Apple River Fort State Historic Site

Apple River Fort State Historic Site, located in Elizabeth, Illinois, is the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War. Black Hawk and his 200 warriors attacked the hastily erected fort on June 24, 1832. His story and that of the early settlers are told.

CITY: Elizabeth

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

Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum

Experience railroading during its glory days at a former link for the Chicago Great Western Railway from Chicago, Illinois to Oelwein, Iowa by taking a tour through our extensive collection of railway memorabilia. See a full-size caboose, both G-scale and HO-scale operating model railroads and artifacts of northwestern Illinois railroads.

CITY: Elizabeth

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

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

Long Hollow Scenic Overlook

This scenic overlook, located along the Great River Road on U.S. Hwy. 20, includes picnic tables, shelters and restrooms. Perfect place for photos to be taken as you can see a spectacular view of Jo Daviess County's rolling countryside.

CITY: Elizabeth

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

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park

This beautiful 715-acre state park with a 40-acre lake derives its name from a combination of the town of Lena and the Latin work for water, aqua. The large tracts of wooded land include oak, hickory, walnut and pine trees. Woodland flowers are on display, especially in the spring and early summer, and wildlife is abundant. There is boating, fishing, a children's fishing pond, swimming, picnic and playground areas, shelters, trails for mountain biking, hiking and cross-country skiing, equestrian trails, sledding, hunting and camping. Camping supplies, bait and boat rental are available at the camp store that is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

CITY: Lena

Blackhawk War Monument

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

CITY: Kent

Peaceful Pines

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

CITY: Apple River

Lena Lions Park

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

CITY: Lena

Winnebago County Fairgrounds

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

CITY: Pecatonica

Canyon Log Enterprises/Carriage House

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

CITY: Apple River

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson - Stockton

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

CITY: Stockton

Studiowork

A gallery of handmade pottery and art by local artists and the studio of Adrienne Seagraves and Stephanie O'Shaughnessy.

CITY: Elizabeth

Apple River Canyon Photography

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

CITY: Apple River

Winslow Village Park Campground

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

CITY: Winslow

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

Indian Springs Lodge Ltd.

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

CITY: Stockton

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

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

StockHolder's Saloon

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

CITY: Apple River

Three Sisters Guest House and Sweet Shoppe

Three Sisters Guest House is located just minutes from Galena in historic Elizabeth. The guestrooms are elegantly decorated and each features a private bath and Wi-Fi internet at reasonable rates.

CITY: Elizabeth

Cedarville Art Glass

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

CITY: Cedarville

Eshelman Pottery

My pottery is simple, elegant, functional red stoneware utilizing glazed and unglazed surfaces for a visual and tactile contrast.

CITY: Elizabeth

Northwest Design

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

CITY: Stockton

1876 Banwarth House and Museum

A fascinating, hands-on experience awaits! Join period interpreters on a journey through the fine Victorian home of Charles Banwarth.

CITY: Elizabeth

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

Artesian Well at Paradise Cove

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

CITY: Winslow

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

Orangeville Farmers Market

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

CITY: Orangeville

Antiques at Hillwood Farms

Country and early New England furniture and accessories.

CITY: Pecatonica

Ink & Paper

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

CITY: Stockton

The Empty Attic

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

CITY: Rock City

Rock Run Peddler

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

CITY: Rock City

Massbach Ridge Winery

Sample award-winning, estate-grown wine while enjoying the breathtaking Jo Daviess County hills.

CITY: Elizabeth

Lena Water Tower

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

CITY: Lena

"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

Rosebud Rentals, Inc.

Our properties provide either seclusion or being close to amenities. Enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, horseback riding, outdoor pool, indoor pool, fitness and game room, and much more.

CITY: Elizabeth

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

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

Ghost Town Antiques

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

CITY: Pecatonica

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

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

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

Marcotte's Family Motel

On three acres overlooking Jo Daviess countryside, a short drive to Galena, Chestnut, Mississippi, Apple Canyon. Some rooms include fridge/microwave/table/chairs. Apartments with full kitchens. Coffee/muffins, hot tub, grill, campfire, dog-friendly.

CITY: Elizabeth

Kitchen Carvers

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

CITY: Lena

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

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park Campground

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

CITY: Lena

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

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

Huron Farm Market

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

CITY: Eleroy

Butch's Antiques

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

CITY: Freeport

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

Vel Terra Ranch and Family Campground

Campsites are spacious, shaded or sunny; accommodates tent campers, pop-ups or RVs. Modern bathhouse. Water, 50/30/20 electric, free firewood. Peaceful!

CITY: Elizabeth

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

Lena KOA Kampground

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

CITY: Lena

Memory Lane Retreat

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

CITY: Orangeville

Wetlands Preserve

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

CITY: Freeport

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

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

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

McArthurs Reclaimed Treasures Antiques

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

CITY: Lena

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

Soldiers Memorials

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

CITY: Freeport

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

Lincoln Park

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

CITY: Ridott

Evergreen Farm Inn

The house has been completely redecorated to reflect the earlier days of the 1900's. Many of the original antiques furnish the rooms. This picturesque "bed and breakfast" is located in a farming community.

CITY: Forreston

Fever River Railroad

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

CITY: Freeport

Spare Time Lanes (Lena)

Enjoy the fun of bowling.

CITY: Lena

McConnell Bobtown Landing

Enjoy the natural wonders of the Pecatonica River, Stephenson County's water trail, as is meanders nearly 60 miles through undisturbed Midwestern beauty. This landing offers ample parking, two picnic areas, portable toilet, 10' x 20' floating dock, fire pits and charcoal grills, two ADA fishing piers and canoe/kayak and boat launch. Camping at the site is available for canoes, kayaks and boaters. Reservations required.

CITY: McConnell

Lena Farmer's Market

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

CITY: Lena

Mt. Carroll Walking Tour

Take a self-guided walking tour through Mt. Carroll's historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Mount Carroll

The Gilded Cage

Vintage at heart painted cottage furniture, antiques, unique one of a kind pieces.

CITY: Mount Carroll