2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 2,309 items
Main Street Galena
Galena's historic Main Street, named "Best Main Street in the Midwest" by Midwest Living magazine, curves past nearly 100 19th-century storefronts. Galena looks much as it did during the time of the Civil War, although now the historic red brick buildings are home to charming boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. Galena is also known for its cozy lodgings, with quaint bed and breakfasts dotting the picturesque hillsides surrounding the town.
CITY: Galena
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
Oct 26
Grafton Riverside Flea Market
From April through October (on the fourth weekend of the month) browse the unique wares for sale at Grafton’s Riverside Flea Market, located in the old Boatworks building on the river. You’ll find a wide selection of antiques and crafts, along with flea market fare.
CITY: Grafton
Caterpillar Visitors Center
Opened in October 2012, this new visitors center celebrates the long history of the Caterpillar company. Visitors can explore the past by taking a journey back in time via historic photos and antique equipment. Visitor favorites include a 24-foot tall 797 mining truck that doubles as a movie theater and a product floor complete with simulators to explore its world-famous product line.
CITY: Peoria
Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway
Cruise along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, where the Mighty Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois Rivers converge. The 33-mile byway begins in Hartford, leading you through Alton and bends along the forested river bluffs to its end point in Grafton, at Pere Marquette State Park.
CITY: Alton
Peoria's Grandview Drive "World's Most Beautiful Drive"
This quote from President Teddy Roosevelt describes his 1910 visit to Grandview Drive in Peoria Heights. The vistas gazed upon by the former president still sit upon bluffs unchanged from when the Indians first settled in the area centuries ago. Drive along the two-and-on-half mile drive to see the expansive panoramic view of Woodford, Tazewell and Marshall counties, where on a clear day, visitors can see more than thirty miles of the scenic Illinois River valley.
CITY: Peoria Heights
Spirit of Peoria
Take a sightseeing or theme cruise on the Spirit of Peoria, an old-fashioned replica of a 19th-century riverboat that docks at the Peoria RiverFront. Join a one- to five-day overnight excursion to Starved Rock State Park or the St. Louis riverfront and be entertained by live ragtime piano and banjo music, as well as a storyteller sharing river lore, while the Spirit of Peoria paddles along the Illinois River. Stay the night at Starved Rock Lodge and see a show by a Mark Twain interpreter who brings the iconic author to life.
CITY: Peoria
25 - 26
Mackinaw Music and International Wine and Beer Fest
Tasting all day featuring wines and beers from at least 15 countries. Lots of good food and great entertainment featuring great blues and jazz performers like Sister Groove and the Cross-town Jam.
CITY: Mackinaw
Galena Cellars Vineyard
The Lawlor family proudly offers tours and tastings of more than 40 award-winning wines at its Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery. Take a vineyard tour, then kick back with a glass of wine on the veranda. Galena Cellars also has a tasting room on Main Street in Galena, housed in a beautiful brick 1840s grain storehouse with a shaded wine patio.
CITY: Galena
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Illinois' only United Nations World Heritage Site. This 2,200-acre site preserves the central section of the largest prehistoric Indian city north of Mexico. An Interpretive Center presents a coherent account of this sophisticated prehistoric culture. Climb Monk's Mound, see the film and life-size village. Don't miss annual events that focus on Native American culture.
CITY: Collinsville
Grafton Zipline Adventures
Looking for a jaw dropping, heart racing experience? Try Grafton’s newest attraction – a zip line that affords those brave enough a stunning river view and hours of fun. The nine zip lines total 1.75 miles, which should take approximately two hours to complete. The first of nine zip lines is nicknamed the Baby Bear – the shortest measuring only 300 feet in length. The longest, at 2,000 feet, is the Soaring Eagle, which has breathtaking views during its 250-foot descent. The Deer Hollow (3rd zip) and the Barn Burner (the final zip) are both 1,500 feet. The Limestone Leap (7th zip) is 1,300 feet, the River Run (5th zip) is 1,200 feet, the Gobblers Knob (6th zip) is 1,000 feet and the Road Runner (2nd zip) at 700 feet.
