Captain Swift Covered Bridge

Located one mile west of Princeton in Bureau County, Illinois is the Captain Swift Covered Bridge. Built in 2006, the bridge derives its strength from its burr arch design, an idea patented by Theodore Burr of New York in 1804. Made entirely of wood using 1800s concepts (it has an outer skin of Douglas Fir), the Captain Swift Covered Bridge is the only two-lane covered bridge in Illinois. It has a 16’-3” vertical clearance, a 28 foot minimum roadway width and a 128’ span over the Big Bureau Creek. GPS co-ordinates - N41 22.745 W89 29.871

CITY: Princeton

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

Red Covered Bridge

This covered bridge is located 1 1/2 miles north of Princeton on Rt. 26. One of five remaining covered bridges in Illinois, this bridge was built in 1863 and is still open to traffic. It crosses Big Bureau Creek and was once part of the Peoria-Galena Trail. This beautiful landmark is a delight for artists, photograpers and nature lovers. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 149 foot span was built at a cost of $3,148.57.

CITY: Princeton

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

Hornbaker Gardens

Hornbaker Gardens is a family owned and operated nursery specializing in perennial flowers. Large collections of hostas, daylilies, iris and other perennials draw plant enthusiasts from all over the Midwest to this nursery in the country. Whatever we get interested in as gardeners, we seem to start providing for our customers as well. Thus, the offerings of granite and pottery, bronze sculptures and rusty metal artwork. In 2008, we put up a new building which we call The Shop at Hornbaker Gardens. It is stocked with garden art and other garden accessories where you are sure to find something unique for your garden.

CITY: Princeton

Rochelle Railroad Park

View trains from the Union Pacific and BNSF railroads as they rush by the park pavilion and browse the railroad-themed gift shop.

CITY: Rochelle

Kramer's Kitchen and Catering

You thought our lunches were so good we decided to serve breakfast, too! Start your day with egg casserole or biscuits and gravy, then come on back for lunch! We have a super salad bar, great sandwiches (prepared with our own baked bread!), homemade potato chips (yes, some are flavored) and excellent soups. And don't forget the daily specials! We can also cater your special event. Just give us a call.

CITY: Princeton

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

Anne's Antiques

Located in the historic North End of Princeton, IL, Anne's Antiques is a quaint antique shop featuring vintage oak and walnut furniture, handmade quilts, pottery and glassware

CITY: Princeton

A Hundred Acres Orchard and Market

A fun-filled orchard featuring apples, berries, melons. The indoor market is filled with jams, jellies, sauces, dips, salsas, candy and homemade "take n bake" pies. Also unique is the Krazy Kernel Kettle Korn, produced right in Princeton! Specialty cheeses, such as Antonella, Buffalo Wing Jack, and Tomato Basil Yellow Cheddar are also available. Pair these cheeses with some of the wines that are sold in the new wine shop, or enjoy your purchase on the newly constructed outdoor patio area. The Cider Mill banquet room has been expanded to accommodate 200 guests, so plan your wedding, reception, party, or reunion here!

CITY: Princeton

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

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

Amish Ways Country Store

Quilts, crafts, florals, pottery, jams, jellies, popcorn, seasonal items and more. Christmas walk 1st weekend Nov.

CITY: Paw Paw

Annie's Little Pots and Pottery Center

Annies Little Pots is a “must-see” shop in Princeton, Illinois. Discover many local artists along with Ann Dittmer’s beautiful hand-made pottery, created in her on-site studio. Besides Princeton's own handmade pottery, you’ll find Metal Sculpture, Home & Garden decor, soaps, candles, jewelry, and original paintings. Want to try your hand at the Pottery Wheel? Schedule a Pottery Class. The Pottery Cellar located in the basement of Annies Little Pots features a fun Paint Your Own Pottery Studio.

CITY: Princeton

Stonehouse Park - RV & Campground

The park has approximately 100 water, electric and sewer hookups. Each electric hookup has 20amp, 30amp and 50amp service. These hookups can be used with RV's, vendor vehicles, booths, tent or camp setups, and other purposes. Ample space is available for open or primitive camping. Rates may vary depending on group size and facility requirements.

CITY: Earlville

Prairie Hill Barn Bed and Breakfast

A historic home, circa 1834, bed and breakfast, and riding retreat (capacity 16 guests) featuring antique-filled rooms, homemade continental breakfast, English riding instruction, and over 90 miles of scenic trails.

CITY: Princeton

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

Beetz Me!

Enter this 1860's once-upon-a-time hardware store and find another state of mind! Submerge yourself in the laid-back, fun atmosphere and enjoy the attentive service. You won't find nuts and bolts anymore, but you will find a world full of unusual gifts such as imported glass and serveware and home decor, some with more than a little attitude. Features a variety of wines, gourmet mixes and condiments, homemade gourmet chocolates and espresso drinks. Become a fan on facebook!

CITY: Princeton

Rock River Miniatures

This miniature horse farm is located in Whiteside County.

CITY: Rock Falls

The Frameworks -- Dixon

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

CITY: Dixon

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

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

Jeff Adams "Images In Bronze"

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

CITY: Mount Morris

Apollo Theatre

In 2009, Lara & Joachim (Jay) Schneider bought the Apollo. Since then there have been quite a few changes. Just recently new seats were installed and the concession area was given a make-over. We offer "Buy Nachos For One Buck Mondays" and BYOB (Bring Your Own Bucket and fill it up for only 75 cents) Tuesdays! If you never been to the Apollo or haven't been in awhile, please come and see this Princeton landmark!

CITY: Princeton

Granny's Berries

Stop by and pick your own blueberries and red raspberries.

