Black Hawk Statue at Lowden State Park

At Eagle's Nest Bluff in Lowden State Park, proudly stands a 48-foot statue of a Native American quietly revering the beauty of the River Rock Valley below. Commonly called Black Hawk, after the legendary Chieftain, the statue was created as a tribute to all the Native Americans who once called the area their home.

CITY: Oregon

Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home and Visitors Center

Tour the restored home that the Reagan family resided in from 1920-1923, and meander through the Visitor Center and Gift Shop which features books and gifts highlighting the Reagan legacy. The tour includes the four-room Presidential Timeline exhibit and the viewing of a Reagan biographical video.

CITY: Dixon

The Cabins of Pine Creek

Family cabins are located adjacent to White Pines State Park. Cabins sleep from 6-10 people. Gas fireplaces, full kitchens, log lodge furnishings

CITY: Mount Morris

On Holden Pond

Four-bedroom home on 15 acres overlooking a stream and a pond. Over 4,000 square feet with a fully exposed, walkout basement. Fireplace, huge two-level cedar deck, big-screen home theater center, and many antiques. Perfect for corporate and private retreats, holiday parties, wedding parties and as a vacation home.

CITY: Oregon

White Pines Forest State Park

Enjoy recreation on 385 acres, much of it forest, with a state park lodge and provisions for tent and trailer camping. It is also noted for its vine-covered limestone bluffs.

CITY: Mount Morris

First Christian Church

First Christian Church served as the Reagan family church while they lived in Dixon and helped form Ronald Reagan's Christian-based work ethic, which included a short term as a Sunday School teacher.

CITY: Dixon

John Deere Historic Site

This historic site is where John Deere (1804-1886) first developed and produced his steel plow, changing the face of farming in the Midwest. Deere erected a simple, one-and-a-half-story clapboard house that resembles a type found in New England. Although the original Deere blacksmith shop was demolished, its archeological excavations and interpreted artifacts are open, sheltered by a pavilion. A reconstructed blacksmith shop located southwest of the original site is furnished with old tools, farm equipment, pioneer utensils, and a working forge. The John Deere Home in Grand Detour was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964 and placed on the Nation Register of Historic Places in 1966. Copy and descriptions courtesy of AIA Illinois and the 150 GreatPlaces in Illinois www.illinoisgreatplaces.com

CITY: Dixon

John Deere Historic Site

John Deere's home still stands with a working replica of his blacksmith shop and a preserved archeological dig that unearthed Deere's orginal shop.

CITY: Grand Detour

Mississippi River Lodge

Our Mississippi River Lodge is located right on the banks on the Mighty Mississippi River between Savanna and Thomson Illinois and offers awe-inspiring views from every angle. We offer 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, living room with fireplace & big screen TV, deck with grill, a fully stocked kitchen and much more! If you are a river lover, this is the place for you. Fishing, water skiing, tubing, or cruising up the river, it's all here for your enjoyment. Since we are located on Big Slough, off of the main channel of the river, you can have fun without having to deal with a lot of river traffic. Access to the main channel is easy if you want to cruise the river. Only five miles up the river is Lower Sabula Lake which offers a great new sand beach. There is a public boat launch only a quarter mile from the house and a dock is provided to moor your boat at the house. If you do not have a boat, you can fish off the dock or the bank.

CITY: Thomson

Blackhawk Chocolate Trail

A delicious mixture of cocoa is found every which way along the Blackhawk Chocolate Trail in the four-county area of Northwest Illinois. Enjoy visiting candy stores, bed and breakfasts with special chocolate-themed packages, gift shops and old-fashioned soda fountains.

CITY: Polo

White Pines Inn

25 cozy one-room cabins complete with hardwood floors, open beamed ceilings and queen size beds with old fashioned trundle beds. Modern conveniences include TVs, phones, heat/air, and gas fireplaces.

CITY: Mount Morris

Sherwood Forest

During Christmas, Sherwood Forest is adorned with decorations and twinkling lights. Any time of year view a variety of animals, including turkeys, rabbits, peacocks, llamas, and miniature goats and deer.

