I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014 by Chicago Design Lab

2014

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor

Visitor s Guide

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800.926.CANAL (2262)

For Mo

Heritagere On The Corridor

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ride in style

events

800.926.CANAL (2262)

history abounds

natural wonders

entertainment

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Contents

Features 06 Welcome to the Heritage Corridor!

Whether you are visiting for the first time or a returning friend, it’s going to be an exciting year in the Corridor.

08 National Scenic Byways

See the Corridor by traveling the three national scenic byways. Breathtaking views, iconic sites, and history awaits you as you cruise the Corridor!

10 I&M Canal Lockport

62 Inside 02

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Map

18 Greater Bolingbrook Area

Welcome to the Heritage Corridor

28 ACCOMMODATIONS

Visitor Centers/ Resources

Chicago Portage Area

36 Greater Joliet Area 54 Greater Morris Area 62 Starved Rock Area 85 Putnam County

Greater Bolingbrook Area Putnam County

Starved Rock Area l

I&M Cana

CHICAGO I&M

Greater Joliet Area Greater Morris Area

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Chicago Portage Area

Upon its completion in 1848, the Illinois & Michigan Canal dramatically changed the way people and goods were transported across the country, and also gilded the City of Chicago’s destiny as an economic and cultural powerhouse.

32 Itineraries

9 unique ways to explore the I&M Canal.

34 Bike the I&M Canal

Traverse the same route pioneering French explorers once did; along rivers, canals, and some of the country’s endangered tall grass prairies.

48 Casinos

Gaming remains hotter than ever! Come to Joliet to stay and play or catch a show.

64 MADE IN ILLINOIS

Discover award-winning wines at Starved Rock Area Wineries!

68 NO KIDS, NO CARPOOLS, No CHORES

Time to recharge and reconnect in Starved Rock Area.

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

ON THE COVER There three different covers for I&M Canal 2014 Visitors Guide: Starved Rock State Park; Route 66 Experience at the Joliet Area Historical Museum; and Biking in Lemont, an I&M Canal Community Photographers: Jimi Allen and Kathy Casstevens-Jasiek Additional copies may be obtained by CONTACTING: Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) 15701 Independence Blvd. Romeoville, IL 60446 By Calling: 815-588-7940 Toll Free: 800-926-CANAL (2262) By Faxing: 815-588-7945 Email: info@heritagecorridorcvb.com Publisher: Robert Navarro Editor: Mary Beth DeGrush Contributing Content: Anastasia Tuskey, Canal Corridor Association, Kate Meehan, Kellie Nahas Design & Production: Chicago Design Lab Photo Credits Adventure Advertising & Design, Bryan Janky, Canal Corridor Association/LaSalle Canal Boat, Chicagoland Speedway/Route 66 Raceway, Harrah’s Casino Joliet, Hollywood Casino Joliet, Jimi Allen, Joe Balynas, Jim Brown, Kathy Casstevens-Jasiek, Lewis University, Paula Guttilla, Peggy Schneider, Visit Joliet, Peter Aimaro Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff Robert Navarro, Ph.D.; President & CEO Mary Beth DeGrush; Vice President Bryan Janky; Marketing & Design Manager Kellie Nahas, Tourism Coordinator Romeoville/Joliet/ Bolingbrook Sandy Burns; Tourism Coordinator Utica Donna Nordstrom; Tourism Coordinator Utica

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SCAN ME

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

using your mobile device for a complete list of upcoming events, attractions and lodging options.

www.pinterest.com/HeritageCorCVB 75K 09/13 800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

e! Welcom

Welcome to the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor!

Experience Chicagoland’s largest playground by exploring the communities and counties (Will, Grundy, LaSalle and Putnam) and Chicago Portage region along the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal. Just southwest of Chicago, the region offers a myriad of outdoor recreational opportunities – from hiking and Starved Rock State Park to biking on the canal tow path; lively entertainment from casino gaming to both historic and modern theatres; home to three federal and state scenic byways – Illinois Route 66, Illinois Lincoln Highway, and Illinois River Road; and more. Whether you are visiting for the first time or again, it is going to be an exciting year for the communities and counties along the historic I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor. Pick up information on lodging, attractions, dining, shopping, and events at one of our visitor centers. For personal assistance, call 800-926-CANAL (2262) or access information anytime at www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com.

FAST PHONE FACTS Visitor Information Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association 312-346-3135

Illinois Office of Tourism 800-2-CONNECT www.Enjoyillinois.com

Airports O’Hare International Airport 800-832-6352, 773-686-2200

Midway Airport 773-838-600

Transportation AMTRAK 815-727-9279 www.Amtrak.com

METRA

Cheers, Robert L. Navarro, Ph.D President & CEO

815-723-2244 www.metrarail.com

Joliet Union Station 50 E. Jefferson St., Joliet 815-727-1200 www.jolietunionstation.com

Pace Bus 815-836-7000 www.Pacebus.com

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Rockford 90

Greater Bolingbrook Area WILL COUNTY LASALLE COUNTY GRUNDY COUNTY I&M

an MC

Bolingbrook

Chicago Portage Area

Starved Rock Area

Peoria 74

Greater Joliet Area

Springfield

Bloomington

36 I&M

Canal

WILL COUNTY

St. Louis Mt Vernon

Putnam County

Joliet Morris

Greater Morris Area

Canal

Ottawa

CHICAGO

LASALLE COUNTY

GRUNDY COUNTY

Miles from

Chicago

Bloomington

St. Louis

Putnam County

113

216

Starved Rock Area

240

Greater Morris Area

241

107

104

Greater Joliet Area

274

129

109

Greater Bolingbrook Area

107

284

105

Chicago Portage Area

124

300

155

102

Peoria Rockford 47

VISTOR INFORMATION Centers Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) Offices and Visitor Centers

Heritage Corridor CVB Office and Visitors Center at Historic Fitzpatrick House Lewis University

All locations have various hours, please call ahead to ensure mutual availability. The CVB is a non-profit membership based organization certified by the Illinois Office of Tourism to receive state grant dollars for the purposes of marketing and promoting the communities and counties along the historic I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor.

15701 Independence Blvd. Romeoville, IL 60446 800-926-CANAL (2262) • 815-588-7940 Fax 815-588-7945

Heritage Corridor CVB Office and Visitors Center – Bolingbrook Conveniently located with the Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce 201B Canterbury Ln. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-226-1764

Heritage Corridor CVB Visitors Center – Utica 801 E. US Highway 6 Utica, IL 61373 800-746-0550 • 815-667-4356 Fax 815-667-3096

Heritage Corridor CVB Visitors Center –Joliet at Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park (Seasonal) 30 N Bluff St. Joliet, IL 60435 815-727-2323 Fax 815-727-2324

Affiliate Visitor Centers Bedford Park Visitors Center/ Civic Center Authority 7800 W. 65th St., Bedford Park, IL 60501 708-496-0193

Grundy County Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center

909 N. Liberty St., Morris, IL 60450 815-942-0113 660 S. Broadway, Coal City, IL 60416 815-634-8662

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Lock 16 Visitors Center 754 First St., LaSalle, IL 61301 815-220-1848

I&M Canal – Lockport 200 W. 8th St., Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-9400

Ottawa Visitors Center

Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center Rte. 178 & Rte. 71, Utica, IL 61373 815-667-4726

Illinois Waterways Visitor Center 950 N. 27th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350 815-667-4054

100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa, IL 61350 888-OTTAWA-4

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Scenic Byways See Them For Yourself

Illinois Route 66

of the classic filling stations, diners, motels, neon signs, fading product advertisements and kitschy roadside attractions Route 66 is famous for. Route 66 Wayside Exhibits, which can be found in Berwyn, Countryside, Willowbrook and Romeoville, Lewis, Wilmington & Joliet tell unique and often surprising tales of the road and the local community. Learn about

Explore the “Life is a Highway – Discovering Route 66” exhibit at the Joliet Historical Museum for a limited time. Or simply stroll through Joliet’s City Center to find Route 66 themed sculptures, mosaics & antique gas pumps.

Joliet Prison

Considered the most famous roadway in the world, Route 66, to this day, represents freedom and the enduring American spirit as those seeking a piece of rapidly-disappearing history flock to experience the “Mother Road” for themselves each year. Along the route, travelers can still find glimpses

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

the Marx Brothers failed attempt as chicken farmers, the world’s largest covered wagon or a gun battle waged by striking miners. www. illinoisroute66.org

Route 66 Welcome Center Joliet

Twelve Communities, from Joliet to Towanda, roll out the red carpet each may for the Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Festival. www. il66redcarpetcorridor.org

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Lincoln Highway interstate roads, rendering the Lincoln Highway obsolete. 2013 marks the 100th Anniversary of the Lincoln Highway and the road that fueled America’s first thirst for travel.

Stretching from Times Square in New York to San Francisco, the Lincoln Highway began as a patchwork of existing roads strung together to form the first trans-continental highway. In 1925 highway officials instituted a numbering system for

Within Illinois, 179 miles of the Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway follows U.S. Route 30 and IL Routes 2, 31, and 38. Communities along the route, along with the Illinois Lincoln Highway Commission, preserve this vital piece of the country’s heritage through a growing collection of installments dedicated to the human stories and history of the road. Locate historical sites, attractions and events to explore at www. drivelincolnhighway.com.

Interpretive Gazebos Settler’s Park, 24401 W. Lockport St., Plainfield 11008 W. Lincoln Highway, Frankfort Interpretive Murals 1693 Plainfield Rd., Crest Hill 701 Larkin Ave., Crest Hill 753 Ruby St., Joliet 11008 W. Lincoln Hghwy, Rte. 30 NEW – Mokena Sculpture Building the Lincoln Highway Depicts a 1915 railroad worker pouring concrete. 1610 Plainfield Rd., Crest Hill

Illinois River Road Before you set out to explore the Illinois River Road, Now the Journey is Part of the visit www.illinoisriverroad.org to plan your trip. Destination. The Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, preserves the natural river country, • Smartphone users can • Build a custom itinerary covering 291 miles beginning in Ottawa and winding access an easy-toto fit your interests through picturesque communities. Intended as a “living navigate mobile site for history museum without walls,” travelers can access information on each stop • Download one of several more than 100 nature areas, museums, historical sites, along the byway suggested routes and wineries on their journey. Whether exploring the bluff trails, biking our historic canal towpaths, wetting a • Pick up a Birding Guide • Schedule stops using the fishing line or canoeing in one of the beautifully restored or attend special birding interactive map or print wetlands, hiking some of the country’s endangered tallgrass events such as the one to take with you prairies or simply enjoying serene wildlife habitats, you’ll Summer Hummingbird be immersed in the rich history and beauty of the Illinois Festival and Winter Eagle • Video Tours highlight River Valley. Festivals gateway communities, Considered the ultimate scavenger hunt, visitors are such as Ottawa, and challenged to find more than 90 geocaches along the • Explore 5 different points of interest byway using clues and GPS coordinates. Those who uncover wineries, orchards, the hidden items in each gateway city, such as Ottawa, farms, & markets along can collect special codes to get access to limited edition the wa Geocoins for each city

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

CHICAGO PORTAGE Area Often referred to as “Chicago’s Plymouth Rock,” the Chicago Portage area is the location where explorers Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet first portaged their canoes across a path which would eventually link Chicago, Illinois, and the Des Plaines rivers. While this path would one day become the Illinois and Michigan Canal, the shortcut provided a crucial link to the Mississippi River and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico.

Where History Lives

Chicago Portage Monument

GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

I&M

Communities within the Chicago Portage

CHICAGO PORTAGE AREA

Area include City of Countryside,

GREATER JOLIET AREA

I&M

Township of Homer, Township of Lyons,

Cana

I&M

Can

Village of Hodgkins, Village of Indian Head

GREATER MORRIS AREA

STARVED ROCK AREA

PUTNAM COUNTY

GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

I&M

CHICAGO PORTAGE AREA

Park, Village of Lemont, Village of Lyons, Village of McCook, Village of Willow Springs

GREATER JOLIET AREA

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014 I&M

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Chicago Portage Area

The I&M Canal Trail Lemont Heritage Quarries

The Chicago Portage National Historic Site is the only place left in Illinois where you can stand on the same ground traveled by these two explorers. Located in the Portage Woods Forest Preserve in Lyons, visitors begin at the 20 ft. statue commemorating the explorers and their Native American guides and continue along the actual portage path, guided by interpretive signs. Another intriguing site in Lyons is the Hoffman Tower Museum, an eight story castlelike structure which once served as a centerpiece for a large, progressive recreational area featuring power boat rides, canoeing, picnicking, dancing, orchestra concerts and a beer garden. The iconic Route 66 makes a pass through Countryside and Indian Head Park, where you will find throwbacks such as Wolf’s Head Inn. Within Chicago Portage, you’ll find all the urban amenities 800.926.CANAL (2262)

Waterfall Glenn in Fall Lemont

Memorial Park, Countryside

you’re looking for, however, Willow Springs, Lemont, and Hodgkins are also teeming with nature preserves and recreational areas for those looking to escape the hustle for a while. Get out and explore today’s Chicago Portage Area, it’s the perfect jumping-off point for your journey into the Heritage Corridor. You’ll find its communities overflowing with historical sites and tours, downtown shopping, antiquing, dining, and outdoor recreation.

Hoffman Tower in Lyons

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Chicago Portage Area

Midwest SOARRING Foundation’s NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER

Midwest SOARRING (Save Our Ancestors Remains & Resources Indigenous Network Group) Foundation was founded in 1996 as a Native American organization working toward repatriation, protection of sacred sites and education of the Native American culture. The cultural center located on 5 acres of beautiful landscape in Westchester opened in 2011 with the purpose of an office as well as a location where people of diversity can gather to learn indigenous lifeways. Midwest SOARRING continues its education of indigenous cultures through lectures, classes,

and teachings held at the center as well as other venues. The Foundation plans to build a recreated native village on the center grounds so that families, school children and the general public can capture a moment of history and learn native values. Their major fundraiser is a Native American Pow Wow held annually in September at the historic Naper Settlement in Naperville, Illinois, where education is their main goal incorporated in a fun for the whole family atmosphere. For more information on this organization and events taking place at the cultural center visit www.midwestsoarring.org. NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER 1 HICKORY LANE WESTCHESTER, IL 60154 708-257-4300

Rendezvous With Living History A River Thru History - Des Plaines Valley Rendezvous, Willow Springs – A two day living history reenactment of early Illinois pioneer life. Visitors can interact with authentic pioneer settlers, participate in Native American games, browse for goods at the trading post, view cannon firing demos, storytelling, enjoy live entertainment and much more. www.ariverthruhistory.com

FIND MORE INFORMATION ON ATTRACTIONS HeritageCorridorCVB.com AND EVENTS

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Chicago Portage Area 66 exploration. Featuring a showroom, motorcycle rentals, merchandise, and events such as seminars, organized rides & garage parties. www.illinoishd.com

Countryside - Chicago’s Western Gateway Taking a cue from iconic Route 66 which passes straight through this charming community, Countryside truly is the gateway for exploring west. Located just 15 miles from downtown Chicago at the crossroads of I55 and 294, visitors to Countryside can easily access the city sights or enjoy a more laid-back suburban atmosphere.

On Par to Become a True Classic Celebrating 20 Years of Memorable Rounds at Flagg Creek Golf Course – Considered one of the finest 9-Hole courses

The Best of Both Worlds European Sophistication & Local Flavor Casual Elegance Meets Old World Charm at William Tell Restaurant – A Chicago-area landmark, located at the Holiday Inn William Tell Southwest. Known for their European-style menu, including seafood & pasta, plus an expansive brunch sure to impress even the most discerning diners. www.holidayinnwilliamtell.com

Sounds of the Countryside Clocktower in Memorial Park – A local favorite, the carillon in Memorial Park chimes at 12pm and 6pm daily, and can play up to 350 songs. Enchanting for visitors of all ages, especially during the holiday season.

Exploring West Illinois Harley Davidson Celebrate Harley Davidson’s 110th Anniversary this year. Illinois Harley Davidson in Countryside rules the road and is the perfect place to start your Route

in Chicagoland, Flagg Creek boasts beautifully mature trees, bentgrass greens, watered fairways and three sets of tees for all skill levels. Visitors short on time can head to the practice range where they’ll find night lighting, six target greens, short game practice areas & instruction options. Afterwards, guests can gather with friends in the restaurant & bar or relax on the outdoor deck and recall the line drives of the day. www.flaggcreekgolfcourse.org

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Summer Concerts in the Park – Enjoy the best local sounds, live in Countryside Park, June through August. Grab a bite from local vendors & kick back for an evening of free entertainment.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Chicago Portage Area

Attractions

Parks and Recreation

Midwest SOARRING Foundation

I&M Canal/Illinois Department of Natural Resources

1 Hickory Ln. Westchester IL 60154 708-257-4300 www.midwestsoarring.org

Native American Office and Cultural Center. Experience Indigenous cultures through lectures, cultural presentations and activities. Call for times and information or visit our website. Group programs are available upon request.

Dining Courtright’s Restaurant 8989 Archer Ave. Willow Springs IL 60480 708-839-8000 www.courtrights.com

A 4-Star destination restaurant, Courtright’s offers award winning seasonal American fine dinning & 25,000 bottle wine cellar in a gracious woodland setting. Awarded 1 Star Michelin guide 2012!

@ Gebhard Woods State Park Morris IL 60450 815-942-0796 www.dnr.state.il.us

History buffs, nature lovers and sportsmen will thrill to the sights and sounds of the 96-mile route of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Along its banks are numerous state parks, restored historical sites, and abundance of wildlife and distinctive landscapes, ranging from bluffs to rolling hills. Visitors can follow the I&M Canal State Trail beginning at Rockdale along the old towpath to LaSalle and experience 61.5 miles of scenic views of the canal and the Des Plaines and Illinois rivers. At every turn, trail users will find something of interest. One can spend an afternoon or several days exploring the wonders along this picturesque and unique area. Hiking, Biking, snowmobiling, camping, picnicking, fishing, boating & historical sites are available at four different state parks along the route.

St. James Church Lemont

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Chicago Portage Area

Services Halo Branded Solutions 15039 S. 82nd Ave. Orland Park IL 60462 708-226-4990 www.joemccorry.com

Guaranteed promotional products with expert service.

National Heritage Corridor Visitors Center: Civic Center Authority 7800 W. 65th St. Bedford Park IL 60501 708-496-0193 www.civiccenterauthority.org

Before you explore, come by and we’ll outfit you with free maps. Open Saturday 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 PM 3:00 PM. Best to call in advance. Volunteers to help with Center always welcome.

West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and Industry 9440 Joliet Rd. Hodgkins IL 60525 708-387-7550 www.wscci.org

WSCCI is a leading advocate for business & economic growth, serving over 1,400 owners, managers & employees at 300 member organizations in Countryside, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park, LaGrange, LaGrange Park, McCook, Western Springs & Willow Springs. The chamber runs on the insight, imagination, experience, teamwork and dedication of its members and community leaders. We invite you to share your skills and expertise.

Romantic Getaways

Great Food and Great Escapes

“An exquisite dining experience” is how the 4-star destination restaurant is described by loyalists. This is a gem of a find, the crown jewel, along the historic Heritage Corridor for Classic American Fine Dining. The elegant yet inviting main dining room displays expansive views of the fourseason outdoor garden, surrounding woodlands and wildlife through floor-toceiling windows. Courtright’s philosophy: The essence of fine dining is the perfect

synthesis of fine wine, exquisite food, impeccable service and a gracious setting. Courtright’s 8989 Archer Ave. Willow Springs ~ phone 708.839.8000, www.courtrights.com.

Windy City Limousine & Bus 9377 West Grand Ave. Franklin Park IL 60131 847-916-9300 www.windycitylimos.com

Windy City offers our customers the best chauffeurs and the most diverse and impressive fleet of new vehicles in the industry. As a service oriented company, we provide many extras that will ensure the best experience.

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Bolingbrook Area

GREATER BOLINGBROOK Area

The Greater Bolingbrook Area, which encompasses neighbors Romeoville and Plainfield, invites visitors to delight in upscale shopping, diverse dining, championship golf courses plus a unique mix of historical and cultural attractions. Bolingbrook was named one of Money Magazine’s “Number 61 on Top 100 places to live in 2012,” an honor one can easily agree with given the upscale amenities and entertainment options available. Whether you’re visiting for a quick weekend escape or longer, the Bolingbrook area will both surprise and welcome you.

Great places to eat and unwind in the Bolingbrook area. Stop in today.

GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

I&M

Communities within the Greater

CHICAGO PORTAGE AREA

GREATER JOLIET AREA

I&M

Cana

I&M

Can

STARVED ROCK AREA

PUTNAM COUNTY

GREATER MORRIS AREA

GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

C I&M

Bollingbrook Area include Village CHICAGO of Bolingbrook, Village of Plainfield PORTAGE and Village of Romeoville. AREA

GREATER JOLIET AREA

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Greater Bolingbrook Area Serious shoppers can enjoy the day at The Promenade Bolingbrook where one can find everything from major retailers like Macy’s to stylish and affordable IKEA Home Furnishings. Bass Pro Shop Outdoor World has everything you need to live an outdoors lifestyle. Bolingbrook’s Performing Arts Center hosts theater and musical acts, community events such as The Taste of Bolingbrook, and during the summer months, Theater on the Hill and a Summer Concert Series. The Greater Bolingbrook Area is home to some truly unique historical attractions you have to experience for

yourself. See, touch, imagine and learn in an interactive and exciting way at the Illinois Aviation Museum or Isle a La Cache Tawny Tortoise Museum. Travel the Plainfield journey of pioneer struggles to Victorian mansions at Naper Settlement outdoor history museum. Stand at the intersection of the historic Lincoln Highway and Route 66. The new Lewis University History Center, located on Route 66 serves to preserve and promote the region’s heritage with a special emphasis on the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The

Bass Pro Shop in Bolingbrook

Fitzpatrick House at Lewis University was home to Patrick Fitzpatrick, a successful farmer, businessman, and Irish immigrant community leader. Today, you can stop by this historic homestead and also pick up area information at the Heritage Corridor Visitor Center located inside. The Fitzpatrick House at Lewis University

Generous Land and Gently Rolling Terrain... make the Greater Bolingbrook Area ideal for the sport of golf. Bolingbrook Golf Club has been named by Golf World, Golf Week and Golf Digest as one of the top public courses, a claim supported by several “Readers Choice” awards. Whether you’ve got serious game or just enjoy a challenging afternoon on the greens, make the Bolingbrook area your new golf destination. Bolingbrook Golf Club Bolingbrook

Par: 72, Course Rating: 73.7 Named one of the top public courses by Golf World, Golf Week & Golf Digest

Boughton Ridge Golf Club Bolingbrook Par: 32, Course Rating: 30.1

800.926.CANAL (2262)

The Links at Carillon Plainfield

9-hole Blue Course – Par 35, Rating 34-6 9-hole Red Course – Par 36, Rating 35-7 9-hole White Course – Par 36, Rating 36 Known as the “Hidden Jewel”, the Links at Carillon will challenge and reward golfers of all levels.