CITY: Rochelle

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

Hume Carnegie Museum

Wild Bill Hickok, extensive photographic collection, memorabilia of yesteryear, and special exhibits.

CITY: Mendota

Princeton Main Street

Two and a half miles of magnificent shopping! Unique specialty shops, antique malls and services. So many shops...so little time.

CITY: Princeton

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

Shabbona Lake State Park Campground

Shabbona Lake State Park Campground is a semi-wooded area with 150 Class A sites with electricity, showers, vehicular access, boat launch, playground, kid's fishing area, and The Camp Store. Bring your own poles or use The Camp Store's loaner fishing poles! We also have paddle boats that you may rent to enjoy a scenic view of Shabbona Lake. Each campsite has a gravel parking space, picnic table, and a campfire ring. Shabbona Lake State Park has two cabins available for rent. The cabin consists of two rooms that total approx. 200 square feet. Cabins are located near the shore of the lake and are fairly secluded.

CITY: Shabbona

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

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

Owen Lovejoy Homestead

The Owen Lovejoy Homestead, built in 1838 was the home of the famous abolitionist minister. Part of the Underground Railroad, rooms are furnished with period furniture and visitors can peer into the hidden area above the stairs where runaway slaves hid. The 1849 Colton One-Room Schoolhouse is behind the house. Located on East Peru Street a half mile from downtown Princeton. Call for dates and times open.

CITY: Princeton

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

Atwood Park War Memorial

The memorials here are a tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War, Korean War, Gulf War and World War II. The war memorials are the only ones built in the U.S. by youth, constructed by Boy Scouts of Troop 312 Rochelle as Eagle Projects.

CITY: Rochelle

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

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

B L Kassabaum Artist's Gallery

Limited edition prints, originals, conservation framing, appraisal art & photo restoration, cards.

CITY: Princeton

Sweeties

Family and Tradition. That says it all when describing Sweeties Caramel Creations. The chocolate and caramel recipes used by our grandmother are the foundation for our irresistible sweet treats. Our items are hand made the old fashioned way; one at a time with a loving touch. At Sweeties we do not "mass produce" nor do we "stock-pile" any of our products. To assure the freshness of our creations, it is Sweeties policy to make your sweet treats only after we receive your order.

CITY: Princeton

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

Bureau County Historical Museum

The Bureau County Historical Society Museum is located behind the Courthouse square at the intersection of beautiful Park Avenue West and Pleasant Street in Princeton, Illinois. The museum consists of two buildings that are next door to each other: the Clark-Norris Home, a handsome Prairie Square mansion built in 1900, and the Newell-Bryant House, a stately Greek Revival house dating back to 1853. The Museum is behind the Courthouse. There is free parking on Park Avenue in front of the Museum.

CITY: Princeton

Krafty Korner - Located inside R & D Do It Best Hardware

Unique gift items including, paintings from Spain, tractor collectables, yard art, candles, glass work, specialty items, and hard-to-find gift ideas.

CITY: Rochelle

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

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

Rochelle Railroad Diamond Lodge

The Rochelle Diamond Lodge is a charming Lodge located just 50 yards from the Rochelle Train Park. Three Guest Suites are currently available and an actual caboose is on site and being renovated and will be available to stay in soon! The Lodge's comfortable and tasteful decor will make you feel right at home. It's all about relaxation, and who would want it any other way? Picnic tables in the back are the perfect spot to barbeque or enjoy a nice tall glass of lemonade in the summer and enjoy your privacy taking pictures in front of the on-site caboose! RAILFANS: Enjoy your day at the Railroad Park and then just walk back across the tracks to your Suite!

CITY: Rochelle

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

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

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

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

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

deVine Wine Bar

Stop by to see Rochelle's newest addition to the Hickory Grove building offering fine wines on tap and micro-brew beers. We offer an elegant atmosphere & sophisticated menu.

CITY: Rochelle

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

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

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

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

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

Silver Ridge Golf Course

Silver Ridge is an 18-hole public golf course.

CITY: Oregon

Festival 56

Festival 56 is now a year-round professional theater festival, with 10 productions each year. Each season, Festival 56 assembles from across the country a team of the most creative and talented artists living and working in professional theater today. The festival presents a wide spectrum of programming, from free productions of Shakespeare to classic and world premier musicals and the masterworks of playwrights such a Steinbeck, Ibsen and Tennessee Williams. Festival 56 is committed to championing the American theater as an art form by creating a home for the artists who are its heart and soul.

CITY: Princeton

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

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

Sterling Mural Society

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

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

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

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

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

Unique Embroidery

Embroidery on shirts, caps, bags, etc.

CITY: Franklin Grove

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

Vitale's Pizza Cellar

If you love pizza, this is the place to go! Homemade, piping hot, thin or thick, we make 'em just the way you like them. If pizza's not your thing, try an Italian beef on our homemade bread, or choose from one of our other mouthwatering sandwiches or pasta dishes. We've been in business for over 50 years, so we know how to make it right...your way! Delivery available.

CITY: Princeton

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

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

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

Mendota Hills Wind Farm

The largest commercial wind farm in Illinois features 63 towering windmills that are an awesome sight to see, and generate an alternative source of electric power.

CITY: Paw Paw

Amma's

Full of color gift store with amazing variety of handmade clothing, specialty food items, colorful embellishments and jewelry, run by two of the most wonderful women you could meet. This shop is simply perfect!

CITY: Princeton

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

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

Best Western Reagan Hotel

Full service hotel in a beautiful rural setting.

CITY: Dixon

Austin Parker Naturals & Jaya Juice Bar

You will find hand picked, tried and true quality items that you can trust and rely on to assist you in natural lifestyles. Our guidelines for product selection include being vegan, gluten free, undesirable additive free, and as organic as possible.

CITY: Princeton

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

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