CITY: Prophetstown

Wings of Peace and Freedom Park

A Bulgarian immigrant donated the Wings of Peace and Freedom sculpture to the City of Dixon. The artwork, which includes a full-size replica of a section of the Berlin Wall, recognizes President Reagan's efforts to attain worldwide peace and freedom.

CITY: Dixon

Tj's Canoe Rentals

Enjoy a day on the beautiful Rock River. Take a 5 mile or 12 mile trip or canoe camp on the river. TJ's is 'Doin Canoein' on the Rock!. Check website for hours and months of operation.

CITY: Oregon

Henry School

The 1878 Henry School, located on the Galena Trail, was used as an operating school until 1957. The Polo Historical Society has turned it back into an old country school, which includes displays on the Black Hawk War of 1832.

CITY: Polo

Jeff Adams "Images In Bronze"

Fine art gallery / sculptor, Jeff Adams studio. Tour full-service casting facility. Saturday by appointment.

CITY: Mount Morris

Rock River Miniatures

This miniature horse farm is located in Whiteside County.

CITY: Rock Falls

H.I. Lincoln Store

Two-story stone building built in 1860 by Abe Lincoln's cousin. Restored dry goods store houses a consignment shop featuring local artisans. Also national headquarters for the Lincoln Highway Assn.

CITY: Franklin Grove

The Frameworks -- Dixon

Custom & ready-made frame shops with large selection of prints and framed pictures.

CITY: Dixon

Dixon Historic Center

History Research and Learning Center housed in President Ronald Reagan's boyhood South Central School. Beautifully restored and proudly affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution.

CITY: Dixon

Chaplin Creek Historic Village

Chaplin Creek is an evolving, full-scale historical restoration project depicting a prairie settlement typical of the mid-19th century. Several historically significant buildings and artifacts have been relocated here from the surrounding area. Photo courtesy of Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition

CITY: Franklin Grove

Lincoln Monument

This memorial commemorates Lincoln's 1832 service in the Black Hawk War, and consists of a bronze figure of Lincoln as a 23-year-old captain. The statue was dedicated in 1930 during the centennial celebration of the town of Dixon.

CITY: Dixon

Karen Vroman, MWS/Added Touch Gallery

Gallery. Appointment preferred.

CITY: Erie

The Kable House

Dates from 1939 and is situated on 9 wooded acres on the sunset golf course. Five suites feature private baths, two with jacuzzi tubs, and all have refrigerators, microwaves, phones, tv, queen beds, and central air

CITY: Mount Morris

The Next Picture Show

Working studio for artists open to the public by appointment or during special previews. Dates to be determined. Call for appointment.

CITY: Dixon

Polo Historical Society/Aplington House

Lincoln slept here two nights in 1856, as the guest of his friend Senator Aplington, the founder of the village of Polo. Learn about the history of Polo and view the Ogle County Military Museum, which showcases artifacts from all wars.

CITY: Polo

Crawford House Inn

This Italianate style mansion offers year 'round hospitality for that romantic getaway or an extended stay in Dixon. Elegance and relaxation await your arrival in the 12 spacious rooms furnished with Victorian furniture.

CITY: Dixon

Dixon Welcome Center

We provide information on Dixon area attractions as well as the Illinois Lincoln Highway. Purchase Reagan and Dixon souvenir items. Also houses the "Of The Prairie" Gift Shop specializing in Illinois Wines and other Illinois Products.

CITY: Dixon

Eagles Nest Gifts and Gallery

Beautifully crafted silver jewelry, Minnetonka moccasins, log furniture, and an outstanding art gallery filled with sculptures and pottery can be found at the Eagles Nest.

CITY: Oregon

Oppold Marina

Offers boat access to the Rock River, with a 50-ft. renovated boat launch. During the summer season, offers boat gas, concessions, paddleboat/rowboat/canoe rentals as well as 2 large shelters for family reunions and parties,

CITY: Sterling

Lincoln Highway Association National Headquarters

Visitors from around the world enjoy researching highway information in this restored 1860 dry goods store built by Abe Lincoln's cousin. The Lincoln Highway Museum and Store is also housed inside.