CITY: Grafton
John Deere Pavilion
The legend of John Deere lives on at the world's most comprehensive agricultural exhibit. Showcases vintage and modern-day equipment, interactive agricultural displays and feature film. Largest collection of John Deere merchandise anywhere.
CITY: Moline
Peoria RiverFront
You’ll find art galleries, music venues, specialty shops, and great restaurants all located along Peoria’s beautiful RiverFront. Whether it’s a quick bite at a casual café or a relaxing dinner, we have something for everyone. You can enjoy live music and entertainment every weekend, shop the largest Antique Center in Central Illinois or find the perfect gift or home accent at one of our fun and inviting RiverFront shops. Throughout the summer, we offer an endless assortment of outdoor concerts and events. And don’t miss the RiverFront Market featuring local produce, art, and musicians, Saturday mornings, June – September. Peoria’s RiverFront… Where fun, food and friends meet!
CITY: Peoria
Black Hawk State Historic Site
Wonderful for families and friends, this wooded, steeply rolling 208-acre tract, borders the Rock River in the city of Rock Island. Prehistoric Indians and 19th-Century settlers made homes here, but the area is most closely identified with the Sauk nation and its great warrior, Black Hawk. Voted one of the "7 Wonders of Illinois," this pristine park offers beautiful trails for hiking and walking only. Picnic areas are also available. While at the park be sure to visit the Watch Tower Lodge that houses the John Hauberg Indian Museum. The museum features Sauk and Meskwaki Native American Indian artifacts and displays depicting the four seasons and life of these tribes. A new exhibit tells the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki—how they came to live in the Quad City area, why they no longer live here, and, as the piece de resistance, a four-by-eight-foot scale model of the city of Saukenuk one of the largest Native American Indian settlements in the United States.
CITY: Rock Island
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
Pere Marquette State Park
At 8,000 acres, Pere Marquette State Park is the largest state park in Illinois. Go hiking on wooded trails, biking along scenic bluffs, fishing and boating on the Illinois River, or horseback riding through the forest. The park is also known for its guided fall color drives and eagle-watching tours in the winter. The rustic stone-and-timber Pere Marquette Lodge makes a great base for exploring the area.
CITY: Grafton
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
Jun 1
Washington Cherry Festival
Love cherries? Then this is the event for you! This annual festival is held in Washington, IL and is themed around the delicious fruit. Beer tents, classic carnival foods, family events and fireworks are all part of the festivities. Admission is free for those wanting to attend.
CITY: Washington
Celebration River Cruises
Hop aboard the family-owned Celebration Belle riverboat that cruises the mighty Mississippi River. Operating April through October, the 800-passenger riverboat offers a variety of cruises, ranging from sightseeing tours to theme cruises such as Big Band and fall foliage, captain's dinner and dance cruises, and overnight excursions.
CITY: Moline
Galena Girlfriends' Getaway
Get your best girlfriends together for a weekend in Galena they will never forget. Start planning your itinerary now for this fun-filled weekend with amazing food, lodging specials, spa pampering, wine tastings, pub crawl and more. Pre-register for a Girlfriends goody bag and you’ll be entered for the chance to win a $200 Galena shopping spree! Pre-registration saves your spot for the weekend and includes Quartermania, belly dancing classes, a slipper party and Sunday brunch.
CITY: Galena
Fort de Chartres State Historic Site
This former French military stronghold has been partially rebuilt and turned into a museum. Regular living history events shed light on colonial life in Illinois, and include 18th-century crafts, food, music, hundreds of historically dressed participants, flintlock rifle and musket contests, cannon and mortar competitions, traders and much more. There are also guided tours of the 1800 Creole House, which was designed in the French-American Transitional Architecture style.
CITY: Prairie du Rocher
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
Fried Green Tomatoes
Enjoy a dinner of rustic Italian dishes (and be sure to try the signature tomatoes) at Fried Green Tomatoes, a romantic restaurant housed in a historic downtown Galena building. The restaurant features an award-winning wine list recognized by Wine Spectator. Reservations recommended.
CITY: Galena
World's Largest Catsup Bottle
This 170-foot-tall bottle that resembles a Brook's Catsup Bottle served as a water tower for the catsup manufacturer after being constructed in 1949. A popular roadside attraction, it makes for a great photo op.
