2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 289 items
May 26
Waterfall and Canyons Tour
Mondays at 11:00a.m., Saturdays 9:00 and 11:00a.m. Experience the fun of outdoor adventure at Starved Rock State Park with a guided walk to 3 spectacular waterfalls and canyons. We will plan to visit French, St. Louis and Ottawa Canyons. The tour will also include your selection from our Special Lunch Menu and a relaxing historical trolley ride. $31.00 adult, $26.00 children. For reservations, please call 815-220-7386.
CITY: Utica
Starved Rock State Park
Seasonal waterfalls, awe-inspiring bluffs and rugged canyons dominate the storied landscape at Starved Rock. Rich with history and beauty, Starved Rock’s hiking trails meander through towering trees and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River. Outdoor activities include hiking, canoeing, paddleboat cruises, cross-country skiing, trolley rides, fishing and picnicking. Visitors can stay at the historic Starved Rock Lodge or in one of its cozy cabins.
CITY: Utica
Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort and Enchanted Forest
60 acres of Northwoods themed accommodations near Starved Rock. Lodge rooms, villas & cabin, indoor water and amusement parks, dining, banquet & conference center.
CITY: Utica
Matthiessen State Park
Canyons, streams, prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park. Located in central LaSalle County, approximately four miles south of Utica and three miles east of Oglesby, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology as well as recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for a special outing.
CITY: Utica
Starved Rock Adventures Harbor Villas and Suites
Waterfront family villas and suites. 1-2 bedroom housekeeping units. Deluxe and unique. Open April through October. $$
CITY: Ottawa
Buffalo Rock State Park and Effigy Tumuli
On the bluffs of the Illinois River stand five earthen sculptures molded from Illinois clay. Called Effigy Tumuli, this unique "earth art" is a grand sculpture. Biking, canoeing, hiking, snowmobiling, picnicking, cross-country ski trails, and ball field.
CITY: Ottawa
I & M Canal State Trail
The I&M Canal Trail offers 61 miles of picturesque hiking and biking trails that follow the historic route of the I&M Canal from Channahon to LaSalle. The Trail also boasts Illinois’ longest continuous snowmobile trail, and is a favored route for cross-country skiers.
CITY: Channahon
Chicago Premium Outlets
Welcome to Chicago Premium Outlets®. With 120 stores, it is a true bargain hunter's haven. You'll find impressive savings of 25% to 65% every day from leading designers and name brands including Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Coach, DKNY, Elie Tahari, Giorgio Armani, Kate Spade, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Michael Kors, Nike, OshKosh B'gosh, Reebok, Salvatore Ferragamo, St. John, TAG Heuer, Theory and many more.
CITY: Aurora
Blackberry Farm's Pioneer Village
Go on a one of a kind country adventure you'll never forget! Become pioneers for a day on a real 1800s farm and village. Miniature train rides, pony rides, petting zoo, pioneer craft demonstrations, and special events.
CITY: Aurora
Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center
The Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center has several interactive displays, free videos on the park, hiking maps, and more. Trailheads Concessions & Gifts, also located here, is a great place to buy gifts, souvenirs, and snacks (fresh fudge, too)! The Visitor Center and Trailheads are open year-round.
CITY: Utica
Belle of the Rock
The Belle of the Rock paddle boat tours are located at historic Starved Rock state park in Utica, Illinois (just 80 miles west of Chicago). In addition to the river tours, we provide canoes and kayaks. Call us today at 815-434-9200 to make your reservation.
CITY: Utica
Feb 29
Bald Eagle Trolley Tours
In January and February ride the trolley from Starved Rock Lodge to the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center for bald eagle viewing and an educational program. Includes lunch during the week and brunch on Sunday in the Main Dining Room.
CITY: Utica
Raging Waves Waterpark
Illinois' largest Waterpark offers 45 acres of family fun! 17 water slides, wave pool, lazy river, huge kiddie play structures, sandy beach area and a 2000 foot long 4 course zip line.
CITY: Yorkville
Skydive Chicago
Skydive Chicago offers the best entertainment in the Midwest! The 220-acre resort offers camping, canoeing, hiking, fishing and swimming, all onsite. Stop by today!
CITY: Ottawa
The Chocolate Shoppe
The Chocolate Shoppe features handmade confections, including our world famous chocolate covered bacon! We also offer a variety of sea-salted caramels, truffles, fudge, nut clusters, barks toffees, hand-dipped chocolate popcorn, graham crackers, pretzels, chocolate-covered fruits and nuts, and specialty items like chocolate pasta, chocolate balsamic vinegars and more!
