Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary

Tour Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. Personally guided tours are available seven days a week year round for up to six people per tour, but all tours are by appointment. Animal lovers can learn about, pet, hold and feel some of the 350 rescued animals, comprised of 30 different species. All income supports the rescued animals. Critter Camp is a non-profit, tax exempt, charitable, volunteer operated, no-kill facility that does not buy, breed, sell or exploit any animal.

CITY: German Valley

Krape Park

This beautiful Freeport park offers an antique carousel, waterfall, seasonal duck pond, miniature golf course, 18-hole disc golf course, tennis courts, a baseball diamond, a quarter mile nature trail, paddle boats, canoes, fishing, hiking, biking, a performance amphitheater, gardens, picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds including "Kid's Kastle", and sledding in the winter. The Yellow Creek Adventure Golf Course (miniature golf) is open daily from Memorial Day thru Labor Day from Noon to Dusk. The Disc Golf Course is open during regular park hours and is free to play. The carousel is open prior to Memorial Day on weekends from Noon to Dusk and from Memorial Day to Labor Day, it is open daily from Noon to Dusk. Yellow Creek boat rentals, including the duck paddle boats or the larger swan boat, are available daily from Memorial Day thru Labor Day weekend from Noon to Dusk. Park attractions are open seasonally; call ahead to confirm availability of specific attractions.

CITY: Freeport

Peaceful Pines

A charming cottage on situated on 19 acres, adjacent to Apple River Canyon State Park. Fishing, golf, shopping at your fingertips. Paradise for the birder, artist or author. Full kitchen, pet-friendly and quiet.

CITY: Apple River

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson - Stockton

Gateway to scenic Jo Daviess County. Affordable, clean, friendly and convenient. Complete breakfast, limited pet friendly. Near historic downtown Galena and Chestnut Mountain skiing. Nearby snowmobile trails, state parks, hunting/fishing.

CITY: Stockton

Famous Fossil Vineyard & Winery

Sample fine red, white, rose and fruit wines as you enjoy the view of the vineyard from the deck or tasting room. Enjoy the delicious cheeses, snacks, and other local products which are featured. The Sweet and Savory Plates with the best local cheeses, meats, fruits, veggies and sweets are available every day. During the summer, you can "Get Out and Game" with yard darts, croquet, bocce ball or indoor games such as Wineopoly, Foodie Fight, Brain Tease, cribbage and more. Visit their website to learn about their many events or to schedule a party, meeting or wedding party.

CITY: Freeport

Winnebago County Fairgrounds

Home of Winnebago County Fair, plus Pec Thing--huge bi-annual flea market and antiques sale

CITY: Pecatonica

Canyon Log Enterprises/Carriage House

Experience log home living at Apple Canyon Lake. Great couple's getaway, one bedroom suite, full kitchen, all linens provided. Access to amenities, lake, golf, restaurant. Call for extended stay rates.

CITY: Apple River

Blackhawk War Monument

This monument is located on the site of Kellogg's Grove, an early settlement established in 1827 on a mail route between Peoria and Galena, and now on the National Register of Historic Places. It honors those killed in the Blackhawk War, including in the final Illinois Battle which occurred at this grove in June, 1832. Abraham Lincoln, a member of the Illinois militia, helped bury five of the slain men. The remaining soldiers were originally buried throughout the area at the spots at which they fell. Fifty years after the war, local farmers collected the remains and buried them in one enclosure on top of this hill overlooking the Yellow Creek Valley. The 34-foot high monument was dedicated in 1886.

CITY: Kent

Indian Springs Lodge Ltd.

This log cabin getaway is cradled by nature. Delighted guests fish from the pedal boat and canoe across the pond to the tepee. Star-gaze, listen to the woods' silence, be at peace.

CITY: Stockton

Lena Lions Park

Lions Park, at over 20 acres, features Splash Land Family Aquatic Center with a 180' waterslide, zero depth entry, many shade shelters, wet sand play area, water features and drop slide. The Splash Land Mini-Golf offers one of the nicest 18 hole miniature golf courses in the Midwest. It has over 275 plant varieties, 4000+ square feet of water areas, three waterfalls and challenges that the entire family will enjoy. The course is ADA compliant. Quench your thirst and your appetite at the Splash Land Food Court. Full restaurant offering sandwiches to soft serve and smoothies to salads - a true family food court. The park also offers picnic and playground areas, flower gardens, shelter house, a concession stand, volleyball and basketball courts, lighted ball diamond, batting cages and restrooms. A 110x110' ice rink is available in season.

