2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 119 items
Seven Bridges Ice Arena
DuPage County, Chicago’s Western Suburbs - Includes three ice surfaces, public skate 7 days a week, learn-to-skate and hockey classes, observation area, off-ice training center, party/conference rooms, arcade and a pro shop.
CITY: Woodridge
Cosley Zoo
Over 45 exhibits of native Illinois wildlife and domestic farm animals; tree-shaded picnic area - seating for 300; "Exclusive Use" facility rentals; private party room; open year-round.
CITY: Wheaton
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
Acorns Golf Links
Acorns Golf Links is located in Waterloo, Illinois featuring 6,701 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72 . The course rating is 72.3 and it has a slope rating of 125. You will not find subdivision golf at Acorns; just nature, beautiful scenery, challenging design, and you. Making Acorns the premier public course to test your game, have fun with good friends, or to get away from your daily hussle and bussle. Acorns features zoysia fairways, five tee boxes; matching every level of golf and large bent grass greens. Designed by William Ebeler, the Acorns golf course opened in 1997.
CITY: Waterloo
7
Warrenville Holly Days
Holly Days, sponsored by the Warrenville Park District is the City's annual holiday celebration that marks Santa's official entry into Warrenville. Guests can enjoy a warm bonfire, raffles, free horse and carriage rides, hot cider and cookies, and, of course, a visit with Santa. Local Park District and school dance troops, singers, and bands entertain attendees during the event. It is at this event that Warrenville officially turns on its holiday lights creating an array of colors for passersby along Route 56 to see. Holly Days, primarily for Warrenville residents, gives the community an opportunity to come together and kick off the holiday season.
CITY: Warrenville
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
Matthiessen State Park
Enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing and more in this state park known for its waterfalls, bluffs and canyons.
CITY: Utica
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
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
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
UI Arboretum
See a beautiful collection of gardens, flowers and habitats at this University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign arboretum. Visitors can experience nature's four seasons in a single setting.
CITY: Urbana
Righter's Christmas Tree Farm
Cut your own Christmas scotch and white pine trees here.
CITY: Sullivan
Dec 1
Kane County Flea Market / December, 2013
Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.
CITY: St. Charles
Skatium Ice Arena
A full-size hockey rink and a smaller ice rink are open for public skating, lessons and leagues.
CITY: Skokie
Funks Grove Pure Maple Syrup
Guided tours offered during February and March that show syrup making by the "Boiling Down" process. Gift store stocked with syrup as well as Route 66 memorabilia.
CITY: Shirley
The Nest at Palisades Cabins
The Nest at Palisades Cabins offer secluded luxury cabins designed to provide charm, quiet luxury and romance. We’re located on a wooded acreage high above the Mississippi River minutes from Savanna, the Palisades State Park and an easy 20 minute drive to Galena.
CITY: Savanna
MB Financial Park at Rosemont
MB Financial Park at Rosemont, the new entertainment district, features lively bars and restaurants with live music, casual dining, bowling, and outdoor patios. A seasonal courtyard is in the center of it all- perfect for farmers markets, movies under the stars, music festivals & ice skating. MB Financial Park at Rosemont is only a block from the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and is anchored by Muvico 18- Movie Theater, a number of hotels and the vibrant Rosemont Theatre.
CITY: Rosemont
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center offers a total 840,000 square feet of flexible exhibition space. Configure it any way you like. You may need a 500-booth to 800-booth area, or 100 to 200 booths. If you’re planning a larger show, you’ll appreciate our continuous 250,000 square-foot space for 1,225 booths. Or you can create a multiple hall layout for up to 3,566 booths. Customized floor plans are our specialty, so just ask.
CITY: Rosemont
Mar 1
Bald Eagle Safari
Get an up close view on a Bald Eagle Safari with Bob Motz. He provides spotting scopes that magnify 15 to 45 times and mount on the car window frame for good viewing of eagles in trees. You can see the yellow of their eye, the nostrils in the beak, and the black talons of their feet. Binoculars are also provided to see eagles in flight. The safaris make good birthday and anniversary gifts. Cost is $20 per hour for one to four people. Two or three-hour safaris are recommended. Call Bob at 309-788-8389 or email him at eaglemotz@aol.com to arrange a safari.
