DAYTRIPPERS GUIDE TO FUN IN NORTHERN ILLINOIS
neighborhood
TOURIST SUMMER 2020
Disco over Water Sports Throughout N th Northern Illi Illinois i PAGE 8
HAPPY CAMPER
FORE!
ELITE BBQ
Nearby Destinations Deliver Camping to Glamping
Golf Courses See Emerging Opportunity
Your Roadmap to Sweet & Smoky Perfection
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Above: Concept Art of The Forge: Lemont Quarries Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
Kayak Morris
Starved Rock State Park
The Heritage Corridor offers memorable experiences just a short road trip from Chicago. Kayak the I&M Canal, hike the Starved Rock State Park area, and cruise The First Hundred Miles of Route 66. Get started at AdventureOutsideChicago.com.
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! p o h s o t ots of ways
• COME INTO THE STORE TO SHOP IN A SAFE WAY. Call or check out work website for our current hours. • CONTACT A PERSONAL SHOPPER who can work with you over the phone Monday through Friday. Leaave a message at 630-332-4200 and one of our shopperss will get back to you. • SCHEDULE A PERSONAL APPOINTMENT to visit our fashion departments for help with clothing, shoes, baby clothing and gifts, Brighton and fashion jewelry and accessories. You can do that on our website at littletraveler.com • SHOP OUR NEW WEBSTORE at littletraveler.com, with over 700 of our most popular products.
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* = CHICAGOLAND’S BIGGEST SELECTION 404 S. Third St. • Geneva, IL • (630) 232-4200 • www.littletraveler.com
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It’s Summer – There’s Fun for the Taking! Welcome to our Summer edition of the Neighborhood Tourist. At a time when we celebrate the birth of our nation, we can also celebrate the newfound freedom of shedding stay-at-home orders in favor of a slow, progression back to something more akin to normal. This is our opportunity to shine a spotlight on what we hope is one of the best summers any of us have had in a long time. No doubt it will be memorable. ACTIVE LIFESTYLE It’s not summer unless you can consider getting out on the water and enjoying a day boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Check out our listing for Water Sport Activities that can easily be accomplished at the spur of the moment – and with less travel and little cost associated with the level of fun provided. In addition, our Golf listing provides a snapshot of the incredible selection of golf courses and clubs available within an easy daytrip. FAMILY Vacation season is upon us and for many families, staying close to home this year is part of the plan. Luckily, there are places like Heritage Harbor, where families can get away and find the quality time that may be more in need than any time before. This waterfront resort in Ottawa is near Starved Rock and is ready to host families looking for a nearby getaway. In addition, we have detailed listings of the best Camping
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options and State Parks available for a full day – or a full week – of family fun. FOOD Whether it’s sweet or smoky, Texas, Memphis or Carolina, here is a roadmap to some of the very best barbecue joints in Northern Illinois. These establishments might range greatly in their style and setting, from riverside eateries to strip mall lots, but the one thing they all have in common is they know BBQ! HOME Many of us cherish the warm temps and long days of summer, where simply maintaining the garden and sprucing up the exterior of the home is the perfect amount of daily effort. Check out our listing for the best Garden Centers and Nurseries that can provide unlimited design ideas for any home. Summer’s arrival comes with some unexpected obstacles, but there’s nothing stopping you from getting out and having fun with friends and family. While it may be a strange time for some things, it’s always a great time to get out and explore!
STAFF LAURA SHAW Publisher Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group
ALLISON LAPORTA Designer
JACLYN CORNELL Local Sales Manager Niche Products
Thanks for reading!
Laura Shaw, Publisher lshaw@shawmedia.com
Additional copies of Neighborhood Tourist are available for $6.99 each. Email your order to TOURIST@shawmedia.com
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THE AURORA AREA OF ILLINOIS
Plan your visit with the Aurora Area Go Guide In print and online at enjoyaurora.com
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WHAT'S INSIDE
¢ SPORTS & RECREATION
¢ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
8 DISCOVER WATER SPORTS Explore dozens of water activies throughout Northern Illinois.
24 STREAMING Live music during this time really only meant one thing: livestreaming concerts.
14 FORE! Golf courses eee merging opportunity. 20 TIME TO GET OUT!
Illinois State Parks have a lot more to offer than just trails.
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¢ DESTINATION DINING 26 LOCAL BBQ EXTRAORDINAIRES Your roadmap to sweet & smoky perfection.
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Whiskey Acres Distilling Co., DeKalb, IL
Jonamac Orchard, Malta, IL
Call or visit our website for a FREE Visitors Guide
¢ WHERE WE LIVE 32 WATERFRONT RESORT Ottawa resort offers outdoor fun for entire family. 35 NATURALIZE YOUR HOMESTEAD Garden centers, nurseries offer unlimited design ideas.
¢ FAMILY FUN 38 SETTING UP CAMP Nearby destinations deliver camping to glamping.
NIU Huskies Football, DeKalb, IL
Barn Quilt Tour, DeKalb County, IL
D E KA L B CO U N TYCV B . CO M
877/335-2521
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Discoving
WATER SPORT ACCESSING WATER WAYS IN NOTHERN ILLINOIS
By Chris Walker
t’s true, you have to leave the state and beat up your credit card for Disney and put up with each other for countless hours to road trip to the Grand Canyon, even Hawaii isn’t cheap and requires an airport. So, how can you can give water sports such as boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking a try, at the spur of the moment, with less travel and little cost?
¢ CHAIN O’LAKES Anglers, boaters, skiers and others who loves spending time near the water see their dreams come true at the busiest inland recreational waterway per acre in the United States. The Chain O’Lakes consists of 15 lakes and over 6,500 acres of water, hundreds of miles of shoreline and many miles of natural and dredged canals. Indeed, there’s a lot to be explored and it’s no surprise that these lakes are extremely popular during the summer.
With more than 200 campsites, several picnic areas and four trail systems, this is a popular retreat for those looking to unplug and dedicate some time to nature’s beauty. And what better way to enjoy a hike, canoeing and horseback riding than to cool off afterward with a swim or to enjoy the soft breeze while out on a boat ride.
Sports & Recreation
Home to Chain O’Lakes State Park, which is located in McHenry
and Lake Counties, this prized water sportsperson’s destination borders on three natural lakes – Grass, Marie and Nippersink – and the Fox River connects several other lakes that help make up the chain. The park also is home to its own 44-acre lake.
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RTS
Of course, being the home to bluegill, largemouth bass, walleye, crappie, muskie, northern pike, catfish and more, fishing draws many anglers to the Chain O’Lakes. Can you imagine how many people caught their first fish and fished for the first time at Chain O’Lakes and have that lifelong memory? Maybe you or someone in your family will be next. ¢ CANOEING/KAYAKING ON THE FOX RIVER There are many ways to have fun floating on the Fox River. Mill Race Cyclery, 11 E. State St., Geneva, rents kayaks, canoes and stand up paddleboards. St. Charles Park District offers free
public boat launches for kayaks and canoes at Mt. St. Mary Park and Ferson Creek Park. River View Miniature Golf, 8 North Ave., St. Charles, rents kayaks and pedal boats by the hour that can be used in the Fox River between the railroad trestle to the south and the no wake buoys to the north; 630-5841028. Violet Patch Park, 1425 Rte. 25, Oswego, has a canoe/kayak access point that allows access to a scenic, tree-lined stretch of the Fox River. Hudson Crossing Park, 65 N. Harrison St., Oswego, has a canoe/kayak access point. Keep in mind that there is construction in the area in 2020, but
two entrances (corner of Washington and Harrison and the northernmost entrance through the Fox River Trail) remain accessible. Yorkville may be the home of Raging Waves, Illinois’ largest waterpark, but it’s also home to the Marge Cline Whitewater Course, which has quickly won over novice and avid canoeists and kayakers alike who enjoy this whitewater course at Bicentennial Riverfront Park. The bypass chute, which is 1,100 feet long, allows those with canoes, kayaks and even tubes to travel downstream safely around the Glen D. Palmer Dan without having to portage. It also provides a recreational amnesty for NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST
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people to play in the river. Canoes, kayaks, rafts and tubes can be rented from the Yak Shack at 630-479-8074.