Mistwood Golf Course Romeoville

Par: 72, Course Rating: 72.1 5-Star Rated – Chicagoland Golf, 4 ½ Star Rating - Golf Digest

Naperbrook Golf Course Plainfield

Par: 72, Course Rating: 72.2

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Bolingbrook Area

Grab the Family and Go! Let your Imagination Take Flight at the Illinois Aviation Museum, Bolingbrook - Families and history-buffs will be amazed by the collection of restored aircraft at the Illinois Aviation Museum. Open on Saturdays from 10am-2pm, the museum offers a complete calendar of programs and events like the Cavalcade of Planes, the first weekend in June. Many events are free and open to the public.

Pack up the car, get the family and head out for the day or weeknd to Greater Bolingbrook Area

Illinois Aviation Museum, Bolingbrook

Immerse Yourself In Native American Culture at Isle a La Cache Museum, Romeoville - Discover the lore behind how “the hiding place”, Isle a la Cache, got its name at a unique museum dedicated to the history of the Great Lakes fur trade and Native American heritage. The museum’s interactive exhibits allow kids to immerse themselves in the

Isle a La Cache Museum, Romeoville

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Native American lifestyle and dress, play with items the pioneers would have traded, and see a real wigwam and birch bark canoe. Free admission makes the Isle a la Cache Museum a real treasure. Stand at the Lincoln Highway/ Route 66 Intersection, Plainfield - Many visitors know the iconic Route 66, which crosses through Plainfield, but fewer know The Lincoln Highway was the first paved trans-continental highway to stretch 3,400 miles from New York to San Francisco. The meeting of these two great roads marks the intersection of the two longest highways in the world! Admire Antique Cars & Memorabilia at White Fence Farm, Romeoville – Known for serving the “World’s Best Chicken”, White Fence Farm Restaurant has an extensive collection of antique cars, machines, and memorabilia that inspires visitors to reminisce.

What’s a little competition amongst family at Brunswick Zone, Romeoville - XL family fun! Brunswick Zone XL features 48 bowling lanes, billiards, a huge game zone arcade, laser tag, bumper cars, plus a bar and grill.

White Fence Farm, Romeoville

Montana Charlie’s Little America Flea Market, Romeoville – An outdoor extravaganza of new and old items, furniture and food. Open on weekends, treasure hunters will find everything they desire – maybe even some Route 66 collectibles and memorabilia. www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Bolingbrook Area

Accommodations Comfort Inn Romeoville 1235 Lakeview Dr. Romeoville IL 60446 630-226-1900 www.comfortinn.com/hotelromeoville-illinois-IL220

Conveniently located just off of I-55 with rooms ranging from honeymoon suite to business class with high-speed cable internet, TV and phone services as well as state of the art meeting facility with expanded hot breakfast every morning. Whether you are here for business, leisure or just to enjoy our heated indoor pool; we take pride in our uncompromising hospitality and customer service.

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson

1265 Lakeview Dr. Romeoville IL 60446 630-378-1052 www.countryinns.com/romeovilleIL At I-55 and Weber Road. Spacious guest rooms including suites. Complimentary breakfast, complimentary high-speed internet access, and indoor pool.

Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites 205 Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-679-1600 www.bolingbrookholidayinn.com

With it’s ideal location, you’ll find yourself just minutes away from great places to eat, shop and play. We’re the perfect choice for your next getaway and the area’s only full-service hotel. Find comfort with our traditional decor and hospitality. Experience our warmth and welcome while enjoying our inviting lobby, large indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, fitness center, sun deck, gift shop, event facilities and the Remington Street Bar & Grill. Thoughtful touches include our one bedroom, whirlpool and Presidential suites.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

Hidden Oaks Nature Center

All suite hotel, located at I-55 exit 267 in Bolingbrook. 37” flat screen high def TVs in all rooms.

Uncover the past, explore the present and imagine the future at Chicagoland’s newest “green” nature center.

Super 8 Romeoville

Illinois Aviation Museum

Super 8 Romeoville Bolingbrook hotel is located in the Heritage Corridor, convenient to Interstates 55 and 355 at Exit 367, and provides a comfortable, central place to stop near Chicago. Close to attractions like Chicagoland Speedway, O’Hare and Midway airports, and Empress Casino, our petfriendly Romeoville hotel offers convenient accommodations near the Windy City.

The non-profit museum’s primary goal is to bring air and space technology and museum collections together into an innovative and inspirational program. Public exhibits. Open Saturdays 10:00am – 2:00pm.

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

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

Attractions Brunswick Zone XL Romeoville 735 N. Center Blvd. Romeoville, IL 60446 630-378-2695 www.Bowlbrunswick.com

Brunswick Zone XL is a full-feature, familyfriendly entertainment destination with something for everyone. Our center in Romeoville sets the standard for family entertainment with more than 60,000 sq. ft. of fun for all ages. Brunswick Zone XL is a great place for Corporate Parties, Team Challenges, Monumental Moments and Birthday Parties!

419 Trout Farm Rd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-739-2600 www.bolingbrookparks.org

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

Montana Charlies

255 S. Joliet Rd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 815-729-1600 Little America flea market with a combination of old and new items.

Naper Settlement

523 S. Webster St. Naperville IL 60540 630-420-6010 www.napersettlement.com Naper Settlement is a regional attraction for children and families where history comes to play, including 30 historic buildings, such as homes and working shops, and interactive exhibits.

Quality Inn Bolingbrook 175 W. Remington Blvd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-378-5300 www.choicehotels.com

63 room hotel includes indoor pool and whirlpool. Private spa & fireplace suites. Complimentary breakfast. Handicap accessible. Pet friendly.

• Free wireless internet access • Kids stay and eat free • Indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna • Fitness center • Remington Street Bar and Grill • Full-service meetings and events • Complimentary business center • Guestrooms, One Bedroom Suites, and Whirlpool Suites 205 Remington Boulevard, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 • 630-679-1600 • www.BolingbrookHolidayInn.com

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Bolingbrook Area

Dining Ashbury’s at Boughton Ridge Golf Course 335 E. Boughton Rd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-739-2377 www.bolingbrookparks.org

Ashbury’s features a cozy and inviting atmosphere with outdoor patio and beautiful views of Boughton Ridge Golf Course. Daily specials and events.

Family Square Restaurant Rt 53 & I55 Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-739-7191 familysquarerestaurant.com

available. Offering senior discounts daily. Offers fresh baked goods and “all you can eat” sirloin steaks.

Wine & Cheese by TCC 24104 W. Lockport St. Plainfield IL 60544 815-436-3499 www.wcbytcc.com

A fine wine & artisan cheese shop, wine bar and gourmet cafe offering wine tastings twice a week. Open Monday 10:00am-7:00pm, Tuesday 10:00am-9:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 10:00am-10:00pm and Sunday Noon - 5:00pm. See our website for more details.

Parks and Recreation

We offer a variety to choose from on our menu, including Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Specials, three homemade soups daily, a Kids’ Menu and a selection of Beers & Wine.

Bolingbrook Golf Club

Golden Corral Bolingbrook

Bolingbrook Golf Club combines the elements of a world-class facility and championship golf. Featuring an Arthur Hills and Steve Forrest designed golf course, a learning academy, clubhouse with lounge, a full-service restaurant and banquet facilities.

381 Brookview Ln. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-771-1777 www.goldencorral.com

Family style restaurant offers the biggest and best buffet and grill. Banquet room

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

Bolingbrook Park District 201 Recreation Dr. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-783-0272 www.bolingbrookparks.org

Providing over 2300 opportunities for recreation. Bolingbrook Park district is where the fun is!

Boughton Ridge Golf Course 335 E. Boughton Rd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-739-4100 www.bolingbrookparks.org

Situated on 45 beautiful acres, this nine-hole, 2205-yard, Par 32, executive length course offers the perfect course for a quick round of great golf.

Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm

475 Trout Farm Rd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-759-2381 www.bolingbrookparks.org Experience the beauty of fishing at the four small lakes stocked every summer. Perfect for families! Open April - October.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

I&M Canal/Illinois Department of Natural Resources At Gebhard Woods State Park Morris IL 60450 815-942-0796 www.dnr.state.il.us

Naperville Park District 320 W. Jackson Ave Naperville IL 60540 630-848-5000 www.napervilleparks.org

Naperville Park district offers 1400+ programs and events for all ages annually. Facilities include 140 parks, two golf courses, a historic aquatics facility and a downtown Riverwalk.

Pelican Harbor Indoor/Outdoor Aquatic Park 200 S. Lindsey Lane Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-739-1705 www.bolingbrookparks.org

Experience one of Chicagoland’s premiere indoor/outdoor aquatic parks. Pelican Harbor offers the best family entertainment value in the area. Come check it out!

Services All Service Limousine 15420 S. Route 59 Plainfield IL 60544 815-436-1713 www.877getlimo.com

All Service Limousine is your full service one-stop agent. We offer great rates for all your transportation needs. Open 7 days a week 24 hours a day.

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Bolingbrook Area Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce

banking by offering superior customer service and the highest quality banking products. Originally founded in Princeton, IL, Citizens currently employs over 300 staff members in 20 locations throughout North Central Illinois.

Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce

The Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce is a not-for profit organization whose primary purpose is to promote and support the growth and development of the local business community.

Heritage Corridor CVB-Bolingbrook

The Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce is organized to promote business and community growth and development. As the premier resource center, we strive to make Plainfield area a better place to live, work, worship, learn and conduct business.

201-B Canterbury Lane Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-226-8420 www.bolingbrookchamber.org

Bolingbrook’s Clow International Airport

130 S. Clow International Parkway Bolingbrook IL 60490 630-378-0479 www.clowairport.com General aviation, flight school, air charter, restaurant and Illinois Aviation Museum all within the airport.

Heartland Bank & Trust Plainfield 14429 s. Wallen Dr. Plainfield IL 60544 815-254-6800 www.citizens1st.com

Since 1865, it has been the mission of Citizens First National Bank to provide the best in

800.926.CANAL (2262)

201B Canterbury Lane Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-226-1764 www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com Your source for leisure, group and meeting planning. Contact our tourism coordinators today at 800-926-CANAL (2262). Call for the latest event information, lodging deals and shopping and dining specials. Stop by the center for brochures and information, conveniently located with the Bolingbrook Chamber of Commerce.

Lewis University

One University Parkway Romeoville IL 60446-2200 815-836-5250 www.lewisu.edu

24047 W. Lockport St., #109 Plainfield IL 60544 815-436-4431 www.plainfieldchamber.com

Romeoville Area Chamber of Commerce

10 Montrose Dr. Romeoville IL 60446 815-886-2076 www.romeovillechamber.org The Romeoville Area Chamber of Commerce promotes economic growth by providing opportunities for businesses to make meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships.

Founded in 1932, Lewis University is a comprehensive, Catholic university providing a value-based education to nearly 6,600 traditional and adult students.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Bolingbrook Area

Shopping

Tri County Business Referral Club

PO Box 522 Bolingbrook IL 60440 815-886-2564 www.TriCountyReferral.com

IKEA Home Furnishings

Our purpose is to promote and refer business within our ranks while offering our clients and prospective clients the benefit of recommended, high quality providers of products and services. We meet on a weekly basis to exchange referrals, leads, network, learn from each other and build new business relationships. At the same time we discuss issues that could make an impact on your business.

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

Located at I-355 and I-55 at the Boughton Rd. exit. IKEA offers home delivery, rental vans, assembly services and an IKEA credit card so that you won’t have any worries while you are shopping for your home. Don’t forget to visit the restaurant while you are there! Normal

Plainﬁeld Chamber of Commerce

Store Hours: Mon - Sat: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sun: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

The Promenade Bolingbrook

631 E. Boughton Rd. Bolingbrook IL 60440 630-296-8340 www.ThePromenadeBolingbrook.com The Promenade Bolingbrook is a pedestrianfriendly open-air Main Streetstyle town center. Perfect for shopping, dining & entertainment. Anchored by Macy’s, iPic Cinemas & Bass Pro Shops. Located at the intersection of I-355 and Boughton Road. Mon-Sat 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sun 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Winter, restaurant, department store & cinema hours may vary.

The Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce is strong, viable, and proud to be your voice in the community. Since 1972, we have been making a difference. Be there for us, so we can be there for you!

Shop Chamber Members First!

For more information, call 815-436-4431 and visit us at www.plainfieldchamber.com

Please Join Us for Our Annual Events Recreation Open House Daddy and Daughter Ball Pizza with Peter Rabbit Springtide Craft Show T-ball/Softball Opening Day Parade Neighborhood Park Parties Memorial Day

Movie Under the Stars Route 66 Car Show Rockin’ the Ville Summer Concert Series Independence Day Celebration Romeofest Founder’s Day Parade Autumn Colors Craft Show

Halloween Fest Costume Ball Veteran’s Day Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting Festival Sports Card/Collectible Show

For a list of dates & times, please visit our website at www.romeoville.org

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Achieve more. Together. At Lewis University, we believe that working together in community creates opportunities for all to learn, serve and succeed. Together, we develop students who have the knowledge and skills to lead in their communities and make a difference in society.

We invite you to come to our campus for education and recreation. Lewis University has achieved arboretum status at its main campus in Romeoville. The University received this award by achieving certain standards of professional practices deemed important for arboretum and botanic gardens. Lewis University is a veritable arboretum with more than 2,400 trees in addition to wooded areas. The 410-acre campus features more than 140 varieties of trees. Visitors to campus may take a Tree Walk, utilizing a map labeling each variety by location. Maps are available during business hours at the front desk of the Learning Resource Center.

The Philip Lynch Theatre is located in the Oremus Fine Arts Center on the main campus on Route 53 in Romeoville. The season runs from July to April each year. Musical and non-musical performances by faculty, staff and students occur throughout the season. Box office hours are Monday–Friday from 1:00–4:30 p.m. The box office opens one hour before scheduled performances. Ticket prices generally range from $10-12 with discounts for seniors. Reservations are recommended for all performances. Patrons may mail in a check or visit the box office during regular hours. Box office: (815) 836-5500.

Join the Lewis Flyers for outstanding athletic competition in facilities that include an indoor track and fieldhouse, an 8-lane collegiate size swimming pool, softball, baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, and a new outdoor, NCAA-certified 9-lane track. Lewis University competes in 18 NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Sports throughout the fall, winter and spring and is a member of the Great Lakes Valley Conference. Many sports events are free. Tickets for certain events can be purchased online at www. lewisflyers.com

One University Parkway Romeoville, IL 60446-2200

(815) 838-0500

www.lewisu.edu

The Lewis University History Center: Urban, Cultural and Catholic History of the Upper Midwest, located at the Fitzpatrick House on Route 53 in Romeoville, seeks to unite scholars, students, and the public in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of materials linked to the history of the Upper Midwest. The Center strives to preserve and promote the region’s heritage (with a special focus on the Illinois and Michigan Canal) through the collection of historic documents and materials and promotion of research and activities involving core areas of public history.

Accommodations Hotels

Number of Rooms

Comp. Breakfast

Entertainment

Handicap Accessible

Hotel Restaurant

Shuttle/Courtsey Van

Elevator

Lounge

Pets Allowed

Meeting Rooms

Name

Adress

Phone

Website

Best Western Chicagoland Countryside

6251 Joliet Rd., Countryside, IL, 60525

708-354-5200

www.bestwesternillinois.com

107

•

Aloft Bolingbrook Hotel/LTD Management

500 Janes Ave., Bolingbrook, IL, 60440

630-410-6367

www.aloftbolingbrook.com

155

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Comfort Inn Romeoville

1235 Lakeview Dr., 630-226-1900 Romeoville, IL, 60446

www.comfortinn.com/hotelromeoville-illinois-IL220

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Country Inn & Suites By Carlson

1265 Lakeview Dr., 630-378-1052 Romeoville, IL, 60446

www.countryinns.com/ romeovilleIL

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Days Inn Romeoville

1280 W. Normantown Rd., Romeoville, IL, 60446

815-372-1000

www.bestwestern.com

Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites

205 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL, 60440

630-679-1600

www.bolingbrookholidayinn. com

145

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Quality Inn Bolingbrook

175 W. Remington 630-378-5300 Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL, 60440

www.choicehotels.com

•

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

125 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook, IL, 60440

www.marriott.com/chibl

•

Super 8 Romeoville

1301 Marquette, 630-759-8880 Romeoville, IL, 60446

www.super8.com/romeoville

•

630-759-0529

Region

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Chicago Portage Area

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Greater Bolingbrook Area

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Greater Bolingbrook Area

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Greater Bolingbrook Area

4380 Enterprise Dr., Best Western Joliet Inn & Suites Joliet, IL 60431

815-730-7500

www.bestwesternillinois.com

•

Greater Joliet Area

Comfort Inn Joliet 1520 Commerce Ln.,

815-730-1111

www.ramada.com

•

Greater Joliet Area

Comfort Inn North - Joliet

3235 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL, 60435

815-436-5141

www.comfortinn.com

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Fairfield Inn & Suites Joliet North/ Plainfield

3239 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL, 60435

815-436-6577

www.marriott.com/mdwfi

•

Hampton Inn I-55

3555 Mall Loop Dr., Joliet, IL, 60431

815-439-9500

www.jolieti55.hamptoninn. com

104

Hampton Inn I-80

1521 Riverboat Dr., Joliet, IL, 60431

815-725-2424

www.jolieti80.hamptoninn. com

Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel

151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL, 60432

815-740-7800

Holiday Inn Express Joliet

3231 Norman Ave., Joliet, IL, 60431

815-439-4200

Joliet, IL, 60431

Pick your place to stay within the Heritage Corridor

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Greater Joliet Area

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Greater Joliet Area

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www.harrahsjoliet.com

204

•

www.HiExpress.com/ JolietIllinois

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1515 Riverboat Center 815-741-2400 Marriott TownePlace Suites Dr., Joliet, IL, 60431

www.towneplacesuitesjoliet. com

113

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Motel 6 Joliet South

1850 McDonough St., Joliet, IL, 60436

815-729-2800

www.motel6.com

100

•

Quality Inn Joliet

135 S. Larkin Ave., Joliet, IL, 60436

815-744-1770

www.comfortinn.com

•

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Greater Joliet Area Greater Joliet Area

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Greater Joliet Area

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Name

Adress

Phone

Website

Region

Red Roof Inn

1750 McDonough St., Joliet, IL, 60436

815-741-2304

www.redroof.com

108

•

Super 8 Joliet

3401 Mall Loop Dr., Joliet, IL, 60431

815-439-3838

www.super8.com

•

Greater Joliet Area

Wingate by Wyndham

101 McDonald Ave., Joliet, IL, 60431

815-741-2100

www.wingatehotels.com

•

Greater Joliet Area

AmericInn Lodge & Suites Oswego

1050 Douglas Rd., Oswego, IL, 60543

630-554-9090 www.americinn.com/hotels/ IL/oswego

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Comfort Inn Morris

70 W. Gore Rd., Morris, IL, 60450

815-942-1433

www.comfortinn.com/hotelmorris-illinois-IL067

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Days Inn and Suites

80 Hampton Dr., Morris, IL, 60450

815-942-9000

www.daysinn.com

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Holiday Inn Express Morris

222 Gore Rd., Morris, IL, 60450

815-941-8700

www.jankohotels.com

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Park Motel

1923 N. Division St., Morris, IL, 60450

815-942-1321

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Greater Joliet Area

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Greater Morris Area

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Greater Morris Area

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Greater Morris Area

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Greater Morris Area Greater Morris Area

Quality Inn Morris 200 Gore Rd.,

815-942-6600

www.qualityinnmorris.com

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Best Western Oglesby

900 Holiday St., Oglesby, IL, 61348

815-883-3535

www.bestwesternoglesby. com

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Best Western Timber Creek Inn & Suites and Convention Center, LTD

3300 Drew Ave. (Rte. 34), Sandwich, IL, 60548

630-273-6000

www. timbercreekinnandsuites. com

100

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Budget Inn & Suites

1705 N. Bloomington 815-672-0080 St., Streator, IL, 61364

www.BudgetInn-Streator.com

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Starved Rock Area

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Starved Rock Area

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Starved Rock Area

Morris, IL, 60450

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Greater Morris Area

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Starved Rock Area

Days Inn Oglesby/ 120 N. Lewis Ave., Oglesby, IL, 61348 Starved Rock

815-883-9600

www.daysinn.com/ hotel/04593

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Fairfield Inn Peru

4385 Venture Dr., Peru, IL, 61354

815-223-7458

www.marriott.com/sqipr

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Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Starved Rock

3000 Fairfield Lane, Ottawa, IL, 61350

815-431-8955

www. fairfieldmarriottstarvedrock. com

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2643 N. Rt. 178, Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort Utica, IL, 61373 & Waterpark

815-667-FUNN (3866)

www.grizzlyjacksresort.com

204

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Hampton Inn Ottawa

4115 Holiday Ln., Ottawa, IL, 61350

815-434-6040

www.hamptoninnstarvedrock.com

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Starved Rock Area

Holiday Inn Express Ottawa

120 E. Stevenson Rd., Ottawa, IL, 61350

815-433-0029

www.holidayinnexpress starvedrock.com

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Starved Rock Area

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Peru

5253 Trompeter Rd., Peru, IL, 61354

815-224-2500

www.hiexpress.com/ lasalleperu

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La Quinta Inn and Suites- Peru

4389 Venture Dr., Peru, IL, 61354

815-224-9000

www.lq.com

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Landers House Country Lodging

115 East Church St., Utica, IL, 61373

815-667-5170

www.landershouse.com

Quality Inn - Peru

5240 Trompeter Rd., Peru, IL, 61354

815-223-8585

www.qualityinn.com/hotelperu-illinois-IL069

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Routes 178 & 71, Starved Rock Utica, IL, 61373 Lodge and Conference Center

815-667-4211

www.starvedrocklodge.com

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Super 8 Ottawa

500 East Etna Rd., Ottawa, IL, 61350

815-434-2888

www.super8.com

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The Willows

325 Clark St., Utica, IL, 61373

815-667-3400

www.thewillowshotel.net

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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Starved Rock Area

Starved Rock Area Starved Rock Area

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Accommodations

FIND MORE INFORMATION ON ACCOMMODATIONS AND HOTEL PACKAGES TOO! HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Number of Rooms

Hotel Restaurant

Shuttle/Courtsey Van

Handicap Accessible

Lounge

Recreation

Pets Allowed

Meeting Rooms

Comp. Breakfast

Entertainment

Bed & Breakfasts Name

Adress

Phone

The Inn at Smokey Row

112 Stephen St., Lemont,IL,60439

630-888-5259 www.innatsmokeyrow.com

•

Paradise Found B&B

1100 Eunice Ave, Joliet,IL,60433

815-722-6679

•

2558 N. 3653rd Rd., Timeshare at Fox River Resort Sheridan,IL,60551

815-588-7942

Whispering Pines 10940 S. Dwight Rd., Dwight,IL,60420 of Dwight, Inc.