CITY: Rock Island
Longview Park
Park provides sledding and ice skating in the winter, gardens, greenhouse, tennis, walking trails, shelter and pool in summer.
CITY: Rock Island
11 - 13
Bald Eagle Days Environmental Fair and Wildlife Art Show
Don't miss the Bald Eagle Days Environmental Fair and Wildlife Art Show at the QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island, Illinois. The show is heralded as the largest event in the Midwest dedicated to the United States' national symbol of freedom. The three-day event includes live eagle, hawk, owl and vulture flying demonstrations along with educational programs by the World Bird Sanctuary of St. Louis, Missouri. Also enjoy over 200 fun and informative exhibits. Free parking is available at the show. Hours are Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission $4 for adults, $1 for children 6-15, free for children 5 and under. The event takes place at the QCCA Expo Center at 2621 4th Avenue Rock Island, IL. 61201 Call (309) 788-2543 for more information.
CITY: Rock Island
Hardy's Reindeer Ranch
The North Pole has moved to Central Illinois. Try your luck at the 6+ acre corn maze, the Grand Prix style race track, pick a pumpkin or a Christmas tree (depending on season), stop by the fascinating gift shop and, of course, see the reindeer!
CITY: Rantoul
Jan 1
Avenue of Lights
Avenue of Lights is a two-mile holiday display of animated lights at Moorman/Wavering Park in Quincy. It runs from Thanksgiving until New Years, nightly from 6-9:30pm. A staple attraction of Quincy during the holiday season.
CITY: Quincy
River Skate
River Skate along the Quincy Riverfront offers ice skating on a 2,500 ft rink of synthetic ice called Super-Glide. Featuring a warming hut and light concessions. Open from early November to mid February, with hours from 4-9pm Wednesday through Friday and from noon to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $3 for children under 12 years of age, and $5 for adults, which includes ice-skate rental and rink admission.
CITY: Quincy
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
Schulz Tree Farm
Cut your own scotch pine, white pine, Norway and blue spruce Christmas trees. Also visit the barn, where you'll find unique Christmas gifts and crafts, wreaths, swags and free cocoa.
CITY: Pontiac
Luthy Botanical Gardens
This beautiful spot features five acres of landscaped gardens including the Woodland Garden, Children's Garden, Herb Garden and several others. Tropical conservatory is open year-round. Outdoor Garden is open 8:30am to dusk year-round. Closed Mondays.
CITY: Peoria
Peoria Civic Center
Downstate Illinois' largest center is a four-building complex with a 12,000-seat arena. With 110,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 2,200-seat theater, a ball-room seating 1,500 for banquets and 16 meeting rooms this venue can house it all. As the premier entertainment facility in downstate Illinois, the Civic Center plays host to a variety of concerts, family shows, sporting events and Broadway Theater Series each year.
CITY: Peoria
Mar 2
Eagle Watching at Starved Rock State Park
You don’t have to travel north to see these majestic birds of prey. Thousands of eagles migrate south from Canada during the winter and Illinois is one of the homes of the greatest population of wintering bald eagles. The Starved Rock Lodge in Utica offers a “Bald Eagle Trolley Tour” in January and February on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Viewing birds from the Veranda at the Starved Rock Lodge is good as well. Dress warmly though. This great viewing spot is right outside the doors of the Great Room. If you’d like some exercise, take a hike on one of the trails at the Starved Rock State Park. One trail begins right at the Veranda. For a birds eye view, hike to the top of the Rock. Another popular event is "Eagle Watch Weekend" with activites both at the Starved Rock Lodge and the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center.
CITY: Oglesby
Walnut Point State Park
State park with hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and picnicking. Concession stand and boat rental available.
CITY: Oakland
All Seasons Ice Rink
Two full-sized rinks are open for year-round skating. All Seasons also offers a game room, ballet room, pro shop and party room.
CITY: Naperville
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts & Mitchell Museum
Exhibitions, a children's gallery, a permanent collection and special events. Grounds include 85 acres sculpture park, nature trails and bird sanctuary. Hosts annual Cedarhurst Craft Fair.