CITY: Lena

Apple River Canyon Photography

Photographer Larry Backe specializes in families, pets and seniors. Commercial also available. Visit his studio and gallery. Portraits by appointment.

CITY: Apple River

German Valley Historical Museum

This newly refurbished museum features displays of memorabilia relating to the history of German Valley and the surrounding area, including items from the Ostfriesian area of Germany. A kitchen area, bedroom, dining room, parlor, military room, and children's playroom are furnished with items from the past, and a display room offers a variety of exhibits. A schoolroom contains items of interest from German Valley's Pleasant Prairie Academy and other area schools. Farm and other outdoor exhibits are featured in an outdoor facility. Special events and displays are featured throughout the year.

CITY: German Valley

Winslow Village Park Campground

This scenic and unique camping area offers nine sites with electrical and water hookups. One dump station is available. A shelter house is also offered. Pets, recreatiional vehicles and campfires are allowed. Maximum length allowed is 30 feet and maximum stay is six days. Rates: water and electric: $5 per day; With air conditioning: $6 per day; Tent camping: $3 per day. Open: May 1 thru November 1.

CITY: Winslow

StockHolder's Saloon

Visit this vintage saloon filled with 'local color.' Coldest tap beer in town.

CITY: Apple River

Northwest Design

Glass studio nestled in the hills offers a shopping experience. Local glass artists at work using lampwork and fusing techniques.

CITY: Stockton

Cedarville Art Glass

Dan Edler, a nationally known artist, creates fine art glass and sculpture. Collectors have been acquiring his work for over 40 years. Visitors are welcome anytime or by appointment for large groups.

CITY: Cedarville

Antiques at Hillwood Farms

Country and early New England furniture and accessories.

CITY: Pecatonica

Ink & Paper

Unique, fun gifts for all ages and occasions. Located in historic downtown Stockton, five blocks south of US Hwy 20.

CITY: Stockton

Rock Run Peddler

A quaint red cottage with a unique gathering of primitives, folk art, florals, and garden decor. Also seasonal garden to enjoy.

CITY: Rock City

Blue Orchid Gift Shop & Art Gallery

Local artists offer unique one of a kind gifts, including pottery, photography, paintings, gift cards, textiles, and jewelry.

CITY: Freeport

Orangeville Farmers Market

First Saturday in July through Second Saturday in October -- enjoy fresh produce, fresh baked goods, crafts and more provided by local farmers.

CITY: Orangeville

"Christmas on the North Side" Craft Show

This 11th annual craft show over 25 crafters offering primatives, jewelery, basket weaving, loom weaving, quilted items, florals, wreaths, painting and more.

CITY: Pearl City

Fran's Fantastic Antiques, Collectibles

Shop this unique inventory for antiques and collectibles including antique toys, furniture, linens, rugs, jewelry, books and more. The inventory is constantly changing, so stop and shop in the country.

CITY: Ridott

The Empty Attic

A quaint country store offering a quirky mix of old and new. Home decor, lighting, furniture, antiques and just loads of fun - little unique items. Affordable prices and great holiday items and weekly specials.

CITY: Rock City

Jane Addams Recreation Trail

This multi-use 15 mile recreational trail offers beautiful scenery and is highlighted by 21 decked bridges passing over and through wetlands, creeks, woods, prairies, geologic formations and farmland. The trail is part of the Grand Illinois Trail that traverses Northern Illinois. Its crushed limestone surface may be used by hikers, bicyclist, snowmobilers, and cross-country skiers. An additional two miles of paved trail to Highway 26 has been constructed at the southern end. The final two mile connection into historic downtown Freeport will soon be under construction. The Jane Addams Trail connects at the Wisconsin state-line with Badger Trail which extends to Madison, Wisconsin. It will also connect, in downtown Freeport, with the Pecatonica Prairie path currently under development between Freeport and Rockford. Access to the trail is available at the Wes Block Access, Freeport (exit off Highway 26 1/4 miles south of the Highway 20 intersection).

CITY: Freeport

Kitchen Carvers

Visit this delightful kitchen store full of artisan-quality, handmade, wooden spoons, spatulas, bowls and other kitchen products all made on site.

CITY: Lena

Ghost Town Antiques

Country furniture, copper, brass, country accessories, woodenware, smalls, iron and tin. Appointment necessary.