260-433-4886 www.whisperingpinesofdwight. com

•

Greater Morris Area

Bayley House Suite Bed and Breakfast

723 N. 2150th Rd., Tonica,IL,61370

815-442-3276

•

Starved Rock Area

Brightwood Inn

2407 N. Route 178, Oglesby,IL,61348

888-667-0600 www.brightwoodinn.com

Chestnut Street Inn

301 E. Chestnut St., Sheffield,IL,61361

800-537-1304 www.chestnut-inn.com

Fox River Bed and Breakfast

3367 E. 2072nd Rd., Ottawa,IL,61350

815-431-9257

www.foxriverbnb.com

Kishauwau Country Cabins

901 N. 2129 Rd., Tonica,IL,61370

815-442-8453 www.kishauwau.com

Lord Stockings 803 3rd Ave., Bed & Breakfast Mendota,IL 61342

815-539-7905

www.bbonline.com/il/ mendota.html

Madison Street Living

219 W. Main St., Ottawa,IL,61350

815-434-1500

www.madisonstreetliving.com

Marcia’s Bed and Breakfast

3003 N. IL Route 71, Ottawa,IL,61350

815-488-5217

www.marciasbnb.com

•

Starved Rock Area

Remembrance Rock Lodge

1948 N. 2959th Rd., Ottawa,IL,61350

815-326-1094

www.remembrancerock.com

•

Starved Rock Area

115 E. Church St., Landers House Country Lodging Utica, IL 61373

815-667-5170

www.landershouse.com

Starved Rock Lodge - Cabins

815-667-4211

www.starvedrocklodge.com

Routes 178 & 71, Utica,IL,61373

Kishauwau Country Cabins

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Website

www.bayleyhousesuite.com

Springhill Suites Bolingbrook

Region

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Chicago Portage Area •

Greater Joliet Area

•

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• • •

Greater Joliet Area

Starved Rock Area Starved Rock Area

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Starved Rock Area Starved Rock Area

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Starved Rock Area

Starved Rock Area •

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Starved Rock Area

The Chestnut Street Inn

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Accommodations

Number of Camp Sites

River

Water Hook-up

Handicap Accessible

Lake

Electric Hook-up

Pets Allowed

Season

Fishing

Sewer Hook-up

Camping Name

Adress

Phone

Website

Region

500 Speedway Blvd., Chicagoland Joliet, IL 60433 Speedway and Route 66 Raceway Camping

815-722-5500 www.chicagolandspeedway.com www.route66raceway.com

Fossil Rock Recreation Area

24615 W. Strip Mine Rd., Wilmington, IL, 60481

815-476-6784

219

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Hollywood Casino RV Resort

777 Hollywood Blvd., Joliet, IL, 60434

888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

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Leisure Lake Resort

21900 SW Frontage Rd., Joliet, IL, 60431

815-741-9405

www.leisurelakeresort.com

212

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Race View Farms

19100 Schweitzer Rd., Joliet, IL, 60433

815-741-3010

www.raceviewfarms.com

500

•

Race

Cozy Corner Campground

805 N. 25th Rd., Oglesby, IL, 61348

815-667-4886

•

Apr

•

Starved Rock Area

Hickory Hollow Campground

757 North 3029th Rd., Utica, IL 61373

815-667-4996 www.HickoryHollowCG.com

138

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Apr

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Starved Rock Area

LaSalle-Peru KOA

756 N. 3150th Rd., Utica, IL 61373

815-667-4988 www.koa.com

120

Apr

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Starved Rock Area

Prairie Lakes Country Club & Inn

2550 N. 32nd Rd., Marseilles, IL, 61341

815-795-5107

www.prairielakescc.com

Troll Hollow Campground

2265 N. 2453 Rd., Marseilles, IL, 61341

815-795-2537

www.trollhollow.com

White Oak Campground

Route 178, Utica, IL 61373

815-667-4758

www.whiteoakcamprgound.net

Hollywood Casino Joliet

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Greater Joliet Area

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Sept

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Greater Joliet Area

Aug

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Greater Joliet Area

Apr

•

Greater Joliet Area Starved Rock Area

Starved Rock Area

100

Marriott Towneplace Suites Joliet

•

Aug

•

Starved Rock Area Starved Rock Area

Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Itineraries

9 Unique Ways to Tour the Heritage Corridor

Early Risers

Nature Beckons Family Fun

Isle a La Cache Museum-[Romeoville] Kid-friendly, interactive exhibits make learning about fur-trading pioneers and Native American cultures fun!

Starved Rock Trolley Tour - The best way to see the 18 canyons, waterfalls, breathtaking scenery and learn about the history of Starved Rock from the experts, Sundays Mar-Dec.

Raging Waves Water Park-[Yorkville] 17 Water slides, wave pool, lazy river & more!

Life in the Fast Lane

The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off-Road Park-[Marseilles] 300 acres of trails

Harrah’s Joliet Casino/Hollywood Casino Joliet[Joliet] Play big and go home a winner at either of the area’s premier gaming, dining, and entertainment venues. www.harrahsjoliet.com; www.pngaming.com

Time Out to Explore

Brush with History Cell Phone Tour- [Ottawa] Experience the sights, sounds, and beautiful murals of historic Ottawa right on your cell phone! www experienceottawa.com

August Hill Winery/Illinois River Winery-[Utica] Stop in for a true taste of Illinois and pick up a few bottles to take home.

Moments in Time

Dollinger Family Farm[Channahon] Civil War Reenactment in October.

Lock 16 & LaSalle Canal Boat-[LaSalle] Cruise the Illinois & Michigan Canal on a mule-pulled boat, guided by authentically dressed crew and passengers. www.lasallecanalboat.org

Couple Therapy

Montana Charlie’s Little America Flea Market[Romeoville] An outdoor extravaganza of new, vintage, repurposed and just plain interesting items.

Scenic & challenging Flagg Creek Golf Course[Countryside] One of the finest courses in Chicagoland

Lonestar Restaurant[Channahon] Open for breakfast at 6am daily.

Coutrights Restaurant-[Willow Springs] Michelinrated 4-star dining

Route 66 Welcome Center & Joliet Historical Museum-[Joliet] Learn about the Route 66 experience and spend time exploring the museum.

The Rich & Creamy at Route 66 Park[Joliet] Nostalgic Route 66 Ice Cream Shop & Park dedicated to the “Mother Road.”

Illinois River Road Scenic Byway-[Ottawa] Traverse the quaint towns, state parks and historic sites along the Illinois River.

3 French Hens Country Market[ Morris ] Open air Euro market on the banks of the I&M Canal

Great Eats Nostalgic Route 66

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Midewin National TallGrass Prairie-[Wilmington] The first National Tallgrass Preserve in the country and one of the largest.

Excursions

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

FIND MORE INFORMATION ON ATTRACTIONS HeritageCorridorCVB.com AND EVENTS

Detours

Matthiessen State Park/Buffalo State Park-[Utica] Explore the canyons, mineral springs and waterfalls of Matthiessen or marvel at the panoramic views of the Illinois River and the “earth art” at Buffalo Rock.

The Launching Pad Drive-In [Wilmington] A Route 66 favorite! Great food and you can take a photo with the Gemini Giant.

Diversions

Fly across the Illinois River-[Marseilles] Valley on a canopy zip line tour courtesy of Zip Chicago.

Grundy County Corn Festival-[ Morris] in September - Celebrating 65 years!

Chicagoland Speedway/Route 66 Raceway[Joliet] Satiate your need for speed on the INDY Car oval or the NHRA Drag Strip.

LaSalle Speedway-[LaSalle] Stock car racing on the most exciting 1/4 mi banked clay oval.

Tracy’s Boathouse-[Ottawa] Waterfront dining on the Illinois River

Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort & Waterpark-[Utica] Perfect weekend destination for any size group - lodge, villas & cabins.

The Weber House & Gardens-[Streator] Tour the 18th century styled house and English gardens.

Mendota Museum & Historical Society-[Mendota] Three museums in one place. Union Depot Railroad Museum, Hume-Carnegie Museum & The Breaking of the Prairie Museum.

Historic Rialto Square Theatre-[Joliet] Big name acts, Broadway, comedy, & dance make for an unforgettable night.

Tallgrass Restaurant-[Lockport] Innovative modern French cuisine.

Truth Restaurant-[Joliet] Steaks, chops & pasta the best kept secret in town

The Department Restaurant & Liquor Lounge-[Joliet] Known for their famous Cajun Ribeye

Lincoln Highway/Route 66 Intersection[Plainfield] Lincoln Highway was the first transcontinental highway and Route 66 the most famous!

Fox River Bed & Breakfast-[ Ottawa ] Delightfiul accommodations where explorer Charles Lindbergh once stayed

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Polk-a-Dot Drive In-[Braidwood] One of the most memorable attractions along Route 66. Great food and classic memorabilia.

The Heritage Tractor Adventure in June [Grundy County] - Four days of tractors, entertainment, events sightseeing and camraderie.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Bike the Illinois & Michigan Canal One of the best ways to explore the Illinois & Michigan Canal is on two wheels. For a scenic and unique tour of the historic I & M Canal, jump on your bicycle and 61.5 miles of towpath between Rockdale and LaSalle. Information centers and interpretive programs can be found along the trail.

Channahon State Park

Gebhard Woods

Heading west on the towpath the first stop on your two-wheel tour is Channahon State Park, the official trailhead for the canal. You can see two remaining locks and the restored locktender’s house. An interpreter is on site four days a week. Tours and public programs are available. For more information, call (815) 467-4271.

As you meander along the trail towards Morris, you will pass through Gebhard Woods. This 30-acre site is one of Illinois’ most popular state parks with offerings for campers, hikers, picnickers, and canoeists. Gebhard Woods provides guided hikes and other park programs throughout the year. Contact (815) 942-0796 for more information.

Aux Sable Aqueduct The Aux Sable Aqueduct has been restored to its original form, serving to carry the canal over the Aux Sable Creek. In addition to the bike path, there are plenty of locations for fishing, hiking, canoeing and camping. Take a peek at the Lock 8 in this portion of the I&M Canal.

Downtown Morris Adjacent to the canal, is beautiful downtown Morris. Filled with a variety of dining and shopping options, you can also take a self-guided tour and learn about the fabulous historic buildings which still line the blocks. From the Rock Island Railroad Depot to the Canal Port Plaza, visitors will see the role Morris played in the completion of the I&M Canal. 34

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Stratton State Park Named for Illinois Governor William G. Stratton, Stratton State Park in Morris offers four public boat launch access to the Illinois River. Ample picnic areas near the I&M Canal State Trail provide an ideal respite for lunch as you continue along the bike trail.

Toll House, Ottawa The only toll house that still stands along the I&M Canal, this small, one-room structure once collected “tolls” from the many barges filled with grain, coal, stone, and lumber that moved goods along the canal.

Resting along the I&M Canal in Lemont.

Illinois Waterway Visitors Center Stop here and get an up close look at modern dam with an indoor and outdoor observation area. View the waterway, lock, and towboats display and learn how boats moved along the canal.

LaSalle County Historical Society Erected in 1848, this restored sandstone building originally served as a granary and warehouse. Now the building is home to an extensive collection of Native American artifacts and pioneer home furnishings. The museum complex includes a 19th century barn, a blacksmith’s shop, and the Aitken School where children can visit to experience school in the early days. www. lasallecountymuseum.org.

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towpath has been converted into a popular walking and bicycle path. Mile markers with historic information and character silhouettes line the path as it follows the canal. The path can be picked up at Delwood Park where you can follow numerous trails. Heading north will take you into the historic Downtown where the remains of Lock #1 can be seen and explored.

Lemont and Lockport Paths If you are looking for shorter, but just as scenic rides, take the I&M bike trail in Lemont or Lockport. Running the entire length of Lockport’s historic Downtown is the I&M Canal. The original

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In the center of Downtown, the path crosses through the Lincoln Landing interactive park. Further north, the path cuts through the Star Business Park, past some of the best preserved canal walls, and on to Isle A La Cache.

Heritage Quarries Recreation Area Native American artifacts housed in an I&M Canal era warehouse, a blacksmith shop, one-room school and pioneer farm equipment.

LaSalle Canal Boat & Lock 16 Visitor Center, LaSalle Located just half a mile from downtown Lemont, the 100-acre Heritage Quarries Recreation Area is connected to downtown via the local portion of the I&M Canal Trail. The trail follows the I&M Canal’s historic towpath and includes over six miles of crushed stone surface for hiking, biking, or dog walking. Once inside the Heritage Quarries Recreation Area, the trail loops around the park’s former limestone quarries, which are now freshwater lakes. These water-filled quarries offer a unique opportunity for fishing, boating, kayaking, and bird watching.

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The City of Excitement.

! t e i l o J s ’ t a Th

City of History. City of Champions. City of Excitement. That’s Joliet! I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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DOWNTOWN

ROUTE

Jol i e t D ow ntow n. com Visit JolietDowntown.com and sign up for newsletter to receive up-to-date info on events.

Route 66 Welcome Center & Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N. Ottawa St. 815/723-5201 jolietmuseum.org

Route 66 Park 920 N. Broadway

Joliet Junior College Rennaissance Center 214 N. Ottawa St. 815/280-1444 cityofjoliet.com/ business/renncen.htm

Old Joliet Prison Interpretive Park 1125 Collins St. visitjoliet.org/prison.html

Joliet Public Library 150 N. Ottawa St. 815/740-2666 joliet.lib.il.us

Joliet Iron Works Park 1 mile north of Webster St. 815/727.8700 reconnectwithnature.org/ preserves-trails/Joliet-Iron-Works Joliet Junior College

Joliet Ir on Works Park

Renaissanc e Center

ROUTE 66 WELCOME CENTER & JOLIET AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Harrah’s Casino 151 N. Joliet St. 815/740-7800 harrahsjoliet.com

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St. 815/726-7171 rialtosquare.com

Parking

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park 201 W. Jefferson at Bluff St. 815/724-3760 bicentennialpark.org

Library

Harrah’s Casino

Rialto Square Theatre

Parking

Silver Cross Field

Harrah’s Parking

Will County Courthouse

City Hall

FROM

Union Station Parking

INDICATES THE ONL Y ORIGINAL INTERSECTION OF LINCOLN HWY & ROUTE 66

DENOTES ONE-WA Y STREET

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INDICATES ORIGINAL ROUTE 66

INDICATES ALTERNATE ROUTE 66

Silver Cross Field 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr. 815/722-2287 jolietslammers.com

Union Station 50 E. Jefferson St. 815/727-1200 jolietunionstation.com

INDICATES ORIGINAL LINCOLN HWY

FROM

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Greater Joliet Area

et a sense of how the Illinois and Michigan Canal was constructed and the impact it had on the region through displays and exhibits at the Historic Gaylord Building in Lockport. Dine on the beautiful outdoor patio at The Public Landing Restaurant overlooking the Illinois and Michigan Canal and Lincoln Landing Park.

When it’s time to play, head to Hollywood Casino Joliet or Harrah’s Casino Joliet for hot gaming action, first-class dining and the area’s best live entertainment. Chicagoland Speedway is the leader in NASCAR and INDY racing thrills. The ¼ mile drag strip at Route 66 Raceway may look small but it’s big on adrenaline-fueled excitement. At the Joliet Historical Museum, one can walk through a replica of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, learn about the immigrants who literally built the area and the cultural influence they brought. See, hear and feel what it was like to land on the moon in the Lunar Landing Simulator and take a virtual ride on a street trolley. Adjacent to the museum is the Route 66 Experience where visitors can explore the history and lore of “The MotherRoad” and create a photo postcard to send to friends back home.

COMMUNITIES I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Grab an ice cream cone at the Rich and Creamy in Route 66 Park and let the kiosks take you back the heyday of historic Route 66. City of Braidwood

City of Crest Hill

City of Lockport

Village of Channahon

City of Joliet

Village of Manhattan

Village of Shorewood City of Wilmington

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1. Walk through history at the Joliet Historical Museum. 2. Billie Limacher Bi Park Band Shell. 3. Victory Lane at the Chicagoland Speedway. 4. The Plk-A-Dot Restaurant 5. Blues Brother performers. 6. The historic Rialto Theatre. 7. Joliet riverfront in the evening. 8. Hollywood Casino. 9. The Gemini Giant in Wilmington.

and antique hunters will want to spend some time shopping finds like Milltown Market and Countryside Village.

Joliet Prison Park which takes you on a fascinating journey of the dark side of Joliet’s infamous correctional facility along with its lighter side comprised of countless TV and movie credits. Families can enjoy a day at the ballpark at a Joliet Slammers or Will County Crackerjacks game. Spend hours of fun at Haunted Trails Entertainment Park playing mini-golf, go-karting, laser tag plus endless rides and games. Get out and stretch your legs at one of the many state parks, preserves, nature centers and recreation areas which provide hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing recreation opportunities. Bargain

Tour the Joliet Iron Works Historical Site, Historic Bluff Street or the Briscoe Native American Burial Mounds.

State Museum showcases the work of Illinois artisans. Catch a movie at The Mar Theater, a throwback to main street cinema venues still spotlighting it’s original marquis.

Take a trip back to the days of road trips and diners. Grab some grub and take a photo with the Gemini Giant at The Launching Pad Drive In. The Greater Joliet areas displays a unique dedication to the arts and culture. Tour the public sculptures and murals on the Joliet Public Art Tour, enjoy a concert or theater production in Bicentennial Park, see the biggest names in entertainment at the beautiful Rialto Theatre. The Illinois 9

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Greater Joliet Area

Movie Night! Did you know Joliet has been a star in countless movies and TV series?

J-Town Sporting Action Heats Up From catching fly balls to taking curves at 180mph, the Joliet area has all the adrenaline-pumping sporting action you need. See you in J-Town! Come see the Joliet Slammers - Frontier League Champions, hit one out of the park. Games are played JuneSeptember, providing great family fun for an affordable price. Fireworks nights, promotional giveaways and concerts add to the excitement. Located right in downtown Joliet, Silvercross Field is within walking distance to dining and nightlife hotspots to hit up before or after games. The Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet annually hosts the NASCAR Nationwide Series, NASCAR Camping World Series, Geico 400 and

NASCAR Sprint Cup Championship. Single day tickets are available for those cruising through town for the weekend. For the ultra-adventurous who have always wondered what it is like to get behind the wheel like a racing champion, Chicagoland Speedway also offers driving schools. Just to ensure there is no fighting amongst racing enthusiasts – there are NASCAR and Indy experiences. Right next to the big track, you’ll find the first true drag racing stadium, Route 66 Raceway. This quarter mile drag strip hosts ET Bracket Series racing, NHRA Jr. Drag Racing, NHRA Lucas Oil Series and NHRA Full Throttle Series professional drag racing events. In addition, the raceway also sports a half-mile dirt oval track. In August, the raceway hosts its annual Route 66 Classic. The event features Nostalgia Match Racing, Nostalgia Funny Cars, Nostalgia ProStock, Gassers, Super Car Reunion 15 events and more. Those who travel with their own classic cars can participate in several different events as well. The Autobahn Country Club is a premier auto-sports club boasting the 4th largest road course in the US! While much is limited to private members and events, the club hosts several events which are open to the public. Attend The Autobahn Experience training and controlled lapping course or participate in High Performance Driving School.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Can you name a few? 1: 1994 Tale about Mickey & Mallory, glorified folk heroes and killers. 2: (1980) Misfit brothers Jake and Elwood – Fundraisers for God. 3: 1959 – 1963 TV Series starring Robert Stack as legendary crime-fighter. 4: “I like baseball, movies, good clothes, fast cars... and you. What else you need to know?” (2009) Starring Johnny Depp as an infamous mobster. 5: 2005-2009 TV Series which coined, “Breaking out was easy, getting away will be hard”

Answers: 1: Natural Born Killers, 2: The Blues Brothers, 3: The Untouchables, 4: Public Enemies, 5: Prison Break Courtesy of www.cityofjoliet.info

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On the Radar Dinner at Seven? Seven dining experiences for seven nights – Greater Joliet has every taste you’re craving. Saturday: Nardi’s on Chicago

Tuesday: Truth Restaurant

Casual Italian dining inspired by the rich landscape of Tuscany. Try Chef Nardi’s grandmother’s authentic spaghetti & meatballs! Open for lunch during weekdays. Joliet

Uncover the best kept secret in J-town. Steaks, chops, seafood pasta & an extensive wine list. Joliet

Sunday: Tallgrass Restaurant Truly a hidden gem, this AAA Four Diamond award-winning restaurant will astound your taste buds. Offering three, four or five courses, diners get to choose their own menu from more than 30 choices and homemade organic breads. Menu items are sourced from all over the world and include organic, seasonal and locally-grown products. Lockport

Monday: Friaco’s Mexican Restaurant Never sure what to order? The folks at Friaco’s waste no time steering you straight to the house favorites so you know EXACTLY what to order. Whether you want to try something new like the ceviche or try a little of everything. Save room for the Banana Chimichanga! Joliet

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Wednesday: Merichka’s The ultimate in comfort food – try the world-famous steak “Poorboy” sandwich or a Yodelburger. Crest Hill

Thursday: Polk-a-Dot Drive In

Do something different this weekend. Fun, affordable, unique events, and just what you need to make this weekend memorable. You’ll definitely want to put these events on your radar.