CITY: Franklin Grove

Harmony Hills Bed & Breakfast

Enjoy country hospitality and charm at this 5 acre retreat in Northern Illinois designed especially for couples seeking time away or small groups wanting to share time together. Our property is nestled among a forest of pine trees and 100 year old oak trees. In addition to offering 4 tastefully and comfortably decorated Suites (each with its own bathroom) we offer many extra amenities.

CITY: Oregon

Robert F. Apple - Fishing Guide

Fishing guide - muskies, walleyes; all equipment furnished.

CITY: Chadwick

Lowell Park

Featuring 240 acres, Nature Center, parking, boat launches and Rock River access, fishing, hiking, nature preserve, cross-country skiing, shelters, grills, playground equipment, and more. Ronald Reagan saved 77 lives here as a lifeguard during his boyhood years.

CITY: Dixon

Mendota Hills Campground

Rustic, laid back family campground. Hayrack rides, horseshoes, swimming, frog jumping, convenient store, and church.

CITY: Amboy

Northland Mall

Northland Mall is the only enclosed shopping center between Rockford and the Quad Cities. Includes large stores like JCPenney and Bergners as well as 20 other specialty shops.

CITY: Sterling

Amboy Depot Museum

Built in 1876, this 19-room museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was the division headquarters for Illinois Central Railroad. The museum showcases local artifacts from Amboy and the surrounding area.

CITY: Amboy

Enchanted Forest

Choose and cut your own Christmas tree here. On weekends, caboose rides help transport your tree out of the Enchanted Forest.

CITY: Prophetstown

Evergreen Farm Inn

The house has been completely redecorated to reflect the earlier days of the 1900's. Many of the original antiques furnish the rooms. This picturesque "bed and breakfast" is located in a farming community.

CITY: Forreston

Cross Creek Golf Course

This nine-hole golf course features a pro shop, bar, snack bar and putting green.

CITY: Morrison

Patchwork Inn

Step back in time to a gentler age when hospitality was an art form and life was unhurried. Relax in the elegant parlor, while away an hour on the front porch or explore many of the area's attractions and state parks. Located in a restored 1840's inn, guest rooms feature restored and functional antiques along with individual room telephones and cable TV. The lower level is a great place to hold meetings or celebrate special events.

CITY: Oregon

Mount Morris Motel

Nearest motel to White Pines, one level no stairs to climb, cable TV, A/C, eat, and 24 hour phone.

CITY: Mount Morris

White Pines Dinner Theater

Entertainment abounds with a dinner theater sporting musical comedies and murder mystery plays. Groups large or small. Call for reservations located in the beautiful White Pines Forest State Park.

CITY: Mount Morris

Thomson House Villager Lodge

40 unit extended stay motel. All rooms have microwave, refrigerator, on site cafe, and laundromat, pets welcome

CITY: Thomson

Silver Moon Winery

Enjoy a glass of wine by the fireplace and chat with the winemaker, who is always delighted to share his passion for making wine with guests.

CITY: Lanark

Asa Crook Home

The Asa Crook Home is the first frame house built in 1839 by Whiteside County's first settler. The restored home is open for tours.

CITY: Prophetstown

Civil War Monument

This monument features a statue of a Civil War soldier.

CITY: Prophetstown

Paone's Blackhawk Lanes

This bowling alley features 20 lanes, a pro shop and a lounge.

CITY: Sterling

‘Begins the Trail’ Reagan Statue

A bronze statue of Ronald Reagan, astride the likeness of a palomino horse he rode nearly 60 years ago, sits at the head of the Heritage Crossing Riverfront Plaza located on River Street in downtown Dixon. The statue, created by local artist Don Reed, serves as the centerpiece of Heritage Crossing, an open-air plaza that looks out onto the Rock River.

CITY: Dixon

Slip and Slurry Pottery

Full working pottery studio and store for 24 years, stoneware and porcelain.

CITY: Oregon

Lincoln Manahan Museum

Abraham Lincoln, then 47, came to Sterling to speak at a rally for presidential candidate, John C. Fremont. On July 18, 1856, a twist of fate brought Mr. Lincoln to the home of Sheriff William Manahan to spend the night. He slept on a sofa with two chairs placed at its end to accommodate his long legs. In the morning he graciously thanked his host and left Sterling for a speaking engagement in Chicago and the rest is history! The home has been restored and its interior, furnishings, and facade reflect the time when Lincoln visited in the late 1850s.

