Aurora Historical Society.

This local history research archives houses historic photos, books, documents and maps covering Aurora's history from the 1830s to the present. Open by appointment only.

CITY: Aurora

Riverfront Playhouse

This popular local theater group performs original plays, musicals, murder mysteries, comedies and children's theater.

CITY: Aurora

Elgin Community Theatre

Award-winning community theatre featuring classical and contemporary musicals and play selections.

CITY: Elgin

Elgin Lanes

Bowling.

CITY: Elgin

Fabyan Estate and Forest Preserve

Created by Colonel and Mrs. George Fabyan, who lived on the 600-acre estate from 1905 to the 1930s, the estate includes a restored villa with diverse collections, a Japanese garden and a Dutch windmill.

CITY: Geneva

Fabyan Dutch Windmill

Located on the Fox River, the 68-foot-tall Dutch Windmill was built by two German craftsmen and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Geneva

Corner Grill on Main

We are known for our Italian beef, gyros (cooked on the spit), 10oz. burgers, Chicago-style hot dogs, and BBQ ribs. We pride ourselves on having great food, big portions, and fair prices. Located in downtown Genoa, stop in today!

CITY: Genoa

Wayne's World - Downtown Aurora

This excellent comedy follows the pursuits of a pair of suburban Aurora slacker friends who have a public access cable show and a penchant for ‘70s rock. The movie was filmed on location in Aurora and Chicago. One of the notable Chicago sites includes a kitschy gift shop with a large Indian statue on its roof.

CITY: Aurora

Ellwood House Museum

Perhaps the most notable of historic gems in DeKalb. This grand Victorian mansion was built by barbed wire millionaire Isaac Ellwood. Looks just as it did when the family lived there.

CITY: DeKalb

Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural -- DeKalb

The Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition has produced many Interpretive Murals along the Illinois Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway and its corridor in northern Illinois. The DeKalb mural depicts the history, heritage, and events of the highway and its impact on DeKalb and the other communities along the Illinois route.

CITY: DeKalb

Clearwater Theater

This theater venue hosts top-notch entertainment, local and national bands, karaoke and comedy shows.

CITY: Dundee

Artistic Florals by Michelle

Florals and custom made silks.

CITY: East Dundee

Children's Theater of Elgin

Exceptional theater productions are performed by children for children.

CITY: Elgin

Elgin Area Historical Society Museum

Housed in an 1856 landmark building, permanent exhibits include artifacts from the Elgin National Watch Co. and Elgin Road Race memorabilia.

CITY: Elgin

Atwater's Restaurant at Herrington Inn & Spa

Experience AAA Four Diamond fine dining on the waterfront. Atwater’s fresh regional cuisine, and an outstanding wine list combine to offer guests a unique and upscale dining experience with beautiful waterfront views. Reservations are suggested. Al fresco dining on our patio is available seasonally.

CITY: Geneva

Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural - Genoa

The Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition has produced many Interpretive Murals along the Illinois Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway and its corridor in northern Illinois. The Genoa mural depicts the history, heritage, and events of the highway and its impact on Genoa and the other communities along the Illinois route.

CITY: Genoa

Country Lanes

Good old-fashioned family fun.

CITY: Hampshire

Garfield Farm Museum

The Garfield Farm Museum is an 1840s living history farm featuring the story of the Garfield family, the Brick Tavern & Inn, restored barns, heirloom gardens, rare farm animals, restored prairie and more.

CITY: Lafox

Timber Creek Inn and Suites and Convention Center

Convention center and Hotel

CITY: Sandwich

River Rockhouse

Restaurant. bar, and music venue features live music. food, drinks. Enjoy St. Charles' largest covered patio with a great view of downtown and the river. Live local and national music acts. Large outdoor patio. Banquet space for 500.

CITY: St. Charles

Aurora Area Architecture

The Aurora area features diverse architectural styles, including designs by Frank Lloyd Wright, Mies van der Rohe, Bruce Goff and George Grant Elmslie. The area is also home to one of the largest collections of Sears mail order homes.