More than just your run-of-the mill bar food, enjoy specialties like beef tenderloin sliders, crab cakes, our famous Cajun ribeye. Weekly events such as Thursday After -Work Party & Wine Down Wednesdays. A sleek, hip gathering spot.

2 Hours, a limo, 30 questions to complete, a camera, open bar and appetizers – the ultimate game for competitive adults! www.lockportpark.org

The Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival - May

12 Communities, from Joliet to Towanda celebrate family, fun and the most famous road in America – Route 66. Each community hosts different events from festivals to antique and craft shows, car and motorcycle shows, plus even garage and sidewalk sales. You are sure to be well-fed along the way too with lots of local food and specialties. Live entertainment for the whole family and you might even get so have your picture taken with the king of the era – Elvis! www.il66redcarpetcorridor.org

A true Route 66 drive-in which still serves burgers, their famous chili-cheese fries, shakes and ice cream. Revel in the collection of memorabilia and take a photo with James, Marilyn or Elvis. Wilmington

Friday: The Department Restaurant & Liquor Lounge

Extreme Adult Scavenger Hunt, Lockport – October

Old Canal Days, Lockport – June

Held in the downtown historic district of Lockport, this annual event gets bigger and better each year. Parade, craftshow, music, local food favorites, horse-drawn wagon tours along the Illinois & Michigan Canal, museum and educational exhibits, plus family entertainment and carnival. www.oldcanaldays.com

Hopstring Fest, Joliet – August

Concerts on the Hill at Bicentennial Park, Joliet – June through August

A festival celebrating international craft beer and roots rock music, featuring some of the best performers in the area. Silver Cross Field, Downtown Joliet.

Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers to enjoy free family entertainment by some of the area’s best live music acts in beautiful Bicentennial Park. www.bicentennialpark.org

Theater at Bicentennial Park, Joliet – Year-Round

The Joliet Drama Guild hosts a full schedule of productions which change each year including dramas, thrillers and comedies – no matter what the plot, they’re sure to tell a captivating story.

Cruisin’ Lockport Classic Car Show, Lockport – June through August

Free weekly event featuring the best classic cars, live music and family entertainment. Held at Central Square, 222 E. 9th Street.

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A Cityscape With Plenty of Space to Breathe Although the Greater Joliet area is very much a city boasting all the amenities, it’s far from an urban jungle. When it’s time to escape the hustle and bustle, the Joliet area has plenty of space to breathe. A Cityscape With Plenty of Space to Breathe

Although the Greater Joliet area is very much a city boasting all the amenities, it’s far from an urban jungle. When it’s time to escape the hustle and bustle, the Joliet area has plenty of space to breathe.

-acre arboretum is dedicated to the restoration of native eco-systems plus preserving and showcasing native and naturalized woody plants. Joliet Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

The first designated National Tallgrass Prairie in the country Bird Haven Greenhouse and the largest open space in As far back as the 1900’s Northeastern Illinois. Twenty visitors have marveled at the two miles of trails offering natural wonders contained auto, bike, horseback, and within Bird Haven Greenhouse. themed tours throughout the

House at Lock #6 is stands as a tribute the days when the Illinois & Michigan Canal was a commercial waterway. Fossil Rock Recreation Area Hunt for real pre-historic fossils! Camping and RV facilities, plus fishing, swimming & boating. Wilmington Dollinger Family Farm

Families flock to the farm for their fall festival featuring

1. The gardens of the Pilcher Park Nature Center 2. Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park grounds 3. Dollinger Family Farm

Annual flower shows, seasonal displays and a year-round tropical house, cacti room and show house – the greenhouse is open 7 days a week and admission is free! Joliet Pilcher Park Nature Center

640 acres of trails for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. Hosts events like the Sundowner 5K in July. Joliet The Arboretum at Joliet Junior College

Located on the main campus of Joliet Junior College, this 11

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

year. May of the tours cover ground not open to the public and fascinating history such as the 100th Anniversary of the Civil War Illinois Regiment and the “Ghosts of the Joliet Army Ammunitions Plant” tour. Channahon State Park

The official trailhead for the Illinois and Michigan State Trail and also where the DuPage, Des Plaines, Kankakee rivers meet. Visitors can picnic, camp, fish and canoe as well as access 61 miles of towpath along the Illinois & Michigan Canal. The restored Locktender’s

hayrides, corn maze, haunted barn and more, but visitors can also enjoy events like the Antique Tractor and Steam Engine show in July and Civil War reenactment weekend , Pumpkin Fest and the Abyss Haunted House in October. Channahon Hammel Woods

Fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, & canoeing along the DuPage River. Shorewood

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TOUR JOLIET Fun & Affordable Tours For Sports, Theater & History Buffs Downtown Joliet offers several fascinating tours in the summer for all interests from sports to history and the arts. Many are no or low-cost, so visitors can feel free to enjoy one or all this weekend. For more information and additional tours, visit www. jolietdowntown.com.

Joliet Slammers Stadium Tours See what happens behind the scenes of Silver Cross Field! Cost: $5/adult; $2/2-12yrs; Free/2 & under Groups of 20 or more $2/each Location: 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr. Phone: 815-722-2287 Website: www.jolietslammers.com

Historic Bluff Street Walking Tours

Historical Rialto Square Theater Tours Go behind the scenes of the Rialto Square Theatre! Take in the stunning architecture of the Esplanade and Rotunda, then go on stage and through the green room! Cost: $5 per person Location: 102 N. Chicago St. Phone: 815-726-6600 Website: www.rialtosquare.com

Travel back through decades of Joliet architecture & history to the places where Joliet’s early merchants and artisans established their homes & businesses! Learn about the foundation of Joliet, including places like Wagner’s Wagon Shop, McKee’s Mill & Dam, Porter’s Brewery and more. Cost: Free Location: 201 W. Jefferson St. & Bluff Phone: 815-724-3760 Website: www.bicentennialpark.org

Jacob Henry Mansion Tours You will marvel at the craftsmanship and warmth of the National Historic Landmark, built in 1873 by railroad magnate Jacob Henry. Amongst many features, the house’s main attraction is the magnificent staircase made of solid walnut with a half-landing surrounded by 119 hand-carved octagonal burled walnut spindles. Cost: Free Location: 20 S. Eastern Avenue Phone: 815-722-1420 Website: www.jacobhenrymansion.com

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You Found it in Joliet! They will all want to know where you got it and you can answer “I found it in Joliet!” The Joliet area has all the shopping you need, from modern stores and boutiques to unique gifts & antiques. One-stop shopping at Louis Joliet Mall – Shop classics such as Carson Pirie Scott, JC Penney, Sears & Macy’s, plus over 100 additional stores. Joliet. You’ve got history together, so why not pick the perfect gift from Unique Antiques – Antiques and collectibles from pocket watches to furniture. The 140 year old saw mill is antique and so are the finds at Milltown Market, Wilmington – Over 100 antique & vintage vendors. Get lost in Countryside Village, Braidwood - 9000 sq. ft. of gifts, décor, accessories, gourmet food & wines.

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Accommodations

Comfort Inn South Joliet

Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel

Close to Hollywood & Harrah’s Casinos, Rialto Theater, First Midwest Bank Amphitheater, Route 66 Raceway. Ask about special rates.

Featuring 1,100+ slot machines, most Video Poker in town, 25 table games, and WSOP Poker room. Experience exceptional dining at the Reserve steakhouse and luxurious comfort in our hotel.

1520 Commerce Lane Joliet IL 60431 815-730-1111 www.ramada.com

Best Western Joliet Inn & Suites 4380 Enterprise Drive Joliet IL 60431 815-730-7500 www.bestwesternillinois.com

Green Eco-friendly practices, complimentary hot breakfast, new indoor heated swimming pool area, spa, large atrium with a sundeck, retractable roof, a meeting room for up to 40 people, spacious rooms with microwaves,refrigerators and free high-speed wireless internet access.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Joliet North/Plainfield

Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway Camping

Fairfield Inn & Suites Joliet North/Plainfield is located just off I-55. This Marriott hotel is conveniently located off I-55 & Rt. 30. We offer exceptional friendly and quality customer service! Group and extended stay rates available.

500 Speedway Boulevard Joliet IL 60433 815-722-5500 www.chicagolandspeedway.com & www. route66raceway.com

3239 Norman Avenue Joliet IL 60435 815-436-6577 www.marriott.com/mdwfi

Fossil Rock Recreation Area

Choose from 4 unique camping options at Chicagoland Speedway! Benefits include: FREE newspaper delivery, payment plan options, free tram services around the facility, and non-stop entertainment. Call 888-629-RACE (7223) for reserve your camping space today. 500 Speedway Blvd. Joliet IL 60433 Chicagolandspeedway. com We’re Social! Chase us on Facebook and Twitter

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

Seasonal monthly and full hook-up. Full hook-up sites to primitive tenting. Beach, fishing, fossil hunting, playground, showers. Near raceways. Shade. Open all year. Call for reservations and hours of operations.

Hampton Inn I-80

1521 Riverboat Drive Joliet IL 60431 815-725-2424 www.jolieti80.hamptoninn.com

151 N. Joliet Street Joliet IL 60432 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

Holiday Inn Express Joliet 3231 Norman Avenue Joliet IL 60431 815-439-4200 www.HiExpress.com/JolietIllinois

Free HBO, CNN, ESPN. Hot continental breakfast, free WiFi, fax and copy services and guest laundry. Off I-55 and Rt. 30.

Hollywood Casino Joliet 777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60436 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

Experience exciting casino action at Empress Casino Joliet. Featuring over 1,100 of the most popular slot and video poker machines, heart-pounding table action. Conveniently located restaurants and an on-site hotel and RV park.

Hollywood Casino RV Resort 777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60434 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

Newly remodeled hotel features expanded lobby, fitness center with Precor equipment, pool, and whirlpool. Enjoy our complimentary hot “on the house” breakfast & complimentary wireless internet.

The only casino in northern Illinois to offer an on-site RV Resort. Open seasonally, our RV park has all the conveniences of home, including water and electric hookups, as well as beautiful landscaping, laundry facilities, showers and restrooms.

TWO GREAT JOLIET LOCATIONS Joliet I-80 1521 Riverboat Center Joliet, IL 60431 (Exit #127) 815-725-2424 Joliet I-55 3555 Mall Loop Drive Joliet, IL 60431 (Exit #257) 815-439-9500 Hot Buffet Breakfast • In Room Microwaves & Refrigerators Newly Renovated •• Complimentary Complimentary Business Center • 32” Flat Screen HD LCD Televisions Newly Renovated Features in 2012 • Indoor Pool/Whirlpool • Minutes to Casinos

Complimentary HOT Buffet Breakfast

• 24 Hour Fitness Center

Group Rates Available Call the Sales Department Today

• Complimentary High Speed

815-741-2149

Wireless Internet

1-800-HAMPTON www.Jolieti55.HamptonInn.com

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.Jolieti80.HamptonInn.com

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Greater Joliet Area

10% OFF

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ANY BuFFet

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Leisure Lake Resort

Race View Farms

21900 SW Frontage Road Joliet IL 60431 815-741-9405 www.leisurelakeresort.com

Resort with 212 campsites, in-ground pool, 24 acre stocked fishing lake, 2 acre beach, on-site convenience store, activities throughout the year and much more.

Marriott TownePlace Suites 1515 Riverboat Center Drive Joliet IL 60431 815-741-2400 www.towneplacesuitesjoliet.com

All suite hotel featuring our “Morning Break” breakfast, “In a Pinch” market, and complimentary high-speed wireless internet. Our Suites are 30% larger than a standard hotel room and feature fully equipped kitchens.

19100 Schweitzer Road Joliet IL 60433 815-741-3010 www.raceviewfarms.com

Race season. 500 sites. Pets allowed. RV camping and car parking during major events at Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway.

Wingate by Wyndham 101 McDonald Avenue Joliet IL 60431 815-741-2100 www.wingatehotels.com

Conveniently located near I-55 and I-80, Wingate by Wyndham welcomes business, groups, sports and leisure travelers. Serving hot complimentary breakfast daily.

Attractions Autobahn Country Club 3795 CenterPoint Way Joliet IL 60436 815-722-2223 www.AutobahnCC.com

Autobahn Country Club is the 4th longest road course in the US. We have multiple public driving events and programs including Go Karting.

Cathedral Area Preser vation Association of Joliet (CAPA) POB 3662 Joliet IL 60434 815-726-4163 www.capajoliet.net

A not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, maintaining and promoting Joliet’s Historic Cathedral Area, one of the best-preserved historic neighborhoods in the area. Check us out online for our Annual Housewalk and other events

Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway

500 Speedway Boulevard Joliet IL 60433 815-722-5500 www.chicagolandspeedway.com & www. route66raceway.com

If you are looking for affordable summer fun, look no further than Joliet’s Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway. We provide the fastest entertainment in the area and play host to NASCAR, NHRA and Team Demolition Derby on three different tracks. Headlining at Route 66 Raceway, the O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Nationals presented by Super Start Batteries takes

WHERE CHICAGOLAND COMES OUT TO PLAY HUNDREDS OF NEW SLOTS AWARD-WINNING HOTEL AND DINING Must be 21 years or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start. ®If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). ©2013, Caesars License Company, LLC.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Joliet Area place on June 28-30. At Chicagoland Speedway, make sure to join us on September 13-15, for the first race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup! As the first of 10 Chase races, the GEICO 400 begins NASCAR’s thrilling playoffs. With a wide variety of family friendly options, you can’t beat summer at Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway! We’re Social! Chase us on Facebook and Twitter

Dollinger Family Farm 7502 E. Hansel Road Channahon IL 60410 815-467-6766 www.dollingerfarms.com

October brings pumpkins, hayrides, corn maze, train rides, farm animals, haunted barn and fun. Also come see our Civil war reenactment the third weekend in October. Warrior Dash Midwest in June. On site gift shop.

Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel 151 N. Joliet Street Joliet IL 60432 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

Featuring 1,100+ slot machines, most Video Poker in town, 25 table games, and WSOP Poker room. Experience exceptional dining at the Reserve steakhouse and luxurious comfort in our hotel.

our Special Exhibition Gallery. There’s always family fun in our discovery room, and remember your visit with a souvenir from our Gift Shop.

Joliet Slammers Baseball 1 Mayor Art Schultz Drive Joliet IL 60432 815-722-2287 www.jolietslammers.com

The Joliet Slammers are a professional baseball team based at Silver Cross Field in Joliet and part of the independent Frontier League. Home games May-September, check website for game schedule, fireworks nights and weekly promos. Tickets range from $5-$10, group rates and season packages are available. Party packages and suites are also available.

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Lockport Area Genealogical & Historical Society 222 East 9th Street Lockport IL 60441 www.lockporthistory.org

The Lockport Area Genealogical & Historical Society collects, preserves and makes accessible to the public the stories and records of the family history of the Lockport Illinois area.

Joliet Slammers Baseball

Hollywood Casino Joliet 777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60436 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

Experience exciting casino action at Hollywood Casino Joliet. Featuring over 1,100 of the most popular slot and video poker machines, heart-pounding table action. Conveniently located restaurants and an on-site hotel and RV park.

www.jolietslammers.com 815.722.BATS

Affordable Family Fun

Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway 700 East Adams Springfield IL 62701 217-525-9308 www.illinoisroute66.org

The experiences you’ll find here are as unique, fun and memorable as the road is long. Route 66 defined a remarkable era in our nation’s history - and it lives on today in Illinois Route 66’s many roadside attractions, museums, restaurants - and the shining ribbon of blacktop we call The Mother Road. Illinois’ stretch of this mythic road boasts the highest density of kitschy, interesting things to do you’ll find from here to California. So, join us for the far out journey that never ends on Illinois Route 66.

Jacob Henry Mansion Estate 20 South Eastern Avenue Joliet IL 60432 815-722-1420 www.jacobhenrymansion.com

Jacob Henry spared no expense in the construction of his elaborate 40 room mansion on Joliet’s prominent Eastern Avenue. In 1873, the home was the most expensive in the county. The graceful and fully decorated mansion a National Historic Landmark, is well known for its beauty and exceptional culinary offerings make the Jacob Henry Mansion the perfect setting for any special occasion. Groups and tours welcome!

Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N. Ottawa Street Joliet IL 60432 815-723-5201 www.jolietmuseum.org

Travel through time and space! Walk through a replica of the I & M Canal, window shop on a turn-of-thecentury street, take a virtual ride on a replica trolley, live the legend of Route 66, land on the moon in a walk-in simulator, and experience space exploration and the Apollo missions. Temporary exhibit(s) change often in

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

48 VisitJoliet.com

We’re on a

Hot Streak! Joliet’s Gaming is Bigger and Better than Ever! Amongst the flashes and paparazzi, Hollywood’s gaming remains hotter than ever with the most penny slots in the area, over 1,100 reel, video and progressive slots, blackjack, craps roulette, high-stakes table games and more on our newly-remodeled 50,000 sq. ft. casino floor. You may even run into Marilyn Monroe, Elvis or Lady Gaga dealing blackjack in the Celebrity Pit one weekend! Every detail has been attended to including three first class restaurants: Final Cut Steakhouse, an upgraded Epic Buffet featuring made-to-order items, Hollywood Stadium Sports Bar where guests can enjoy traditional fare, American craft beers and sporting events on 43 TVs and the 80 x 20 ft. video wall, plus Take Two Deli for a quick bite on-the-go. Just when you’re convinced it’s all a dream, enter Hollywood’s new fantasy nightclub Reve, featuring a specialty cocktail & martini menu, the hottest DJs spinning on weekends & themed party events.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Harrah’s Joliet Casino bets you’ll get lucky – voted “Luckiest Casino” by readers of Casino Player Magazine and “Best Promotions” by Midwest Gaming and Travel Awards. More than 1,100 slots, video poker, 100x odds craps, blackjack, and the most popular table games are just a few ways to fuel the winning fire in you. World Series of Poker sponsored Live Poker Room featuring Texas Hold ‘em (No Limit), Texas Hold ‘em (Limit), Omaha and Seven Card Stud. When it’s time to fuel the body,

dine at The Reserve Steakhouse, The Restaurant Buffet, Ace’s Diner for a quick bite or Starbuck’s for a pick-me-up. When game-time gives way to play-time, savor a cocktail at Sheer or catch some of the hottest bands in town performing at Stage 151 on weekends! Luxury and premium accommodations start at just $75, making Harrah’s a fun and affordable weekend escape, right in the heart of Joliet.

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

VisitJoliet.com 49

NO CASI

Hollywood Casino Joliet

Stay Book a luxurious room, loaded with amenities. Complimentary Breakfast and shuttle service to the casino Only casino in Illinois with an on-site RV Resort.

Dine

Final Cut Steakhouse 1930’s Hollywood steakhouse and piano bar featuring USDA prime beef and delicious seafood creations, pastas, fresh salads, and an awardwinning selection of wine.

INO CAS

Epic Buffet Combines freshly madeto-order restaurant concept with traditional Buffet items. Hollywood Stadium Sports Bar New twist on traditional bar fare using top cuts and fresh ingredients. Sporting events on 43 TVs and a 80 x 20 ft. video wall. Karaoke on Tuesdays at 7pm Take Two Deli Close, fast & delicious when you need a quick bite.

Play

What’s New?

Hollywood Stadium Where even a losing had wins! Celebrity Pit – Thursday through Sunday Play Blackjack and Three Card Poker with the stars! Cyndi, Marilyn, Michael, Kid, Elvis and even Gaga – they’re all in the Celebrity Pit Thursday - Sunday evenings. Enjoy live performances from these impersonators.

Reve “The Dream” Nightclub Chicagoland’s hottest new nightclub. A luxurious atmosphere, the hottest DJs combine to create the ultimate fantasy nightlife experience.

Live music on Hollywood Stadium Stage every Fri. & Sat.

Harrah’s Joliet Casino

Stay Spacious Premium King & Double Queen rooms, located on a secure floor, and featuring upgraded amenities, a refrigerator stocked with beverages, chocolates left on your pillow and a robe to use during your stay. Luxury King & Double Queen rooms also available. Check website for current promotions.

Dine

The Reserve Steakhouse The best in steak, seafood, & pasta, including classics such as steakhouse burgers and meatloaf. Wine pairings and prix fixe menus.

Play

What’s New?

Stage 151 All the songs you love live music from the best local bands every Fri. & Sat.

