3 minute read
Big Things in this Small Village
WHAT’S NEW IN DOWNTOWN UTICA
Big Things in this Small Village
Located two minutes from the entrance of Starved Rock State Park, and just a short drive from I-80 and I-39, you'll find a true hidden gem, the village of North Utica. This canal town, steeped in rich history and beautiful nature, features some of the best pub-style dining and boutique shopping that north central Illinois has to offer. Just within this past year, the picturesque village has had some exciting new developments. Join us as we take a look at what’s new in the “Gateway to Starved Rock.”
STARVED ROCK COUNTRY
WELCOME CENTER, AN ILLINOIS MADE GIFT SHOPPE
248 West Canal Street Utica, IL HeritageCorridorCVB.com Pay a visit to the brand new Heritage Corridor Welcome Center in downtown Utica! Located just a block away from the bustling downtown Mill Street, this informational center and Illinois Made Gift shoppe is the perfect first stop before you start exploring nearby Starved Rock State Park. Featuring a curated section of items made by Illinois Makers and Artisans, along with all the useful information you need to plan your stay in Starved Rock Country and the I&M Canal Corridor. Inside you’ll find beautiful artisan-made walking sticks, pottery and greeting cards - all made in Illinois or celebrating the region. From children’s toys to New York Times best-selling accounts of local history, there’s no shortage of unique
in this Small Village
items in store for you at this exciting new addition to downtown Utica. The Welcome Center is open to the public. BRUCE & OLLIE'S ICE CREAM,
SPECIALTY COFFEE & DELI
166 Mill St, North Utica, IL BruceAndOllies.com
Feel like having an artisan ice cream while visiting downtown Utica? Bruce & Ollie’s is the I&M Canal region’s newest ice cream parlor, featuring a wide variety of delectable hand-scooped flavors, alongside a selection of craft beverages and grab-and-go food options. Located inside the village’s historic hardware building. This mom-n–pop shop exudes ambiance, featuring original stone walls, exposed beams and a cozy fireplace surrounded by plenty of comfortable seating options. On the menu you’ll find salads, soups, charcuterie boards, sandwiches (hot and cold) and breakfast offerings, alongside drinks like espressos, iced coffees and teas. Don’t miss a visit to Bruce & Ollie’s next time you’re walking down Utica’s Mill Street. COUNTRY KIDS PRODUCE MARKET 426 S Clark St, North Utica, IL Facebook.com/CountryKidsFarmMarket Country Kids Produce, owned by local growers the Michelini family, has been a hit in their Peru, IL farm store for nearly three decades. Now they’re expanding to add a beautiful new market to downtown Utica. Featuring a small red barn, a silo style stand and plenty of outdoor retail space for fruits, vegetables, flowers and seasonal decor - all on a beautiful wheel-chair accessible elevated river rock platform. The inaugural 2022 season is expected to start in June and continue through the Holiday season, giving visitors even more options to find locally grown produce and locally made products. Country Kids is always a favorite destination for finding Fall goods and decorations. From their famous homegrown pumpkins, to their vast stock of chrysanthemums, you’ll be sure to find some beautiful decor to take home. Country Kids Produce also carries a selection of canned goods, including jams, jellies, and pickled products. Their selection of metal home decor make for excellent souvenirs, adding a splash of theming to your home or garden. THE BICKERMAN BUILDING LODGING 166 Mill St, North Utica, IL TheBickerman.com
Just a short drive from Starved Rock State Park you’ll find The Bickerman Building. This recently restored storefront, originally constructed in 1874, now houses two gorgeous lofted rental condos, perfect for a romantic getaway or girls roadtrip. Located in the heart of downtown Utica, on the same block as popular spots like August Hill Winery and the Lodi Taphouse, and directly above the new Bruce and Ollie’s ice cream and coffee shop, these luxurious units put you in the middle of this fun quaint community.