CITY: Aurora

David L. Pierce Art & History Center

The Aurora Public Art Commission hosts year round rotating exhibits of innovative visual arts. The Historical Society Galleries feature changing historical displays throughout the year.

CITY: Aurora

Red Oak Nature Center

A visit to the center will help folks learn about the native plants and animals of the Fox River Valley. Interpretive center, hiking trails, and tours of Devil's Cave.

CITY: Batavia

Exclusively Yours Leiza-George

A shopping experience like no other, this store has floor-to-ceiling gifts from around the would. Its specialties include handmade oak and Amish furniture, jewelry, linens, cards, Christmas items and more.

CITY: Belvidere

Fabyan Windmill

Authentic, five-story, 1850's working windmill located on Fox River Trail, Volunteer millers serve as docents on the weekends. Open May 15-Oct 15.

CITY: Geneva

Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Society

In 1977, the Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Society was formed to bring together area people who had an interest in local and regional history and its preservation.

CITY: Genoa

Fox River Trolley Museum

Celebrating more than 100 years of electric trolleys, this museum has original electric trains and cars that travel a three-mile circuit along the scenic Fox River.

CITY: South Elgin

Fermilab Ramsey Auditorium

The mission of the Fermilab Arts and Lecture Series is to celebrate the artistic and intellectual vision of Fermilab by actively fostering an appreciation of science and the performing arts in neighboring communities.

CITY: Batavia

The Milk Pail Restaurant, Banquet & Entertainment Complex

The place that makes any occasion a special occasion. Theatre, dinner shows, bingo, and the french country market.

CITY: East Dundee

State Street Market Shops

Thirty-five unique gift, antique and specialty shops and cafe.

CITY: Elgin

Geneva History Center

We offer award winning educational programs and professional exhibits that make the Geneva History Center a source of great community pride.

CITY: Geneva

LIttle Owl

Enjoy lunch, dinner or a snack at Geneva's landmark restaurant. For over 80 years, fine food and spirits have been served at very reasonable prices in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

CITY: Geneva

Old Town Pub & Eatery - Geneva

Neighborhood bar and grille that beckons friends to get together and join in the fun. Specializing in fresh salads, appetizers, mouth-watering sandwiches and tasty homemade french fries.

CITY: Geneva

Bowl - Hi Lanes

Enjoy bowling as well as karaoke every Friday and Saturday.

CITY: Huntley

Smitty's On The Corner

Gourmet sandwiches, soups and ice cream.

CITY: St. Charles

Jambalya Night Club/Pheasant Run Resort

Jambalya Night Club has entertainment Thursday, 8PM; Friday and Saturday nights 10PM.

CITY: St. Charles

Midwest Museum of Natural History

The mission of the Midwest Museum of Natural History is to encourage an appreciation of the world's diverse natural environment and human culture through exhibits and interactive learning experiences for children and adults. Offering a kid's play area with hands-on learning fun, a gift shop, national traveling exhibits, and world-renowned celebrities Ruud Kleinpaste, Jack Hanna and Jeff Corwin.

CITY: Sycamore

Wine & Roses Restaurant

Accommodates 260 between a sports bar and formal dining room. Specializes in meat.

CITY: Algonquin

Quality Inn - Aurora

51 rooms offer a blend of luxury and value. Adjacent to shopping and restaurants at Fox Valley Center. Meeting facilities, free continental breakfast, local calls and cable.

CITY: Aurora

Joseph F. Glidden Homestead and Historical Center

Built in 1861, the house and brick barn were constructed for local farmer and barbed wire inventor Joseph Glidden. The Illinois State Historical Society has commemorated the barn as the birthplace of barbed wire.

CITY: DeKalb

Joseph F. Glidden Homestead

Joseph Farwell Glidden's invention of one of the most widely-used types of barbed wire in 1873 helped change the history of the American West and had far-reaching impact throughout the world. His Homestead, a Victorian Mansion, in DeKalb, IL, is being preserved and restored by a not-for-profit organization founded in 1995. Both the home and the barn are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We welcome your visit and encourage your membership!

