10 Things to do with Families

The Family Connection

F amily road trips are what memories are made of. The conversation on the drive, the stops along the way, and the amazing hidden gems that you can reminisce about for decades to come. Freeport and Stephenson County offer so many opportunities to create these memories for kids of any age group and families with any budget. Check out our top reasons to bring your family road trip to Freeport and Stephenson County!

Little Cubs Field

Experience big league fun at Little Cubs Field! This faithful replica of Chicago’s famous Wrigley Field pays tribute to a great American team and the great American game. Notice the brick walls, model scoreboard, marquee and left field bleachers when you visit this miniature reproduction. Little Cubs Field opened in 2008 after the community came together to build a place “where grown-ups can be kids, and kids can be grown-ups.” You can reserve the field to have the place to yourself. Don’t forget the bat and balls to hit one over the ivy!

Krape Park Carousel

11th Frame Arcade

A little healthy family competition can create the interaction you need during your trip and the 11th Frame Arcade inside of the 4 Seasons Bowling Center is just the place. Dozens of arcade games are available to win prizes or just offer the opportunity to play together. The arcade is also a great stop on a rainy or cold day when you just need to get out and about.

Krape Park is more than just grand playgrounds, picturesque scenery, a 40-foot waterfall, and outdoor recreation that initially meets the eye. Hidden within these woodsy acres is a wealth of entertainment including a one-of-a-kind antique carousel to bring back the child in all of us. Even if you come for the carousel, make time to play mini golf or frisbee golf, ride the paddleboats, play pickleball and stroll the walking paths all in the same beautiful park. 3

Fishing at Lake Le-Aqua-Na

Kayak Pecatonica River

With more than 15 miles of river trail in Stephenson County, the Pecatonica River flows south from Wisconsin toward the Rock River past many ports for landing. From north to south, paddlers can embark from Winslow, Cedarville Road, Wes Block Landing, Tutty’s Crossing, Freeport VFW and Atten’s Landing all with ramps and some with easy kayak entry. Bring your own kayak or canoe or call to rent from Pec-N-Paddle!

4 5

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park outside of Lena received a multi-million-dollar makeover in 2021, including major improvements to the lake itself. Now it has been fully restocked and filled for an amazing fishing experience. Bring your gear and enjoy a wonderful traditional pastime with your family. If you have time, be sure to check out the beautiful hiking trails in the park, as well!

Train Ride at Stephenson County Antique Engine Museum

It is not very often that you get to ride a train outside of a Metra or Amtrak. But at the Stephenson County Antique Engine Museum you get to see a real steam or diesel engine in action. The train runs on a few miles of preserved track on the east edge of Freeport in openair cars for a great outdoor experience. Along the trip, your hosts will explain the importance of the railroad in local history. Don’t forget to visit the museum and Cooper Corliss engine before you leave!

Movie at Historic Lindo Theatre

Escape the hurried hustle and take a few hours to relax and enjoy a new release at the Lindo Theatre. With nine digital screens, the movie theatre is sure to have a film to please everyone, and amazing fresh popcorn and snacks that are not to be missed.

Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois

Who knew learning could be fun? The Children’s Hands-On Museum invites kids 2-10 to explore featured permanent and temporary exhibits and build their knowledge through play. Interactive exhibits featuring themes in farming, music, building, art and more are available to engage and entertain the young visitors.

Doug Firebaugh Observatory

Experience the galaxies at distances far, far away at this astronomical observatory. Open on the first and third Saturdays of the month May through October, the observatory creates an entertaining and educational encounter all ages will enjoy. Take a trip out of this world!

Freeport Art Plaza Splash Pad

The backyard sprinkler is back and better than ever! Visit the Freeport Art Plaza Splash Pad to cool down on a warm day with multiple refreshing streams jetting skyward from the concrete pad. Bring a picnic and enjoy the park or cross the street to grab ice cream from Union Dairy and visit the historic Lincoln Douglas debate site!