CITY: Utica
Phillips Park Zoo
Established in 1915, this free zoo is open daily, year round. Exhibits include bald eagles, wolves, mountain lions, foxes, otters, elk, goats, llamas, turkeys and peacocks.
CITY: Aurora
August Hill Winery
Visit the August Hill Winery & Illinois Sparkling Co. tasting room and experience locally-made handcrafted wines. Wine tastings and flights, wine gifts & accessories, gallery of local art, outdoor patio, private events. Open Monday - Thursday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Friday - Saturday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM & Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
CITY: Utica
Starved Rock Rental Cabin
Beautiful high end rustic cabin sleeps 18! 3 bedroom, 4 bath, 2 private whirlpools, 3 fireplaces. Full kitchen, all cookware, linens, etc. Optional waterpark passes available. Across from Starved Rock.
CITY: Utica
Zipline Canopy Tour Chicago
Looking for that perfect daring escape for you, your friends or family? Zip Chicago Canopy Tours provides an experience you will not soon forget. It will create memories that last a life time. The tour is completely guided and contains no motorized machines for propulsion. All you have to do is enjoy your flight! Our guests can reach speeds of up to 45 mph. The platforms and suspension bridges are surrounded by an assortment of native trees. Check out our different tours to see which adventure is the right one for you!
CITY: Marseilles
Sunken Garden
View the spectacular display of 15,000 flowers of 15 varieties, plus a three-tiered fountain and the Four Seasons statues that complement this exquisite English garden.
CITY: Aurora
Starved Rock Rental Cabin
Beautiful high end rustic cabin sleeps 18. 3 BR, 4 BA, 2 private whirlpools, 3 Fireplaces, fulol kitchen. All cookware, linens, etc. Optional Grand Bear Waterpark passes avaloable. Acrooss from Starved Rock
CITY: Utica
Illinois River Winery
Come tour the winery, visit the tasting room and outdoor wine garden, featuring award-winning wines made in the Illinois River Valley. Open everyday!
CITY: Utica
Sandwich Antiques Market
Held rain or shine, this fair features more than 600 exhibitors selling quality antiques and collectibles at the park-like Sandwich Fairgrounds on select Sundays from May through October.
CITY: Sandwich
Matthiessen State Park - Cross Country Skiing
Five miles of scenic trails amidst a spectacular geological backdrop enable hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, runners and cross-country skiers to experience a peaceful jaunt through the park, while families congregate around fully-equipped, shaded picnic areas neighboring playgrounds, trailheads and 17th-Century restored French fort.
CITY: Utica
Joliet Slammers
This professional minor league baseball team plays for the Frontier League in Silver Cross Field and are the 2011 Frontier League champions.
CITY: Ottawa
Waves of Fun Water Park
This indoor water park features a wave surf machine, a 45-foot slide tower and a four-story interactive, Hawaiian-themed play structure.
CITY: Sandwich
I&M Canal State Trail
Enjoy hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing, camping, snowmobiling, fishing, boating, canoeing and biking along the I&M Canal State Trail. This 61-mile recreational trail begins at Brandon Road in Rockdale and parallels the canal to LaSalle Peru.
CITY: Morris
Hollywood Casino Aurora Riverboats
Two riverboats offer slots, blackjack, Caribbean stud poker, roulette, craps and mini-baccarat, all amidst a virtual Hollywood memorabilia museum. Restaurants from gourmet to buffet.
CITY: Aurora
Vaughn Athletic Center Water Park
This year-round indoor water park has tube slides, zero-depth entry and interactive water play.
CITY: Aurora
Starved Rock State Park - Ice Climbing
While rock climbing is prohibited, there are up to five canyons in which ice climbing is permitted when conditions allow. All ice climbers must sign in at the ranger station (Park Office) and must have a partner. Call ahead to check ice and other park conditions.
CITY: Utica
Starved Rock Lodge - Cabins
Historic Lodge nestled in Starved Rock State Park. Open daily, on-site bar, indoor pool; hotel and cabins in the woods, free WiFi, restaurant & seasonal, outdoor dining.
CITY: Utica
The Homestead Sculpture Garden and Labyrinth
Art lovers will admire the beautiful brick labyrinth and distinctive contemporary sculpture garden here.
CITY: Plano
Fox Valley Winery Tasting Room
Taste a selection of Fox Valley Winery's handcrafted award-winning wines, many of which are made from estate-grown Illinois grapes.
CITY: Sandwich
Grand Village of the Illinois
In 1673, this was the site of the first Native American contact with Europeans when Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet passed up the Illinois River. Located in the middle of the site is the 1851 Sulphur Springs Hotel, a resort for travelers and visitors.