Sheer Chic bar and lounge where you can enjoy a cold beer like the Daisy Cutter or a signature cocktail like Fly Me to the Moon or a White Cosmopolitan.

No Cover.

The Restaurant All your favorites! Buffetstyle dining. Ace’s Diner Classic American diner fare, serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Open until 4am.

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

50 VisitJoliet.com

Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm 17250 S. Weber Road Lockport IL 60441 815-741-2693 www.SiegelsCottonwoodFarm.com

Visit us Spring, Summer, Fall. Spring - Garden Center, School Tours, Country Store, Fresh Baked Pies Summer - Sweet Corn, Fresh Produce, Group Outings Fall Pumpkin Fest and Statesville Haunted Prison

The Gaylord Building 200 W. 8th Street Lockport IL 60441 815-838-9400 www.gaylordbuilding.org

Monday - Saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. A landmark in Lockport and along the I&M Canal since 1838, The Gaylord Building connects visitors to America’s forgotten Canal Era. Come tour the site and enjoy fine dining in the Public Landing Restaurant. Then stroll or bike ride along the scenic canal trail or explore Lockport’s National Register Historic District. Special group tours by appointment. “The Gaylord Building is a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation (www.preservationnation.org).”

Dining Ace’s Diner at Harrah’s Casino 151 N. Joliet Street Joliet IL 60432 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

Transcend to the good ol’ days at Ace’s Diner and hit big with one of our signature dishes including the Texas Hold’em burger and Blackjack Beef sandwich. Open Sunday-Monday 11:00am - 4:00am

Al’s Steak House 1990 W. Jefferson Street Joliet IL 60435 815-725-2388 www.alssteaks.com

Serving Joliet and Communities for 50 years. Warm atmosphere specializing in char-broiled steaks & seafood. Superb Sunday brunch (regular menu available.) Friday night seafood buffet (regular menu available.) Extensive wine list. Private rooms for all occasions. Open Sun 10:00 AM, Mon-Sat 11:00 AM

Cemeno’s Pizza

1630 Essington Road Joliet IL 60435 815-254-2500 www.cemenospizza.com

Est. 1976 serving pizza, pasta and home made Italian dishes. Family owned and operated.

Epic Buffet

777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60436 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

Dig into a never-ending parade of flavors - Prime rib, seafood, pasta, salads, a sweet collection of delectable desserts, and plenty more! Ope: Lunch (Monday through Saturday) 11:30pm - 3pm, Dinner (Monday through Thursday) 3:00pm - 9:00pm, Dinner (Friday) 4:00pm - 10:00pm, Dinner (Saturday) 3:00pm - 10:00pm, Sunday Brunch 10:00am - 3:00pm, Dinner (Sunday) 3:00pm - 9:00pm.

Final Cut Steakhouse

777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60436 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

The setting and ambiance are classic Hollywood from the 1930s and ‘40s, but the culinary experience is truly fine contemporary dining. With USDA prime beef and

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Joliet Area delicious seafood creations, plus rich pastas, fresh salads, piano lounge and an award-winning selection of wine, it’s no wonder Final Cut is the best casino fine dining restaurant. Make sure to ask about our private dinning room on your next visit. Open: Wednesday through Thursday 5:00pm - 9:00pm, Friday through Saturday 5:00pm - 10:00pm, Sunday 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Friaco’s Mexican Restaurant 1121 Essington Road Joliet IL 60435 815-730-3370 www.friacosrestaurant.com

Best authentic homemade mexican food in Will County. Family atmosphere. Mondays kids eat free. Tuesdays half priced margaritas. Sunday Special $2 bottled beer.

Golden Corral Joliet 2100 W. Jefferson Street Joliet IL 60435 815-725-8989 www.goldencorral.com

Family style restaurant offers the biggest and best buffet and grill. Offering senior discounts daily. Offers fresh baked goods and “all you can eat” sirloin steaks.

Hollywood Stadium Sports Bar 777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60436 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

Come out and play at Chicagoland’s most exciting sports bar and entertainment venue! Watch up to eight games at once on our enormous 80 x 20-foot screen, plus over 40 flat-screen TVs and personal TV’s at many of the booths. Check out our specials and enjoy live weekend entertainment. Open: Sunday - Thursday 11:30 am - 10:00 pm, Friday - Saturday 11:30 am MIDNIGHT* *Bar open until 2 am.

Joliet Route 66 Diner 22 W. Clinton Street Joliet, IL 60432 815-723-3865 www.jolietrest.com

For a dining experience that brings you back to the 1950’s & 1960”s stop in at the Joliet Route 66 Diner. Comfort food at its finest. A small town experience in a large city.

Merichka’s Inc. 604 Theodore Street Crest Hill IL 60403 815-723-9371 www.merichkas.com

Since 1933, the Zdralevich family has offered great steaks, chicken, seafood & sandwiches in a casual dining atmosphere. Open Monday - Thursday 11:00 AM - 9:00PM, Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM. We welcome groups and have banquet facilities for up to 100.

Polk-a-Dot Drive In 222 N. Front Street Braidwood IL 60408 815-458-3377 www.polk-a-dot.com

Drive-In founded over 50 years ago has become one of the most memorable attractions along Illinois Route 66. Stop in and see the collection of memorabilia and enjoy a great meal.

Renaissance Center 214 N. Ottawa Street Joliet IL 60432 815-280-1404 www.rencen.info

The Renaissance Center is a restaurant and banquet facility. Open on Monday and Tuesday for A la Carte luncheons, Wednesday themed buffet lunches and FRIDAY NIGHT OUT Dinner Series fine dining.

Available for business meetings, corporate events, Sunday Brunches, weddings, receptions, banquets, showers and special events.

Starbucks at Harrah’s Casino 151 N. Joliet Street Joliet IL 60432 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

Just steps away from the Casino, Starbucks offers expertly-crafted and always-satisfying signature drinks. Our extensive menu features freshly brewed coffees, lattes, frappuccinos, specialty drinks & assortment of pastries, croissants and assorted muffins. Open Sunday - Saturday 7:00am-12:00am

Syl’s Restaurant & Lounge 829 Moen Avenue Rockdale IL 60436 815-725-1977 www.syls.com

Fine dining specializing in prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood, chicken, ribs, and chops. Private dining rooms available. Specialize in serving groups. Menu information on website. Dinner M-Th 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, F-S 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Sun 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Dinner For Two Specials Sun-Thurs $22.95, Fri & Sat $31.95 Ask for “Dinner for Two Special Menu”

Take Two Deli

777 Hollywood Boulevard Joliet IL 60436 888-436-7737 www.hollywoodcasinojoliet.com

When most people are playing their favorite casino games, they have three concerns when it comes to food - Close, Fast and Delicious! Well, Take Two Deli guarantees all three. Enjoy the best sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs and nachos in town. The perfect fix for a hungry winner. Open Daily (Monday through Sunday) 8:30am - 6:00am.

Tallgrass Restaurant 1006 S. State Street Lockport IL 60441 815-838-5566 www.tallgrassrestaurant.com

Modern French cuisine. Located in an 1895 historic building - Celebrating 32 Years! Open for dinner Wednesday - Sunday. Reservations required. AAA Four Diamond Award Winner - 19th year in a row.

The Department Restaurant and Liquor Lounge 205 N. Chicago Street Joliet IL 60432 815-714-2280 www.thedepartmentjoliet.com

At The Department, it is our goal to create an experience that will leave each guest looking forward to their next visit. Dishes like crab cakes, beef tenderloin sliders, Cajun chicken pasta and our famous Cajun rib eye are all mouth watering customer favorites. The atmosphere of the bar, dining room, private banquet room and 2nd story is sleek, hip, and stylish boasting massive brick walls, white table clothes, fireplaces, hardwood floors and glistening chandeliers. The service is unmatched and compliments the dining experience at The Department.

The Reser ve @Harrah’s Casino 151 N. Joliet Street Joliet IL 60432 815-740-7800 www.harrahsjoliet.com

A Steak this good is well, RARE. At our steakhouse, The Reserve, you find sizzling new dining options like Trio Crusted Filet, in addition to spectacular steaks and pasta dishes. Open Tuesday - Thursday: 5:00pm 9:00pm, Fridays: 5:00pm - 10:00pm, Saturdays: 4:00pm - 10:00pm and Sundays: 4:00pm - 8:00pm.

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Joliet Area Truth Restaurant

808 W. Jefferson Street Joliet IL 60435 815-744-5901 www.truthrestaurant.com

A cozy, quaint restaurant in the Cathedral area neighborhood; specializing in contemporary American cuisine with a full service bar. Open Tuesday Thursday 11:30 am - 2pm and 5pm - 9pm, Friday 11:30 am - 2pm and 5pm - 10pm. Closed Sunday and Mondays except for private events.

Entertainment Mar Theatre

Parks and Recreation Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park

201 W. Jefferson Street at Bluff Street Joliet IL 60432 815-724-3760 www.bicentennialpark.org

On historic Bluff Street along the waterway downtown Joliet, the park features free summer concerts, lush grounds, outdoor bandshell and indoor theatre. Office: Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm and Friday 8:00 am - 12:00 noon.

Forest Preser ve District of Will County

121 S. Main Street Wilmington IL 60481 815-530-0200 www.the-mar.com

The Historic Mar Theatre is located in the “theatre district” of Wilmington. First run movies on 2 screens, and special live events. What’s playing at the Mar 815476-4662.

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago Street Joliet IL 60432 815-726-7171 www.rialtosquare.com

The Rialto Square Theatre is considered one of the 10 most beautiful theatres in the nation. Offering Concerts, Comedy, Broadway, Dance, and Hosting Weddings and Receptions, the Rialto ensures you can always find the entertainment you’re looking for.

17540 W. Laraway Road Joliet IL 60433 815-727-8700 www.ReconnectWithNature.org

Joliet Iron Works was once the biggest business in Joliet. Today, all that remains are the foundations of the blast furnaces, stoves, gas washers and other buildings that were part of the plant. But the remains tell the story of the early process of iron and steel production and of the people that worked there. Paved trails with some stairs and inclines. Owned by the Forest Preserve District of Will County.

I&M Canal/Illinois Department of Natural Resources At Gebhard Woods State Park Morris IL 60450 815-942-0796 www.dnr.state.il.us

History buffs, nature lovers and sportsmen will thrill to the sights and sounds of the 96-mile route of the Illinois

Family Owned & Operated Since 1976

Open Daily at 11:00 am! Cemeno’s Pizza has been a Joliet tradition since 1976. We offer award winning pizza, superb pasta, tasty sandwiches and more!! We offer a great atmosphere for any event! A night out with friends,a celebration with family, sports teams or business related! Cemeno’s is sure to please for all occasions!

VisitJoliet.com 51

and Michigan Canal. Along its banks are numerous state parks, restored historical sites, and abundance of wildlife and distinctive landscapes, ranging from bluffs to rolling hills. Visitors can follow the I&M Canal State Trail beginning at Rockdale along the old towpath to LaSalle and experience 61.5 miles of scenic views of the canal and the Des Plaines and Illinois rivers. At every turn, trail users will find something of interest. One can spend an afternoon or several days exploring the wonders along this picturesque and unique area. Hiking, Biking, snowmobiling, camping, picnicking, fishing, boating & historical sites are available at four different state parks along the route.

Lockport Township Park District 1911 S. Lawrence AveNUE Lockport IL 60441 815-838-1183 www.lockportpark.org

38 parks and 19 facilities including Prairie Bluff Public Golf Club, Challenge Fitness, Chaney Pool and Heritage Falls Waterpark. Special events include concerts and park parties, golf outings, 5K races, etc.

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

30239 South State Route 53 Wilmington IL 60481 815-423-6370 www.fs.usda.gov/medewin

Larger than life! At 19,000 acres, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is huge in itself. Adjacent to the 4,200 acre Des Plaines Conservation Area and close to 22 other natural areas - creating a macrosite of nearly 40,000 acres. Seasonal programs, tours, winter lecture series and volunteer work days throughout the year. Visit website for a schedule of events.

Enjoy a day at Joliet Junior College! Experience the nation’s first public community college, where you can: • See a planetarium show • Browse the art gallery • Attend a theatre or musical performance • Walk or bike the beautiful nature trails

• Visit the historic Cronin School • Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Chef’s Table or the Renaissance Center

For more information about upcoming events at JJC visit www.jjc.edu/info/visitors.

1630 Essington Rd. • Joliet, IL • 60435

815.254.2500 www.cemenospizza.com

800.926.CANAL (2262)

JJC Campuses Main Campus • City Center Campus • Romeoville Campus JJC Education Centers Morris Education Center • Frankfort Education Center Weitendorf Agricultural Education Center

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

52 VisitJoliet.com

Old Joliet Prison Park 1125 Collins Street Joliet IL 60432 www.visitjoliet.org

Discover the history of Joliet’s most infamous prison. Old Joliet Prison Park is open to the public dawn to dusk daily and located just outside the Collins Street Prison facility. Featuring eight informational kiosks on the prison’s inmates, history and television/movie fame, the park is the perfect stop on your trip to Joliet!

Greater Joliet Area

Services Cutting Edge Catering & Events

904 Cottage Street Shorewood IL 60404 815-725-9001 www.cuttingedgecatering.com

Casual to Elegant, All Occasions, Breakfast-LunchDinner, 15 people on up. Over 100 Appetizers, Party Trays, Customized Menus, Theme Menus, Full Service Sit Down Dining with China or Disposable, Beverage/ Liquor Service, Picnics, Grilling & Pig Roasts, Pick Up/ Delivery, Unique Venues & Locations, Custom Party Planning, 1-STOP-SHOP, Wedding Specialists.

Heritage Corridor CVB-Joliet Visitors Center 30 N. Bluff Street Joliet IL 60435 www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Your source for leisure, group and meeting planning. Contact our tourism coordinators today at 800-926-CANAL (2262). Call for the latest event information, lodging deals, and shopping and dining specials. Limited Hours, please call ahead for information.

Joliet City Center Partnership 116 N. Chicago Street Joliet IL 60432 www.jolietdowntown.com

For the latest festivals, events, and attractions in downtown Joliet, check out www.jolietdowntown.com Food, Fun & Play in downtown Joliet.

Lockport Chamber of Commerce 921 S. State Street Lockport IL 60441 815-838-3357 www.lockportchamber.com

The Lockport Chamber of Commerce is Lockport’s leading business advocate. The Lockport Chamber of Commerce strives to be the voice of the business community, concentrating on four core values – Promotion, Education, Networking and Service.

Mainstreet Lockport, Inc. 911 State Street Lockport IL 60441 815-834-0700 www.visitlockport.com

Main Street Lockport is a not-for-profit organization serving Lockport’s Historic District. It assists the community by

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Joliet Area

VisitJoliet.com 53

promoting historic preservation, image enhancement, economic development and community involvement.

Prairie State Road Runners PO Box 293 Channahon IL 60410 www.psrr.org

The Prairie State Road Runners are one of the oldest running clubs in Illinois. The club organizes the Thanksgiving Day morning Poultry Predictor 4 Mile Race in Joliet’s beautiful Pilcher Park. Obtain a membership application at www.psrr.org or at DNA Athletics, Crest Hill.

Will County Lodging Association 1501 Riverboat Center Joliet IL 60431 815-741-3499 www.willcountylodging.org

The Will County Lodging Members are located in Joliet, Bolingbrook and Romeoville that work together to ensure quality, comfort & hospitality wherever you rest your head.

Open noon until 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday Other hours by appointment

Research hours:

Shopping

Noon to 4 p.m.

Countryside Village

Current exhibits:

1540 N. Division Street Braidwood IL 60408 815-458-2191 www.countrysidevillagegifts.com

9000 sq. feet of unique gifts, home décor, Women’s accessories, gourmet foods and wines. Quilting fabrics and notions and classes. Open 9:00am - 5:00pm. Thursday’s 9:00am - 7:00pm (seasonally) Sundays 10:00am- 5:00pm

 19th Century Doctors Office  Medicine Men of Will County  Fiber Arts & Edward Worst

803 S. State Street • Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-5080 • www.willcountyhistoricalsociety.org

Louis Joliet Mall US 30 & I 55 Joliet IL 60431 815-439-1000 www.westfield.com

Enjoy a family-friendly shopping, dining and entertainment experience with unparalleled convenience at Louis Joliet Mall. Home to fashionable department stores including Carson Pirie Scott, JCPenney, Macy’s and Sears surrounded by over 100 fabulous shops including a state of the art Cinemark Theater.

Milltown Market 508 N. Kankakee Street Wilmington IL 60481 815-476-0386 www.milltownmall.com

140 year old saw mill, welcomes you. Peruse over 100 vendors, walk in the past. Antiques, collectibles, vintage items, home decor, gifts. Accepting consignments/booth rentals.

Roberts Sewing Center 2011 Weber Road Crest Hill IL 60403 815-729-1600 www.RobertsSewingCenter.com

Illinois’ largest quilting fabrics store. 7,000 bolts of cotton fabric, classes, sewing, and quilting. Sales of Pfaff and Viking brand and industrial machines. Repair all sewing machines on-site. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat 9:30 AM 5:30 PM, Tues & Thurs 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM.

Uniques Antiques, Ltd. 1006 W. Jefferson Street Joliet IL 60435 815-741-2466 www.uniquesantiquesshop.com

Since 1988, a one-owner store with 2,000 sq. ft. of antiques and collectibles from pocket watches to furniture. Open last 2 weeks of each month. Closed Sunday & Monday.

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

GREATER MORRIS Area An integral part of Illinois & Michigan Canal history, the Greater Morris Area attracts thousands of visitors each year with a charming downtown for shopping and dining, the best festivals and events, and as a favorite destination for outdoor recreation and watersports.

The Ultimate Hometown Experience

A bit of vintage, a bit of new, that’s Betty’s, one of Morris’ newest shops.

GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

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GREATER JOLIET AREA

CHICAGO PORTAGE AREA

GREATER JOLIET AREA

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Cana

I&M

Can

GREATER MORRIS AREA

STARVED ROCK AREA

PUTNAM COUNTY

Can

I&M

STARVED ROCK AREA

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CHICAGO PORTAGE AREA

Communities within the Greater Morris Area include City of

I&M

Cana

GREATER MORRIS AREA

Morris, Village of Coal City, Village of Minooka and Grundy County.

TNAM OUNTY

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2013-14

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Morris Area After a day of boating on the river, R Place is the perfect spot to grab a burger and beer or enjoy a hearty steak dinner at Chapin’s. Described as “Rockwellian” by the Chicago Tribune, downtown Morris hosts a full calendar of events including Midnight in Morris, Home for the Holidays Housewalk, Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn, Cruise Nights, Liberty Days and the Heritage Tractor Adventure. The Morris Antique Emporium showcases three full floors of early American, Depression and carnival glass; pottery, Military collectibles, Indian artifacts, Civil War

items, sports memorabilia and furniture. Browse windows throughout downtown Morris and discover a collection of boutiques like Apple Butter & Shugie’s or Betty’s vintage clothing. Download a self-guided walking tour of historic buildings in downtown Morris at www. downtownmorris.com. Audio Tours are available at the Morris Library. The Chamber of Commerce also offers informative audio tours of the city’s collection of 36 preserved Heritage Homes. Canalport Park houses a canal freight packet boat replica, reminiscent of the mule-pulled vessels which traveled the waterways during the early

days of the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Within a short distance you’ll find a glimpse into the town’s rich history at the Morris Courthouse and Grundy County Historical Museum. The Historical Museum is open for tours from 10am-3pm ThursdaySaturday and features Civil War, WWI & WWII memorabilia, and an EJ & E caboose. Show off your swing at Nettle Creek Country Club, ranked amongst the top 35 courses in Chicagoland. When you’re ready for some fast-paced action, head over to Illinois’ best 1/3 mile paved oval racetrack at the Grundy County Speedway for some stock car racing.

Only in Morris Events You Won’t Want to Miss June

Gebhard Woods Dulcimer & Traditional Music Festival

For the past 23 years, the beautiful setting of Gebhard Woods has hosted this two-day festival celebrating the Dulcimer, harp, and auto-harp instruments and the musicians who have mastered them. Concerts run from 10am-6pm each day for those looking to enjoy the sweet sounds of hammered and mountain dulcimers. Added is the New Talent Stage, an open showcase for musicians wanting to perform. For musicians or those wanting to learn, workshops, demos, and hands-on instruction are offered by nationally-recognized musicians. A children’s area is available featuring music, crafts, and other activities. You’ll also want to take part in the Saturday Night Old Time Dance, a nostalgic night of music, lessons, and dancing. Admission is free but donations are accepted in support of the festival. www. gebharddulcimer.org

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Sept.

Grundy County Corn Festival

One of the highlights of the year by far is the Grundy County Corn Festival at the end of September. Contests, concerts, family entertainment, a craft show, farm fair, carnival, parade and of course corn, are all part of the festivities. Enter your little cutie into the baby contest, take a train ride at the Grundy County Courthouse, hook some bass at the tournament, see antique tractors and farm machinery, cross the finish line in the 5K, enjoy the best live bands – this festival is busting at the seams with fun for everyone. Don’t forget to indulge in the festival’s namesake - golden ears of fresh corn, dripping with butter and bursting with sweetness. Visit www.cornfestival.org for this year’s dates.

MayOct.

Three French Hens Country Market

It’s time to go to market! On the second Saturday of the month during the summer, Canal Port Park comes alive with locally grown produce, baked goods, fresh cut and garden flowers, hand-crafted and repurposed items, antiques and artisans. Three French Hens brings the French Country Market to charming downtown Morris along the banks of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. The Holiday Market in November is also the perfect place to begin your holiday shopping and pick up one-of-a-kind gifts for the unique characters in your life. www.3frenchhensmarket. blogspot.com

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Morris Area

Trade Four Walls for Endless Outdoor Spaces This Weekend on the Illinois or Mazon Rivers with KayakMorris.com or stretch your skills by trying a Stand Up Paddle Board.