CITY: Sterling

Franklin Creek Preservation Area

Franklin Creek Grist Mill, 1893 Twist Road off Old Mill Road, Franklin Grove. Covered wagon tours. Interpretive Center.

CITY: Franklin Grove

Prophetstown Historical Museum

Prophetstown is named for the Indian prophet Wa-bo-kie-shiek (White Cloud), the advisor to Black Hawk during the 1832 Black Hawk War. The museum is full of historic memorabilia, including the Eclipse Lawn Mower, which was manufactured in Prophetstown.

CITY: Prophetstown

Lowden-Miller State Forest

A 2,225-acre state forest situated along the Rock River. Enjoy hunting, hiking, cross-country skiing and equestrian trails.

CITY: Oregon

Loveland Museum

Step back in time in the Loveland Museum and get a glimpse of Dixon and Lee County history. With exhibits from the life of "Father" John Dixon, the Blackhawk War, Civil War and other conflicts, local industry and attractions, the Truesdell Bridge disaster and President Ronald Reagan.

CITY: Dixon

Silver Ridge Golf Course

Silver Ridge is an 18-hole public golf course.

CITY: Oregon

Sterling Mural Society

The town of Sterling features 10 colorful murals in its downtown area that depict the history of the community.

CITY: Sterling

Crow Valley Campground

Grassy shaded lots with gravel pads. Electric and water or primitive sites. Located on the Rock River. Basketball court, playground, good fishing, pool and complete bath facilities. Boat ramp to Rock River. Open April 15 – October 15. Easy access from I-88.

CITY: Sterling

White Pines Inn Gift Shop

Charming country gift shop that's chock full of jellies, jams, quilts, and country decor. Located in log building in White Pine Forest State Park.

CITY: Mount Morris

Deer Valley Golf Club

Located just 10 miles south of Rock Falls, Deer Valley is a challenging 18-hole championship golf course.

CITY: Deer Grove

Unique Embroidery

Embroidery on shirts, caps, bags, etc.

CITY: Franklin Grove

John Deere Home

John Deere's home still stands with a working replica of his blacksmith shop and a preserved archeological dig that unearthed Deere's original shop.

CITY: Grand Detour

Hansens Hideaway Ranch & Campground

Tents, pop-ups and RV camping sites with water and electric hookups, swimming, nature trails, arcade, snack bar, playground, horseshoe pits, covered pavilion, restrooms, showers, sanitary dumping station, fire rings, firewood, and ice available.

CITY: Oregon

Burns House

The first brick home built in Polo is now a tourist information center and home of the local Convention and Visitors Bureau.

CITY: Polo

Country at Heart Quilt & Gift Shop

Don't miss this quaint and unique country quilt and gift shop! Featuring Bowe pottery, candles, quilts, doilies, framed art, country gifts and accessories. We offer a huge selection of antique and primitive furniture too! The quilt shop offers a wide variety of quilting fabrics, notions, patterns, books and so much more!

CITY: Sterling

Ronald Reagan Birthplace & Museum

This quaint apartment, featuring the bedroom where the President was born, restored and decorated to its original 1900's style, sits on the second floor at the site of the First National Bank which has also been restored. Next door is a gift store and museum of Reagan memorabilia.

CITY: Tampico

O'Connell's Yogi Bear Jellystone Park

Rustic cabins and furnished park model trailers, and cindy's deluxe cottage in a clean family campground

CITY: Amboy

Dixon Super 8 Motel

Award-winning motel with 41 newly renovated guest rooms. A themed hot tub suite. Free continental breakfast, 24-hour coffee, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards. Free local calls, microfridges, cable TV with free HBO, bus and truck parking, outside outlets.

CITY: Dixon

Franklin Creek Grist Mill & Interpretive Center

This four-story, reconstructed 1847 grist mill features a four-ton waterwheel and displays of 1800s milling equipment.

CITY: Franklin Grove

Behren's Country Village

Find many unique gifts at this farm-like spot, including year-round Christmas items, furniture, fresh and silk flowers and plants, children's clothing, and the Muffins 'n' More lunchroom.