CITY: Utica
Landers House Country Lodging
Landers House is located a half a block from charming downtown Utica, home of historic Mill Street. We are country lodging in a truly unique setting geared to pamper. We have four cottages with 2 person whirlpools, fireplaces, large bathrooms with two person showers, loft bedrooms with down filled bedding and sky lights, cable TV, CD Players, wet bars stocked with coffee and teas, glassware and dishware for two. Our suites and rooms are designed with our guests comfort in mind. We encourage you to indulge in your fantasies, revive your romantic nature and relax in a secluded atmosphere.
CITY: Utica
Phillips Park
Located on over 325 acres, popular attractions include the Mastodon Gallery, the gorgeous Sunken Garden, an 18-hole golf course/driving range, the zoo, a 28-acre fishing lake with a one-mile multiple use trail, war memorials and the Winter Recreation Area. Phillips Park Visitors Center & Mastodon Gallery showcases the mastodon bones that were unearthed in the park during a 1934 Civil Works Administration Project. The skull being the largest of the artifacts, weighs 188 pounds.
CITY: Aurora
Hickory Hollow Campground
Wi-Fi available at no charge. Meeting/banquet space available. 37acres with 89 water, sewer & electric sites and 45 tent sites, plus cabins. Store, laundry, showers, and swimming pool. Near Starved Rock.
CITY: Utica
Aurora Arena Skate Center
Skate to the sounds of Top 40 music. The skate center also features special live organ music dance sessions.
CITY: Aurora
America's Historic Roundhouse
Originally constructed in 1855-1865, the roundhouse was renovated and now houses Illinois' largest microbrewery and brewpub.
CITY: Aurora
Luigi's Pizza and Fun Center
Enjoy the fun here that includes laser tag, an arcade room and great pizza.
CITY: Aurora
Starved Rock Marina
Full line dealer for Rinker, Landau Pontoons and pre-owned boats. Full service marina with slips, fuel, restaurant, boutique, boat and villa rentals.
CITY: Ottawa
Splash Country Water Park
This deluxe water park features tube slides, a simulated river, zero-depth pools and sand activity areas.
CITY: Aurora
Starved Rock Inn
Eight room rustic country inn, decorated in handcrafted wood furnishings. Unique, tranquil getaway. Open April till November. $
CITY: Ottawa
The Willows Hotel - Utica
The Willows Hotel is a quiet quaint boutique hotel quietly nestled in historic Utica, Illinois. We are located 90 minutes from downtown Chicago and the Quad Cities. There is no better escape from your day to day routine. We are one mile from the entrance of Starved Rock State Park, voted one of "Illinois Seven Wonders". Two miles from Matthiessen State Park. The Willows Hotel is a short stroll from shopping, organic food store,restaurants, wineries, and pubs. More than a place to rest your head, you can relax and rejuvenate. Make yourself at home in our warm residential-feel rooms or suites. For business or leisure, The Willows Hotel staff is eager to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable.
CITY: Utica
Sugar Grove Family Fun Center
Go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, a driving range and a game room are the draw at this entertainment center.
CITY: Sugar Grove
Fox Valley Symphony
Top-notch pop, classical and family performances are presented under the guidance of Maestro Fusao Kajima.
CITY: Aurora
Apple Tree Acres Alpacas
Fabulous apparel, softest yarns and roving. Meet and buy our Alpacas. Call for hours.
CITY: Utica
Sandwich City Hall and Opera House
On August 20, 1878, 25 years after Sandwich first became a town, a contract was signed for construction of the Sandwich City Hall and Opera House. An allotment of $10,000 was given for the project, with the stipulation that it must be completed by the end of the year. The building was finished on time, but there was a cost overrun of $2,000 After much time, money and energy by volunteers to restore and renovate the City Hall and Opera House, a grand re-opening was held on April 12, 1986. Once again the building functions as a community oriented facility, bringing community theatre, lectures, recitals, style shows, weddings and a wide variety of outstanding performers, ranging from country to classical, to its stage.
CITY: Sandwich
The Farnsworth House Estate
Master architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created the ultimate minimalist masterpiece, the Farnsworth House, in pastoral Plano. The stellar structure of floor-to-ceiling glass seemingly "floats" above the rambling Fox River.
CITY: Plano
Prairie Lakes Country Club & Inn
Prairie Lakes offers a 9 hole golf course and a full service restaurant and hotel. Hotel and Golf packages available and banquet facilities. Golf opens daily at 7:00am and the restaurant is open 11:00am - 10:00pm daily. Call for seasonal hours.