CITY: Mount Vernon
Allerton Park & Retreat Center
Allerton Park was the private estate of Robert Henry Allerton, who donated it to the University of Illinois in 1946. It features 1,500 acres of woodlands, formal gardens and more than 100 sculptures. The park is open to the public for hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing and leisurely garden strolls.
CITY: Monticello
Kilbuck Creek
Located in the heart of the mid-west in Monroe Center, Illinois, just a 20 minute drive south from Rockford, a quiet, majestic dwelling sits among the trees that seclude Kilbuck Creek from sight of even its closest neighbors. This secluded sanctuary in the wilderness could be the location of your upcoming wedding, family reunion, church or business retreat or romantic getaway.
CITY: Monroe Center
2
19th Century Christmas at Deere-Wiman House & Butterworth Center
Don't miss these two beautifully decorated Deere family mansions during the holiday season. The 19th Century Christmas features the interiors of the homes decorated for the holidays; along with living-history volunteers, Choir performances, Santa Claus, music, and make-and-take activities for the children. These homes once belonged to the John Deere family and are now operated by the William Butterworth Memorial Trust. Open noon to 5 p.m. Free admission.
CITY: Moline
Grand Prarie Families and Farm
The farm offers organic chicken, beef, pork, milk, cheese, bread and herbs.
CITY: Melvin
Dec 25
Mattoon Lightworks
Enjoy the lights of the season in beautiful Peterson Park. Over 50 magnificent light displays, many of which are animated. Definitely a site to see! Drive through at your leisure evenings starting at 5pm. Over 15,000 visitors each year see this great display of holiday lights. Admission is free, donations accepted.
CITY: Mattoon
Dahnke's Pine Patch
Located in Martinsville, this tree farm features Colorado Blue and Norway Spruce, Douglas and Fraser Fir, and White and Scotch Pine trees.
CITY: Martinsville
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge
A wildlife refuge covering approximately 43,500 acres of forest, wetlands, and grasslands. Hunting, fishing & boating available.
CITY: Marion
Feb 2
Southern Illinois Boat & Fishing Show
A weekend long event sponsored by the Youth Outdoor Education Foundation and the Williamson County Tourism Bureau. The show features boats, trailers, trucks, ATVs, fishing tackle, live entertainment and more. Admission and parking is free. Great fun for all ages.
CITY: Marion
1 - 31
Eagle Days
Held in January, Eagle Days includes educational eagle programs presented on the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge with viewing scopes set up for watching the regal birds in flight.
CITY: Madison
Ball Fore Family Entertainment Center
All types of family fun. Miniature golfing, driving range, batting cages, ice skating, in-line skating and archery.
CITY: Macomb
Shoal Creek Nature Preserve
This 260-acre site offers nature trails for visitors to explore wetlands, prairie openings, and sandstone bluffs and ledges. The preserve is home to more than 700 plants and 70 bird species, including bald eagles during the winter months.
CITY: Litchfield
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing at The Morton Arboretum
Explore a winter wonderland at The Morton Arboretum, where you'll find 3.5 miles of groomed ski trails. Bring your own or rent a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis (in children's and adult sizes). Ski trails are open when there are four or more inches of snow on the ground.
CITY: Lisle
Quarry Ridge Hunt Club
The premiere, upland-hunting experience in Northern Illinois. Quarry Ridge offers hunting (member or non-member) for rooster pheasant, dove, turkey, deer and moor. Dogs and guides can be provided if needed.
CITY: Lena
Camp Sagawau Environmental Education Center
Environment Education Center - offers cross country skiing in the winter.
CITY: Lemont
Kankakee County Museum
The Kankakee County Museum is the home of the Kankakee County Historical Society. Founded in 1906, it is the oldest incorporated local historical society in Illinois. The Main Museum Building contains seven permanent and temporary exhibit galleries, the Museum Store, the Museum's Archival Research Library, the Museum's offices, and support facilities. The Museum Complex also encompasses the historic 1855 Dr. A. L. Small House, the 1904 Taylor One-Room Schoolhouse, Column Garden and Outdoor Exhibit Area. The museum boasts more than 85,000 artifacts in addition to 20,000 still images in the photo collection.