Sports & Recreation
¢ CRYSTAL LAKE WATER SKI ASSOCIATION Some of those who are passionate about water skiing, own boats and live on, or near, Crystal Lake, are members of the Crystal Lake Water Ski Association (CLWSA). This recreational club is affiliated with USA Water Ski and the Crystal Lake Park District.
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Currently there are more than 15 families associated with the club, ranging in age from pre-teen to over 70 years of age. Members of all abilities, from beginning to nationallyranked, are part of this association. Likewise, CLWSA has members of all disciplines. While slalom is most prominent, trick and wakeboard/wake skate are also quite popular, along with wake surf, kneeboard, barefoot and jump. “We’re open to anybody who loves to be on the water,” says Gerry Meyer of CLWSA. “We’re more of a
social organization, having fun and promoting safe water sports. So, we’re more of an informal club in that sense. We don’t go out and try to promote it. We usually keep it within the local sort of area.”
Located approximately 60 miles southwest of Chicago on the Illinois River in Wilmington, Harborside Marina is situated at mile marker 273.3 near the mouth of the Kankakee River southwest of Joliet.
Having a boat is not required, but those who are interested in getting involved with the CLWSA will need to work out expenses and schedules with boat owners.
Offering a full-service and sales department, as well as marine electronics, such as radar, auto pilot and speakers and amps, Harborside Marina has everything you need, other than yourself and some family members and friends, to ensure a good time for the upcoming warm weather season and years to come: 815-476-4400; www. harborsidemarina.com.
The CLWSA, which was founded in 2004, has a Facebook page and Meyer can be reached at 815-790-5956. ¢ HARBORSIDE MARINA Countless dreams have come to true at this full-service marina that sells new boats as well as offers a great selection of used boats and yachts. Harborside Marina, 27425 S. Will Rd., Wilmington, will ensure you’re not left alone on the shore twiddling your thumbs this summer when all the action is to be had in a boat and on the water. The marina is a new boat dealer for Manitou Pontoons, Scarab Jet Boats, Evinrude Outboards and EZ Loader Trailers and more.
¢ KAYAKING FOX RIVER VIA BATAVIA PARK DISTRICT What can tone your tummy, elevate your heart rate but also be a lowimpact exercise while providing stress relief, adventure and even be romantic? You’d probably be surprised to learn that the answer is kayaking, which is now available on the Fox River through the Batavia Park District, which had rented paddle boats, but is transitioning to kayaks this summer.
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“We did a needs assessment two years ago and the residents were asking for more programs with the Fox River,” says Katie Drum, director of marketing and public relations at the Batavia Park District. “There was some discussion on social media on how it would be nice if we had kayak rentals like what’s offered in Geneva and St. Charles and our paddle boats were nearing their shelf life so we decided this year we would make the switch.” There’s a $2 off coupon on kayak rentals in the Batavia Park District fun guide, offering opportunities for folks to enjoy a leisurely ride down the scenic river. Participants must be 16 or older with a state issued ID to operate kayaks. The Batavia Park District is also offering stand-up paddle board yoga at the Hall Quarry Beach. Contact the park district for more info. ¢ ROCK RIVER Geographically older than Lake Michigan, the Rock River is a popular destination for anglers with populations
of channel catfish, walleye, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, sauger, bluegill, flathead catfish and more. Providing an aquatic resource of approximately 12,400 acres, the river is accessible via boat ramps at Lowell Park and Page Park, 121 W. 2nd Street in Dixon. Private powerboats, canoes and rowboats are allowed. Featuring 200 acres of woodland along the Rock River, Lowell Park offers beautiful scenic drives, hiking trails, picnic shelters, playgrounds with zip line and great fishing spots, including via the handicap accessible boat access. Similarly, Page Park offers ADA boat access, Memorial benches and more; 815-288-1485; www.dixongov.com.
¢ THREE OAKS RESERVOIR What was formerly the long-abandoned Vulcan Lakes quarry has been transformed into a unique recreational experience that offers fun for the entire family, especially for those who love water sports. Easy to find and access in Crystal Lake, 5517 Northwest Hwy., (Rte. 14), Three Oaks is home to pristine waters, natural habitat and outstanding fishing, regardless if you’re in the company of Babe Winkelman and the boys or sharing a moment like Andy and Opie. Three Oaks is a catch-and-release fishing facility and a valid Illinois Fishing License is required. Canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, paddle
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pontoons, rowboats and sailboats are rented from the marina at Three Oaks, but if you’re looking to bring your neighbor Red’s good luck vessel, you’re out of luck as personal watercraft are not allowed on the lake. All rentals are available on a first-comefirst-served basis as no reservations are accepted.
Wonderful picnicking opportunities await at Three Oaks with grassy sections of property near the beach for all to sunbathe, picnic, play and unwind. Large overhead tent/picnic table units also are available on a firstcome, first-served basis. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited; 815-459-2020, www.crystallake.org.
Three Lakes also offers recreational scuba diving opportunities, has a swim beach, kid-friendly spray park and an outdoor dining patio within its lake house complex with burgers, hot dogs, tacos, sandwiches, frozen custard and more. Locker room showers are also available.
Have you considered wakeboarding without a boat? The Quarry Cable Park at Three Oaks is the place to be for thrilling wake boarding as a nextgeneration cable wake park. The facilities include a full-size six-tower cable system with jumps and features for experienced
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riders as well as a system geared for newcomers; 815-893-0036; www. thequarrycablepark.com. ¢ VERMILLION RIVER RAFTING What’s longer than sitting through Titanic and has a much happier ending? If you guessed, a three- to fourhour whitewater rafting and kayaking adventure on the Big Vermillion River, then you guessed right. If you go, plan on getting wet. Your adventure will feature about 14 sets of rapids over the course of 9.5 miles. And if you’ve never done something like this before, there’s no need to worry that you aren’t capable of doing it. The Vermillion website calls this a
good beginner river, perfect for kids, Boy Scouts, church groups and other such folks. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and for parties of five or more. For those eight years of age and older and for groups of two to more than 100. Rafts are sized to accommodate groups of four or five per raft. Staging is at 779 N. 2249th Road, Oglesby; 815-667-5242; www. vermillionriverrafting.com ¢ 36TH ANNUAL AMERICA’S CARDBOARD CUP REGATTA It looked like this unforgettable annual event was destined to end up just like the Titanic, but folks
have answered the need for volunteers so the 36th edition of this summertime staple will return to Crystal Lake’s main beach, 300 Lakeshore, on July 25. Participants are challenged to use their creativity to make racing boats out of cardboard. It’s a day flowing with nonstop fun, family-friendly competition and fundraising for a variety of local charities.
Along the banks of the Fox River Mt. St. Mary Park • St. Charles
sculpture
Does it get any better than helping others while having a blast? The Regatta always ensures an afternoon of successes as well as soggy cardboard and sinking ships, side-splitting laughs and selflessness as countless people through local charities will benefit from the efforts of everyone who participates, volunteers or attends; cardboardcup.com.
FREE!
IN THE
PARK THROUGH OCTOBER 2020
For the love of art in the park People of all ages are welcome to enjoy this magnificent free exhibit of original and unique sculptures. Mt. Mt St. St Mary Mary Park Par arkk is located loc ocat ated ed at at Rt. 31 & Prairie St. along the beautiful Fox River in St. Charles.
