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10 Things to do with Families

Whether you are a visitor or a resident of Stephenson County, I am so pleased that you are here.

Founded in 1837, the county has 14 locations on the National Register of Historic Places, and we are indeed proud to share that history with you. We are eager to share our present and future with you as well and know that you will find so much to enjoy here in Stephenson County. Our area offers so many opportunities for you to dine, stay, and explore, and I encourage you to experience them all! The county is proud of its agricultural roots, and its natural beauty is abundant within many miles of prairie, renowned trails, and numerous rivers and streams. Our natural resources translate into plentiful recreational opportunities throughout Stephenson County’s 565 square miles. Take time to meet residents – our county’s greatest resource. You’ll find them strengthening our community in education, industry, agriculture, government, and retail professions. They work alongside our cities, villages, and townships, in conjunction with the Greater Freeport Partnership every day to enhance and enrich Stephenson County. Our community spirit is evident, and my hope is that it is both obvious and contagious.

I speak for so many when I say that I look forward to welcoming you back often.

-Scott Helms, Stephenson County Board Chair

Welcoming neighborhoods has been on the forefront of the City of Freeport’s priorities in our strategic plan. From infrastructure improvements, entrepreneurial encouragement, and lively community events, we strive to make Freeport a place to feel welcomed.

What makes our lifestyle in Freeport so unique? With a semi-rural, semi-urban hybrid lifestyle, you won’t feel overwhelmed. Visit our ample green spaces of nature preserves, hiking trails, and community parks to see Northwest Illinois’ natural beauty at play. There’s no better example of beautiful natural resources here in Freeport than Krape Park, highlighted on the cover of this Community Guide.

After you’ve been rejuvenated with fresh air, stop by our multiple shopping districts to hear the hum of local music and enjoy great food. If you’re lucky, you might just stumble into one of our many community events with wine and beer tastings, classic car shows, BBQ competitions, or brilliant shopping experiences offered by the small businesses of this community.

All of this, paired with a low cost of living makes Freeport an ideal place to invest in your future. Feel assured that when you’re here, you’re considered family.

We’re proud of our strong collaboration with the Greater Freeport Partnership. It means bigger, more exciting opportunities for our citizens and visitors alike to experience career opportunities, community events, shopping, and much more. Stop by to see why Freeport is a great place to live, work, and play.

-Jodi Miller, Mayor of Freeport

Note: To the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate when it was printed. The Greater Freeport Partnership assume no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions.

to Freeport and Stephenson County on behalf of the Greater Freeport Partnership! Whether you are looking to start a business, grow a business, connect with an existing business or just here to visit; we are proudly at your service. Here at the Partnership, we provide a seamless economic development, business service and tourism entity connecting residents, businesses and newcomers to all area offerings. Check us out at greaterfreeport.com or download our mobile app from the QR code on the cover.

As you explore our region, you will find evidence of the collaboration from our private and public agencies as they work together to provide public services that stimulate private investment and support business growth.

It is easy to recognize the value of the entrepreneurial spirit energized by specialized resources and programmatic efforts. Our area continues to thrive with over 25 ribbon cuttings for new and expanding businesses in 2022. Businesses ranging from boutique shops to large manufacturers all help to provide a robust local economy with room for further innovation and growth.

As highlighted in these pages, the vibrant arts and culture-centered community create quality places to enliven and cherish all life has to offer in our beautiful cities and spaces. Freeport and Stephenson County provide a progressive and cooperative environment that embraces diversity in all its forms striving to foster economic opportunities for all.

The Partnership has created this guide to help you to find your way, learn about new businesses and entertainment and, of course, we hope our amenities and hospitality will bring you back again.

- Mark Williams, Executive Director Greater Freeport Partnership