CITY: Kankakee
1 - 30
Gallery of Trees
Throughout the Kankakee County Museum, Christmas trees are decorated by community organizations. Yearly, a special theme is added for your enjoyment. Come in and view the different arrangements and vote for that special tree.
CITY: Kankakee
Frank Lloyd Wright's B. Harley Bradley House
The B. Harley Bradley House Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1900 The B. Harley Bradley House in Kankakee, Illinois, is widely acknowledged as Wright's first Prairie Style design. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places individually and as part of the Riverview Historic District. Following an extensive restoration, the Bradley House now enjoys the opportunity to be appreciated by architecture fans from around the world. This Prairie Style house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright along with its neighboring home. The houses are acknowledged by the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy as Wright's first house designs that ushered in Wright's Prairie Style. The B. Harley Bradley House is open for 1 hour tours.
CITY: Kankakee
Eagle Watching - Union County Refuge
The Union County Refuge in Union offers a popular spot for bald eagle watching. Visitors can view bald eagles and take wildlife photography off the main road, which runs down the middle of the wildlife refuge. Park rangers will be available weekdays to answer questions about the eagles and other wildlife spotted in the refuge. Admission is free. For more information on eagle watching, contact the Union County Refuge (618-833-5175).
CITY: Jonesboro
Comlara Park
Bike trails, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, nature area, picnic shelters, playground, restrooms, sand volleyball, swimming, beach, sledding and cross-country skiing.
CITY: Hudson
Ben's Christmas Tree Farm
Ben's Christmas Tree Farm was founded in 1983. Since then, Ben's has provided visitors with organically grown fir and pine trees in an authentic country atmosphere. Besides trees, enjoy the animals, wagon rides and more.
CITY: Harvard
Feb 11
Eagles Over the Confluence
Come to the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower on Saturdays in January and February for eagle activities - wood carvers, ice sculptors, photography, kid's activities and more. Or, just stop in to enjoy the view from the platforms at 50, 100 and 150 feet in the air. There is no better place for a bird's eye view of the region and the eagles migrating along the Mississippi River. Bring your binoculars!
CITY: Hartford
Shawnee National Forest
The Shawnee National Forest is famed for its awesome Garden of the Gods, and is home to the Rim Rock Recreational Trail (the forest has a system of 403 miles of equestrian/hiking trails). Hikers are greeted by magnificent jutting walls of rock covered with emerald-green moss, and paths that meander through canyons under the forest canopy. Nestled between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, the stunning Shawnee National Forest landscape features rolling hills, lakes, creeks and rugged bluffs.
CITY: Harrisburg
Wildlife Prairie State Park
Wildlife Prairie State Park is home to over 150 animals that are native to Illinois, including wolves, bison, black bear, elk and cougars. Experience the Adventure Trek Tour, which includes a trip through the bison and elk pasture. Unique overnight lodging located in the park includes authentic train cabooses and a cabin nestled in the woods.
CITY: Hanna City
Mar 6
Bald Eagle Days at Pere Marquette
Scott Isringhausen, site interpreter at Pere Marquette State Park, will be presenting informative programs about bald eagles this winter. Visitors will learn to distinguish between immature and mature bald eagles, what eagles eat, why they spend winter months in the area and much more. All programs will begin at the park's visitor center at 8:30 a.m. Reservations are required. There will be a short video presentation followed by an observational drive to view the wintering bald eagles. Please dress warmly and have a full tank of gas. For more information or reservations, call 618-786-3323.
CITY: Grafton
Chicago Botanic Garden
One of metropolitan Chicago's main tourist attractions. Open year-round, featuring 23 beautiful gardens and three native habitats set on 385 acres of rolling hills and tranquil lakes. Enjoy three lush greenhouses and seasonal art exhibits.
CITY: Glencoe
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
Fox Valley Ice Arena & Fitness Club
Year-round sports complex with 3 ice surfaces, full-service pro shop, full-service fitness club, and on-site restaurant. Also home of The Chicago Freeze Junior A Hockey Team.