CITY: DeKalb

The Nehring Gallery

The Nehring Gallery is a space within DeKalb dedicated to promoting arts and culture. It is currently the home of the DeKalb Area Agricultural Heritage Association, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the storied history of agriculture in northern Illinois, through exhibits, educational programs and community outreach. Visit their website to see what exhibit is on display today!

CITY: DeKalb

Elgin Historic District

Explore rare architecture in this historic district, made up of 667 homes, that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Don't miss the house walk in September.

CITY: Elgin

Elgin Public Museum

In beautiful Lord's Park, this museum features over 15,000 specimens of natural history with newly expanded family focused hands-on exhibits.

CITY: Elgin

Oscar Swan Country Inn B&B

This historic building, a Colonial Williamsburg Revival, dates back to 1902. The Inn opened in 1988. It is decorated with antiques and collectables, giving the house a feeling of charm and delight. The Inn has eight bed-rooms, all unique and different, as well as several dining rooms and a glassed in Garden Room.

CITY: Geneva

Country Faire

Afghans, books, baby quilts, birdhouses and feeders, ceramics, goose clothes and geese, southwest artifacts, lawn and garden decor and more.

CITY: Hampshire

Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural -- Malta

The Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition has produced Interpretive Murals along the Illinois Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway and its corridor in northern Illinois. The Malta mural depicts the history, heritage, and events of the highway and its impact in Malta and on the communities in Illinois.

CITY: Malta

Opera House of Sandwich

The Opera House functions as a community oriented facility. It brings to its stage: theatre, lectures, recitals, weddings and a wide variety of outstanding performers, ranging from country to classical.

CITY: Sandwich

Bella Bridal

A full-service bridal and formal wear boutique, Bella Bridal can meet all your formal occasion needs.

CITY: St. Charles

McHenry County Historical Society Museum

Preserved buildings include an 1847 log cabin, an 1885 town hall, an 1895 one-room school house, and a 20th Century modern tourist cabin.

CITY: Union

Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural - Cortland

The Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition has produced many Interpretive Murals along the Illinois Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway and its corridor in northern Illinois. The Cortland mural depicts the history, heritage, and events of the highway and its impact on Cortland and the other communities along the Illinois route.

CITY: Cortland

Holiday Inn Express - Algonquin

Comfortable, convenient, economical accomodations

CITY: Algonquin

Riverview

Offering in-house dining as well as delivery services.

CITY: Algonquin

Swanhills Golf

This beautiful 18-hole golf course is enjoyable for all levels of golfers, located just minutes from Rockford in Belvidere.

CITY: Belvidere

The Primitive Chic

We are full to the brim with items from the early 1800's primitives to reproductions and one of a kinds. Each of our employees or "chickies" brings with her a unique style to showcase in our store.

CITY: DeKalb

Elgin Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center

World class music, dance and theatre. Enjoy an evening out, entertainment for the family, or a chance to satisfy your cravings for culture.

CITY: Elgin

Hemmens Cultural Center

Home of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, this facility contains a 1200-seat theatre and an 11,340 square foot exhibition hall with fully equipped banquet kitchen. Host to many well-known artists.

CITY: Elgin

Kane County Events and Cultural Center

This 50-acre forest preserve houses the Philip B. Elfstrom Stadium (home of the Kane County Cougars minor league baseball team), the Roberta Campbell Cultural & Conference Center (used for art exhibits and community activities) and a picnic/park area.

CITY: Geneva

Settler's Hill Golf Course

This unique 18-hole course was built on the site of the old County Farm and Home; the dairy barn has been remodeled and is now used as a clubhouse. The course is 6,449 yards, par 72.

CITY: Geneva

Gallery 28 Fine & Functional Art

Tucked away in the quaint historic district of downtown Geneva, in an historic Victorian home is where you'll discover Gallery 28, an art gallery for both fine and functional art. Featuring a fresh mix of breath-taking paintings, exquisite jewelry, sculpture, photography, pottery and unique works in wood and metal along with music by premier musicians. The variety of art will interest serious fine art collectors as well as fine craft enthusiasts.