CITY: Pecatonica

Artesian Well at Paradise Cove

Nestled along Indian Creek is a natural artesian well where thousands of gallons of pure water flow each day - as it has since 1927. A ten foot water wheel is turned continually by the flowing water. The sire, which is accessed by Stephenson County's only covered bridge, includes a waterfall, large flower beds and gazebo to enjoy while sipping the bubbling water

CITY: Winslow

Oakdale Nature Preserve

This Nature Preserve offers 133 acres of oak and hickory woodlands, restored prairies and shallow streams. Over four miles of winding trails are great for hiking, running, cross-country skiing, nature study and quiet reflection. Facilities, which are available to rent, include the Mogle Learning Center with meeting space for 20 people, a lodge with a kitchen and dining hall that can seat up to 80. The Oakdale Octagon Shelter has seating for up to 350 and a stage. Two picnic shelters as well as other picnic tables are available.

CITY: Freeport

Freeport Farmers Market

All local products from certified organic to conventional fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies, bedding plants, perennials, fresh flowers, loose leaf teas, and handmade bath and beauty products in a festive market atmosphere. The Freeport Farmers Market is in operation from May through October in the CVS parking lot on South Street in Freeport.

CITY: Freeport

Garnhart's Oliver Museum

Explore the largest Oliver Hart-Parr collection in the Midwest, including farm toys, advertising, and collectibles dating back to 1860, and real antique tractors and machinery. Bus and group tours are available, but should be scheduled in advance.

CITY: German Valley

Lena Water Tower

Built in 1896, the 100-foot-tall tower is believed to be one of only three in Illinois of similar construction, and has become the symbol of the Village of Lena.

CITY: Lena

Huron Farm Market

This multi-seasonal shop offers a garden center in the spring, a summer produce market, and fall and Halloween items in the autumn. From April thru October, also enjoy a flea market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

CITY: Eleroy

Butch's Antiques

American country antiques/primitives. Restoring of 18th and 19th century and new furniture. Refinishing, cabinet making, and fire and water damage restoration. Accepting Master Card and Visa.

CITY: Freeport

4 Seasons Bowling Center

This is a 40-lane bowling center with automatic scoring, Thunder Alley sound and light experience, which is open to the public. Jumping Joe's Sports Bar & Grill, Flip Pizza Restaurant, & full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

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

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park Campground

This undiscovered, comfortable, and family oriented campground in Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park offers 183 camping sites. Electrical hook-up is offered at 132 sites. Also available are 12 hydrants for water, a trailer dump station; flush toilets and showers are available from May 1 to October 31. An equestrian campground and trails are available from April 15 to November 15 - weather permitting. Pets and campfires are allowed. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Reservations seven days in advance of arrival my be made at www.reserveamerica.com. Rates: Electric Sites: $20 (Non Holiday Weekends) $30 (Holiday weekends - Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day) Non Electric Sites: $10. Illinois residents 62 and over receive a $5 discount Monday thru Thursday.

CITY: Lena

Andrew's Mill Park

Picnic area, pond for fishing & ice skating with handicap accessible fishing pier, Gerald Strohecker natural area with native woodland, prairie and wetland.

CITY: Pearl City

Emerald Acres Campground

Open: May 1 thru October 15. This campground offers 46 sites with electrical and water hookups in additions to 70 permanent sites, as well as tent sites. Sewer hookups are offered when available. Also offered are two bath houses with flush toilets, showers, beach swimming, a restaurant, and playground area. Pets on a leash and campfires are allowed. Special amenities include fishing, and activities on holiday weekends. Visitors are invited to enjoy the summer at this special place. Electric and water site: $25; Ten sites: $20. Rates are for 2 adults and two children under 17. Additional day visitor is $3.00 or $5.00 for additional overnight visitor.

CITY: Pearl City

McArthurs Reclaimed Treasures Antiques

McArthurs specializes in reclaimed garden treasures and also has a wide variety of antiques, and collectibles on two floors. This wonderful shop is a must for lovers of garden antiques.

CITY: Lena

Lincoln The Debater Statue

This famous statue was designed by Leonard Crunelle of Chicago, and was presented to Freeport at the 71st anniversary of the Lincoln-Douglas Debate on August 27, 1929, by local industrialist W. T. Rawleigh. It is located in Taylor Park.

CITY: Freeport

Lincoln Park

Enjoy this park offering a picnic area, playground, shelter and restroom facilities as well as access to the Pecatonica Prairie Path which is currently under construction. The Pecatonica River may also be accessed for boating and canoeing approximately 200 yards from the park.