For more info, visit: stcsculpture.org NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST
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FORE! GOLF COURSES SEE EMERGING OPPORTUNITY By Jon Bilyk
Sports & Recreation
F
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or David Paeglow, the roughest part of operating a golf course amid a pandemic has been the industry-wide back swing away from the usual never-ending effort to serve customers.
Caddies? Carry your own bags. Benches? Ball washers? Water coolers? All removed.
“It’s the strangest thing,” says Paeglow, head golf pro at Kishwaukee Country Club in DeKalb. “We still want everyone to have as great a day as possible, but we’ve built everything around providing service as much as possible, from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave. And now, for your safety and ours, we’ve got to stay away from you as much as possible.”
While the interior of the cups were adjusted to minimize physical contact with the inside when retrieving balls, reservations at public courses were now required, and mostly encouraged to be made online.
As the COVID-19 pandemic broke across Illinois in March, public golf courses and private country clubs across Illinois did the previously unthinkable, closing off their greens and fairways to golfers, just as spring dawned across the state.
In addition, flags must remain in while clubhouses, practice greens, and driving ranges all remained closed.
Yet, despite all of the changes, the demand for golf remains strong, says Robert Markionni, executive director of the Chicago District Golf Association. “Everything we’ve done has been about safety first,” he says. “But we knew there was a lot of pent up demand and as the weather gets warmer, more people will want to get out and play.”
However, in late April, the state announced it would ease back its strict lockdown, and allow golfers to resume play, though without the frills and extras that had previously been par at many courses and clubs.
Dennis Johnsen, general manager and head golf pro at Pine Meadow in Mundelein, says golfers have generally been “wonderful and understanding, if still a bit frustrated. We’re all figuring out how to keep people out there playing,” says Johnsen.
Throughout most of the month of May, golfers could only play in pairs. The use of carts was almost entirely forbidden.
However, with the restrictions, Markionni, Johnsen and Paeglow all noted the numbers have still been sharply down,
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mainly due to capacity restrictions. Courses just can’t expect to get the same amount of golfers through in a day, if they must send them out in pairs, rather than foursomes, as has been traditional. So, with the arrival of even lessened restrictions in June, the summer looks increasingly bright for golf courses. Foursomes have resumed. Practice areas and driving ranges have reopened, with distancing restrictions and sanitation protocols. Carts have become more available. Even outdoor dining can be possible again. It’s a sharp turn from even a few weeks earlier, when courses and clubs teetered on the brink. Now, the golf pros believe the game could even find a silver lining amid the current uncertainty. They noted golf enjoys built-in advantages over other pursuits during such times as this. For starters, they noted it is played outdoors. Secondly, there is no shared equipment, not even the balls. “Golf is a game of natural social distancing,” says Markionni. As Johnsen sees it, golf offers a rare opportunity amid a pandemic to enjoy several hours out of the house, while engaged in an athletic contest, even for those who might be a bit hinky about being out in public. “If you can’t head out to play golf, you can’t go to a grocery store,” says Johnsen. Paeglow notes that with many other sports and leisure activities shut down for the time being, golf could look attractive to a large number of people who previously may have overlooked it. He says he has already received a relatively large number of calls from parents interested in lessons for their children, who may have otherwise participated in team sports or other pursuits now largely canceled by COVID-19 restrictions. “People are looking around and saying, you know, a day of golf looks pretty good,” says Paeglow. However, Johnsen expressed one note of caution for those looking to bag a tee time at a public course, like his: Jump online and book early. He noted tee times, particularly for busy weekends, can be locked up a week or more in advance. “Things have changed,” Johnsen says. “And some of these changes are going to stick around for a while.” Northern Illinois offers no shortage of outstanding golf opportunities. Here are a few 18-hole courses to consider throughout the region for your next golf outing.
CARROLL COUNTY
¢ LAKE CARROLL GOLF COURSE 29-11 Ironwood Drive, Lanark Touted as one of the Midwest’s great hidden golf gems, Lake Carroll Golf Course is a tremendous opportunity for golfers of any skill level to play a comfortable round of golf. Offering up a par-72 track, Lake Carroll Golf Course will provide plenty of challenge while also delivering a relaxing, picturesque backdrop. Test your accuracy with the challenging layout that includes rolling fairways, multiple water hazards and strategic sand traps. The facility has everything a golfer might need to challenge and improve their game. Golfing at Lake Carroll Golf Course delivers a relaxing experience that includes exceptional service and a comfortable atmosphere.
DEKALB COUNTY
¢ RIVER HEIGHTS GOLF COURSE 1020 Sharon Drive, DeKalb Owned and operated by the DeKalb Park District, River Heights offers 18 holes of scenic golf along the Kishwaukee River. “A mix of traditional and links style holes challenge both weekend golfers and the more serious player. The friendly, professional staff provides first rate golf and excellent service for an enjoyable golfing experience.” The DeKalb Park District also offers the 9-hole Buena Vista Golf Course in DeKalb.
DUPAGE COUNTY
¢ CANTIGNY GOLF 27W20 Mack Road, Wheaton
Owned by the Robert R. McCormick Foundation and managed by Kemper Sports, Cantigny offers a 27-hole championship course that is widely regarded as one of the finest public golf facilities in the Midwest. The course offers a “special venue providing a ‘private club experience’ for all ages and skill levels,” according to the website, complete with a youth golf academy and Youth Links experience. ¢ ST. ANDREWS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 2241 Route 59, West Chicago Since the 1920s, St. Andrews has stood at the forefront of “providing high-quality public golf.” Its two 18-hole courses “will test your game without testing your patience,” according to its website. Through the decades, the course has pioneered a variety of offerings, including
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being the first to offer USGA handicaps for regular players. St. Andrews has earned “numerous awards for course popularity,” as well as other amenities, according to its website. The course’s practice center has been “repeatedly named as the top practice center in Chicago.”
GRUNDY COUNTY
¢ MORRIS COUNTRY CLUB NETTLE CREEK 2615 W. Route 6, Morris While available only to Morris Country Club members Monday-Friday, Nettle Creek opens to the public on weekends and holidays. A long, links-style course, Nettle Creek offers “bent grass fairways, generous landing areas and large greens,” according to the Morris Country Club website.
KANE COUNTY
¢ SETTLER’S HILL GOLF COURSE 919 E. Fabyan Parkway, Batavia “Settler’s Hill isn’t so much a golf course as it is a golf odyssey,” according to Settler’s Hill’s website. Owned by the Kane County Forest Preserve District and operated by GolfVisions Management, the course “lives up to its name with dramatic elevation changes across a layout that traverses a variety of landscapes, mature woodlands, vibrant wetlands and windswept highlands. “Heralded as one of Chicagoland’s best buys for 18 holes, Settler’s Hill is a favorite in Kane County and beyond.” ¢ TANNA FARMS GOLF CLUB 39W808 Hughes Road, Geneva
Sports & Recreation
Tanna Farms boasts of memorable golf at outstanding rates. Its Par-71 course offers “A thrilling, ‘big-shouldered’ championship 18, Tanna Farms Golf Club is located on the west side of Geneva just minutes from St. Charles, Batavia, Elburn, Campton Hills, South Elgin and North Aurora. Winner of the Reader’s Choice award for best golf course in 2007, 2008 and 2009, Tanna Farms will delight you and have you coming back for more.”
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¢ WHITETAIL RIDGE GOLF CLUB 7671 Clubhouse Dr., Yorkville Calling itself the “crown jewel of the Whitetail Ridge Golf Community,” the club’s Greg Martin-designed championship golf course, coupled with luxurious amenities have made Whitetail Ridge one of the Chicago area’s premier daily fee golf facilities.