CITY: Geneva
6 - 7
Geneva's Christmas Walk & House Tour
On Friday evening, Santa Lucia arrives by horse-drawn carriage and Santa arrives to open his Gingerbread House. Enjoy carolers, the Great Tree lighting, roasted chestnuts, Swedish cookies, and old-fashioned candy cane pull, and holiday shopping. On Friday & Saturday, five distinctive homes festively decorated for the holidays by local decorators open their doors to visitors for self-guided tours.
CITY: Geneva
Galena Birding
Join birding trips that travel to the banks of the Mississippi River, and through mature woodlands and open meadows. Tours last approximately 2-1/2 hours, and depart on selected Saturdays from the Old Train Depot.
CITY: Galena
9 - 23
2013 Bald Eagle Bus Tours
Guided, four-hour tours of bald eagle, wintering communities. View and learn about the bald eagle's habits, life history, preservation efforts and threats to its future. Reservations required. Bus departs from Stoney Creek Inn.
CITY: Galena
Alpine Slide at Chestnut Mountain Resort
Fun for all ages. Ride your own sled down 2,050 feet of terrain-tailored track to the banks of the Mississippi.
CITY: Galena
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Full-service, 120-unit resort 8 miles southeast of Galena on a wooded palisade overlooking the Mississippi. One of the Midwest's top-rated ski/snowboard resorts: 19 trails, 475-foot vertical drop, half-mile runs, nine lifts, seven-acre terrain park. Indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, miniature golf, Alpine slide, Mississippi cruises, skiing/snowboard programs, on-site restaurants, lounge.
CITY: Galena
Ferguson Fine Arts Theatre
Located on the campus of Highland Community College - features a variety of fine arts programming including vocal and music concerts, live theater, special performances, and the popular Summerset Theater Program, a community performing arts theater.
CITY: Freeport
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
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
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
15
Luminary Night On Stephenson and Lincoln Streets
Enjoy the beauty of the soft light of luminaries and the architecture of these historic homes as you stroll this lovely residential neighborhood. Also, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. Stephenson Street and Lincoln Boulevard from West Street to Park Boulevard.
CITY: Freeport
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
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
U.S. Ice Sports Complex L.C.
An ice arena offering hockey leagues open skate and entertainment for all ages. The facility offers two rinks, a game room and concession area.
CITY: Fairview Heights
Robert Crown Center Skating Park
Indoor public skating and private lessons available. Call for hours.
CITY: Evanston
Elgin Park District
Outdoor ice skating; new refrigerated skating system; warming shelters available.
CITY: Elgin
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
Sculpture on the Avenue
Come explore the sculptures that have transformed the City of Effingham's avenues into an art gallery! Over 40 sculptures created by some of the Midwest's best known and unknown sculptors bring life to the streets of Effingham through this outdoor exhibition. The Sculpture on the Avenues program is a self-guided walking tour that begins at City Hall in downtown Effingham. From there, the exhibition winds in and out of downtown Effingham. An informative guide, which facilitates a walking tour, is available at Effingham hotels, downtown businesses, the Effingham Visitor Center (Tourism Office) and City Hall.
CITY: Effingham
Stang Arts Studio & Gallery
Stang Arts Studio & Gallery features art classes for both children and adults, along with holding various events throughout the year. The artist, Jamie Stang, also specializes in "paint parties." These parties are great for a group, as they feature great food, drinks, music and art. Jamie helps visitors discover their inner-artist while relaxing in a chic studio-style atmosphere. Check out her gallery while you're there too.
CITY: Effingham
Jan 1
East Peoria Festival of Lights & Folepi's Winter Wonderland
Light up your night at the East Peoria Festival of Lights (FOLEPI)! The annual Festival of Lights is a one-of-a-kind holiday spectacular. With more than two million lights in the festival, the beauty will be sure to mesmerize you and your family.
CITY: East Peoria
East Alton Ice Arena
Grab your skates and hit the ice any time of the year at this indoor ice arena. Didn't bring your skates? No problem. Rent a pair and take a few laps around the rink. It's the coolest place in town all year round!