CITY: Collinsville
Feb 23
"Jersey Boys" Peoria Civic Center
The 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30! Jersey Boys, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album and most recently, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.
CITY: Peoria
Downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District
This district is the arts and entertainment destination of the Quad Cities. Located on the Mississippi River, the district ia a revitalized and vibrant area. You'll find art galleries, restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, casino, shops and a hotel.
CITY: Rock Island
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Built in 1927, Old Chain of Rocks was the fifth bridge to cross the Mississippi River, which shortened the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Edwardsville, Illinois by 15 miles.
CITY: Edwardsville
Wildlife Prairie State Park Lodging
Experience our exclusive facilities when planning your next business meeting or social gathering. Let us accommodate you with our exclusive on-site catering and high-speed wireless internet. 10 miles west of Peoria via I-74, exit 82. Also enjoy our unique overnight accommodations located in the park, including a cabin, cottages, cabooses and stables. Children welcome!
CITY: Peoria
Grafton Canoe & Kayak
Experience the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers up close in a canoe, kayak, or wave runner. Take a speed boat out on the river for tubing or just relax on the waves in a pontoon. For landlubbers, rent a mountain bike for the day and hit the nearby Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail.
CITY: Grafton
Quad City Botanical Center
Rock Island's Quad City Botanical Center houses exotic tropical flowers, a 14-foot waterfall and reflecting pools with koi. Seasonal attractions include a butterfly garden and the Garden Train Railway exhibit. The Botanical Center also regularly hosts art exhibitions and special events for families.
CITY: Rock Island
Mar 2
Eagle Watching in Alton
Illinois boasts the largest concentration of wintering American bald eagles in the continental U.S., and the Alton area is a great place to see them. Mingle with a live eagle at the National Great Rivers Museum. Get a bird’s-eye view from eight stories high as majestic eagles soar along the Mississippi River at the adjacent Melvin Price Locks & Dam. Or drive along on an exciting eagle-watching expedition with a nature expert at Pere Marquette State Park during Bald Eagle Days, held from late December through early March.
CITY: Alton
Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive
The Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Associates invite you to come to Fulton County, Illinois and enjoy the natural wonders of the Spoon River Valley. Spoon River has carved a wide scenic valley through Fulton County as it flows from London Mills to the south and east where it joins the Illinois River near the southeastern corner of the county. The Spoon River became nationally known from the work of Edgar Lee Masters, author of the noted Spoon River Anthology. Come on out the first two full weekends in October. There are over one hundred miles of scenic routes on the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive to be enjoyed on this driving tour with beautiful fall colors. There will be food, arts, crafts, entertainment and flea market. Visit 17 villages and historic sites!
CITY: Canton
Laser Force Lazer Tag Zone
A 5,000 sq. ft. laser tag arena and a 2,500 sq. ft. game arcade is conveniently located by hotels and restaurants off I-64.
CITY: Caseyville
National Great Rivers Museum
Located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Mississippi River, from its colorful history to its modern-day role as a major transportation corridor. The museum features kid-friendly, interactive and computer animated exhibits. Steer a towboat through the locks and dam via simulator, measure your water consumption or come face-to-face with river fish in the aquarium.
CITY: Alton
Glen Oak Zoo
Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From giraffes and rhinoceros to spider monkeys and lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming and conservation-based programs are top priorities.
CITY: Peoria
DeSoto House Hotel
Stay the night at the DeSoto House Hotel on Galena’s Main Street, which dates back to 1855 and is Illinois’ oldest operating hotel. The DeSoto has hosted such notable guests as Abraham Lincoln (who spoke from a hotel balcony to the assembled crowd below) and served as the presidential campaign headquarters for Ulysses S. Grant. The hotel features 55 Victorian-style guest rooms, three restaurants and boutiques.
CITY: Galena
The Inn at Irish Hollow
Called “deliciously rustic” by the New York Times, Irish Hollow is located on 500 rolling acres in the Galena countryside on the site of a former whistle stop. The accommodations include rooms at the historic inn, as well as private English-style cottages with beautiful gardens. Indulge in a massage or hike the miles of trails that pass by a 1,300-acre nature preserve. Irish Hollow is known for its gourmet country breakfasts and dinners made with seasonal ingredients from its own organic gardens.