LASALLE COUNTY
¢ SENICA’S OAK RIDGE GOLF CLUB 658 E. U.S. Highway 6, La Salle Billing itself as “a golfer’s delight,” the course has been “masterfully designed to utilize the area’s natural beauty,” according to the Oak Ridge website. The Par-72 championship golf course features gently rolling bent grass fairways that weave their way through a challenging landscape of oak woodlands, past five sparkling lakes, along a meandering creek and over 49 sand traps. The course is designed to allow players of all abilities to enjoy the course.
LEE/WHITESIDE COUNTY
¢ EMERALD HILL GOLF COURSE 16802 Prairieville Road, Sterling
Serving golfers in the Sauk Valley since the 1920s, Emerald Hill is now operated by the Sterling Park District. The 18-hole course is a pleasure for golfers of any skill level. “The course will challenge you while providing a relaxing, picturesque backdrop.” Emerald Hill was voted No. 1 in the 2019 Sauk Valley Media Reader’s Choice survey. ¢ DEER VALLEY GOLF CLUB 3928 Hoover Road, Deer Grove Offering an 18-hole championship course and a 9-hole executive course, Deer Valley boasts courses that are “fun and challenging,” with a “good mix of short and long holes, for golfers of all abilities.” The course was voted No. 2 in the 2019 Sauk Valley Media Reader’s Choice survey.
MCHENRY COUNTY
KENDALL COUNTY
¢ CHAPEL HILL COUNTRY CLUB 2500 Chapel Hill Road, McHenry (just south of Johnsburg)
Fox Bend has been voted a 5-star course by Chicagoland Gold and has played host to multiple tournaments, including three Illinois Opens, the USGA Qualifiers and the Illinois State Amateur Qualifiers. The Par-72 course boasts plush fairways, mature trees, and challenging greens, and will test the skills of all levels.
Chapel Hill’s 18-hole championship course “has been a perennial favorite of both Lake County and McHenry County golfers,” according to a description posted on VisitMcHenryCounty.com. “The course features one of the area’s most serene settings. Chapel Hill is truly a staple of Northwest Chicagoland golf. Operated by GolfVisions Management, Inc. since spring 2012, Chapel Hill is held in high regard.”
¢ FOX BEND GOLF COURSE 3516 US Route 34, Oswego
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¢ GOLF CLUB OF ILLINOIS 1575 Edgewood Drive, Algonquin “The Golf Club of Illinois in Algonquin is a classic links-style course featuring high fescue grasses, treacherous sand bunkers, and strategically placed mounds on each hole,” according to VisitMcHenryCounty.com. “Early on, the course quickly developed the reputation as a stern test for all skill levels of golfers, and was consistently ranked among the top 10 public courses to play by Chicagoland Golf.”
remarkable tall grass prairie and the remnants of old oak savanna and other hardwood stands. PrairieView is a golf course where you can breathe, relax and enjoy the beauty of the natural environs remarkably untouched by architect James Spear’s design. This course is an amazing, naturalistic example of God’s hand relatively untouched by man’s: a true rarity in the world of golf.
WILL COUNTY
OGLE COUNTY
¢ MISTWOOD GOLF CLUB 1700 W. Renwick Road, Romeoville
Just a chip shot south of Rockford along Illinois Route 2 in easy-going Byron, Illinois, lies a golf course that plays like the best country clubs in the region, but costs like a municipal course. Sculpted out of an ancient landscape, this is a big course that weaves its way through
Designed and renovated by course designer Roy Hearn, Mistwood’s design, including 20 St. Andrews-style sod wall bunkers, brings “a feeling of Scotland to the Midwest,” according to its website. The club recently underwent a two-year long multimillion-dollar renovation, realizing a new standard of excellence, excitement, and entertainment
¢ PRAIRIEVIEW GOLF CLUB 6734 N German Church Rd, Byron
for Chicagoland golf. The course boasts a public course with a private experience. ¢ CINDER RIDGE GOLF COURSE 24801 Lakepoint Drive, Wilmington The public, 350-acre, 18hole Cinder Ridge course is named for the ridge of cinders still visible amid the diving ravines, flat areas and coal refuse that were created over 70 years prior by mining operations on the site. The course boasts ‘a course for everyone,’ that enables golfers of all levels and abilities to enjoy the course at their pace and preferred challenge.
Rachael Watson Photography
Modern Image Studios
CHOOSE A CANTIGNY WEDDING IN 2021! weddings@cantigny.org or 630.260.8145
Discover Cantigny
This was Colonel Robert R. McCormick’s gift to the community and all 500 acres are yours to enjoy. Plan your visit today at Cantigny.org • Spectacular Gardens • McCormick House • First Division Museum • Banquets/Weddings/Golf Outings • Championship Golf • Special Events
CANTIGNY PARK 1s151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189 630.668.5161 | Cantigny.org CANTIGNY GOLF 27w270 Mack Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189 630.668.8463 | CantignyGolf.com
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The Heritage Corridor is Open FORE Business The clubs may be dusty, your game might be rusty, but there is no reason to delay. Explore these great courses today! Find out more at HeritageCorridorCVB.com/golf
Featured Courses Bolingbrook
Bolingbrook
Bolingbrook GC
Boughton Ridge GC
(630) 771-9400
(630) 739-4100
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Ottawa
Naperbrook GC
Pine Hills GC
(630) 378-4215 golfnaperville.org
(815) 434-3985
ottawapinehillsgolfclub.com
Lockport
Prairie Bluff GC
(815) 836-4653
prairiebluffgc.com
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Lockport
Lockport
Big Run GC
Princeton
Broken Arrow GC
Lemont
Dwight
Cog Hill GC
Lemont
Mendota
Romeoville
Mendota GC
Joliet
Morris
Joliet
Morris
Nettle Creek GC
Lemont
Pontiac Elks GC
Wedgewood GC
,3/#21&3(
The Links at Carillon
Morris CC
Pontiac
Old Oak CC
Edgewood Park GC
Inwood GC
Mistwood GC
Homer Glen
Mc Nabb
The Eastwood GC
Channahon
Heritage Bluffs GC
Cinder Ridge GC
Streator
Dwight CC
Gleneagles CC
Wilmington
Chapel Hill GC
New Lenox
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Pontiac
Wolf Creek GC
The Sanctuary GC
Joliet
Woodruff GC
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Visit an Illinois state park By Diane Krieger Spivak
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Sports & Recreation
ummer is finally here, and after being cooped up for months, thanks to the global pandemic, heading outdoors to the open trails can be a welcome escape from binge watching television shows and playing video games. Why not check out Illinois’ state parks? They have a lot more to offer than just trails. Think waterfalls, historic sites, boating, fishing, canoeing, biking,
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horseback riding, and more. As of May 29, all Illinois state parks, and most fish and wildlife areas, recreational areas and historic sites were reopened to the public, with restrictions, with social distancing guidelines, according to IDNR Deputy Director Rachel Torbert. Before heading out to one, first check on the COVID-19 status of individual state parks. Restrictions and recreational opportunities
open at each site can be found on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website at www2.illinois.gov/ dnr/closures/Pages/ ParksOpenDuringCoVID19. aspx. Here we outline a few of the state’s popular parks. Note: Concessions, including lodges, restaurants and campgrounds were reopened, also with restrictions. A few historic sites remained closed as of May 29, says Tolbert.
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Explore a Geneva Gem ON 8 ACRES WITHIN THE CITY OF GENEVA
Garden Party ~ Sunday, June 28th ~ 1-3pm
Outdoor Dining & Live Music on the Lawn & Under the Tent with Tables all around for social distancing Enjoy our southern fried chicken with fresh gourmet salads featuring Oscar Swan’s poppyseed dressing.
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Watch Susan Schubert create floral watercolor paintings. Please call for reservations and further details.