Unique Finds From Another Place & Time Morris may hold small town appeal, but it’s a worldly shopping destination, full of surprising finds around every corner. The Montage Wine Bar Small batch wines from around the world. Tasting Room open daily. Crowberry Creek Unique gifts, antiques, jewelry & home décor in a beautiful Victorian home Me Tu` Boutique Upscale clothing, shoes and accessories Vintage Eclectic mix of home and garden. Old, new, shabby chic, vintage and all around interesting. A bit like perusing a Parisian flea market – you never know what you’ll find!

CAMP Amongst the stately old oaks and alongside the Illinois

HIKE More than 7 miles of trails at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area (Morris) to experience the prairie as it once was. You’ll marvel at native tall prairie grasses towering up to 12 ft., the buttered popcorn scent of the northern prairie dropseed and the bloom of springtime violets throughout the preserve.

LAUNCH Your watercraft from Stratton State Park (Morris) for a day of fishing, boating, jet skiing, water skiing or tubing on the Illinois River.

KAYAK or CANOE Down a 24-mile stretch of the

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Illinois River. This slow-moving river is perfect for sightseeing and home to an abundance of wildlife including great Blue Heron rookeries, Bald Eagles, red Tail Hawks and coyotes.

EMBARK On an overnight camping adventure

and Michigan Canal at Gebhard Woods State Park.

EXPLORE The state parks, historical sites, and rolling terrain of the Illinois & Michigan Canal on a snowmobile. The 61.5 miles of towpath are open to snowmobilers when there is at least four inches of snow. During the summer, rent a bicycle and off you go!

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Greater Morris Area

Accommodations AmericInn Lodge & Suites Oswego

1050 Douglas Rd. Oswego IL 60543 630-554-9090 www.americinn.com/hotels/IL/oswego Welcome to the AmericInn Lodge & Suites in Oswego, Illinois. Count on us to provide unmatched service and amenities, including our complimentary, hot, home-style breakfast, WIFI and indoor pool, and Jacuzzi.

Holiday Inn Express Morris 222 Gore Rd. Morris IL 60450 815-941-8700 www.jankohotels.com

We offer a complimentary hot breakfast, indoor pool/whirlpool, complimentary WIFI, and much more. We pride ourselves on outstanding cleanliness and service. We look forward to welcoming you and will have baked cinnamon rolls ready.

Park Motel

1923 N. Division St. Morris IL 60450 815-942-1321 24 Rooms, clean, courteous and quiet by the lake. Parking outside the rooms. AARP. High-speed Internet available. Microwave and refrigerator in each room.

Quality Inn Morris

200 Gore Rd. Morris, IL 60450 815-942-6600 www.qualityinnmorris.com Our Quality In Morris offers a “home away from home” to meet each guest’s needs. We feature a full spectrum of room amenities & guest services.

Whispering Pines of Dwight, Inc.

10940 S. Dwight Rd. Dwight IL 60420 260-433-4886 www.whisperingpinesofdwight.com Bed and breakfast with a beautiful, quiet country setting on a heavily wooded three acre lot. Breakfasts include international recipes. Charger ports for electric cars.

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Attractions 3 French Hens French Country Market

West Illinois Ave. Morris IL 60450 815-941-0752 www.3frenchhensmarket.blogspot.com Bringing the tradition of Open Air Euro Markets to the Midwest, 3 French Hens Country Market is held on the grassy banks of the Historic I&M Canal in downtown Morris, IL. Featuring more than 140 vendors selling homemade, homegrown, antique, one of a kind and repurposed items. Open the second Saturday May, June, July, August, September and October from 8am2pm, Rain or Shine!

Grundy County Corn Festival P.O. Box 22 Morris IL 60450

815-942-CORN (2676) www.cornfestival.org 65th Annual Grundy County Corn Festival September 25-29, 2013 “Corn Festival Where Good Friends Meet”

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Greater Morris Area Grundy County Historical Society and Museum 510 W. Illinois Ave. Morris IL 60450 815-942-4880 www.grundycountyhs.org

Museum hours of operation are Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10 AM to 3 PM. Call in advance for guided tours (48 hour notice). The Museum has extensive Mazon Fossils, a replica of an early 1890 store, a replica of a 1900 living room as well as a “tool shed” showing many of the early tools used by pioneers and early farmers. There are many other exhibits as well.

Raging Waves Waterpark 4000 N. Bridge St. Yorkville IL 60560 630-882-6575 www.RagingWaves.com

Illinois’ largest Waterpark offers 45 acres of family fun! 17 water slides, wave pool, lazy river, huge kiddie play structures, sandy beach and new in 2013 - live Sea Lion Show

Unique Finds Download a self-guided walking tour of historic buildings in downtown Morris at www.downtownmorris.com. The Chamber of Commerce also offers informative audio tours of the city’s collection of preserved Heritage Homes.

Dining Chapin’s Restaurant

Chapin’s East Banquets and Catering 502 Twin Rail Dr. Minooka IL 60447 815-735-9250 www.chapinsrestaurant.us

Let us help you plan an effective and meaningful meeting for you group. We have the meeting space you need to accommodate groups from 10 to 225.

LoneStar Restaurant

25208 W. Eames St. Channahon IL 60410 815-467-6961 www.lonestarsteakhouse.com Open 7 days a week at 6:00 AM serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Family restaurant with cocktail lounge. Serving homemade

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Goose Lake Prairie Partners 5010 N Jugtown Rd. Morris IL 60450 815-942-2899 www.gooselakeprairie.org

Volunteer group providing educational programs, assistance and funds for the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area such as: annual activities, festivals, fundraisers, newsletter, gift shop and weekend Desk Volunteers. Visit our website to download The Tallgrass Journal.

I&M Canal/Illinois Department of Natural Resources

701 N. Liberty St. Morris IL 60450 815-942-1880 www.chapinsrestaurant.us Chapin’s is an upscale casual restaurant located in the heart of Morris’s historic downtown. Atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Menu offers a wide selection of fine steaks and seafood, as well as fresh salads, vegetarian dishes, and scrumptious desserts. Enjoy a cappuccino or glass of wine in front of the fireplace late in the evening. Come in a stranger and leave as a friend. Traditional Olde World ambience.

the state’s most popular state parks. Fishing, boating and bird watching are also popular activities. This picturesque park is bordered on the south by the Illinois & Michigan Canal and to the north by Nettle Creek which gently flows along the perimeter and through the park adding to its natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. Stately old trees including walnut, oak, ash, maple, sycamore, hawthorn and cottonwood provide ample shade throughout the park. In the spring, trillium, bluebell, white trout lily, violets, wild ginger, phlox, toothwort and spring beauties are just a sample of the wildflowers that can be enjoyed by park visitors.

At Gebhard Woods State Park Morris IL 60450 815-942-0796 www.dnr.state.il.us

food and chef’s specials. Excellent food, friendly service, great prices. Serving our area for more than thirty seven years.

R Place Eatery

21 Romines Dr. Morris IL 60450 815-942-3690 www.rplaceeatery.com American home-style cuisine, antiques, nostalgic family atmosphere. 24-Hour restaurant & bakery.

Parks and Recreation Gebhard Woods State Park/IDNR 401 Ottawa St. Morris IL 60450 815-942-0796 www.dnr.state.il.us

Hikers, campers, picnickers, and canoeists frequent this 30-acre site, making it one of

www.KayakMorris.com

William G Stratton State Park, Griggs St and Price St. Morris IL 60450 630-567-4653 www.KAYAKMORRIS.com Less than 1 hour from Chicago. Providing unique Rentals / Guided Tours / Lessons and Sandy Beach Camping. Kayaks, Bikes

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Greater Morris Area and Canoes on the Illinois River, Mazon River and I & M Canal/Towpath.

Services Grundy County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center/Coal City 660 S. Broadway St. Coal City IL 60416 815-634-8662 www.grundychamber.com

Your one-stop-shop for the latest information on the events and activities in and around Grundy County. We have a variety of brochures and information on local organizations and businesses.

Grundy County Chamber of Commerce/Morris 909 N. Liberty St. Morris IL 60450 815-942-0113 www.grundychamber.com

Located in the old train depot, we are the place for the latest information on the events and activities in and around Grundy County. We also have a variety of brochures and information on local organizations and businesses offered in the area.

Heartland Bank & Trust - Minooka 500 Bob Blair Rd. Minooka IL 60447 815-467-4474 www.citizens1st.com

Since 1865, it has been the mission of Citizens First National Bank to provide the best in banking by offering superior customer service and the highest quality banking products. Originally founded in Princeton, IL, Citizens currently employs over 300 staff members in 20 locations throughout North Central Illinois.

Morris Downtown Development Partnership, Inc. 105 E. Main St.., Ste. 201 Morris IL 60450 815-941-0245 www.downtownmorris.com

Located on the historic I&M Canal, Nostalgic Downtown Morris offers a rich history and continues to be the gathering place year after year for community festivals. Nestled along 1-80 just 60 minutes from downtown Chicago, Morris offers the best of both worlds.....an authentic Midwestern downtown with a quaint old fashioned appeal and a wealth of unique shops, dining and a variety of professional services.

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Stop by the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce for visitor information.

Shopping American Heritage Cabinetry & Furniture, Inc 1715 N. Division St. Morris IL 60450 815-942-1222 www.americanheritageamish.com

At American Heritage Cabinetry and Furniture we feature handcrafted, solid wood Amish cabinetry and furniture — available today, and ready to be heirlooms of tomorrow. Open Mon-Fri 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM & Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Betty’s

104 W. Washington St. Morris IL 60450 815-693-4464 www.facebook.com/bettys104 Women’s new and vintage clothing boutique. Featuring clothing from the 50s to 70s as well as new items to complete your wardrobe. We have hats, shoes, accessories, everything for your closet!

Morris Antique Emporium 112 W. Washington St. Morris, IL 60450 815-942-0200 www.ShopMorrisIL.com

Building built 1879 - Small list of content; Dept 56 village - Jewelry - Collectibles Howard products - Toys - Gumball Machines - Furniture - License Plates - Automotive & Railroad memorabilia – Die

Morris Retail Association 220 Liberty St. Morris IL 60450 815-941-0200 www.ShopMorrisIl.com

Shop Downtown Morris, Illinois where you’ll find unique family owned Specialty Shops, Restaurants, Boutiques and Spas. With so much to choose from we’re sure Morris will become a favorite destination. Girls Night Out: May 10th, Sidewalk Sales: July 19th21st, Parking Lot Sale: Aug 23-24, Under the Harvest Moon: September 29th, Cabin Fever Days: Feb 16-18.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

STARVED ROCK Area Nothing beats hiking through moss-covered canyons to reach a spot where the only sounds you hear are the gentle hum of the forest and the rushing of water over glaciallycarved stone.

Blaze n Your Ow Trail of y Discover

The breathtaking colors of fall at Starved Rock State Park. GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

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City of Oglesby , City of Ottawa, City of Peru, City of Streator, Village of Grand Ridge, Village of North Utica and Village of Seneca.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2013-14

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Starved Rock Area The Starved Rock area not only provides some of the most magnificent State Parks and nature adventures, but also alluring downtown areas, festivals, historical sites, and shopping. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the Illinois and Michigan Canal on a cruise as well as sample internationally award-winning wines made from grapes grown right in Illinois. Downtown Ottawa sports a charming river walk, churches, architecture, casual to gourmet dining, comfortable hotels, cozy bed & breakfasts and seasonal events such as the Scarecrow Festival, Two Rivers Wine and Jazz Festival and the Ice Odyssey – Ice Sculpting event. Shops like Déjà vu and Blue Beaker hold delightful surprises in store and foodies will flip for the new Corner 230 international tapas restaurant. The best way to get to know Ottawa is through one of several tours available on www. experienceottawa.com. The Ottawa Lincoln Knew Tour, Ottawa Heritage Tour, and the Brush with History Cell Phone Tour are just a few ways to explore. In Washington Square Park, you’ll find monumental bronze statues and a reflecting pool paying tribute to the first historically defining LincolnDouglas Debate in 1858. From Downtown Ottawa, adventurers can join the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway for an unforgettable journey through the beautiful Illinois River Valley. Twin cities, LaSalle and Peru, seamlessly blend historical snapshots and international

800.926.CANAL (2262)

The beautiful Lasalle Falls at Starved Rock State Park in Ottawa

in August. The city also has a fascinating museum campus featuring the Union Depot Railroad Museum, HumeCarnegie Museum and The Breaking of the Prairie Museum. The Weber House & Gardens in Streator once played host to celebrities of the day and now welcomes visitors to tour its 18th century style and English Gardens. Exploring the Treasures at Hegeler Carus Mansion

arts with small town charm. Experience the scenery and history of the Illinois & Michigan Canal first-hand on a one-hour Lock 16 Canal Boat ride guided by authentically-dressed canal era crew and passengers. Considered the country’s first great female master of the violin, Peru hosts the mid-summer Maud Powell Music Festival in honor of the internationally acclaimed violinist and Peru native.

Aside from the captivating lure of its state parks, Utica has wineries, shops full of handcrafted items and relaxed, yet diverse dining scene. In October, visitors can sample the hearty Burgoo Pioneer Stew during the festival, plus enjoy family entertainment and a craft show. Stay for the weekend or longer, in the Starved Rock Area there are always new trails to blaze and destinations to discover!

Stop by Mendota to savor a buttery ear of sweet corn during the Sweet Corn Festival I&MI&M Canal Canal Heritage Heritage Corridor Corridor Visitors Visitors Guide Guide 2013-14 2014

Starved Rock Area

Made In Illinois

Utica Wineries Offer an Unforgettable Experience

Explore Illinois’ Starved Rock wine region this weekend with friends or as a romantic retreat with your sweetheart. The fertile terrain of the Illinois River Valley produces ideal conditions for varietals from popular Cabernet Sauvignon to Riesling as well as local favorites from Seyval Blanc to Catawba. Grab a glass, taste, tour, and shop; Starved Rock Area wineries offer more than outstanding wines at affordable prices, they envelop you into an unforgettable vintage Illinois experience.

August Hill Winery – Downtown Utica

Illinois River Winery – Downtown Utica

The Tasting Room is open daily. Sample six wines for $3 or take home your souvenir Reidel stemware for $12. Browse hand-blown glassware, paintings, woodworking, pottery, jewelry artisan cheeses, & gourmet chocolates. Enjoy your tasting, live music and special events on the lovely outdoor patio. Tasting Notes: Sample the Trapolino, a semi-sweet red perfect for summer barbeques and the Sweet Catawba, a crisp sweet blush wine worth savoring on its own or enjoying with a light meal.

The Tasting Room is open daily 10am-5pm. Free tours are available every Saturday on the hour between 1pm and 4pm. Illinois River Winery specializes in a variety of fruit wines, made from native Midwestern fruits and berries. Tasting Notes: Enjoy Spring Fling, a light Moscato calling forth flavors of tropical fruit. Take home a bottle of Port of Utica, made from 100% Concord grapes native to Utica. The label features an image of the Port of Utica circa 1885.

Starved Rock Marketplace – Utica Tasting room open daily. Cattails Gift Shop provides all the gifts and accessories you need including decorative wine corks, T-shirts, glasses, wine ornaments, books on wine pairing, picnic baskets and more. Shop Cattails for a charming selection of home and garden décor, gourmet foods, designer florals, and gifts.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock State Park Wins Illinois’ Fan Favorite! Starved Rock State Park in Utica has been voted the Illinois Fan Favorite attraction for 2012. The contest was launched by the Illinois Office of Tourism to boost awareness of Illinois attractions. This latest honor caps a run by Starved Rock, which last year welcomed nearly 2.2 million visitors, an all-time high, and broke 10 monthly attendance records since 2008.

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Starved Rock Area

Explore More Starved Rock Area State Parks Hike, bike or trolley along, whatever your speed, the Starved Rock Area provides access to some of the most picturesque natural wonders in the Midwest. While magnificent Starved Rock State Park draws the attention of more than two million visitors each year, several other LaSalle County parks offer captivating views and unique features you won’t want to miss.

• Hike the main canyon, beginning at the Upper Dells and Deer Park Lake, continuing to Cascade Falls where the canyon drops 45 ft. to the Lower Dells • Picnicking, hiking, horseback riding trails, camping, field archery range, and radio controlled model airplane field.

Raftings down the Illinois River.

Illini State Park & The Great Falls of the Illinois River– Marseilles

• A 510 acre beautiful park bordered by The Great Falls of the Illinois River. Closeup of rock wall at Buffalo Rock State Park

Buffalo Rock State Park – Utica

• Learn about the fascinating history of the land, from Native American occupation to a tuberculosis sanatorium.

across from the baseball diamond. • Provides access to the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail.

• “Effigy Tumuli”, earth art sculptures created by artist Michael Heizer, depicting five creatures native to the Illinois River: snake, turtle, catfish, frog, and water strider.

• Home to two American Bison. They can be seen daily in their pen and grazing area, located

800.926.CANAL (2262)

• Thanks to the Illinois River Lock, a bypass constructed by the US Army Corp of Engineers, visitors are in the unique position to enjoy the picturesque rapids and watch boats and barges pass by in the same location. • Camping, boating, walking trails, biking, snowmobiling, ice skating, sledding and cross country skiing.

• Picnicking, biking and hiking (cross country skiing in winter.) • Sweeping views of the Illinois River make for fantastic photo opportunities.

• In a two mile span, the river drops creating beautiful roaring rapids.

Lake Falls In The Canyon At Matthiessen State Park In Utica

Matthiessen State Park – Utica • Magnificent sandstone rock formations, canyons, wildlife and mineral springs.

• Also located in the park is the Illinois Fallen Soldiers Tree Memorial comprised of 250 Oak trees – a moving memorial to Illinois soldiers lost in Iraq and Afghanistan.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area

Get Your Gear On and Let’s Go! Gear up for a little excitement this weekend, head to LaSalle County, your new adventure destination. make a reservation or visit www.canoethevermilion.com.

Let’s Explore! Fast Boats, Leisurely Canoes & Relaxing Tours Too!

Let’s Fly! All New Canopy Zip Line Tours with Zip Chicago Soar more than 85 ft. off the ground on 8 different cables, each with their own characteristics of speed and height. It’s a thrilling high-flying experience you simply have to experience. Professionallytrained guides will show you the ropes and off you go, racing over river valleys & picturesque views. You can even rent GoPro cameras to record every thrilling second! www. zipchicago.com

Whatever your speed, Starved Rock Adventures has it gassed up & ready to move. Located just minutes from Starved Rock State Park at the Starved Rock Marina, one convenient stop will get you on your way to enjoying a day on the river. www.starvedrockadventures.com • Houseboat Rentals – Sleep Up to 12 People • Speed & Pontoon Boat Rentals • Jet Ski Rentals • Canoe River Tours • Waterfront Villas & Suites • The Belle of the Rock Departs Daily, Offering Scenic Tours of the Illinois River Valley

• 8 Ziplines • 2 (75 ft.) Suspension Bridges • All New – Dual Racing Lines • Day and Night Tours

Canoe the Vermilion

Based in Streator, Canoe the Vermillion is a great option for canoeists of all types & skill levels. Call 815-673-3218 to 66

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

• Expertly-Guided Canoe Trips – Including Equipment & Transportation • 7 Days a Week – March 1 Through October 31 • Spectacular Scenery, Swimming, Picnicking on the River, Fishing, Wildlife & Bird Watching

Let’s Go Trekking! MegaHIKES at Starved Rock State Park Hike all 18 breathtaking canyons at Starved Rock in a single day! MegaHikes are the way to go to experience Starved Rock beauty at its best. Mossy canyons, scenic waterfalls, colorful wildflowers, and diverse wildlife, all designed by Mother Nature to impress. www.starvedrockstatepark.org • Hike all 18 Canyons – Including the Most Popular St. Louis, French, Wildcat, Tonty, Ottawa & Kaskaskia • Guided MegaHIKES Are Scheduled Throughout the Year, Check Website For Next Set of Dates • Megaikes sell Out Quickly, So Reserve Early

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Starved Rock Area

More Ways to Explore LaSalle County

FIND MORE INFORMATION ON ATTRACTIONS HeritageCorridorCVB.com AND EVENTS

Full of history, culture, festivals, outdoor adventure, stunning natural beauty and small-town hospitality, the communities of LaSalle County offer so much to experience. Here are just a few of our picks to help you get started.

LaSalle Canal Boat & Lock 16 Café

Fox River Bed & Breakfast –

Hegeler Carus Mansion

Located on 17 acres on the beautiful Fox River. Charles Lindbergh stayed here in 1925: Ottawa

Weber House & Garden Long associated with famous names, this charming house invites you into the 18th century. Explore the beautiful grounds and English garden: Streator

Middle East Conflicts Memorial Wall

The only memorial in the U.S. dedicated to the Middle East Conflicts: Marseilles

Festival 56

Professional theater festival offering 10 productions, including Shakespeare in the Park: Princeton

Trolley Tours at Starved Rock State Park

The best way to get an insider’s view of the park and learn about the history. Offered March-December: Utica

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Mule-pulled Illinois & Michigan Canal ride with guides. Enjoy lunch at the café before or after: LaSalle

Landing Ship Tanks Memorial Former site of LST shipyard, WWII memorial to those who built & sailed the vehicles: Seneca

Buffalo Rock State Park

Mendota Sweet Corn Festival Hot buttered YUM! Annual August Corn Festival: Mendota

Astounding 57room mansion virtually unchanged for the last century: LaSalle

Visit the resident buffalo and see the Effigy Tumuli Earth Sculptures: Utica

Ottawa Scouting Museum

Gather around the campfire and relive your days as a Scout: Ottawa

Reddick Mansion

The Great Falls of the Illinois River

Tour the beautifullyornate pre-civil war mansion: Ottawa

Beautiful roaring rapids created by a drop in the river: Marseilles

Maud Powell Music Festival

Summer-long festival featuring talents from folk music, opera & ballet: Peru

Matthiessen State Park

Unusual rock formations, canyons and falls. Enjoy hiking, skiing, mountain bikes & horseback riding: Utica

Bald Eagle Watching January at Illinois Waterways Visitor Center & Starved Rock State Park: Ottawa/Utica

LaSalle Speedway

Fast and furious stock car racing where kids under 12 get in free: LaSalle

Chestnut Street Inn

Bed and breakfast featuring an award-winning Mediterranean restaurant: Sheffield

Mendota Museum Campus

Three amazing museums – HumeCarnegie Museum, Breaking the Prairie Museum and Union Depot Railroad: Mendota

The Burgoo Festival -LaSalle County Historical Society Annual October festival inspired by the oddly-named pioneer stew: Utica

Wineries

Illinois State and August Hill Wineries: Utica

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area

No Kids, No Carpools, No Chores Time to recharge and reconnect in Starved Rock Area After a long, winter season of runny noses, helping with homework, carting the kids back and forth to activities, my husband and I were ready for some “us” time. And where would be a better place to do it then practically in our own back yard? I’m talking about LaSalle County, perhaps better known as the Starved Rock Area. We decide to book our room for our mini vacation at the historic Starved Rock Lodge, just an hour’s drive west from our home. Close enough to be in touch with the kids but far away enough for us to decompress and reconnect, Starved Rock Lodge is nestled in Starved Rock State Park, voted 2012 Illinois’ Fan Favorite on Facebook, with 16 miles of hiking trails and 18 unique canyons.