CITY: Galena
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
At Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa go golfing on one of four championship courses, horseback riding along hilly wooded trails, boating on the sapphire waters of Lake Galena, or soaring over the countryside in a hot air balloon with Galena on the Fly. Relax in the luxury of the resort’s Stonedrift Spa with a pampering massage. Eagle Ridge offers a wide variety of lodging that ranges from traditional inn rooms to golf villas and distinctive homes.
CITY: Galena
Nov 1
Mill Creek Farms
Mill Creek Farms' season begins in mid-April with asparagus, mid-May though June for strawberries, early July through August for sweet corn, tomatoes, and green beans, and October for pumpkins. Pumpkin picking, a corn maze and hay rides are offered weekends in October. Support local farming and fun with family or friends!
CITY: Quincy
Annie Wiggins Ghost Tours
Join us for the original ghost tour of Galena's sites, cemeteries and famous ghostly tales. Costumed guide. Reservations recommended.
CITY: Galena
Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site
This Italianate home was presented to U.S. Grant in 1865 and opened to the public in 1904. Furnishings original.
CITY: Galena
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
Mississippi Explorer Cruises at Chestnut Mountain Resort
Jump aboard Mississippi Explorer's latest 1.5-hour cruise. Experience the magical splendor of Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.
CITY: Galena
14 - 16
Great Galena Balloon Race
A spectacular three-day event with more than 20 hot air balloons. Observe the balloons taking flight in two balloon races and lighting up the night with glow extravaganzas. Stroll through a car show, enjoy live music, and participate in activities for the whole family. The Friday night Alefest boasts more than two hundred varieties of Ales and spirits.
CITY: Galena
7 - 8
Gumbo Ya Ya Mardi Gras in the District
The spirit of New Orleans comes up the Mississippi River with a celebration that includes Cajun food, authentic Southern Louisiana music on two stages, Mardi Gras-themed children’s activities, French Quarter marketplace and beads galore.
CITY: Rock Island
Splashdown at EastSide
The wettest and wildest family water park in Central Illinois. Play in Splashtower Island or ride the lazy river. There's even a splash and play area for the young ones in your family. www.fondulacpark.com
CITY: East Peoria
Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower
The Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower is dedicated to the duo's history-making journey, and serves as a gateway to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. The Corps of Discovery voyage began here on May 14, 1804, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Take the elevator up to the top of the 180-foot-tall tower, where you’ll step out to panoramic views of the swirling river waters (the view is particularly stunning at sunset). On platforms located at 50, 100 and 150 feet visitors learn about the early days of Hartford, as well as Lewis and Clark's journey.
CITY: Hartford
Nov 1
Alton Hauntings Tours
Based on the book Haunted Alton by Troy Taylor, Alton Hauntings Tours offers an entertaining and spine-tingling trip into the unknown, taking visitors to the most authentic haunted places in Alton. Uncover the eerie folklore, ghostly tales and documented haunted spots on a three-hour walking tour of the city’s most haunted sites. Visitors will see sites that have become nationally known, like the old Alton penitentiary, First Unitarian Church, Enos Sanitarium and many others. The tours have been proven to be popular with ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike, and nowhere else can you learn as much about the real, haunted history of Alton. Walking tours and bus tours are offered during two touring seasons – Spring & Summer and the Haunted Fall Season. Private tours are also available for groups of 20 or more. Reservations must be made in advance for all tours.
CITY: Alton
Galena Carriage Co.
Take in the charm of Galena's 19th-century architecture while relaxing in a horse drawn carriage. Historic carriage rides, dinner rides, romance and roses rides. Seasonal sleigh rides. Reservations recommended.
CITY: Galena
22 - 23
Galena Nouveau Wine Festival
Downtown Galena comes alive with the release of Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery's Nouveau Wine. A traditional French stew, paired with Nouveau wine is served at most local restaurants, followed by horse-drawn wagon deliveries down Main Street. Take your choice of various downtown locations for one of the afternoon wine and cheese parties or plan to celebrate with all of them.