1800 West State Street, Geneva, IL 630-232-0173 | www.oscarswan.com
Enjoy Summer On The Fox RENT: canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, bikes, tandems, electric bikes “Any outdoor sites are open. “Campgrounds are open. “Bring a face mask and hand sanitizer if social distancing is to be achieved. If you have symptoms, stay home,” says Tolbert.” Starved Rock State Park, in Utica, a famous and perennial favorite, and one of the most visited of Illinois’ state parks, on 2800 acres, boasts 16 miles of well-marked hiking trails. There are 18 canyons and rock formations throughout the park, along with boating, camping, fishing, hiking trails, hunting, kayaking and winter
ice climbing. Free guided tours are available on Saturday mornings. The park’s famous stone and log Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The park also offers trolley and boat tours.
Mill Race Cyclery
11 E. State Street Geneva, IL
Matthiessen State Park, also in Utica, just a few miles south of Starved Rock, is a popular destination that offers camping, equestrian trails, fishing, geocaching, hiking trails, an archery range and hunting and cross-country skiing in season. The park is a “geological
Off the Fox River Bike Trail, Next to the Geneva Dam
Reserve your rental on MillRace.com (630)232-2833 SM-CL1784433
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paradise,” with canyons, streams, prairies and forests abundant with beautiful rock formations, unusual vegetation and wildlife, according to the DNR. White Pines Forest State Sark, in the Rock River Valley, is one of Illinois’ oldest state parks, boasting hiking, walking, camping and fishing. “Visitors also can drive through flowing streams with the help of concrete fords which span the creeks,” says Torbert. “Accessible paths leading to the stream banks also are available for wildlife watching and fishing.” The White Pines Inn was also built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Another well-attended park is Lowden State Park near Oregon, Illinois, which is home to the awe-inspiring, recently refurbished 50-foot Eternal Indian statue designed by Laredo Taft. Lowden’s hiking trails, boat ramps, bank fishing, mushroom hunting, toilets, roads, and picnicking were re-opened May 1. Fort Massac State Park, in Metropolis, became Illinois’ first state park in 1908. “Fort Massac State Park is another popular attraction, which displays the region’s rich history and overlooks the Ohio River,” says Torbert. The nearly
With miles and miles of trails throughout St. Charles, there is ample opportunity to explore your community!
1,500-acre park offers camping, hiking, fishing, boating, seasonal hunting and an 18-hole disc golf course. The original fort was built in 1757 during the French and Indian War. The reproduction fort offers special events highlighting Colonial and early American history, including the popular Fort Massac Encampment festival each October, and year round interpretive programs. The park, which also re-opened May 1, offers flush toilets, handwashing, boat ramps, bank fishing, mushroom hunting, hiking and biking trails and picnic areas. The IDNR encourages visiting a park close to home during COVID-19. “It is important to note that, while we’re excited to welcome Illinoisans home to some of their favorite outdoor sites, amenities may be limited to protect public health and minimize the spread of COVID-19,” says Torbert. “Additionally, all programs and events at state parks, fish and wildlife areas, recreational areas and historic sites are suspended or postponed until further notice.Visitors can enjoy mushroom hunting, bank and boat fishing, hiking, biking and picnicking.”
wellness
WALKING FOR
IN ST. CHARLES
Sports & Recreation
Did you know that walking just 30 minutes a day has many health benefits? It can help you improve your mental and physical well-being, reduce your risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, boost immune function & more! All you need is a good pair of walking shoes! Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.
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Visit any of these parks to get started! • Delnor Woods Park • East Side Sports Complex • Fox Chase Park • Harvest Hills Park • Hunt Club Park
• James O. Breen Community Park • Mt. St. Mary Park • Pottawatomie Park • Primrose Farm Park • River Bend Community Park
For trail maps, visit: stcparks.org/trails NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST
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Tangled Roots Brewing Company Ottawa, IL
Mad Hatchet Brewery Shorewood, IL
wery River Hawk Bre Channahon, IL
Ike & Oak Brewing Co. Woodridge, IL
Pollyanna Brewing Lemont, Company IL
Explore the Heritage Corridor Ale Trail and discover the creativity of true artisans of the craft beer world, featuring locations from Chicago Portage to Starved Rock. Check in with the Ale Trail Passport to earn prizes throughout the calendar year. More information available at heritagecorridoraletrail.com/2020passport. Must be 21 to participate. Please drink responsibly.
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or music venues across the Chicago suburbs, being forced to shut down mid-March was devastating for both musicians and the venues alike. Instead of just sitting idly waiting for the uncertain times to pass, many venues have chosen to adapt their business models to try to provide some light for the artists and their communities during this dark time.
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“We are continuing to explore ways to share live music together until we can reopen our doors and are working hard to stay healthy, stay focused, stay in business and keep the music going,” says Melissa Mercado, executive director of the Fox Valley Music Foundation and The Venue in Aurora. For both The Venue and Yorkville’s Law Office Pub and Music Hall, sharing live music during this time really only meant one thing: live-streaming concerts. These aren’t just people performing from their parents’ basement, either – these local venues are providing artists with a professional platform to elevate their live performances.
“We were fortunate to have built The Venue as a music listening room, so we have superior sound and terrific
didn’t have a streaming setup ready to go as soon as they were shut down. But owner Boyd Ingemunson saw an opportunity to invest in his business and its future and opted to spend the money to upgrade his camera and computer equipment so that he could professionally stream live shows. And not just for the present – he’s also thinking about the long-term future. “I think we can continue to offer live streaming even once we open,” Ingemunson says, noting that they typically have one show a week on Friday nights. “There’s a market for it. Not only will we have ticket revenue, but we’ll also have revenue online. It’s an untapped market.”
acoustics,” Mercado says, noting that they have professional video and sound engineers who are onsite assisting every live stream (while following protocols). The Venue is offering live shows at 8 p.m. every Monday night with plans to expand programming for special events. The Law Office Pub and Music Hall was built for live performances and
Currently, to help support the venues and performers, all livestream viewers for both venues are encouraged to donate or leave tips, but it is not a requirement for watching. “Generosity is not about size,” Mercado says, noting that donations are split 50/50 with the artist. “Every donation is an act of kindness and an investment in the future of The Venue and in our community.”
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EGYPTIAN THEATRE DOWNTOWn DEKALB, IL
Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly.
COMING SOON...
NEW RESTROOMS, CONCESSIONS, carpet, AND Air conditioning
–The Beatles
Ingemunson says that many of his performers have made more in tips than they do for a typical performance, and Mercado adds that their audiences have been growing each week and even are comparable to live shows. “It really provides something and hopefully we can be a place for people to go to and tune in and see something going on that’s positive for the artists,” Ingemunson says. “None of these local artists are touring right now and no one knows how long that’s going to last.”
It also provides an escape for the community - and anyone else across the country who chooses to tune in. “It brings people together; it really does,” Ingemunson says. “In the comments section, people are checking in, commenting that we’re doing something positive and taking their mind off of everything else going on in the world.” These venues are truly blackbirds finding the light in this dark time.
VIRTUAL HARD HAT TOURS TUESDAYs | 5:30pm | FACEBOOK LIVE TO learn more visit
The Venue
WWW.egyptiantheatre.ORG ANNUAL SPONSORS: est. 1851
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LEOxC A L B B Q e r i a n i d traor Sweet & smoky thrives from Texas, Memphis to Carolina styles
Destination Dining
By Vicki Martinka Petersen
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MCHENRY COUNTY
¢ BBQ KING SMOKEHOUSE 125 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock 11706 Coral St., Huntley bbqkingsmokehouse.com BBQ King Smokehouse’s awardwinning ribs have been featured at rib fests around the country, including the New England Rib Fest in Maine and the Capital City Rib Fest in Nebraska. Brisket, pulled pork and pulled chicken also can help curb your BBQ cravings. All entrees come with a drink and your choice of sweet potato fries, mac and cheese or fried potato salad. Place your order seven days a week at either location for carryout, curbside pickup or delivery at home.