CITY: Rock Falls

Dillon Home Museum

Built in 1858, this Italian Renaissance-style home displays the history of the Dillon family and Northwestern Steel, as well as fine antiques which belonged to the Dillons.

CITY: Sterling

Constantly Stitching N' More

Located on the Lincoln Highway in the old Unionville School, 1,200 bolts of 100% cotton quilting fabric, notions, books, patterns and antiques.

CITY: Morrison

Big Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area

1,188 acres of natural beauty. Fishing on Rock River and hunting.

CITY: Prophetstown

Quilt Supplies For U

We have a large assortment of beautiful fabric and other items to fit your quilting needs. Our staff has over 20 years of professional quilting experience and we are ready to assist you

CITY: Rock Falls

The Canal House

Large country style, comfy, cozy, family orientated and child friendly Bed and Breakfast. Beautfully decorated five bedroom (some with private bath), pool table, three fireplaces and exercise room. Full breakfast. Also Family Suite with fireplace.

CITY: Tampico

Best Western Reagan Hotel

Full service hotel in a beautiful rural setting.

CITY: Dixon

Lake LaDonna Family Campground

Family campground with cabins.

CITY: Oregon

On Any Sunday Motorcycle Museum

See 40 motorcycles on display, including European bikes built from 1942-1978.

CITY: Polo

Evergreen Farm Inn

This charming farmhouse has been in the owner's family for five generations and stands hidden in the pine trees just waiting to offer guests a chance to experience the 1900's decor. Chat in the living room, or relax on the front porch swing as you experience the country atmosphere. Open April — October.

CITY: Forreston

The Victorian Farmstead

Peace and quite in the coutryside with an abundance of fresh air will make your stay. Enjoy bicycling, canoeing, antiquing or reading on the porch swing. In winter warm yourself in front of the fireplace when you return from skiing.

CITY: Mount Morris

Pinehill Inn

Graceful, romantic, the highly rated Pinehill Inn Bed and Breakfast beckons you with the feeling you are stepping back into time...the Rock River most elegant oasis, combining modern amenities with historic charm. Named one of the top 10 hotels in Illinois, The Pinehill Inn is an absolutely stunning Italianate country mansion built in 1874...on the National Historic Register...an original Rose glass window, 7 fireplaces and sterling silver chandelier. 1874 Carriage House available for group functions and parties.

CITY: Oregon

23 Clark Street & Soap Shoppe

Full line of cross-stitch supplies with hand-dyed threads. Also available are "affordable luxury soaps," lotions and beauty accessories made in Oregon, Illinois. In addition, Longaberger baskets, antiques and more are sold. Located in Conover Square Mall.

CITY: Oregon

All Seasons Motel

31 deluxe rooms, with individually controlled air conditioning and heating units, offering some with jacuzzis, refrigerators, microwaves, near restaurants and offering WiFi.

CITY: Rock Falls

Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society Museum

This local museum explores the history of Sterling and Rock Falls.

CITY: Sterling

Tampico Area Historical Museum

This museum that focuses on the Tampico area features exhibits related to schools, agriculture, prominent families and businesses. Items on display include newspapers, funeral records and memorabilia.

CITY: Tampico

Blumin Stuff

Eclectic selection of home accents, florals, lamps, wall decor, and candles.

CITY: Dixon

Rock Falls Hotel

Has an onsite bar/lounge, banquet facilites/room, onsite fitness center, laundry services, free parking, pets allowed, onsite restaurant, room service, airport shuttle service, as well as an indoor swimming pool.

CITY: Rock Falls

New River Model Railroad Museum

See model trains in operation, an HO-scale model of the Chesapeake & Ohio RR circa 1950s West Virginia, and running diesel and steam locomotives on a double main line.

CITY: Sterling

American Heritage Antique Center

Antique center.

CITY: Sterling

Fin and Feather Campground

Campground for camping, hunting, and fishing. Located on backwaters of Mississippi River with boat rental, canoe rental, motor rentals, bait shop, concessions and canoe access

CITY: Thomson

Morrison-Rockwood State Park

Timbered, 1150-acre state park with 77-acre lake stocked with a variety of fish. Class A, 92-site campground with shower building and all sites with electricity. Separate equestrian campground.

CITY: Morrison