CITY: Galena
27 - 29
Quad Cities Hot Air Balloon Fest
Red, yellow and orange-hued leaves aren’t the only colors to view in Western Illinois’ skies this fall. At Moline’s annual Quad Cities Hot Air Balloon Fest, a myriad of hot air balloons take off throughout the weekend and glow high above the town after dark.
CITY: Moline
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
Seven Eagles Cabins
Both cabins have air & heat and each has its own private shower and rest room. Each cabin has a picnic table and fire pit, and best of all - firewood. Linen and towels are included with the rental. One cabin has a Queen Size bed and loft area with table and chairs. The other cabin has a full size and a single bed with a loft area. Our log cabins are nested next to The Great River Bike Path and hundreds of acres of Illinois Fish and Wildlife Reserve that offers excellent fishing, bird watching, hunting, biking, hiking, and wildlife enjoyment.
CITY: Savanna
Melvin Price Locks & Dam
Get the best view of Alton and the Mississippi River from eight stories in the air atop the Melvin Price Locks & Dam. Take a free guided tour and see towboats and barges as they push their way through this incredible structure. It's also a great spot to eagle watch in the winter.
CITY: Alton
Galena Trolley Tours
City tours of Galena, tour of homes and nightly ghost tour. Group services and charters. Original tour company since 1988.
CITY: Galena
The Loop Riverfront Circulator
The Loop riverfront circulator hugs the Mississippi River and offers easy access to popular downtown attractions in the Quad Cities. The Loop provides a uniquely enjoyable way to travel for nightlife, dining, entertainment, arts/culture, festivals, concerts, gaming, and the beauty of the Mississippi River. See the sights on plush buses with stadium seating, full glass ceilings, bike rack, wheelchair accessibility, and hospitality-trained drivers. The Loop operates Thursday - Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. The fare is $1 per trip/50c for seniors, disabled, or Medicare cardholders.
CITY: Moline
Par-A-Dice Casino
Docked on Peoria Lake, Par-A-Dice offers high-stakes casino action that includes blackjack, roulette, craps and more than 1,000 slots. Enjoy a steak at Boyd’s Steakhouse or unwind with live piano music and a cocktail at Bourbon’s. The Par-A-Dice Hotel offers 202 rooms, including deluxe suites, just steps away from the casino.
CITY: East Peoria
21
Night of the Luminaria
Be a part of one of the most beautiful and romantic visions of the year. The streets, steps and sidewalks of Galena come alive with nearly 5,000 candle-lit luminaries at dusk. Take a special luminaria trolley ride, be a part of a pub crawl, or just stroll through the streets for this enchanted view.
CITY: Galena
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
The Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp Dubois, the 1803-1804 winter camp of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. It was at Camp Dubois that members of the Corps of Discovery prepared for their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. The 14,000 square-foot exhibit space contains six galleries that outline the background and history of the Lewis and Clark expedition from its conception to its meaning for today's America. Exhibits are kid-friendly, offering opportunities for hands-on engagement. A "reconstruction" of the winter camp, Camp Dubois, is located on the grounds near the visitor center. Its design reflects 1803 U.S. Army regulations for the construction of military posts. Interpreters are on-site daily in the camp to explain how the men prepared for the journey.
CITY: Hartford
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
Linden Hill Farms
Come experience a working dairy farm! Milk a cow, feed the chickens, and just learn what it's like to live on a farm. Located just 8 miles from downtown Peoria. Call today to schedule your tour!
CITY: Peoria
Aldrich Guest House
Walk the floors shared by Lincoln and Grant in this 1845 home. Stroll the gardens where Grant trained his troops. Relax in the screened porch or in the cozy parlor. Walking distance to Main Street, our inn has 5 beautifully decorated guest rooms, several with fireplaces and views of our garden.
CITY: Galena
Galena River Trail
Scenic biking and hiking along a six-mile trail featuring beautiful views of the Galena River and towering bluffs.
CITY: Galena
National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
The Shrine has 200 beautifully landscaped acres of gardens and devotional areas, including the Outdoor Amphitheatre, Shrine Church, Lourdes Grotto, Stations of the Cross, Millennium Spire, the Visitors Center with a restaurant and gift shop, and the Shrine Hotel.