SOUTHBANK ORIGINAL BARBECUE STATION ONE BBQ
BBQ KING SMOKEHOUSE STONE JUG BARBECUE
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hicago might be known for its style of hot dog and deep-dish pizza, but there are plenty of places to indulge in smoked meats drenched in a homemade sauce. Check out for yourself some of the best barbecue joints in northern Illinois. Be sure to check their websites for latest menu offerings and hours during the COVID-19 pandemic.
KANE COUNTY
¢ FIREWATER BBQ & BREW 524 W. State St., Geneva www.firewaterbbq.com Firewater’s hand rubbed and slow smoked baby back ribs slide off right the bone as a tasty morsel in your mouth. The savory meats are served with your choice of bread or as an open face sandwich. Take the night off from cooking and order a family package with your choice of Granny’s bone in smoked chicken quarters; a Granny’s combo with chicken and ribs that are wet or dry rubbed and slow smoked; or the J.B. package with your choice of pulled pork, beef brisket or smoked chicken. Call or order online for pickup or delivery.
DUPAGE COUNTY
¢ UNCLE BUB’S BBQ 132 S. Cass Ave., Westmont www.unclebubs.com For more than 20 years, this familyowned barbeque joint has served up premium cuts of pork, beef, ribs and chicken. The meats are dry rubbed with
a secret blend of spices, then placed in a hardwood smoker for a few hours. Place your order Wednesday through Sunday for curbside pickup or delivery to quench your hankering for a pulled pork sandwich or a slab of ribs covered in Uncle Bub’s award-winning sauce. Or feed the whole family with either the Pig Out package (full slab of baby back ribs, two pounds of pulled pork and sides) or the Uncle Bub’s special (your choice of pulled pork or chicken and sides).
KENDALL COUNTY
¢ SOUTHBANK ORIGINAL BARBECUE 129 E. Hydraulic St., Yorkville southbankoriginalbarbecue.com Nestled along the Fox River, Southbank serves up slow cooked smoked barbecue over oak and hickory. The dinner for four offers your choice of two meats – pulled pork, pulled chicken or tri tip – and choice of three sides – mac & cheese, cheesy potatoes, bourbon baked beans or coleslaw. For the ultimate in comfort food, the NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST
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LASALLE COUNTY
¢ STONE JUG BARBECUE 1920 4th St., Peru www.stonejugbbq.com The dry rub and applewood smoked meats at Stone Jug Barbecue offers diners a taste Memphis style barbeque with a sweet, tangy spice. Amp up your bbq sandwich with a coleslaw
STATION ONE BBQ
FATTY’S PUB & GRILL
BBQ KING SMOKEHOUSE
mac & cheese bowls come topped with barbecue meat and sauce. Order online for carryout or through GrubHub for delivery.
topper or smother the St. Louis style ribs with your choice of signature, honey gold, peach chipotle or Alabama white sauce. Just give them a call Thursday through Sunday and your order will be ready for pickup.
DEKALB COUNTY
¢ FATTY’S PUB & GRILL 1312 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb www.fattysniu.com If you’re a meal planner but would like a night off from cooking, Fatty’s Family Style meals have you covered. These meal kits, which
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feed four to six people, must be ordered by 8 p.m. the night before. The bbq pulled pork kit comes with buns, potato salad, garden salad and coleslaw. Their full menu is available for curbside carryout or delivery to DeKalb, Sycamore and Cortland. Add a growler or cocktail kit to your order if you’d like to take dinner at home to the next level.
WILL COUNTY
¢ STATION ONE BBQ 15025 S. Des Plaines St., Plainfield stationonesmokehouse.com
barbecue, check out Station One BBQ. Try the pulled chicken or pulled pork sandwiches, or pick up a half pound of sliced or chopped brisket, ribs, salmon or smoked turkey. The hot sides feature the ultimate in comfort food from mac and cheese to tater tot casserole. Or get classic cold sides like coleslaw and potato salad. Orders must be placed in advance online for pickup or through GrubHub for delivery.
For a taste of Central Texas
D
esse rts 306 W State Street Downtown Geneva 630-208-7070 www.stockholmsbrewpub.com
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Dine With Us! Limited Seating - Reservations Suggested FULL MENU AVAILABLE FOR CARRY OUT Growlers of our Handcrafted Beer To Go $3.50 Daily Handcrafted Beer Specials Try Raider’s Root Beer (ABV 7.5%)
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WE WELCOME YOU BACK! — can’t wait to —
We’ve Reopened! Starved Rock Lodge reopened on May 29, 2020! We can’t wait to welcome you back to this historic destination. We’ve made some changes to protect you while you’re here so things will look a little different. We have carry-out food service and outdoor dining on our Veranda. Enjoy the best view in LaSalle County for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You can also carry-out food and drinks from our Café or Trailheads Concessions (located in the Visitor Center). Even though we’re privately owned, we are a state facility so you t will wi need to wear a mask in all our indoor (public) places. We stepped up our housecleaning efforts and have installed hand-sanitizer stations throughout the Lodge. So, while some things have changed, some things remain the same: the beauty of our 18 scenic canyons, amazing bluff views view vivie ews and ews and seasonal waterfall of Starved Rock State Park; delicious, delici deli de lilici ci comfort food and Midwestern hospitality! Book a midweek getaway and you’ll enjoy a greater sense of peace and quiet than you would on the weekends. We’re working on bringing back guided hikes, trolley tours and boat cruises on the Illinois River. Please check our website and an social media posts for updates.
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Treat yourself to a walk in the woods at a place that’s close to home but worlds away! Experience staying in a Lodge room or cabin in the woods at one of Illinois’ most beautiful resorts. Best of all: overnight guests are guaranteed free parking just steps away from the hiking trails. In addition to that, we have free WiFi (but really, you’ll want to disconnect once you arrive). 625 625 Call our friendly staff toll-free at (800) 868-7625 or visit StarvedRockLodge.com.
Where the past is always present!
| ONE LODGE L ANE | OGLESBY, IL 61348 | (800) 868-7625 | Star vedRockLodge.com 6/10/20 2:28 PM
SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL ANNIVERSARY FEATURE
Cary Travel Express By Pat Szpekowski
Kruse has been a travel advisor for 41 years since she graduated from college. “I grew up in Fox River Grove and went to Cary Grove High With the incomprehensible challenges that people School,” she said. “Even as a high school student, faced traveling around the world prior to the my career goal was to be a travel advisor and own world travel ban due to coronavirus pandemic, the staff behind the scenes at Cary Travel Express answered the call.
clients by answering their questions on current travel and assist with future plans,” she said. They always go the extra mile and during this unfamiliar pandemic time, their personal customer service and client dedication proved
Over the past three months they have been assisting their clients, on the phone or via email, who travel for their profession or as a respite to getaway and have fun and found almost overnight, plans changed for everyone. “Myself, and my very dedicated agents worked around the clock during March, April and May when this started with canceling, rebooking and getting clients home from destinations as other countries started to close their borders, “ said Neelie Kruse, CTC, Owner, Cary Travel Express. “We have been dedicated during this time to rescheduling our clients who had to cancel their dream vacations for later dates this year and for 2021”. Cary Travel Express, which opened 31 years ago as a storefront agency in February 1989 by
Kruse, is a full service travel agency that offers vacation and cruise packages to clients who travel all over the world. The agency has been part of the downtown Cary scene for the past 20 years. Kruse notes that “we are a small business and local travel agency serving the McHenry County area and beyond”.
