2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 131 items
Great River Road
This scenic drive follows the flow of the mighty Mississippi River as it curves along the western edge of Illinois and meanders for more than 550 miles, traveling through charming small towns and offering beautiful river and woodland views along the way.
CITY: Fulton
Geneseo Campground
Enjoy the Hennepin Canal recreational trail through our rentals: canoe, kayak and boat rentals. Also try pedal carts or pull out your fishing pole, bike or sneakers and explore nature.
CITY: Geneseo
Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities
Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities is the perfect for fun-filled outdoor adventures. This 54-acre facility is located just off 1-80 & I-88 near East Moline IL. Make your reservations today and enjoy zip lines, panning for gems, hay rack rides, and wonderful hiking trails. This facility is also available for parties and corporate team building. An elegantly decorated 8,000 square foot banquet facility with an extensive menu is available. The facility also offers interactive games, inflatables, dunk tanks, water slides, laser tag, and more. Check out these annual fall events that include Pumpkin Festival the last weekend in September and the QC Haunted Forest every Friday & Saturday in October. Call (309) 523-3619 for reservations or more information.
CITY: Port Byron
Geneseo Campground
Located 4 miles north of I-80 at exit 19 and adjacent to the historic Hennepin Canal. Shady, quiet camping in the midst of nature's wonders. Spend a night in one of our four rustic cabins. Try the Yurt Accomodations. It is 20 foot diameter, and sleeps 8. It has one queen bed and 2 bunk beds with a full on bottom and twin on top Rent a canoe or kayak and relax on historic Hennepin Canal. Bring you own bicycle or simply walk to enjoy the recreational trail along the Hennepin Canal. The town of Geneseo has great Victorian homes with welcoming porches. In additional to the RV camp sites, there are 12 tent sites available. Internet services on site.
CITY: Geneseo
Long's Garden
Tour the walk-through gardens and browse the nursery selling 170 different ornamental grasses, trees and shrubs.
CITY: Fulton
Grand Illinois Trail
The Grand Illinois Trail (GIT) is a 535-mile loop trail in northern Illinois. It goes from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi along the northern border of Illinois and then loops back across the state along the Illinois River and the Hennepin Canal. 200 miles of the route is on paved township and county roads while the rest is on limestone trails or paths. Hennepin Canal Communities - Annawan, Atkinson, Geneseo and Colona
CITY: Atkinson
Mississippi River Lodge
Our Mississippi River Lodge is located right on the banks on the Mighty Mississippi River between Savanna and Thomson Illinois and offers awe-inspiring views from every angle. We offer 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, living room with fireplace & big screen TV, deck with grill, a fully stocked kitchen and much more! If you are a river lover, this is the place for you. Fishing, water skiing, tubing, or cruising up the river, it's all here for your enjoyment. Since we are located on Big Slough, off of the main channel of the river, you can have fun without having to deal with a lot of river traffic. Access to the main channel is easy if you want to cruise the river. Only five miles up the river is Lower Sabula Lake which offers a great new sand beach. There is a public boat launch only a quarter mile from the house and a dock is provided to moor your boat at the house. If you do not have a boat, you can fish off the dock or the bank.
CITY: Thomson
Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
Good old fashioned family fun is in store - a peaceful, relaxing day of picnicking, hiking, biking and fishing. 104.5-mile linear park spanning through the communities of Annawan, Atkinson, Geneseo and Colona in Henry County. In wintertime experience the longest snowmobile trail in the state -- 91 miles on the tow path. You can use the ice at your own risk, but pay heed to the locks, bridges and culverts where the ice likely is thinner than the rest of the canal. Bring your blades, skating along the canal is free! Keep in mind the rule is there must be 4" of snow and 6" of frost on canal for route to be open. Call the Visitor Center for automated message.
CITY: Atkinson
8 - 10
The Great River Tug Fest
This is the only tug-of-war across the mighty Mississippi River. On Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., barge traffic, pleasure boats and paddleboats yield the right of way to a 2,400 foot, 680 pound rope that stretches between LeClaire, Iowa and Port Byron, Illinois. Eleven teams from each side are formed and the side with the most winning teams takes the Alabaster Eagle trophy for that year. Currently the score is tied 10 - 10. A family weekend event filled with carnival rides, live entertainment, a huge parade, scenic 5k run/walk, food, arts and craft vendors and one of the largest fireworks displays (friday night) in the two state area. Admission charged. Festival takes place on the Mississippi River at Port Byron IL Riverfront. Hwy. 67 & Port Byron. Call 309-523-2500 for more information
CITY: Port Byron
Sherwood Forest
During Christmas, Sherwood Forest is adorned with decorations and twinkling lights. Any time of year view a variety of animals, including turkeys, rabbits, peacocks, llamas, and miniature goats and deer.