The Grand Hall at the Historic Starved Rock Lodge

Back to our room for a restful night’s sleep as we recharge for our second day of adventure.

Friday After checking in and finding our room, we opt for a one hour couples massage located in a quaint cabin and our tensions melt further away.

We have worked up quite an appetite so we head for the Dining Room. The menu entices us with an assortment of gourmet dishes from pheasant to filet mignon.

Feeling rested and ready to take on some of Starved Rock State Park’s hiking trails that we have heard so much about, we head down to breakfast and plan our day. We start out on the path right outside the lodge that descends about a quarter mile. We tread gingerly to the bottom and were taken aback by the beauty of the French Canyon. We felt like young teenagers in love as we watched the spectacular site.

After a wonderful dinner (and no kids fighting) we head to the Back Door Lounge for an after dinner drink. A live band kept us entertained as we relaxed, sipped our cocktails, conversed and enjoyed the music.

We head back and decide to explore the town of Utica. First stop is the LaSalle County Historical Museum. This museum complex is home to an 1865 schoolhouse, an 1875 barn full of antique agriculture items, an 1892 blacksmith shop and of course the main museum situated in an 1848 building and hosting an extensive collection of native american artifacts.

Feeling refreshed and recharged, we go on an exploration of the Lodge. We relax by the huge fireplace in the Grand Hall and enjoy the homey atmosphere. But the gift shops are calling us and we are delighted by the variety of unique items from jewelry and wine cozies to t-shirts and homemade fudge and caramels. We decide on t-shirts and fudge to take back home as souvenirs.

Saturday

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Starved Rock Area that we had experienced thus far on our getaway. We get all dressed up (something we haven’t done in awhile) and decide to head over to LaSalle and have dinner at the upscale Uptown Grill, a crowd favorite. The atmosphere if perfect for a couple who are looking to enjoy an evening of great food and conversation. We are in luck as the band starts playing and we both decide it is a perfect way to spend our last night in LaSalle County.

Sunday Lunch is at Canal Port, a local establishment that specializes in good, oldfashioned home cooking. The locals add to the atmosphere and we thoroughly enjoy our outing. As we drive into town we notice a couple of wineries and decide to stop and sample the local wines. At Illinois River Winery we take the winery tour and learn how wine is made from grapes to the finished product. We sample the Spring Fling Moscato, a wonderfully fresh Moscato with fresh tropical fruit aromas. Next up is August HIll Winery where we sit out on the patio and enjoy the beautiful weather while drinking their famous “Wine Chillers”, a perfect drink as we discuss all

800.926.CANAL (2262)

We are sad to see the time passing so quickly but want to make the most of our stay so we hurry up and eat breakfast before we make our way over to the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center located on the Illinois River, providing a panoramic view of the Illinois River. The center provides up-close views of river barges and other watercraft as they “lock through” the Starved Rock Lock & Dam. We marvel at how a lock and dam work as we had never seen one before! We decide to step back in time and take a mule-pulled boat trip up and down the I&M Canal.

That’s right, the boat is pulled by two mules, Larry and Moe! An interpreter tells us the story of the I&M Canal and life on one of these boats. We purchased tickets for the LaSalle Canal Boat ride and had a delightful lunch at Lock 16 Visitors Center and Cafe in LaSalle. Shopping was again on our minds as we took our time examining all the unique items that were for sale. It was time to head back but not before stopping in Ottawa and tour the Reddick Mansion, take the mural walking tour and visit Washington Park, home of the first LincolnDouglas debate. We are both history buffs so this was a perfect ending to our escape. Unfortunately it was time to head back to reality. But our experiences in Starved Rock Country left us feeling renewed and ready for anything. And we left with a list of other places to visit on our next weekend getaway!

Start Planning Your Recharging Weekend in Starved Rock at HeritageCorridorCVB.com I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area

Accommodations Bayley House Suite Bed and Breakfast

723 N. 2150th Rd., Tonica,IL,61370 815-442-3276 www.bayleyhousesuite.com

The Bayley House Suite was built in 1874 but provides the accommodations of a 21st century. This beautiful 850 sq. ft. suite includes a bedroom with queen sized bed, living room with dinning area and peaceful 3-season room.

Best Western Oglesby

900 Holiday St. Oglesby IL 61348 815-883-3535 www.bestwesternoglesby.com

The BEST WESTERN Inn is conveniently located at Exit I-80 on I-39. We are the closest hotel to Starved Rock State Park.

Brightwood Inn

2407 N. Route 178 Oglesby IL 61348 888-667-0600 www.brightwoodinn.com

Country inn, luxurious rooms with Jacuzzis/ Fireplaces. Near state parks. Stress free quiet, romantic. Packages. Complimentary Hot Breakfast with room.

Chestnut Street Inn

301 E. Chestnut St. Sheffield IL 61361 800-537-1304 www.chestnut-inn.com

Award winning bed and breakfast and restaurant featuring Mediterranean Cuisine using locally available ingredients. Conveniently located off I-80. Four uniquely appointed guest suites, including private bathrooms.

Cozy Corner Campground 805 N. 25th Rd. Oglesby IL 61348 815-667-4886

Located at entrance to Matthiessen State Park on IL-Rte. 178. Family-owned campground for RVs and tents. Surrounded by trees. Picnic tables, showers, firewood. Come see us.

Days Inn Oglesby/Starved Rock 120 N. Lewis Ave. Oglesby IL 61348 815-883-9600 www.daysinn.com/hotel/04593

100% Smoke Free. Award Winning Property. Conveniently located off I-39 at exit #54, 5 miles from state parks. Heated indoor pool, Daybreak breakfast, hot waffles, FREE Wi-Fi internet, Pet friendly, Very Clean Rooms!

Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Starved Rock

3000 Fairfield Ln. Ottawa IL 61350 815-431-8955 www.fairfieldmarriottstarvedrock.com Fairfield Inn & Suites is the newest Marriott along the I-80 corridor. Stylish furnishings, cozy appointments, free Wi-Fi , and hot breakfast buffet awaits you!

Fairfield Inn - Peru

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

Open 24 Hours a day 365 days a year Courteous and Friendly service, Enjoy our Free hot breakfast, Free High-Speed Wireless Internet. Relax in our heated indoor pool and hot tub.

Fox River Bed and Breakfast 3367 E. 2072nd Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-431-9257 www.foxriverbnb.com

Located on 17 beautiful acres on the Fox River. 14 Stations of the Cross, Lourdes Grotto, Sulfur Spring. Charles Lindbergh stayed in 1925.

Let Us Make Your Special Event Grand Conferences, Meetings, Reunions, Weddings and Truly Grand Events

Book Your Event Today! Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort IL Rt. 178, Utica, IL 61373 | 866.399.3866 www.grizzlyjacksresort.com

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Starved Rock Area Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort & Waterpark 2643 N. Rt. 178 Utica IL 61373 815-667-FUNN (3866) www.grizzlyjacksresort.com

Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort offers skin-drenching fun all year long right in the beautiful setting of Starved Rock State Park. Located just 90 minutes from Chicago, our 60 wooded acres offer all of nature’s wonders, featuring 60,000 sq. ft. of Indoor Entertainment! This includes Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark and Enchanted Forest Indoor Amusement Park, beautiful lodge accommodations, as well as our 1800 sq. ft. vacation villas and luxurious 2800 sq. ft. cabins. Our Conference Center includes over 8000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 6000 sq. ft. of Grand Ballroom space to accommodate your larger functions such as weddings, family reunions, etc. Other resort amenities include the Cave Arcade with over 60 games and ticket redemption, outdoor 18-hole mi iature golf, an outdoor playground and our proximity to 3 beautiful nearby state parks. Visit us online at www.grizzlyjacksresort.com and follow us on Facebook for fan-only promotions and contests.

Hampton Inn Ottawa

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

Our Hampton Inn Ottawa (Starved Rock Area) is conveniently located just a half-mile from I-80 and three miles from downtown Ottawa.

Heritage Harbor Ottawa

1970 N. 2753rd Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-5000 www.HeritageHarborOttawa.com

The Cottages at Heron’s Landing is a “resort within a resort” featuring 30 vacation cottages nestled along the Illinois River

Hickory Hollow Campground 757 N. 3029th Rd. Utica IL 61373 815-667-4996 HickoryHollowCG.com

Wi Fi available at no charge. Meeting/banquet space available. 37 acres with 89 water, sewer & electric sites and 45 tent sites, plus cabins. Store, laundry, showers, and swimming pool. Near Starved Rock.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Peru

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

Conveniently located off of Interstate I-80, exit 75. New property built in 2010, with a fitness center, pool and hottub. Very close to shopping and restaurants.

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Holiday Inn Express Ottawa

120 E. Stevenson Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-0029 www.holidayinnexpressstarvedrock.com We are located off I-80 at exit 90. We are just minutes from Fox River, Illinois River and Starved Rock State Park.

Kishauwau Country Cabins 901 N. 2129 Rd. Tonica IL 61370 815-442-8453 www.kishauwau.com

WatermPearntkP&ark IndoroAr m use Indoo From our

In the shadow of Starved Rock, Kishauwau on the Vermilion features cabins that have been beautifully renovated to blend country charm with modern convenience. Enjoy fully equipped Kitchens and Outdoor Bonfire Pits.

to ou

Comr fy Lodge,

La Quinta Inn and Suites- Peru 4389 Venture Dr. Peru IL 61354 815-224-9000 www.lq.com

Wake up on the bright side and experience “Here for You” service! Located minutes from Starved Rock State Park. Restaurants and shops within walking distance. Hot tub and indoor heated pool. Free hot breakfast and wi-fi.

LaSalle-Peru KOA 756 N. 3150th Rd. Utica IL 61373 815-667-4988 www.koa.com

Camping in country setting away from interstate noise. RV, Tent Sites & Cabin Rentals. General Store, Showers, Heated Pool, Wi-Fi & Cable TV.

Kid-Pleasing Games & Activities,

Lord Stockings Bed & Breakfast 803 3rd Ave. Mendota IL 61342 815-539-7905 www.bbonline.com/il/mendota.html

Three story Victorian home decorated with original antique furnishings. Mendota has Parks and Three Museums. Starved Rock State Park is close by. Please Call for reservations.

Grown-up Watering Holes,

Madison Street Living

219 W. Main St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-1500 www.madisonstreetliving.com

Historic Queen Anne in downtown Ottawa within walking distance of dining, shopping & entertainment. Full Kitchen, washer/dryer, HDTV, Wi-Fi, jetted whirlpool tub. Special requests welcome. No pets/No smoking.

Marcia’s Bed and Breakfast 3003 N. IL Route 71 Ottawa IL 61350 815-488-5217 www.marciasbnb.com

Three separate self-sustaining buildings, The Round House, The Cottage and The Pine Room. All units feature air conditioning, a wood burning stove, kitchenette, private bath and dish television.

and surprising

Services & Amenities...

Grizzly Jack’s has it all for family fun! Located next to Starved Rock State Park. Have a blast at Grizzly Jack’s!

Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort IL Rt. 178, Utica, IL 61373 | 866.399.3866 www.grizzlyjacksresort.com

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area Prairie Lakes Country Club & Inn

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

Prairie Lakes offers a 9 hole golf course and a full service restaurant and hotel. Hotel and Golf packages available and banquet facilities. Golf opens daily at 7:00am and the restaurant is open 11:00am - 10:00pm daily. Call for seasonal hours.

Quality Inn - Peru

5240 Trompeter Rd. Peru IL 61354 815-223-8585 www.qualityinn.com/hotel-peruillinois-IL069

The newly renovated Quality Inn and Suites of Peru Illinois is conviently located next to I-80 and minutes from Starved Rock State Park and other area attractions for an affordable and friendly family stay. We are newly renovated, and offer a hot breakfast including eggs, waffles, and biscuits and gravy. We as well are proud members of Choice Hotels and are eager to share our great customer service with you.

Remembrance Rock Lodge 1948 N. 2959th Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-326-1094 www.remembrancerock.com

Meet

Larry andMoe

Take an old-fashioned

MULE PULLED

replica 19th century boat ride

Only 10 minutes from Starved Rock State Park at the junction of I-80 and I-39 754 First Street in downtown LaSalle Get away at lasallecanalboat.org or call 815.220.1848

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the oak hickory bluffs of the Fox River Valley in our incense Cedar Lodge. The Lodge is considered the premier, romantic escape from the stresses of everyday life. Enjoy area fishing, hiking, biking, eagles, fine dining, local State parks and History. Please call for reservations. Lodge is also available to individual deer hunters. Open daily 6am - 10pm

Starved Rock Inn

Routes 178 & 6 Utica IL 61373 815-667-4211 www.starvedrocklodge.com

Eight room rustic country inn, decorated in handcrafted wood furnishings. A unique tranquil get-away. Open April - November. For reservations, call 815-667-4211 or email frontdesk@starvedrocklodge.com.

Starved Rock Lodge - Cabins Routes 178 & 71 Utica IL 61373 815-667-4211 www.starvedrocklodge.com

Historic Lodge nestled in Starved Rock State Park. Open daily, on-site bar, indoor pool; hotel and cabins in the woods, free WiFi, restaurant & seasonal, outdoor dining.

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Starved Rock Area Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center Routes 178 & 71 Utica IL 61373 815-667-4211 www.starvedrocklodge.com

Full service Conference Center in Starved Rock State Park. Dining Room, Bar, Veranda, outdoor dining, indoorpool (for Lodge guests). Retreats, meetings, banquets and dream weddings. Lodge has 69 rooms and 21 cabin rooms in a rustic, wooded setting.

Super 8 Ottawa 500 E. Etna Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-2888 www.super8.com

Award winning, Pride of Super 8. 100% Non-Smoking, no pets allowed, super start breakfast, 2-room and apartment whirlpool suites, microwave/fridge in all rooms.

Troll Hollow Campground 2265 N. 2453 Road Marseilles IL 61341 815-795-2537 www.trollhollow.com

Troll Hollow is the summer home to campers who come back year after year to make new memories and enjoy family fun. Open daily from 9am-9pm

White Oak Campground

Route 178 Utica IL 61373 815-667-4758 www.whiteoakcamprgound.net

Family owned since 1965, White Oak Campground offers families, camping enthusiasts, and travelers a beautiful retreat next door to Starved Rock State Park. We welcome tents, pop-ups trailers, & RVs. Weekends Friday to Sunday (some major holidays)

Attractions Enchanted Forest Indoor Amusement Park

2643 N. Rt 178 Utica IL 61373 866-399-FUNN (3866) www.GrizzlyJacksResort.com

Family-Friendly entertainment featuring carnival style rides, inflatable bounce houses, ropes course, sip line, laser tag, arcade & more! Fullservice restaurant- open to the public.

Hegeler Carus Mansion

its completion more than a century ago, the 57 room Mansion, built in 1874, is an example of high artistic achievement in architecture and interior design, and the site of historic accomplishments in industry, philosophy, publishing and religion. National Historic Landmark. Visit us at www.hegelercarus.org for our special events.

Heritage Harbor Ottawa

1970 N. 2753rd Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-5000 www.HeritageHarborOttawa.com

Heritage Harbor Ottawa is a premier Marina Resort Community located on the banks of the Illinois River. Visit our water front restaurant or rent a cottage.

LaSalle Canal Boat

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

Step back in time. Replica 19th century mulepulled canal boat ride with period clothed guides. Meet Larry and Moe, our mules. Open May - October. Reservations recommended.

1307 Seventh St. LaSalle IL 61301 815-224-6543 www.hegelercarus.org

Tours: Wednesday - Sunday at noon, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Virtually unaltered since

800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area LaSalle County Historical Society

101 E. Canal St. Utica IL 61373 815-667-4861 www.lasallecountymuseum.org

LaSalle County history including Native American artifacts in an I & M Canal era warehouse plus a blacksmith shop, one room school and 1875 Barn. Open Air Market Coming Soon.

LaSalle Speedway

578 E. US Highway Route 6 LaSalle IL 61301 815-223-6900 www.lasallespeedway.com

Mid-America’s most exciting 1/4 high banked raceway. Come & watch drivers compete in furious side by side stock car racing action. Family fun entertainment where kids under 11 are free!

Mendota Museum & Historical Society

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

Hume-Carnegie Museum Saturday & Sunday 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM 3/1 - 12/15; Union Depot Railroad Sat & Sun Noon to 4:00 PM, 3/1 – 12/15 Breaking the Prairie Museum by appointment. Office hours T, W, & TH – F 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum

Cessna 182. Tandem Jumps and Solo jumps offered at one of the largest and most modern skydiving centers in the world.

1100 Canal St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-431-9353 www.ottawascoutingmuseum.org

Spirit of Peoria

A museum established to promote and preserve the history of the Ottawa area and the colorful and proud traditions of Boy/Girl Scouting and Camp Fire. National traveling exhibits from museums and libraries. Open Thursday-Monday 10:00 AM4:00 PM, Closed on Holidays.

Reddick Mansion Association

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

One to five day riverboat cruises to and from Starved Rock and Saint Louis Riverfront aboard our authentic paddlewheeler, featuring old-fashioned entertainment. Allinclusive.

The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off-Road Park

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

One of Ottawa’s greatest treasures. Built in 1858, this three-story, 22 room, Italianate mansion was possibly the most expensive private home in Illinois at that time. Tours available 6 days a week - 11am to 3pm. Closed Tuesdays & major holidays.

2681 E. Route 6 Marseilles IL 61341 815-795-5200 www.thecliffsinsaneterrain.com

300 acres of wooded trails to ride your jeep. ATV, 4X4. UTV Bike, and more! Also, check out our Zip Lines and 5k Obstacle Course! Open Weekends from 9am-5pm

Skydive Chicago

Weber House and Garden

Skydive Chicago is located 70 miles southwest of Chicago off I-80 in Ottawa, Illinois. Their private airport is nestled on 230 acres of forested land along the Fox River. Their fleet of aircraft includes 3 Super Twin Otters, 2 Cessna Grand Caravans, 1 SkyVan and on

Long associated with the rich and famous, Weber House sits in an English garden of meandering paths, hollyhocks and old oaks. Inside cozy candlelit rooms reflect the 18th century.

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

COME for the BEAUTY!

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

LaSalle County. We’re not your ordinary destination! Just 75 miles southwest of Chicago, LaSalle County is home to four state parks, a wealth of historic sites, great dining, comfortable lodging and endless recreational opportunities — all of which add up to a perfect weekend getaway. What are you waiting for? Come and join us!

STAY for the ADVENTURE! Visit www.enjoylasallecounty.com for more infor mation LaSalleCtyHCCVBAd_ƒ.indd 1

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Embrace Best C the

of LaSalle County

Beautiful

Restful

Come experience the place that has captured

the hearts of millions! Visit our website for details on activities, lodging, dining, weddings and corporate planning.

Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center Routes 178 & 71 Utica, IL 61373

800. 868. 7625

www.starvedrocklodge.com

Magical

Inspirational

www.starvedrockstatepark.org

Starved Rock Area

Dining 9th Street Pub

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

Over 35 years in business, serving lunch and dinner daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Live Entertainment & Live Video Gaming. Home of the Cheeseburger In Paradise. 10 new burgers and smokehouse items available. Casual dining. Boasting 52 import beers with two major imports on tap. Find us on Facebook or our website: www.9thstpub.com

Anne’s Hideaway 323 Railroad Ave. Naplate IL 61350 815-433-9686

Family style chicken, pasta, seafood & steaks. Fine food and dining.

Cajun Connection

897 E. US Highway 6 Utica IL 61373 815-667-9855 www.ronscajunconnection.com

Cajun cook creating authentic Louisiana dishes: alligator, gumbo, etouffe, etc. Experience the taste of roasted pecan pie! Thursday - Saturday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM & Sunday 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Call for summer hours. Find us on Facebook! Cajun Connection.

Canal Port Bar and Grill 148 Mill St. Utica IL 61373 815-667-3010 www.canalport.com

Kick back and relax in a casual atmosphere. Best fried chicken in town. We also specialize in steaks and seafood. Families welcome. Carryouts available. Serving Lunch and Dinner Daily.

Casa Mia

219 18th Ave. Naplate IL 61350 815-434-0758 www.myiv.biz.com

Excellent dining in casual elegance. A culinary delight featuring steak, seafood, pasta and unique specials. Hours are Wed. - Sun. 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.