CITY: Marseilles
Fox River Bed And Breakfast
Fox River Bed and Breakfast is a historic Victorian farm house located 90 miles West of Chicago, and eight miles North of Ottawa, Illinois in the country on 17 lovely acres. We are surrounded by more things to do than you could ever imagine. The area is rich in history and the food is hot and delicious!
CITY: Ottawa
Troll Hollow Campground
Troll Hollow is the “summer home” to campers who come back year after year after year to make new memories with family and friends. In fact, the campers at Troll Hollow have become such good friends that they feel like family. Nestled in the beautiful Illinois Valley area, Troll Hollow is just minutes away from fun for every member of your family, whether they prefer biking, hiking or kayaking in the great outdoors, or strolling the charming streets of nearby Utica searching for the perfect antique.
CITY: Marseilles
Starved Rock Marina
Full line dealer for Rinker, Sundancer Pontoons and pre-owned boats. Full service marina with slips, fuel, restaurant, boutique, boat and villa rentals.
CITY: Ottawa
Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple of Greater Chicago
This temple is one of only three Sri Venkateswara Hindu temples in the United States, constructed by Native American artisans.
CITY: Aurora
Mastodon Gallery at Phillips Park
Get an up-close view of Ice Age mastodon bones unearthed in Phillips Park in the 1930s, while glimpsing into the rich history of one of the area's most beautiful parks.
CITY: Aurora
Heritage Harbor Resort & Marina
Heritage Harbor Ottawa is the premier Marina Resort Community. Located in the heart of Starved Rock Country, Heritage Harbor Ottawa is home port for your next great adventure!
CITY: Ottawa
Mill Street Inn
Mill Street Inn is a quaint upstairs deluxe suite featuring a King-size bedroom, pull-out Queen sofa and 50" Plasma TV, nestled in the center of downtown Utica. Fully-equipped kitchen and full-size bath. Just steps to shops, pubs and dining and just a few minutes drive to Starved Rock and other State Parks.
CITY: North Utica
Amish Ways Country Store
Quilts, crafts, florals, pottery, jams, jellies, popcorn, seasonal items and more. Christmas walk 1st weekend Nov.
CITY: Paw Paw
Ottawa Scouting Museum
A museum to promote and preserve the colorful and proud traditions of Boy/ Girl Scouting and Campfire.
CITY: Ottawa
Matthiessen State Park
Enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing and more in this state park known for its waterfalls, bluffs and canyons.
CITY: Utica
Fox River Games Paintball
Bring a group of friends to play a round of paintball at Fox River Games. Open play or "walk-on" play is recreational play for all ages (age restrictions) and skill levels. Play as an individual or play in groups. Typically we are open every weekend Saturday and Sunday and during the summer we operate on Wednesdays and Fridays too. Please check our website for our operating schedule and specific hours of operation.
CITY: Aurora
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
Marseilles State Fish and Wildlife Area
Containing 2,550 acres, the area is jointly used by the Illinois National Guard as a training facility and is open to the general public for hunting.
CITY: Marseilles
Fox Valley Winery
Welcome to one of Illinois’ premier boutique wineries! Just west of Chicago, in the Fox River Valley, you have the chance to experience truly unique, fine wines of Illinois! Whether you prefer red, white, dry or sweet, you’ll find the perfect wine for your palate at Fox Valley Winery. So spend a little time with us at our beautiful Fox River Valley location. Sample our wines and judge for yourself.
CITY: Oswego
Gramma's Attic Antique Mall
3 floors - 7,500 square feet of antiques, gifts, linens, crafts, glassware, collectibles, furniture, cast iron skillets, farm toy collectibles, books, dolls and pottery. Come shop where the coffee is always on and cookies served.
CITY: Ottawa
Starved Rock Lodge Gift Shop
Unique selections: apparel, collectibles, souvenirs. Find the perfect gift for anyone.
CITY: Utica
Starved Rock Inn
Eight room rustic country inn, decorated in handcrafted wood furnishings. A unique tranquil get-away. Open April - November. For reservations, call 815-667-4211 or email frontdesk@starvedrocklodge.com.
CITY: Utica
Ultimate Sports Dome
This sports spot features go-karts, batting cages, miniature golf and an indoor driving range.
CITY: Aurora
Airtastic Playland
A fun and exciting play land offering 10 inflatable play structures, four party rooms and two age-appropriate play areas.