CITY: Prophetstown
Indian Mounds State Historic Site
One of the largest prehistoric Hopewell Mounds group in Illinois - interpretive brochures on site.
CITY: Albany
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
Atkinson Motorsport Campground
Enjoy your stay at the state of the art campground. There are 28 sites that will easily accommodate a 40' motor-home and then some! All sites have electricity and water, while some have sewer. A dump station is at the east end of the campground. There are 6 total shower houses also available: Each room has a shower, toilet, sink and hooks to hang your towel. Enjoy your evenings with a fire in the public use area. This is a great place for getting to know your neighbors and sharing stories about your day of riding and fun!
CITY: Atkinson
Robert F. Apple - Fishing Guide
Fishing guide - muskies, walleyes; all equipment furnished.
CITY: Chadwick
Leisure Harbor Inn
Pre-Victorian, 1850's 4 guest room with private baths. Three and a half acres on Mississippi Riverfront. Marina on property - Boat in Summer - watch Eagles in Winter
CITY: Cordova
Cordova Dragway Park
This 1/4-mile drag racing facility features bracket racing on Saturday nights. An IHRA National event and many other specialty events are held here, including the World Series of Drag Racing.
CITY: Cordova
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
Richmond Hill Players
Theatre in the ‘Round atop the bluff since 1968. A unique in-the-round environment beneath original rustic timbers seats for this community theatre group. Six productions representing a wide variety of comedies, dramas and thrillers run from February through October.
CITY: Geneseo
Geneseo Historical Museum
The museum is housed in a historic home that features 27 rooms displaying exhibits that include a general store, dentist office, children's room and thousands of local artifacts.
CITY: Geneseo
Cross Creek Golf Course
This nine-hole golf course features a pro shop, bar, snack bar and putting green.
CITY: Morrison
Atkinson Historical Society Museum
This historical society museum has diplays and entertaining stories about the people and history of Atkinson, the Hennepin Canal, Rolle Bolle and Henry County.
CITY: Atkinson
Enchanted Forest
Choose and cut your own Christmas tree here. On weekends, caboose rides help transport your tree out of the Enchanted Forest.
CITY: Prophetstown
Paone's Blackhawk Lanes
This bowling alley features 20 lanes, a pro shop and a lounge.
CITY: Sterling
Thomson House Villager Lodge
40 unit extended stay motel. All rooms have microwave, refrigerator, on site cafe, and laundromat, pets welcome
CITY: Thomson
Albany Mounds
One of the most important archaeological sites in Illinois, Albany Mounds contains evidence of continuous human habitation over the past 10,000 years.
CITY: Albany
Prophetstown Historical Museum
Prophetstown is named for the Indian prophet Wa-bo-kie-shiek (White Cloud), the advisor to Black Hawk during the 1832 Black Hawk War. The museum is full of historic memorabilia, including the Eclipse Lawn Mower, which was manufactured in Prophetstown.
CITY: Prophetstown
Asa Crook Home
The Asa Crook Home is the first frame house built in 1839 by Whiteside County's first settler. The restored home is open for tours.
CITY: Prophetstown
Oct 31
Selmi's Pumpkin World
Pumpkins, haunted house, little spooks house, corn maze, animals, and much more.
CITY: Rock Falls
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
Great River Bike Trail
The bike trail in Fulton is one small section of the Great River Trail, which spans from Rock Island to Savanna (60 mi.).
CITY: Fulton
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
De Immigrant Dutch Windmill
Fulton's authentic Dutch windmill, called "De Immigrant," was prefabricated in the Netherlands and erected in the U.S. by Dutch craftsmen. The windmill sits on the flood control dike right in the heart of Fulton.