CITY: Geneva

Geneva Underground Playhouse

Producing mainstage productions throughout the year, and also hosting performances by comedy groups, musicians, playwrights and any number of other entertainers.

CITY: Geneva

Farnsworth House

Master architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created the ultimate minimalist masterpiece, the Farnsworth House, in pastoral Plano in 1951. The stellar structure of floor-to-ceiling glass seemingly "floats" above the rambling Fox River.

CITY: Plano

Bittersweets

Find all your home decor, rugs & candle needs at Bittersweets.

CITY: Sandwich

Marie Olmstead Museum

Described as "a hidden gem" of local cultural, natural and prehistoric history for lower DeKalb and upper LaSalle Counties. Three rooms comprising some 5,000 square feet packed full of artifacts and antiques that could be featured on "Antiques Raodshow". One of the "must-sees" is a 32-round flitlock rifle reportedly presented to Chief Shabbona at the signing of the peace treaty at Prairie du Chien in 1829. A favorite of the youngsters to see while visiting the museum is a stuffed, two-headed calf.

CITY: Somonauk

The Carving Shop

The Carving Shop features the work of Joe Dillet, Master Craftsman, and specializes in custom hand carved heirlooms for the family, church and architectural carvings. We work from your designs, or ours, to create an awesome look that only hand carving can achieve. All wood is seasoned. All work is protected with a finish that will last many years. All work is guaranteed.

CITY: Somonauk

Country Inn & Suites - St. Charles

Convenient to area restaurants, downtown St. Charles shopping. Each guest room includes a mini-fridge and microwave. New executive suite wing.

CITY: St. Charles

Noble Fool Theatricals at Pheasant Run Resort

Brand new theater includes stadium seating for 320 people with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.

CITY: St. Charles

St. Charles Heritage Center

Rotating exhibits of St. Charles history, including Civil War artifacts, local industry and other fascinating facts. Local history research archives available by appointment. Gift shop.

CITY: St. Charles

Country Mill Square - Waterman

Gifts and antiques. Cards, gifts, and country furniture built and hand-painted by local artisans. Christmas room, baskets, candles, throws, collectible dolls, pottery, and more. We buy antiques.

CITY: Waterman

Red Robin Restaurant

Home of the smiling burger.

CITY: Algonquin

Grand Army of the Republic Hall

Built in 1878 from funds raised by the people of Aurora, this structure was originally built as a monument to Aurora's Civil War veterans and as a shrine to their fallen comrades.

CITY: Aurora

The Village Vintner Winery

The Village Vintner Winery, a fully functional winery, is located in the heart of Carpentersville, Illinois. Come in, relax, and enjoy individually handcrafted award winning wines in the winery's distinctive atmosphere. They offer tastings daily of up to eight wines. Learn about different wines, food pairings or simply sample our blends of outstanding varietals. Their wine experts can help you select just the right wine for any occasion. Whether you are a beginner learning about wine, or an expert who enjoys wines from around the world, you'll find our winery the perfect place to explore new tastes and create your own personal vintage.

CITY: Carpentersville

NIU Anthropology Museum

The Anthropology Museum houses over 12,000 ethnographic and archaeological objects. The ethnographic collection has regional strengths in Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and the plains and southwest regions of North America. Ethnographic specimens from Africa, Mesoamerica, and South America are also represented.

CITY: DeKalb

Cracker Jax

Cracker Jax began in 1984 as a vintage clothing store and has since transformed into the magical place it is today! All senses are delighted as you shop 15 cases of new and vintage jewelry, eclectic clothing, soy candles, oils, incense, gemstones of every kind, unique gifts, stunning greeting cards, books, antique and shabby chic furniture, art and one-of-a-kind treasures.

CITY: DeKalb

No Strings Attached

A stroll through this store reveals fine antique furnitiure, knickknacks, old vinyl records, tapes, books, beer memorabilia, marbles, fishing items, old action figures, wall art, jewelry and more! You are likely to see some of the items taht you played with as a kid being sold here.