CITY: Ridott

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

Memory Lane Retreat

Located in the serene countryside, this is the perfect location for a getaway with friends. The home has three bedrooms which accommodate up to nine, a fully-equipped kitchen, dining room and three bathrooms. There is a beautiful and spacious Great Room with natural light overlooking the pond and countryside which is a perfect spot for a group to enjoy scrapbooking, quilting, knitting, or just getting away. Rates: Week Day: $75 to $99 per person; Weekend: $99 to $125 per person.

CITY: Orangeville

Wetlands Preserve

57-acre wetlands preserve features wildflower, birds, and wildlife, which may be viewed from an observation deck.

CITY: Freeport

Soldiers Memorials

The Civil War Soldiers Monument, on the southwest corner of the Stephenson County Courthouse, is inscribed with the names of those soldiers from Stephenson County who lost their lives in the Civil War. On the southeast corner is the Stephenson County Vietnam Era Veterans Memorial, which is a bronze statue of a full-sized M-16 with a bayonet stuck in the ground and a helmet on top.

CITY: Freeport

Zealous Art Studio

This exceptional art gallery features local artists - paintings, photography, ceramics, and woodworking. Also offered are children's art classes as well as pottery classes.

CITY: Freeport

Fever River Railroad

For model railroad aficionados -- and everyone else who ever enjoyed model trains -- this model railroad is something to see. The Fever River Railroad is a 120X24-foot HO scale model of a hypothetical railroad running from Duluth, Minnesota to St. Louis, Missouri. This fully operational model railroad has detailed scenery, rail yards, factories, and interchanges with many other railroads. The model railroad allows for the operation of multiple trains along railroad right-of-way that portrays typical towns along the Duluth to St. Louis route. The Fever River Railroad is an ongoing project with upgrades to the layout and scenery that provides an exciting model railroad experience. A collection of railroad memorabilia and pictures, many from the surrounding area, are on display throughout the facility. The Stephenson Society of Model Trainmen, who operate the railroad, host an open house twice a year, and visitors are welcome at other times by appointment.

CITY: Freeport

Lena KOA Kampground

Visit the KOA for a complete camping experience, including cottages, cabins and campsites, at this friendly, quiet, and relaxing rural setting. The five log cottages offer shower baths, kitchenettes, gas log fireplaces and air-conditioning. One cottage is wheelchair accessible. There are six cabins with heat and air-conditioning. The guest provides bedding and utensils, but has use of the KOA's Kamping Kitchen. There are ninety campsites that include full hookup, open grassy or wooded sites, and big rig long and level pull through sites with 50 AMP service. The recreation/game roon, heated pool with slide, bike rental, jumping pillow, playground, and sand volleyball will be a hit with the kids. Pets on a leash and campfires are allowed. Small county store with groceries and gift shop, RV supplies, and LP gas are also available. Open: April 1 thru November 1 (Limited winter facilities)

CITY: Lena

Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad and Silvercreek Museum

All aboard, as a 36-ton, 1912 Heisler steam locomotive pulls three cabooses, including an antique red caboose reported to be the oldest in the state, for a four-mile ride through farmlands. Purchase your ticket at the Silver Creek Depot, a turn-of-the-century replica filled with railroad artifacts, and browse the Freight House Gift Shop and Silvercreek Museum that's filled with early Americana.

CITY: Freeport

Cheese Market

This cheese shop features a wide variety of cheese, as well as local artisan cheese, sausages, Amish salsas, jams and local vegetables. Open: Sunday: 11 am - 4 pm; Monday - Friday: 10 am - 6 pm; S: 9 am - 6 pm.

CITY: Freeport

Spare Time Lanes (Lena)

Enjoy the fun of bowling.

CITY: Lena

Pec Playhouse Theatre

Performances produced by people dedicated to proividing quality community theatre in an intimate, rustic venue.

CITY: Pecatonica

4 Season Bowling Center

40-lane center with automatic scoring. Jumpin' Joe's Sports Bar & Grill and full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Lena Farmer's Market

Local farmers offer this seasonal farmers market with a variety of locally grown seasonal produce, fruit, and baked goods. Open every Saturday from 8 am - 11 am June thru September.

CITY: Lena

Lena Area Historical Museum

The Lena Historical Museum tells the history of Lena and the surrounding area, with galleries focusing on various historical topics. Highlights include a Civil War regimental flag and an extensive clothing collection. Also on the grounds are a summer kitchen, the first log schoolhouse built in Lena, an Illinois Central Railroad caboose, a general store, a recreated chapel, and a barn filled with antique vehicles and farm tools.