CITY: Fulton
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
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
Windmill Cultural Center
The Windmill Cultural Center houses an extensive collection of 21 European windmills representing ten European countries. Interpretive exhibits provide unique information on the products produced by windmills, country of origin, windmill specifications, and the cultural impact of windmills. The Education Area features video presentations of the windmill countries and an education area contains children's activities including coloring, puzzles, and toys promoting scientific concepts. The gift shop sells fresh stone-ground flour, Delft pottery, and souvenirs of Fulton, the Windmill Cultural Center and the windmill.
CITY: Fulton
Geneseo Campground
63 quiet, shady sites adjacent to the Historic Hennepin Canal. Full hookups. Log camping cabins. Tenters welcome. Clean, moderate bathrooms, playground, horseshoe pits, volleyball court, community building, laundry, dump station, LP gas.
CITY: Geneseo
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
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
Martin House Museum
The Fulton Historical Society is located in this Civil War-era home donated to the city by Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Martin.
CITY: Fulton
Heritage Canyon
On the Mississippi River in an old 12-acre quarry is where you will find a restored and furnished mid-1800s settlement. Paths through the wooded hillsides lead from one home site to another.
CITY: Fulton
Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area
Encompasses 871 acres of mostly unreclaimed strip-mining land. The area is dotted with some 15 stocked lakes for fishing. Be aware that shore access is limited and that shorelines tend to drop off suddenly into deep water.
CITY: Sheffield
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
Constantly Stitching N' More
Located on the Lincoln Highway in the old Unionville School, 1,200 bolts of 100% cotton quilting fabric, notions, books, patterns and antiques.
CITY: Morrison
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
Big Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area
1,188 acres of natural beauty. Fishing on Rock River and hunting.
CITY: Prophetstown
Rock Falls Hotel
Has an onsite bar/lounge, banquet facilites/room, onsite fitness center, laundry services, free parking, pets allowed, onsite restaurant, room service, airport shuttle service, as well as an indoor swimming pool.
CITY: Rock Falls
New River Model Railroad Museum
See model trains in operation, an HO-scale model of the Chesapeake & Ohio RR circa 1950s West Virginia, and running diesel and steam locomotives on a double main line.
CITY: Sterling
Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society Museum
This local museum explores the history of Sterling and Rock Falls.
CITY: Sterling
Tampico Area Historical Museum
This museum that focuses on the Tampico area features exhibits related to schools, agriculture, prominent families and businesses. Items on display include newspapers, funeral records and memorabilia.
CITY: Tampico
America's Best Value Inn
Conviently located just minutes off of Interstate 80; near downtown Geneseo, offering many shopping opportunities. Only 20 minutes from the Quad City International Airport and the mighty Mississippi. Wake up each morning to free SuperStart continental breakfast, and take advantage of amenities like free Wi-Fi and free large-vehicle parking to help your trip go smoothly. Unwind after a day on the road in our heated indoor pool, or just relax in your spacious room with cable TV. Book a suite to enjoy additional conveniences like a Jacuzzi, microwave, refrigerator and a sofabed or easy chair and ottoman. We have pet-friendly, non-smoking and handicapped-accessible rooms available, and kids 17 and under stay free with an adult.
CITY: Geneseo
O'Nell Agriculture Museum
This museum features exhibits of local history and antique farm tools.
CITY: Morrison
All Seasons Motel
31 deluxe rooms, with individually controlled air conditioning and heating units, offering some with jacuzzis, refrigerators, microwaves, near restaurants and offering WiFi.
CITY: Rock Falls
Air Play Sports & Espresso Bar
Air Play Sports in Sterling is YOUR source for Alternative Sporting Goods. We carry northern Illinois' largest selection of disc golf supplies, stunt kites, boomerangs and more. We are also the town's only full coffee bar with gourmet coffees, espresso, cappuccinos, lattes and more. We are family friendly with toys and coloring books for younger children as well as changing station in our clean restroom. We have live inventory on our website and we can be followed on Facebook and Twitter.
CITY: Sterling
Fin and Feather Campground
Campground for camping, hunting, and fishing. Located on backwaters of Mississippi River with boat rental, canoe rental, motor rentals, bait shop, concessions and canoe access
CITY: Thomson
Holiday Inn Express - Annawan/Kewanee Area
Air conditioning, cable TV, phone, indoor pool, sauna, laundry facility, fitness/workout center, great room, lounge, continental breakfast
CITY: Annawan
Atkinson Motorsports Park - Gob Hill
216 acre OHV Park in Northwestern Illinois. Once the Peabody Coal processing facility, over the past 40-years Mother Nature has created some of the best riding ground you will ever see. 100 acres of undiscovered timber with lakes and hills, 116 acres of desert-like riding with lakes, hills and valleys, and some of the most open and unrestricted riding you will find this side of California. For the more conservative riders, the perimeter road is over 4 miles long and has some beautiful vistas.