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my own agency. I love my job and really enjoy to be an asset for two couples coming back from planning the perfect vacation for my clients.” Antarctica. “They cancelled their flights out of The dedicated agents at Cary Travel Express Buenos Aires through Miami,” said Kruse. “In specialize in Disney Vacation, ocean and the middle of the night they called me and I was river cruises, all-inclusive vacation packages, able to get them the last 4 seats on a plane to honeymoons, destination weddings, and multi- Miami where they overnighted and returned generational vacations, to name a few. home the next day. If they hadn’t booked with What is unique about their business? “Our first a Travel Agent, they would have had no one to hand experiences,” said Kruse. “My staff and I help them.” travel the world and experience destinations in “When it is time to travel again, Cary Travel order to recommend itineraries and be reliable Express is ready to plan your next exciting sources for our customers. In the age of internet vacation. Our team is available via phone, email shopping and online booking, we are here to or even a Zoom call as we start to reopen the service our clients.” physical doors of the store front agency - June 1st Kruse and her staff take great pride in being by appointment. 2021 is on the horizon and Cary recognized as “Best of the Fox” Travel Agency Travel Express thanks you for letting us show you for the past 15 years. “We are here to assist the world!” Adds Kruse with bright optimism.
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Waterfront resort Where We Live
OTTAWA RESORT OFFERS OUTDOOR FUN FOR ENTIRE FAMILY
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BY KEVIN DRULEY
PHOTOS PROVIDED
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he name Neighborhood Tourist channels the abundant network of getaways and recreational opportunities available in our own backyards – or at the very most, a short drive away.
At Heritage Harbor, a waterfront resort community in Ottawa, the idea of finding an escape without crossing the state line is evident. A wide list of activities and amenities include water sports, fishing, hiking, biking, running, walking, swimming, live music, a restaurant, and a tiki bar, all within comfortable range of your private, rented cottage or home. With vacation season
approaching and sojourns of any sort beckoning amid the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, Heritage Harbor stands as an intriguing option along the Illinois River. “People are getting out and they’re wanting to find places to get away,” says Heritage Harbor Marketing Director Pierre Alexander. “Get away from their own house and just break the lockdown, break away from feeling imprisoned by the lockdown kind of thing. It’s a good getaway.” Heritage Harbor connects to the 97-mile I&M Canal Trail and is located adjacent to Starved Rock State Park and the Marseilles State Fish and Wildlife Area.
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“Anyone can rent a cottage, from one night to the whole year,” Alexander says. “We offer short-term all the way to longterm rental in different cottages and homes, and it’s a good way to get away, to vacation, and to explore and be close to the outdoors.” Additionally, Alexander says management has waived rental cancellation fees in many cases to allow for unforeseen situations during the pandemic. “The nice thing about the cottages is that they are over six feet apart, so it’s not like going to a closed hotel with corridors and being confined,” Alexander says. “Each cottage is standalone, so there’s adequate distance between everybody.
People look at us and they feel safe and they feel that they want to get out a bit and get their mental health right and enjoy their vitamin D and sunshine, so it’s a good combination.”
Illinois’ shelter-in-place order. Some visitors, Alexander says, brought their takeout to enjoy in front of their cottages or while seated near the marina or harbor wall.
Dogs are permitted at select cottages, but a $75 guest pet fee applies. A dog park is available at the west entrance, while a “doggie menu” is among the bill of fare at the resort’s Red Dog Grill, which has maintained curbside pickup service as well as a walk-up and call-in carryout menu during the pandemic.
While management will continue to assess its options for resuming past communal events along the water, as state orders dictate, Alexander says Heritage Harbor expects things to progress as the summer does.
Before the anticipated visitor boost of Memorial Day weekend, resort staff noticed various guests getting creative despite the closure of indoor restaurant dining as part of
One crowd-pleaser that figures to be back, he says, are the harbor’s float-in movies, in which boaters, flotation device users or people seated on the marina lawn can enjoy a film projected on a large screen as they relax during a summer night. A 2019 screening of “Jaws” drew about
600 people – and nary a shark. Staff continues to brainstorm additional ideas for 2020 as the eager-to-escape public adapts to the new normal related to the pandemic. “(Heritage Harbor) a place where they like to vacation, they want to get out of the suburbs. So, it’s got a very holiday resort kind of feel,” Alexander says. “There are also lots of people that retire there. They love it so much that their vacation second home becomes their retirement home, and they just enjoy the lifestyle. There’s a bit of something for everyone.” For more information, call 815-433-5000, contact hho@heritageharborottawa. com or log on to www. visitheritageharbor.com.
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Spending Time Outdoors
Pingree Rd.
We have everything you need for the perfect outdoor living and entertaining area of Northwest Hwy.
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Three Oaks Rd.
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Rakow Rd.
Visit our website for more information! www.whisperinghillsnursery.com Route 31 in Crystal Lake NT_Summer2020.indd 34
Visit us on Facebook
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1/4 mile south of Rakow Rd. on Rt. 31
Whispering Hills kitty-corner across from Wal-mart
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Naturalize YOUR
HOMESTEAD
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ummertime brings the exhilaration of planting a new flower bed, upgrading your landscape design, and planting your favorite veggies and herbs to enjoy healthy, fresh food the rest of the summer into fall. If you’re into canning or dehydrating those garden treasures, your bounty can last even longer. Adding perennials to your landscape brings seasonal color each year.
According to Michelle Anderson, who owns Whispering Hills Nursery with her husband Allan, this perennial favorite is not only celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, but it offers expertise and many varieties of trees, shrubs, evergreens, perennials, annuals, roses and groundcovers to suit your family’s lifestyle and needs.
Garden centers, nurseries offer unlimited design ideas By Pat Szpekowski
“We recently introduced gardening to your door, including bulk garden soil, mulch and stone, via virtual landscape design,” says Anderson. “You do not need to visit the garden center. We will meet with you at no charge via Facetime/ Skype or with pictures and dimensions sent through email and over the phone communication.”
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hat’s one way to get the job done, or customers can stop in at Whispering Hills, pick up what they need for that special weekend project, then walk out all set ready to work. A visit to any of these local garden centers and nurseries offers a wide range of ideas to help you create a custom homestead natural retreat: ¢ THE FIELDS ON CATON FARM, INC. 1850 Caton Farm Road Crest Hill, IL 60403 815-744-7841 fieldsnursery.com Ranked as one of the most memorable garden centers in the Midwest by Midwest Living Magazine, a visit to The Fields is an exhilarating experience
at this 40-year old family farm. Peruse the beautiful retail garden center, an inspirational 5-acre walking garden, and 210 bountiful acres of hardy perennials, shrubs, and trees bursting with color. Experienced landscape architects, designers and installers bring landscaping dreams to life. ¢ ANNE’S GARDEN CENTER 1200 North Galena Avenue Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-6060 annesgc.com A gem in Lee County, Anne’s Garden Center offers traditional ornamentals, trees, shrubs, and thousands of perennials and annuals in a multitude of colors. For a special twist, there are evergreens, flowering plants and interesting
specimens hand selected and shipped from the Portland, Oregon region. Many are one of a kind to proudly give any landscape a truly personal and unique touch. Explore the collection of garden art and gift items, too. Additional location in Freeport, IL. ¢ BLUMEN GARDENS 403 Edward Street Sycamore, IL 60178 blumengardens.com 815-895-3737 This year-round garden center comes alive and re-imagines itself each season. Spring provides a huge array of annual flowers, seeds, and hanging baskets. Summer offers homegrown perennials, colorful ceramic pottery and bold garden decor. Fall brings festive home decor, pumpkins,
BLUMEN GARDENS
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mums, and much more. Winter is filled with trendy indoor plants and holiday open house. Landscape services and installation available. Weddings held in rustic indoor space and lush elegant gardens. ¢ SCHAEFER GREENHOUSES INC. 120 S. Lake Street Montgomery, IL 630-896-1936 schaefergreenhouses.com What could be more natural than a greenhouse/ garden center stocked with the finest, freshest, floristquality plants and thriving foliage? Schaefer’s has been designing beautiful bouquets and growing premium plants for 4 generations. Find flowers, veggies, and herbs, roses, trees, shrubs, fruits and berries; plus annuals, perennials, and bulk mulch.