Delaney’s Family Restaurant 100 N. Lewis Ave. Oglesby IL 61348 815-883-3539 www.caterersoglesby-il.com

Full Service Restaurant. Open 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM. 5 miles from Starved Rock. Sunday brunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Buffet served daily. Breakfast always. Winner of News Tribune Readers Choice Award. Catering services available.

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

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Starved Rock Area JJ’s Pub on Main 104 W. Main St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-431-1816 www.jjspub.com

JJ’s Pub is a sports bar & grill featuring 10 TVs, 16 taps, food, an outdoor patio & easy access to public boat docks on the Illinois River.

Lock 16 Cafe

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

Breakfast, lunch, dessert,gourmet coffees, homemade soups, sandwiches, wraps, salads, paninis (vegetarian options), ice cream and more. Free Wi-Fi. Private meeting room/ facility/canal boat rentals.

Mickey’s Massive Burritos

620 1st St. LaSalle IL 61301 815-220-1599 www.mickeysmassiveburritos.com

Family-owned restaurant that serves fresh, delicious Mexican food made from scratch everyday. Home of “Annie’s Original Taco.” Visit Mickey’s Massive Burritos at local Festivals and events. Delivery available. Think of us for your catering events! For more information visit our website : www. mickeysmassiveburritos.com

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Monte’s Riverside Inn 903 E. Norris Dr. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-5000

Monte’s Riverside Inn provides traditional American cuisine with a cozy atmosphere in Ottawa, IL. Whether you are bringing a special date or a group of friends, our low-lit ambiance is perfect for a quiet night out. Our resident chef draws from many inspirations but is firmly rooted in traditional American diners: New York strip, twice big potato and vegetables.

Pine Hills Golf Club

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

The Restaurant serves award winning Chicago Style Pan & Thin Crust Pizza, homemade tenderloins, soups, salads and sandwiches. The Pine Hills dinner menu continues to expand with pasta on Wednesday, fried chicken on Thursday, cod, prime rib and much more on Friday & Saturday.

The Cheese Shop ‘n’ Deli 1219 Fulton St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-0478 www.thecheeseshop.biz

Featuring homemade soups, sandwiches, specialty foods and cheeses. Catering available. 35 year old antique collection. Open for lunch & dinner.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area

Entertainment

Tones Cones

523 W. Main St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-1488

along this picturesque and unique area. Hiking, Biking, snowmobiling, camping, picnicking, fishing, boating & historical sites are available at four different state parks along the route.

Stage 212, Inc.

Serving the Best Soft Serve Ice Cream treats around. Open 7 days a week from 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Inside and Outside seating. Family Fun.

Uptown Grill

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

Polished casual atmosphere since 1985. Large full service bar. Appetizers, sandwiches, pasta, fresh fish, steak, chicken. Outdoor dining, banquet & meeting facilities. One block from I & M Canal Boat. M-Th 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, F-S 11:00 AM 11:00 PM, Sun noon-10:00 PM. AAA approved.

700 1st St. La Salle IL 61301 815-224-3025 www.stage212.org

Pine Hills Golf Club

Stage 212, Inc. is the Illinois Valley’s community theater since 1968. Please check our website: www.stage212.org for our current and upcoming productions. Box office is open, when tickets are on sale : Monday 4:00pm - 6:00pm, Wednesday 1:00pm - 4:00pm and Saturday 9:00am - 12:00pm.

Parks and Recreation I&M Canal/Illinois Department of Natural Resources At Gebhard Woods State Park Morris IL 60450

Woody’s Steak House

1321 LaSalle St Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-2400 www.restaurantsottawail.com

815-942-0796

www.dnr.state.il.us

One of the oldest restaurants in LaSalle County. Continental gourmet dining featuring steaks, seafood, and pasta. Full service bar and lounge. I-80 to exit 90 Rt. 23 2 miles.

Celebrating 29 years of passion, ingenuity and good taste

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

Nestled in the Covel Creek Canyon Pine Hills is one of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in the area. Pine Hills offers 9 holes of natural beauty and challenging golf. The Club House offers a friendly atmosphere and includes a Pro-Shop, full service bar & restaurant with panoramic views of the Course and an outdoor patio.

Prairie Lakes Country Club & Inn

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

Services ADventure Marketing Solutions 300 W. Joliet St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-431-1000 www.adventure3.com

ADventure is a full service marketing solutions firm offering graphic design, printing, addressing & direct mail, screen-printing & embroidery, wide format signage, tradeshow signage, digital photography services, promotional products & more.

Century 21 Windsor Realty

• daily specials • homemade soups, desserts & sauces • unique sandwiches • extensive wine & liquor selection • micro brews

Specializing in relocation, residential, commerical, farms and vacant land. Quality award winning office. Stop In. Toll Free 1-800310-2627

Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort Banquets & Conference Center

• outdoor dining • private banquet room • carry outs • kids menu

2715 Columbus St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-2122 www.windsorsellshomes.com

Scan for our menu

Five miles from Starved Rock State Park & Historic Utica • Two blocks from the LaSalle Canal Boat • Near I-80 & I-39

2643 N. Route 178 Utica IL 61373 866-399-FUNN (3866) www.GrizzlyJacksResort.com

Let us make your next event “Grand”! Unique venue with flexible meeting and conference space, professional staff and onsite catering and lodging near Starved Rock.

601 First Street • Downtown La Salle • 815.224.4545 • uptowngrill.com

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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Starved Rock Area Hotels R

en Ne ov w at ly ed

Hampton Inn—Ottawa, IL 815.434.6040

Fairfield Inn & Suites—Ottawa, IL 815.431.8955

Holiday Inn Express—Ottawa, IL 815.433.0029

Holiday Inn Express & Suites—Peru, IL 815.224.2500

Best Western —Oglesby, IL 815.883.3535

Holiday Inn Express & Suites—Morris, IL 815.941.8700

Quality Inn—Morris, IL 815.942.6600

www.BookStarvedRockHotels.com

Starved Rock Area Heartland Bank & Trust - Peru

Take a Bite! LaSalle County’s Unique Dining Scene In addition to family restaurants, steak, seafood and supper clubs, La Salle County has a diverse and emerging dining scene. Bite into your hunger after a long day of hiking or boating with some of these unique picks.

925 Shooting Park Rd. Peru IL 61354 815-223-7500 www.citizens1st.com

Heartland Bank & Trust Sandwich 200 E. Church St. Sandwich IL 60548 815-786-2115

www.citizens1st.com

Mickey’s Massive Burritos [ LaSalle ] Family-Owned, Fresh Mexican Cuisine Made From Scratch Daily.

Joy & Ed’s [ Utica ] Homestyle Favorites. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Heritage Corridor CVB-Utica

9th Street Pub [ LaSalle ] A Local Favorite with Live Entertainment Cajun Connection [ Utica ] Authentic Louisiana Cuisine including ‘Gator! Canal Port Bar & Grill [ Utica ] Best Fried Chicken in Town! Casa Mia [ Naplate ] Steak, Seafood & Pasta Hank’s Farm Restaurant [ Ottawa ] Enjoy great food, views & animals from a converted dairy barn Jeremiah Joe Coffee [ Ottawa ] Espresso! JJ’s Pub on Main [ Ottawa ] Right on the River with Boat Access The Cheese & Shop Deli [ Ottawa ] Gourmet Foods & Cheeses Tracy’s Boathouse [ Ottawa ] Waterfront Dining

Heartland Bank & Trust Oglesby 501 W. Walnut St. Oglesby IL 61348 815-872-6253 www.citizens1st.com

801 E. US Highway 6 Utica IL 61373 815-667-4356 www.heritagecorridorcvb.com

Your source for leisure, group and meeting planning. Contact our tourism coordinators today at 800-746-0550. Call for the latest event information, lodging deals, and shopping and dining specials. Open daily from 9 am until 4 pm, except holidays and exceptions.

Illinois River Area Chamber of Commerce 135 Washington St. Marseilles IL 61341 815-795-2323 www.iracc.org

The Illinois River Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, membership-driven organization that strives to enrich our communities and stimulate economic development and tourism in the Illinois River Area.

Illinois Valley Community Hospital 925 W. St. Peru IL 61354 815-223-3300 www.ivch.org

Acute care hospital with 24-hour emergency department. IVCH FastCare walk-in clinic at Peru Walmart and Care Today clinic next to Illinois Valley YMCA.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Starved Rock Area Illinois Waterway Visitor Center

950 N. 27th Rd., Route 1 Ottawa IL 61350 815-667-4054 www.mvr.usace.army.mil/Missions/ Recreation/IllinoisWaterway.aspx

View Starved Rock Lock & Dam. Enjoy interacting with towboat Pilot House. Learn Illinois River’s unique history and watch wildlife (bald eagles in winter).

Lock 16 Visitor Center 754 First St. LaSalle IL 61301 815-223-1851 www.lasallecanalboat.org

Visitor informaton, canal exhibits/programs, canal boat tickets, cafe, gift shop, great bathrooms, free Wi-Fi. Private meeting room/facility/canal boat rentals. At western terminus of I&M Canal.

Ottawa Art League

807 LaSalle St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-4065 www.ottawaartleague.org

Creating interaction between community, art lovers, amateur, and professional artists. Hosting Art in the Park during Riverfest, monthly educational meetings, and a gallery at 807 LaSalle.

Ottawa Visitors Center

Starved Rock Country

Open 7 days a week to service the traveling public. The Ottawa Visitors Center is your one stop shop for information on the Starved Rock Areas special events, lodging, and outdoor activities. Stroll our turn-of-the-century OLD TOWN with its lush walkways, boutique shops and unique restaurants. Stop here for your “Scenic Route to the Rock”.

Starved Rock Country celebrates the many local cultures, histories and personalities that make up this wonderful region. Enjoy the good life – experience the Starved Rock Country today!

100 W. Lafayette St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-2737 www.ExperienceOttawa.com

Spirit Farms

3874 N. Route 71 Sheridan IL 60551 815-695-5667 www.spiritfarms.com

We are a diverse, modern farming operation located in the heart of Illinois farm country with state of the art facilities and equipment

Spring Brook Marina

623 W. River Dr., P.O. Box 379 Seneca IL 61360 815-357-8666

Full service marina. New and used boat sales, transient slips, fuel, restaurant, open year round. Marine financing and insurance. Fiberglass and mechanical repair. www.springbrookmarina.com

110 W. Jefferson St. Ottawa, IL 61350 815-431-4014 www.starvedrockcountry.com

Starved Rock Marina

1130 N. 27th Rd. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-4218 www.starvedrockmarina.com

Full line dealer for Rinker, Landau Pontoons and pre-owned boats. Full service marina with slips, fuel, restaurant, boutique, boat and villa rentals.

United Country Starved Rock Realty - Dee Barrera Broker/ Owner POB 279 Utica IL 61373-0279 815-667-9990 www.ucstarvedrockrealty.com

Rare & unique waterfront, wooded & commercial properties.1 1/2 hrs SW of Chicago. Minutes from Starved Rock State Park, Illinois & Vermilion Rivers , I 80 & I39. Beautiful area to live or vacation. Over 2 million visitors per year. See web site for more info.

STREATOR

YOURSELF

A Quiet Surprise on the Prairie 815.672.2055 • STREATOR.ORG • 888.485.9895

WEBER HOUSE & GARDEN 800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area

Shopping

Ward Cedar Log Homes & Classic Post & Beam

339 N. 3179 Rd. LaSalle IL 61301 815-223-6050 www.wardrep.com/theloghomepeople Since 1978. Serving Illinois & beyond. Design, Sales, Delivery and Construction of Log and Timber-Frame Homes, Cabins, & Commercial Buildings. Log Home Model & Mini-Seminar seven days per week by appointment.

Applebee’s Bait Shop 2956 N. Route 178 Utica IL 61373 815-667-7036

Open 7 days 5:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Junction of Routes 6 and 178, right off of I-80. Fishing licenses, guide service available for Illinois River and LaSalle Lake. Live Bait and Tackle.

August Hill Winery & Illinois Sparkling Co.

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

Visit the August Hill Winery & Illinois Sparkling Co. tasting room and experience locally-made handcrafted wines. Wine tastings and flights, wine gifts & accessories, gallery of local art, outdoor patio, private events. Open M-Th 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, F-S 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM & Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Avant Garden

800 LaSalle St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-228-6245

Shop, Sell, Feel Unique! Discover oneof-a-kind items, the work of talented artisans, eclectic retail professionals & new, emergent designers producing original, handmade goods in a wide variety of media. A Unique Indoor Market!

Book Mouse

722 LaSalle St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-7323 www.bookmouse.org

Full service independently owned bookstore. Hardcover, paperbacks, magazines, cards, toys, games and local art. Purchase books

723 S. Clark Street, North Utica, IL 61373 tel: 815-667-4012 www.illinoisriverwinery.com

Winery Tours

Learn how wine is made from start to finish. Please call our Tasting Room to schedule your tour. Tours are family friendly.

Open every day!

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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janine irene jewelry

Starved Rock Area and E-Books off our website @ www. bookmouse.org. Knowledgeable friendly staff. Open Mon - Sat 10:00am -6:30pm.

Clarks Run Antiques

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

Lets Go Antiquing! Come & visit Utica’s newest & largest antique store. Located one block west of historic downtown. Also located inside is a premier art gallery featuring local artists and a unique gift station.

monday’s child

a mess of things

sassy sparrow

juliejayne

Ellis Ace Hardware, Rental & RadioShack

255 S. Main St. Seneca IL 61360 815-357-6144 www.ellisacehardware.com

Founded in 1872, Ellis Hardware is Illinois’ Oldest Family Owned Hardware Store. At Ellis’ you’re a neighbor, not just a number, we have over 30 departments with brands you love like Stihl, Toro, Craftsman, Weber, and so much more! M-F 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sun 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ellisace & Twitter at twitter.com/ellisace & Instagram #ellishardware

wine diva

ammakristine

someday violet

Handy Foods

604 W. Main St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-434-2300 www.handyfoodsIGA.com

too shai jenny eustis

Your friendly everyday store, featuring groceries, produce, fresh meat, dairy, bakery, liquor, lotto and deli. Famous for a wide selection of hot and cold items. Open Everyday 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM.

Illinois River Winery

723 S. Clark Street/Route 178 N. Utica IL 61373 815-667-4012 www.illinoisriverwinery.com

Come tour the winery, visit the tasting room and outdoor wine garden, featuring awardwinning wines made in the Illinois River Valley. Open everyday!

salvaged grace

lonesome road

Discover one-of-a-kind items, the work of talented artisians, eclectic retail professionals and new and emergent designers producing original, handmade goods in a wide variety of media, only at...

Jobst Monuments & Gifts 402 W. Main St. Ottawa IL 61350 815-433-0310 www.jobstmonument.com

Unique Gifts featuring Garden Deco! Visit our fairy garden corner! Open Monday - Friday 10am-5pm, Saturdays 10am-3 and Sundays 12pm-4pm (Seasonally)

Open Tuesday-Friday 11-6 Saturday 10-4 Sunday 11-4 BIG Market~3rd weekend of month! Fri., 4-8, Sat., 9-4 800.926.CANAL (2262)

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Starved Rock Area

fun shopping Peru Mall offers 50+ stores including: 3 Department Stores • IVCH Indoor Play Area Movie Theater • Vanity • Maurices Victoria’s Secret • Finish Line Bath & Body Works * Claire’s Boutique (just to name a few)

M-Sat 10-9 | Sun 11-6 | holiday hours may vary

Peru Antique Mall 2702 May Rd. Peru IL 61354 815-224-9991

One of the Finest Antique Malls in North Central Illinois. 30,000 Sq. Feet with over 200 Quality Dealers - Located on NORTH side of Interstate 80 Between Exits 73 & 75 in Peru, Illinois. Hours are 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM 7 days a week.

Peru Mall

3940 Route 251 Peru IL 61354 815-223-7600 www.PeruMall.com

The Peru Mall is an enclosed regional shopping center in Peru, IL on Rt 251, just off I80 with over 50 stores. Open Monday - Saturday 10:00am - 9:00pm and Sundays 11:00am-6:00pm

Seasons Gone By 124 Mill St. Utica IL 61373 815-667-4321

Wrought iron and cast iron home and garden accents. Lodge décor, soy candles, jewelry, Kristine’s Shower Products and year round Christmas room. Rt. 251 near 1-80, Peru, IL

(815) 223-7600

GK Development, Inc.

PeruMall.com

Starved Rock Marketplace Routes 178 & 6 Utica IL 61373 815-667-4550 www.starvedrocklodge.com www.shopcattails.com

The Starved Rock Marketplace is home to Cattails Gift Shop, The Starved Rock Inn (a seasonal, roadside Inn) and Chillin’ On 6 (artisan ice cream and gelato). You’ll find unique gifts, gourmet food, candles, floral arrangements, jewelry, home decor, garden accessories, signature Starved Rock Wines and more.

The Chocolate Shoppe

122 Mill St. Utica IL 61373 815-667-5900 www.chocolate-shoppe.com

Creators of fine chocolates, fudge, truffles, toffee, chocolate covered fruits and nuts, cake pops, cookies, pretzels, pop corn, ice cream bars and world famous chocolate covered bacon. Open Spring/Summer: Thursday, Sunday, Monday 10-5, Friday - Sat 10-7 Fall Winter: Thursday, Sunday, Monday 11-4, Friday - Saturday 10-5.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

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PUTNAM County Putnam County may be the smallest county in Illinois but it brims with interesting sites from places of historical significance to attractions showcasing the progress of agriculture. Abraham Lincoln honed his craft while practicing law at the historical 1838 Putnam County Courthouse in Hennepin. It is the oldest courthouse still in use in Illinois.

The Ultimate Hometown Experience

The Pulsifer House

GREATER BOLINGBROOK AREA

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Cana

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PUTNAM COUNTY

800.926.CANAL (2262)

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l Communities within the PUTNAM na Ca I&M

PUTNAM COUNTY

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MORRIS AREA COUNTY include Florid, Granville, STARVED ROCK AREA

Hennepin, Magnolia, Mark, McNabb, Mt. Palatine, Putnam and Standard.

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Putnam County

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Things To Do in Putnam

Boggio’s Orchard

Fresh-picked or u-pick produce, bakery, craft store, petting zoo, pony rides, gokarts, livestock farm, craft shows and family entertainment – at Boggio’s there are fun and tasty treats for every season. Be sure to try some of their award-winning apple cider! Granville.

Dixon Waterfowl Refuge & Hopper Lakes

Historic and rare, this restored landscape of backwater lakes, wetlands, prairies, fens, and seeps flourishes on former corn and soybean fields along the Illinois River. Nature lovers can access the 30 ft. observation tower to view birds, butterflies, dragonflies, aquatic plants, prairie grasses and wildflowers. Hennepin.

Hennepin 4th of July Celebration

Fireworks and bigname entertainment.

The Pulsifer House

The Pulsifer House dates from 1844 and was once the home of prominent businessman Edward Pulsifer. The historical society provides tours of the home, rife with historic details, including period furnishings, Greek revival design, plus original and restored features of the house. Putnam County Historical Society.

FIND MORE INFORMATION ON ATTRACTIONS HeritageCorridorCVB.com AND EVENTS

Putnam County Agriculture Museum

Houses antique farm equipment and has exhibits showcasing the history of corn in the U.S., coal mining, the Illinois River and wildlife and Putnam County history. Tour the museum during the annual Open

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014

Boggio’s Orchard in Granville.

House in August or by appointment. Putnam County Historical Society.

Marshall-Putnam County Fair – July

Come see “America’s Pull” – PPL Championship Tractor and Truck Pull, chain saw carving, harness horse racing, agricultural and horticultural competitions, pageants, contests, livestock exhibitions, antique machinery show, armed forces salute auto demolition derby , cook-off, live music food and much more fun for the entire family. Marshall-Putnam County Fairgrounds.

Donnelly/DePue State Fish & Wildlife Areas Complex

resting, harvesting and viewing. Open to the public during waterfowl season. The site offers a high-quality hunting experience similar to a traditional private club, and has the first handicapped accessible blind in the state. Hiking, photography, nature study & equestrian trails available in the nearby nature preserve. Hennepin.

Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway

The Illinois Road Scenic Byway passes right through Putnam County where travelers can take advantage of several beautiful nature area respites, as well as camping and RV sites.

Managed waterfowl feeding, nesting,

www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Putnam County

Attractions Boggio’s Orchard and Produce

12087 IL Highway 71 Granville IL 61326 815-339-2245 www.boggiosorchardandproduce.com Bakery opens at 6:00 am and Market opens at 9:00 to 5:00 pm, Monday-Saturday, and Sunday 6:00 to 4:00 pm. May is spring bedding plants, summer is fresh picked vegetables and fruit. After Labor Day, on weekends, pedal cars, pony and wagon rides, corn maze, animal barn, jumping pillow, food stand and the last weekend in Sept. a Craft Show with live music and over 100 crafters.

Putnam County Historical Society

327 Old Highway 26 Hennepin IL 61327 815-925-7560 www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ilpchs/ Tours of recently restored, redecorated 1844 Pulsifer House. Genealogical historical research facilities. Open Wed & Fri from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Agricultural Museum open by appointment.

Putnam County Courthouse

Services Canal Corridor Association

Parks and Recreation I&M Canal/Illinois Department of Natural Resources At Gebhard Woods State Park Morris IL 60450 815-942-0796 www.dnr.state.il.us

800.926.CANAL (2262)

Notes The Putnam County Historical Society hosts seasonal programs throughout the year including the annual Cemetery Walk in September. The county is also rife with appreciation, sport and wildlife conservation areas. The Illinois River offers fishing, boating, water skiing, waterfront parks and outdoor activities.

754 First Street LaSalle IL 61301 815-223-1851 www.iandmcanal.org

A non profit organization designated by Congress as the local coordinating entity for the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor, the nation’s first national heritage corridor.

Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau 15701 Independence Blvd Romeoville IL 60446 815-727-2323 www.HeritageCorridorCVB.com

I&M Canal Heritage Corridor Visitors Guide 2014