CITY: Aurora
Yogi Bear Jellystone Park Camp Resort
412 sites 219 W/E/S, 165 W/E, 12 primative, 10 rustic cabins, 6 rental trailers, open all year, 2 heated pools, spa, hayrides, store, snackbar, laundry, firewood, ice, lp gas, gameroom, minigolf, etc. Free wireless Internet. 20 mi sw of Aurora.
CITY: Millbrook
Village Green House Inc
"For the usual and the Unusual" Beer, wine and spirits located between the canal and the river on Rt. 178/ Clark St.
CITY: North Utica
Blue Beaker
Handcrafted Soap, tea, chocolate and gourmet treats, fair trade clothing & goods, yarns, knitting & crochet supplies, fairy gardens, miniature plants, garden accents, home decor, lighting and more! Classes offered too!
CITY: Ottawa
LaSalle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
2,058 acre lake with rocky shoreline. Called a "perched" lake because it is formed by levees that rise above the surrounding land. High winds require that safety precautions be followed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
CITY: Marseilles
River Adventures
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Fox River. Call for reservations.
CITY: Ottawa
Ottawa Visitors Center
Open 7 days a week to service the traveling public. The Ottawa Visitors Center is your one stop shop for information on Ottawa's special events, free tour guides and unique Ottawa souvenirs at our Souvenir Shoppe.
CITY: Ottawa
Heritage Harbor - Ottawa
Heritage Harbor Ottawa is a premier Marina Resort Community located on the banks of the Illinois River. Visit our water front restaurant or rent a cottage.
CITY: Ottawa
Ewe and Me Fiber Studio
Ewe and Me Fiber Studio offers their shoppers great gift ideas, accessories, classes, knitting groups, patterns, and yarn.
CITY: Sandwich
Hume Carnegie Museum
Wild Bill Hickok, extensive photographic collection, memorabilia of yesteryear, and special exhibits.
CITY: Mendota
Country Village Studio
Portrait studio and gallery conveniently located in downtown Utica. Providing photographic services to the area, including a gallery of local artists. Open Monday-Saturday.
CITY: North Utica
Oswegoland Civic Center Aquatic Park
This community water park features colorful slides, tubes, a zero-depth pool and concession booth.
CITY: Oswego
Mill Street Market
Full-line grocery store. Fresh meat and homemade sausage. Liquor and beer. Camping and grilling supplies.
CITY: Utica
Déjà vu
Enter and enjoy a 3,500 sq ft. building full of unique gifts, florals, and home décor.
CITY: Ottawa
LaSalle County Historical Museum
LaSalle County history including Native American artifacts in an I & M Canal era warehouse, plus a blacksmith shop, a one room school and pioneer farm equipment.
CITY: Utica
Pine Hills Golf Club
Described as a Canyon Course complete with bluffs, valleys, hills and hundreds of trees. It is a challenge to both the beginner and the seasoned golfer and is recognized by many players as one of the finest 9-hole facilities in the country. The Club House offers a friendly atmosphere and includes a Pro-Shop, full service bar & restaurant with panoramic views of the Course and outdoor patio.
CITY: Ottawa
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
The Comedy Shrine
Whether you're here to watch improv or stand-up, you're in for a great time! Come early and enjoy a drink and the thousands of pieces of comedy memorabilia that puts the "shrine" in The Comedy Shrine. Interested in classes? We have those too! You are never too old or too young to try your hand at comedy. Check out our website for upcoming class dates and prices.
CITY: Aurora
Fox Valley Center
One of Illinois' largest malls, this three-level enclosed shopping center features over 180 stores and restaurants, including Carson Pirie Scott, J.C.Penney, Marshall Field's and Sears.
CITY: Aurora
Westfield Fox Valley
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - One of Illinois' largest malls, this three-level enclosed shopping center features over 180 stores and restaurants, including Carson Pirie Scott, JCPenney, Macy's and Sears.
CITY: Aurora
The Back Door Lounge at Starved Rock Lodge
Enjoy a relaxed dinner on the veranda during the summer months and live music every Friday from 8pm to 11pm. Rock, alternative, acoustic, R & B, Jazz, country & pop. Visit the website for a complete music schedule. Special events include beer dinners, pub crawls, theater productions, and holiday events.
CITY: North Utica
Randall/Orchard Road Corridor
These rapidly growing roads stretching through Aurora, North Aurora and Batavia are full of shopping and restaurant surprises.
CITY: Aurora
Dec 31
Holiday Lights Train
The Holiday Light Train is Pete's biggest event of the year. The park is decorated for the Holidays. See over 250,000 lights in various displays. Giant toy soldiers, candy canes, cascading snow flakes, flying reindeer, and swans swimming, just to name a few of Pete's displays!
CITY: Waterman