Expert advice whether you are looking for a few plants for your home, or starting a large-scale gardening project. ¢ WASCO NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER 41W781 Route 64 St. Charles, IL 60175 630-584-4424 wasconursery.com Wasco Nursery consists of 2 farms totaling nearly 140 acres. The large10-acre retail garden center is filled with high quality, locally grown plants, including annuals, perennials, natives, veggies, herbs, and more. There’s more than 11,000 sq. ft. of greenhouse space, a water gardening department, as well as a garden gift shop open year round. Professional landscape design services help create a beautiful outdoor living space.
¢ WHISPERING HILLS GARDEN & LANDSCAPE CENTER 8401 IL Route 31 Crystal Lake, IL 60013 847-658-5610 whisperinghillsnursery.com Whispering Hills retail garden and landscape center provides the highest quality plant material and knowledgeable team for a positive shopping environment and expert landscape design services. Treat your outdoor space with locally grown, beautiful shade trees, ornamental trees, evergreens, fruit trees and shrubs and the largest selection of natural stone and mulch in the area. Garden center spread over 15 acres with a wide assortment of annuals, perennials, and more.
DISCOVER WHAT’S IN YOUR BACKYARD EXPLORE WHAT AWAITS @ DISCOVERDIXON.COM NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST
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FROM CAMPING TO GLAMPING, THESE NEARBY DESTINATIONS DELIVER By Erin Sauder
R
eady to load up your car with camping gear and the makings for S’mores for an overnight adventure? Here is a roundup of some of the best area spots to set up camp in Illinois this summer:
MCHENRY COUNTY ¢ MARENGO RIDGE CONSERVATION AREA 2411 N. Route 23, Marengo www.mccdistrict.org One of McHenry County’s most popular areas, Marengo Ridge sits on 818 acres of open space. For those who want to sleep under the stars, the site offers an exclusive use campground for 1 to 100 people. Additionally, the Thomas Woods campground located on the east side of the site features 29 individual tent sites and 18 RV sites that can be reserved. Plan to take a hike? Miles of trails are available for exploring. Another perk? At its highest point,
the ridge stands 1,050 above sea level, giving campers amazing views of the woodlands below.
KANE COUNTY ¢ PAUL WOLFF CAMPGROUND 38W235 Big Timber Road, Elgin kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff The Paul Wolff Campground, located within Elgin’s Burnidge Forest Preserve, offers 89 improved sites, with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings. Away from the main camping area there are also 10 primitive, wooded sites for tent camping only. Of note: primitive sites do not have electricity.
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EventuaLEE
you’ll be ready to get out and explore! Put Lee County, Illinois, on your radar! CAMPING & NAT URE
the campsite. Fire rings, picnic tables and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance.
DUPAGE COUNTY
¢ CAMP ARAMONI 809 N. 2199 Road, Tonica www.camparamoni.com
¢ BLACKWELL FOREST PRESERVE Butterfield Road, Warrenville www.dupageforest.org/placesto-go/forest-preserves/blackwell
BISON
HISTORY & MUSEUMS CAR SHOWS
Considered one of DuPage County’s most popular forest preserves, Blackwell features campsites for tents, trailers and motorhomes. Each site has electricity, a gravel parking pad, fire ring and picnic table, but none have sewage or water hookups. Additionally, the 1,366acre preserve features miles of trails and an opportunity to explore the area from the water by renting a canoe, kayak or rowboat on Silver Lake.
GRUNDY COUNTY
MUSIC
¢ GEBHARD WOODS STATE PARK 401 Ottawa St., Morris www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/ Pages/GebhardWoods.aspx
ART SHOWS FIND UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION 24/7 AT
leecountyfun.com @leecountyillinois 815.288.1840
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Paul Wolff also has nine miles of trails including a 2.25-mile, multi-purpose trail suitable for hiking, biking or equestrian use. Plan to bring your fishing pole as the campground offers wellstocked fish ponds.
This 30-acre space, considered one of Illinois’ most popular state parks, is bordered by the Illinois and Michigan Canal to the south and Nettle Creek on the north side. If you’re looking for a true camping experience, this is the place to go, as only primitive tent camping is available and gear must be walked (1/3 mile) to
LASALLE COUNTY
Looking to take your camping to the next level? Give glamping, or luxury camping, a try. The trend combines camping and hotel experiences into one, and that’s just what visitors will find at Camp Aramoni. Located just five miles south of Starved Rock State Park, the site is set to open this fall and will offer 10 safaristyle glamping tents with wood stoves, comfortable beds, ensuite restrooms and kitchenettes, a rustic pole barn with WiFi connectivity, various bonfire pits, secluded hiking trails, private access to the Vermilion River and a beautiful deck overlooking the river. Additionally, guests can expect guided hikes, nightly communal bonfires, private shuttle services to the nearby state parks and more. Guests can reserve the tents online when the reservation system becomes available. No personal tent camping or RV parking will be permitted.
WHITESIDE COUNTY ¢ LEISURE LAKE CAMPGROUND 2304 French Street, Rock Falls leaisurelakecampgroundil.com Offering both trailer and RV parking, at Leisure Lake Campground the main goal is to
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CARROLL COUNTY create a happy, safe and inviting place for families to vacation. The RV campground is clean and well cared for so that the only thing visitors need to worry about is how many s’mores you plan on eating in the evening. Whether you are looking for a short getaway or a long-term outdoor experience, Leisure Lake Campground has a place for you and your RV. The RV sites offer many amenities, including full hook-up access, showers and bathrooms, the lake, swimming, outdoor game areas, and sewer at every site.
LEE COUNTY ¢ GREEN RIVER OAKS CAMPING RESORT 1442 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Amboy www.greenriveroaks.com Family-owned and operated, Green River Oaks Camping Resort prides itself on being an affordable and fun destination for families of all sizes. Your nightly site rental fee is all you pay to enjoy most of the amenities and services that are available. The resort offers rental options including cabins and travel trailers. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of every day life and escape to Green River Oaks Resort for a few days, a weekend, or a whole a week. Expect plenty of planned activities and themed weekends will keep your group entertained for the entirety of your stay! The facility encourages everyone to participate in any or all of the activities – or just sit back and relax while taking in the beautiful scenery and serenity of the remote 130-acre setting.
¢ FINS & FEATHERS CAMPGROUND 8065 County Rd. 374, Thomson finsandfeatherscampground.com Fins & Feathers Campground was established in 2007 at Lake Seminole. Because of its state-of-the-art accommodations and beautiful landscaping, this campground enjoys a huge following across the Midwest. Whether you arrive in a travel trailer, motor home, fifth wheel or pop-up, you will fall in love with the serene setting at Fins & Feathers. All sites are lake view. For the non-RVers, cabin rentals are available for that home away from home feeling. There are ample activities for the entire family throughout the region with lots of fishing and water to enjoy.
OGLE COUNTY
¢ CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK 1365 W. Castle Road, Oregon www2.illinois.gov/dnr/parks/ pages/CastleRock.aspx Castle Rock State Park, centrally located in the Rock River Hills region of Illinois and its rolling topography that drains into the Rock River, is located along the west bank of the Rock River. The park is representative of the Rock River Hills area, featuring distinct rock formations, ravines and unique northern plant associations. A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river, has given the park its name. Park activities include boating, camping canoeing, fishing, hiking, hunting, metal detecting, and much more. One of the state’s more unique camping environments, Castle Rock features a primitive camping area accessible only by canoe or boat.
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