CITY: East Alton
Dec 31
Du Quoin Annual Holiday Lights Fair
Starting the day after Thanksgiving and continuing through the month of December. Come experience Du Quoin Tourism’s transformation of the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds into a magical place with lights and decorations. The event features a 1 1/2-mile drive through over $250,000 worth of lighted displays as well as decorated trees, entertainment, food, crafts and visits with Santa in the Expo Hall. The light trail opens nightly from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m., and the Expo Hall will be open on the second and third weekends in December from 5:30 — 9:30 p.m. The Expo Hall features Santa’s train ride and Santa’s Workshop.
CITY: Du Quoin
Camelot Christmas Tree Farm
Camelot offers a wide variety of Christmas trees, including balsam, frasier fir, scotch and white pine. Be sure to sample Camelot's famous homemade oatmeal cookies and hot chocolate.
CITY: DeKalb
Oct 27
Blacksmith Demonstrations and Tours
Live blacksmith demonstrations and tours at the Joseph F. Glidden Homestead June 9th and 23rd from Noon to 4:00 pm. and on the second and fourth Sunday of each month.
CITY: DeKalb
Cross Country Skiing at Rock Spring Center
Trails open whenever there is at least three inches of snow on the ground. Equipment rental available from 9am-2pm.
CITY: Decatur
13
Cocoa & Cookies with Santa
Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies with Santa and also make a holiday craft!
CITY: Decatur
7
Breakfast with Santa
Enjoy breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus and make a holiday craft!
CITY: Decatur
9 - 31
Holiday Lights at Bunker Hill
Historic buildings at Kennekuk County Park's "Bunker Hill Historic Area" will be lit for the occasion and decorated for the holidays. Continuing throughout the holiday season, the holiday lights will be displayed weekends from 5-8 p.m.
CITY: Danville
Apr 1
Bald Eagle Watching in the Cache River Wetlands
The Cache River Wetlands offers great opportunities for eagle watching, as well as spotting other birds. The Cache River Wetland Center provides resource and identification materials to help you spot eagles and other birds in the area and along the rivers. They will provide maps and directions to the viewing station for the nest just off Illinois Route 37 off Perks road and south of the visitor's center.
CITY: Cypress
Holiday Inn Crystal Lake Conference Center
Situated in resort-like setting, the Holiday Inn is minutes from the historic Downtown Crystal Lake Main Street filled with shopes and restaurants for every taste. McHenry County's premier conference facility.
CITY: Crystal Lake
Argyle Lake State Park
Find serenity at this beautiful 1700-acre wooded park situated along an old stagecoach route between Galena and Beardstown. Featuring 95-acre Argyle Lake, the park is home to countless beaver dams and more than 200 bird species and 5 miles of hiking and biking trails.
CITY: Colchester
Steve's Segway Tours
Explore Chicago's lakefront, museums and Millennium Park on a three-hour Segway tour led by guides all year round.
CITY: Chicago
23
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Kick off the holiday season and create your special memories on The Magnificent Mile in 2013! The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the nation’s largest evening holiday celebration, jump starts the holiday season on Saturday, November 23 with a full day of family friendly activities, concerts by top musical artists and the best holiday shopping. The day’s excitement culminates with a grand evening parade down Michigan Avenue marshaled by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, illuminating one million lights on 200 trees. The parade concludes with a grand finale fireworks show over the Chicago River.
CITY: Chicago
Green City Outdoor/Indoor Market
Green City Market is Chicago’s only year-round farmer's market promoting local, sustainable farmers, producers and chefs by connecting them to the public through educational programming and special events. Enjoy the Outdoor market May through October.
CITY: Chicago
Chicago French Market
Come visit Chicago's first and only year-round, indoor marketplace providing you with permanent, convenient and personal access to local artisans and purveyors.Featuring nearly 30 individual specialty vendors, Chicago French Market offers fresh ingredients for cooking at home, delicious grab-and-go options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, light snacks, picnics, easy party planning for home and office settings, plus meaningful gift ideas, all in one convenient location.
CITY: Chicago