CITY: Atkinson
Great River Road Antiques
Antique mall featuring 80 dealers. Fleamarket, April-October.
CITY: Fulton
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
Timbered, 1150-acre state park with 77-acre lake stocked with a variety of fish. Class A, 92-site campground with shower building and all sites with electricity. Separate equestrian campground.
CITY: Morrison
North House
Full 4 BR home available for vacation rental by day or by the week. Located just one block from Prophetstown State Park on the banks of the Rock River. The large front porch is your first friendly hello as you enter this home away from home. With four bedrooms and a three season sleeping porch it's the perfect place for a small or large gathering of family or friends.
CITY: Prophetstown
Sandy Pine Elk Farm
Surrounded by a ridge covered with thousands of pine trees, Sandy Pine has some of the largest and top-ranked elk bulls in the Midwest. Take a tour through the pasture and snap some photos.
CITY: Deer Grove
Angelo's II
Serving Italian sandwiches, spaghetti, lasagna, Italian bread, ravioli, salad bar and pasta buffet. Banquet room is available for any occasion.
CITY: Sterling
Best Western Annawan Inn and Banquet Center
Conveniently located off of Interstate 80, Exit 33 with a friendly and personable management team. The facility offers 62 spacious rooms with a refrigerator, microwave and 25" television in every room. Select from a standard king, standard double, handicap accessible and extended stay rooms. Complimentary hot continental breakfast and free wireless Internet access. This facility has seating capacity for 450 people. It also has the ability to host three-break out rooms seating 75 each and hotel offers 1 meeting room seating 45. A Banquet Center adjoins hotel with for groups 400 maximum seating. Catering available.
CITY: Annawan
The Crafter's Mill
At The Crafter's Mill, located in Behrens’ Country Village, we give you not only great product and great value, but also great service. If you love beautiful decorative pieces, heartwarming keepsakes or one-of-a-kind accessories, you need to visit The Crafter's Mill. Among the items offered are seasonal decorations, country and wood primitive items, 14KT gold and sterling silver personalized bracelets and picture frames, lawn art. New Items arriving daily.
CITY: Rock Falls
Heirloom Market & Cafe
This rural style cafe will capture your senses. The decor is clearly slated rustic with a cozy and a distinctively pleasant ambience. The cafe is a staple of small town life with a sense of community as it embraces the environment that has been set forth by the Heirloom Market. We feature homemade baked goods and gourmet coffee. The espresso drink with steamed milk or variegated flavoring is designed for a picker upper or as a way to pass your time with a good book or to surf the free wi-fi internet.
CITY: Thomson
Atkinson Motorsports Park
Located in Atkinson, this 216-acre park offers some of the best riding ground around. It is only 30 miles east from the Quad Cities and two hours west of Chicago. Get ready to let your horses run. Gob Hill, the newest DNR OHV park in the great state of Illinois. Trails, hill climbs, mud bogs and timber await your machine. Go on top of the Gob and you will think you're in the desert and travel to the timber and we think you might get lost. Only a few trails have been created by us, but remember, the most fun is making your own. Stop out and go for a ride; you will find some of the most awesome riding in northwestern Illinois. ATVs and Dirt Bikes only.
CITY: Atkinson
Best Western Geneseo Inn
Conveniently located just minutes off of Interstate 80; near downtown Geneseo offering many shopping opportunities. Located only 20 minutes from the Quad City International Airport.
CITY: Geneseo
Prophetstown Park District Pool & Recreational Center
Indoor/outdoor pool with aerobic classes and open swims. Rec Center has volleyball and basketball courts.
CITY: Prophetstown
The Little Owl Shoppe Inc
We sell antiques and great gifts including jewelry, wine accessories, flower arrangements and every day and collector knives. We also sell fine cigars. But mostly, we are about wine. We sell good wine and have tastings when we are open. Our wine is not something that you can buy locally. We have worked hard on wine that tastes good but is nice and you will be very happy with the prices!