CITY: Lena

Woodbine Glass Museum and Gift Shop

Museum displays 4,000 pieces of hand-blown glass, including contemporary and antique work from many countries. Glass blowing video. Gift shop.

CITY: Stockton

Stockton Heritage Museum

Stockton Heritage Museum is a not-for-profit entity dedicated to the preservation and teaching of Stockton area history. Discover exhibits on the Chicago Great Western Railroad, model trains, history of Kraft Foods, and Stockton area history exhibits.

CITY: Stockton

Read Park

Read Park offers many recreational opportunities and is highlighted by the Read Park Family Aquatic Center, which includes a zero depth pool, water slides and play area, and by a state of the art 11,000 square foot skate park, SK8 Park. This scenic park also features baseball and softball diamonds, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, an outdoor lighted hockey and ice staking rink, concession stand, picnic areas, shelters, and playgrounds. The Morgan Memorial, a charming statue of two children surrounded by fountains, is a serene spot to enjoy. Park attractions are open seasonally; please call ahead to confirm availability of specific attractions and costs.

CITY: Freeport

Jane Addams Burial Site

Jane Addams, born and raised in Cedarville, was an internationally famous humanitarian and social work pioneer who founded Chicago's Hull House and won the Nobel Peace Prize. She is buried in this lovely old hillside cemetery.

CITY: Cedarville

Lindo Theater

This historic movie theater, built in 1922, features first-run movies presented in the latest 4K digital projection and sound on nine screens. Stadium seating, digital 3D and party room.

CITY: Freeport

Jeanette Lloyd Theater

Large theater with seating for 850

CITY: Freeport

McConnell Area Historical Society & Museum

Items on display in this local town museum include a mill stone, ox yoke, McConnell telephone switchboard, and other items relating to the history of McConnell and Waddams Township. There is a large collection of family histories, obituaries, and genealogical materials. Special activities and exhibits are planned for each of the open dates.

CITY: McConnell

Winslow Historical Society Museum

Discover the history of Winslow. Featuring displays relating to discovery of cream cheese, which had its beginnings in Winslow and later made famous as Philadelphia Cream Cheese. Also see the history of Doc Carver's Wild West Show.

CITY: Winslow

Cedarville Historical Museum

This museum is located in an 1889 school building and features a permanent exhibit honoring Jane Addams, who was born and raised in Cedarville. Miss Addams was an internationally famous humanitarian and social work pioneer who founded Chicago's Hull House and won the Nobel Peace Prize. Museum exhibits include personal items and memorabilia from her life and the life of her family. There are also changing exhibits on topics of local historical interest and a research center and a research center.

CITY: Cedarville

Dakota Nature Trail

The Dakota Nature Trail for biking, hiking, and cross-county skiing links Dakota Park with the Dorothy Wirth Nature Area. The trail surface is crushed limestone and follows a former railroad right-of-way. The trail begins on Main Street in Dakota.

CITY: Dakota

Old River School Historic District

This residential district includes original Freeport and the city's first street, Monterey, and was later known as the "Gold Coast". Points of interest include Freeport's oldest house (built in 1838), the childhood home of famed Hollywood gossip columnist Louella Parsons, a monument honoring Freeport's founder, William "Tutty" Baker, and the Van Buren Bridge, built in 1885 of wrought iron.

CITY: Freeport

Silvercreek Museum

This museum, operated by the Stephenson County Antique Engine Club, which also operates the Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad, offers 20 rooms of early Americana. Exhibts include 500 pieces of crockery, dolls, a recreated schoolroom and kitchen, art exhibits, quilts, tools and agricultural equipment, and many other historical exhibits. Also on the grounds is a display of antique machinery and an exhibit of Henny Motor Company vehicles which were manufactured in Freeport. Plus visitors can view the Cooper-Corliss engine, a giant 130-ton steam engine with a 25 foot flywheel which originally operated a rolling mill in a zinc plant. Special exhibits and events are featured throughout the year.

CITY: Freeport

Uniquely Yours Quilt Shop

Enjoy this store offering over 6000 bolts of the finest quality 100% cotton quilting fabric, quilt books, patterns, supplies and classes. Original designs and patterns plus kits galore.

CITY: Freeport

Wall of Yarn

This small shop offers a wide variety of yarns, needles and accessories. Classes in knitting, crochet and weaving are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Friends Forever Humane Society Dog Park

Take your dog to this special 10 acre fenced dog park with a pond (for dog swimming ony). The park also offers a separate fenced area for small dogs and a dog agility equipment area. Fee is $5.00 per dog per day.

CITY: Freeport