 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. | L ee | Ogle T-Byrd Lanes 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 | W hiteside 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 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 35 C arroll 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. | L ee | 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. 36 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com Ogle | W hiteside 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. | L ee | 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 | L ee | 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 | L ee 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 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W hiteside C arroll | L ee | 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. O gle | W h i t e s id e 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 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 43 C arroll | L ee | O gle | W h i t e s id e C arroll 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. | L ee | 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 O gle W h i t e s id e | 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. 2015 Northwest Illinois Visitor Guide www.visitnorthwestillinois.com 45 C arroll 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. | L ee | 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. O gle | W h i t e s id e 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 C arroll 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. | L ee | 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 O gle W h i t e s id e | 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 C arroll 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 | L ee | 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 | 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 C arroll 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 O gle 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 | 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 | 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 C arroll | L ee | O gle 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 | 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