Timber Lake Resort

Seven cabins open year round. Relax at the cabin, or enjoy the views of scenic Northwestern Illinois. New one and two bedroom cabins, sleep six, full bath, kitchenette, AC, TV, porches.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mt. Carroll Garden Walk

Stroll the brick streets and enjoy unique historic architecture while viewing beautiful flower, perennial and water gardens. Garden vendors and a farmer's market will be stationed in the Courthouse Square.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

Hailey’s Winery

Hailey's Winery specializes in handcrafted wines from grape varieties native to Illinois, as well as other varietals, and seasonal fruits. We are a fully functioning winery, with all wines produced and bottled on the premises. Wine tastings are available in our tasting room any time during our business hours, and we also have weekend music events. In addition to wine, we have homemade bread, cheeses, chocolates, and gift items.

CITY: Byron

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

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

Huff's Miniature Horses

Observe a small herd of miniature horses, and even groom the patient ones. Be sure to call and make a reservation.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

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

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

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

The Frameworks -- Dixon

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

CITY: Dixon

Blackhawk Trail Lodge

Hospitality abounds! Nestled along the beautiful Rock River, this cozy six-guestroom lodge offers a wonderful all-season porch with fireplace. Perfect for your next group retreat. Offering breakfast buffet for groups. Close to many attractions. Guest are welcome to use our private boat ramp. Or just relax and fish from our quiet river bank, or in a hammock at the river's edge. At Becky & Don's small but quaint lodge, it's all about relaxation and "Old Time Hospitality". Visit us on our FUN Web site for more information. Pets welcomed. Open year round.

CITY: Byron

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

Jeff Adams "Images In Bronze"

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

CITY: Mount Morris

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

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

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

Flower Fan-a-see

Full service florist with lots more. Stuffed animals, candles, angels, home decor, photo frames, plants, balloons, and custom designs.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

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

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

Mendota Hills Campground

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

CITY: Amboy

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

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

"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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robert F. Apple - Fishing Guide

Fishing guide - muskies, walleyes; all equipment furnished.

CITY: Chadwick

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

Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square

Experience the history of the second of the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas. It was at this site on August 27, 1858 that the Freeport Doctrine, an important statement regarding slavery and state's rights, was proclaimed by Douglas. The site is self-interpretative through a series of waysides that tell of the events and ideas which led up to the debates, as well as the life-size statues "Lincoln and Douglas in Debate."

CITY: Freeport

Country Palmer House

This 1911 home is nestled on a farm in Northwest Illinois. Take pleasure in our rolling hills, open spaces & country hospitality. Featuring a full country breakfast, seasonal fruits & vegetables from our garden. Hike, bike, bird watch, hunt or just relax.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

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

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

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

Byron Dragway

See NHRA championship drag racing.

CITY: Byron

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

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

Paone's Blackhawk Lanes

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

CITY: Sterling

Byron Civic Center

Musicals, comedies and mysteries are performed August-May at this civic center located in Byron High School.

CITY: Byron

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

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

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

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

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

Byron Natural History Museum

This natural history museum displays prairies, woodlands, wetlands and other interesting exhibits illustrating life as it existed hundreds of years ago in Northern Illinois. Be sure to make a stop at the museum gift shop.

CITY: Byron

Byron Museum Of History & Lucius Read House

The Byron Museum Complex consists of a large Exhibit Hall and the historic Lucius Read House, which was on the Underground Railroad and is a listed site on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The Read House features a permanent exhibit entitled, ‘From Shackles to Freedom: The Underground Railroad’ which shines a spotlight on Byron’s participation in the Underground Railroad. We are happy to accommodate group tours outside regular hours. Tours are free and are self-guided or a docent can be arranged. We also have ample meeting space available.

CITY: Byron

Wetlands Preserve

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

CITY: Freeport

Red Ruby Inn

This beautiful guest house offers three bedrooms & shared library/sitting room. 1 bedroom with private bath - 2 share a bathroom. Located in a historic brick home 2 blocks from business district offering unique shopping, coffee shops, antique shops & both fine dining & family friendly restaurants.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

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

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

Prairie View Golf Course - Byron Forest Preserve

This 18-hole course has bent grass fairways, tees and greens, a practice area, full-service clubhouse, and rental carts with canopies.

CITY: Byron

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

Mount Carroll Bowling Center

Join us for bowling -- stay for the fun! Full-service bowling center plus cosmic bowling, leagues and restaurant with daily specials. We can also host birthday parties.

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

A.G. Spalding: From Byron to the Big Leagues Exhibit

Located at the Byron Museum of History, this exhibit features Hall of Fame baseball pitcher Albert Spalding, from his youth in Byron to his league pitching career and the founding of the Spalding Sporting Goods Company.

CITY: Byron

Little Cubs Field

This replica of Chicago's historic Wrigley Field is complete with ivy, bricks, box seats, dirt and sod from the real Wrigley Field, plus a replica scoreborad and entry sign. It is open for exploring at no cost or is available for rental for birthday parties, picnics, corporate events and more. Rental fees are $45 per hour or $90 for two hours.Reservations may be made at our website.

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

Cross Creek Golf Course

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

CITY: Morrison