CITY: Prophetstown
Rock Falls Super 8
63 unit motel, 24 hour desk clerk, smoking/non-smoking, continental breakfast
CITY: Rock Falls
Arnold's Bicycle Repairs and Rentals
Located in downtown Thomson, Illinois near the Thomson Public Causeway and steps from the Great River Bike Trail that extends 62 miles from the Quad Cities to Savanna, Illinois. We specialize in Recumbent Bikes & Trikes so what are you waiting for? Test ride one of our recumbents and capture a view of the mighty Mississippi. We offer sales (new and used); service and repairs (the friendliest customer service around) and special requests - need something unique, customization or special needs – we can do it! We offer bike rentals, too!
CITY: Thomson
Eagle Point Horseback Riding Farm & Eagle Point Paintball Games
Horseback riding for young and old. Trails follow Elkhorn Creek. Great for the more experienced rider. Paintball field is on island off Elkhorn Creek.
CITY: Milledgeville
Prophet Hills Country Club
Built in 1966, this semi-private, 18-hole golf course is situated on extremely hilly terrain, and features a putting green and chipping area.
CITY: Prophetstown
Jim Ardvini Boat Launch Park
Boat ramps into Lake Sinnissippi area of Rock River. Picnic tables, scenic river view, adjacent to Hennepin Canal State Park.
CITY: Rock Falls
Hennepin Canal Bike Paths
The Hennepin Canal Parkway follows an old towpath that was actually never used, although the locks and aqueducts are in still in place. It was originally built to link the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. The 105-mile path is level and easy; however, water is scarce along the way (found only at locks 21, 22 and the Visitor Center), so be sure to bring plenty, especially during hot days. The landscape varies from forest to grasslands to marsh to farmland, and the trail is particularly pleasing during fall, when the leaves are changing colors. The Hennepin Canal Parkway has become a cyclist's paradise and an exceptional spot for fishing, birding, horseback riding and a wealth of outdoor recreation.
CITY: Sheffield
Parkway Restaurant
Home cooking at its best with many daily specials, homemade desserts and soups in a casual atmosphere.
CITY: Sterling
Main Street Wine Cellar
We offer wines, specialty beers, cheese and chocolates. You can bring in food or have it delivered, and we can pair it with wine from our selection, or you can choose your own.
CITY: Sterling
Izaak Walton League
One mile north of Geneseo on Hwy 82, south of Historic Hennepin Canal. Clubhouse and shelter available for rent.
CITY: Geneseo
Chestnut Street Inn
Award winning bed & breakfast and restaurant featuring Mediterranean cuisine, using locally available ingredients. Conveniently located off I-80. Four uniquely appointed guest suites, including private bathrooms.
CITY: Sheffield
Blue Goose Run
Blue Goose Run is the perfect farm setting for an outdoor wedding, family or class reunion, corporate or business meetings, and baby or bridal showers. Visit the Machine Shed Gift Shop and Corn Crib Restaurant.
CITY: Sterling
Executive Inn
Clean room and great rates. Now under new ownership. Whirlpool suite. We are a great place to stay while fishing or hunting in northwest Illinois - just 1/2 mile to the Mississippi River and just off the Great River Bike Trail. New restaurant and Bar! View the bald eagles. We also have extended stay.
CITY: Thomson
Village of Albany Historic Indian Mounds
View these historic Indian mounds located in Albany.
CITY: Albany
Teresa's Tasty Produce
Choose from a variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs from 25 acres of farm. Farm Fresh Produce is available on site as well as area farmers markets. Teresa’s Tasty Produce A CSA (community supported agriculture) is available. Annual events sponsored are the Easter “Eggs”trvaganza and Halloween Happenings. In the fall enjoy evening campfires which include wood, picnic table and bales of straw to sit on.
CITY: Atkinson
Flashbacks for You
Flashbacks For You is a Quality Consignment store selling antiques, vintage and handmade purses, a wide variety of collectibles, dishes, comics and so much more! We sell local treasures worldwide. Go to our website for more information.
CITY: Prophetstown
How Sweet It Is
We specialize in anything sweet including cookies, candies, cakes & cupcakes plus custom baking. We also offer free wifi and fresh brewed coffee. Large & special orders welcome.
CITY: Sterling