CITY: DeKalb

The Yarn Exchange

Bring your needle work and share, or get inspiration on your current or next project! The Yarn Exchange offers "Yarn Geeks Round Table", open knitting/crocheting every Saturday from 10:30am-5:30pm. They also carry a variety of yarns available for purchase such as: acrylic, alpaca, cotton, wool, worsted, and more. The Yarn Exchange also has a variety of needles and tools for the beginner or professional knitter/crocheter. Gift Certificates available.

CITY: DeKalb

Elgin Symphony Orchestra

Named "Orchestra of the Year" an unprecedented three times by Illinois Council of Orchestras, the ESO performs over 60 concerts a year thrilling more than 50,000 patrons, from Chicagoland to Wisconsin and Indiana.

CITY: Elgin

Genealogical Research Library

Research early history, marriages, cemetery and census records, and family books, all pertaining to Ogle County.

CITY: Holcomb

Village Peddler

Your store for unique country gifts and home accents.

CITY: Plano

Sammy's Bikes

Bike types: Road, Tri, Mountain, Cross and Comfort Bikes. They sell all accessories -- shoes, helmets, apparel, etc. They rent bikes, sell bikes on consignment and do all types of repairs. This is a one-stop shop for all your needs.

CITY: St. Charles

William Tanner House

Built in 1856, this Italianate is home to the Aurora Historical Museum which offers tours of the fully furnished home.

CITY: Aurora

Boone County Fairgrounds

Location for many events including craft shows, auto shows, animal shows, softball & volleyball games, and the Boone County Fair (held in August). Also see one-room school house relocated from northern Boone County.

CITY: Belvidere

Ellwood House Museum

The story of the Ellwood House reflects the central role of Isaac Ellwood in the development of the barbed wire industry in America. The magnificent estate is also a testimony to three generations of the Ellwood family whose tastes shaped the evolution of the house and grounds. As you visit Ellwood House you will be aware of the comfort and quality of workmanship that wealth could provide. At the same time, you also sense the warmth and hospitality of a family home that was lived in for almost one hundred years. The Ellwood House provides historical tours of the grand Victorian and are approximately one hour tour times. Tours are available for teachers, students, groups, and families. Capacity: 80-100

CITY: DeKalb

NIU Art Museum

The Museum serves to educate, preserve, exhibit and enlighten by balancing the challenges of contemporary art with the riches of traditional media for a comprehensive examination of visual culture. The Museum pursues its goal of furthering understanding of the visual arts by presenting a balance of high-quality, professional contemporary art exhibitions supplemented by written educational material, gallery talks, artist lectures, panel discussions, symposia and other related activities.

CITY: DeKalb

Spartan Meadows Golf Club

This course is a challenge for all levels, with competitive rates and a friendly staff.

CITY: Elgin

Olde Timers Antique Centre

One of the biggest and most beautiful antique stores in Illinois. More than 100 dealers in 50 large booths and 175 lighted showcases. Thousands of the finest antiques from primitives to china, toys to jewelry, rooms full of beautiful furniture.

CITY: Sandwich

River View Miniature Golf Course

Most challenging course in the Fox Valley Area! Naturally landscaped greens - multiple obstacles - sand traps - waterfall and babbling brook - windmill - lighthouse - bridges. Daily specials & discounts. Scenic views along the Fox River.

CITY: St. Charles

Giordano's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria - St. Charles

Located in the shopping center cross from Charlestowne Mall. Celebrating 30 years of pioneering the famous stuffed and equally renowned thin crust pizza! Pastas, sandwiches and assorted fresh salads. Open for lunch and dinner with a full service bar.

CITY: St. Charles

Silver Lake Restaurant - St. Charles

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Healthy Asian food.

CITY: St. Charles

Wasco Nursery & Garden Center

100+ acres of growing fields with a wide variety of trees, evergreens, and shrubs.

CITY: St. Charles

Primrose Farm Park

Park has ball fields, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, soccer goal posts, playground, benches & picnic tables, parking lot, pavilion and restrooms. A great family and group park.

CITY: St. Charles