CITY: Belleville
Jumer's Casino & Hotel - Rock Island
Jumer's Casino & Hotel is one of the largest land-based casinos in the state of Illinois. Jumer's is where Art Deco meets 21st Century gaming. The all on one level casino floor features the latest in gaming fun. Over 1,000 slots, 25 table games, and a live Poker Room. In addition, you will enjoy a night club, sports bar, and four distinct restaurants featuring everything from steak and seafood, to outstanding buffets, and deli-style menus. The luxurious hotel offers 205 hotel rooms, an indoor pool, fitness center, and a full-service Spa. We're the perfect place for leisure travel and for meetings, conventions, parties, or banquets. Our luxurious hotel has all the modern amenities guests expect. Oh! What a feeling! You are going to love the new Jumer's Casino & Hotel.
CITY: Rock Island
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
Riverplex Recreation and Wellness Center
State-of-the-art fitness center, indoor family aquatic center, pro shop, smoothie bar, classrooms, gymnasium, multipurpose recreation area with sports, classes, programs and other activities. Daily user fees or memberships available. Don't forget to also check out our indoor two-story water-slide, lazy river, zero depth pool and splash equipment!
CITY: Peoria
Gateway Fun Park
Gateway features mini-golf, go-karts, an arcade, bumper boats, a kiddie track and Rudy's Restaurant.
CITY: Collinsville
Martini's on Water
Visit Martini's to enjoy one or more delicious concoctions from the expansive beverage menu. The selection includes key lime pie, bloody Mary, cheesecake, and cinnamon apple. Martini's offers outdoor seating on the patio, which has magnificent views of the river. Live entertainment and Monday specials are sure to make your visit memorable.
CITY: Peoria
Lost and Found
A fresh mix of vintage and new items featuring an ever-changing array of home furnishings, gifts and items of intrigue. Stop in and be inspired.
CITY: Peoria
Confederate Prison Site
Built in 1833, Alton houses Illinois' first state penitentiary. During the Civil War, the facility imprisoned thousands of Confederate soldiers. Partial remains of the structure can still be observed today.
CITY: Alton
Junction City Shopping Center
Conveniently located at the corner of Knoxville Ave. and Prospect Road in the heart of Peoria. We invite you to explore the boutiques and eateries along our historic boardwalk. Enjoy a gourmet lunch, shop for a new outfit, find traditional and modern home decor, or surprise a loved one with a bouquet of fresh flowers. The quality and sophistication of the Junction City experience rivals anything found in Illinois.
CITY: Peoria
Mississippi River Visitor Center
The visitor center overlooks Lock & Dam 15 on Arsenal Island. See the observation deck - a great spot for viewing bald eagles in the winter and for watching barges lock through on their way up and down the mighty Mississippi River. Enjoy exhibits on the Mississippi River and a gift shop. Guided tours are available of the Lock & Dam system on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tour Reservations are required!
CITY: Rock Island
Alton Riverfront Amphitheater
The 4,000 seat Alton Riverfront Amphitheater hosts a variety of events from community festivals to live concerts throughout the summer months. With the Mighty Mississippi River as a backdrop, bring your blanket and spread out for an evening under the stars. Check out our website for a list of upcoming events.
CITY: Alton
Aaron's Cottages & Cabins at the Goldmoor
Luxurious cottages and cabins on the magnificent Goldmoor estate overlooking the Mississippi River and featuring elite amenities, dining, spa services and beautiful gardens.
CITY: Galena
One Eleven Main
Great chefs working with local producers to provide the flavor of Galena's culinary past, present and future. Local flavor cuisine.
CITY: Galena
Wildlife Prairie State Park
A unique, 2,000-acre zoological park which is home to wolves, bison, waterfowl, black bear, elk, cougar, otter, and others. You will enjoy the park's spectacular natural settings, butterfly garden, wildflowers, lakes and restored prairies.
CITY: Hanna City
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
Nov 29
White Hall Drag-O-Way Fifth Friday Cruise-In
Burn rubber to White Hall in your vintage wheels or hot rod to show off your ride at the Fifth Friday Cruise-In. No entry fee, no "judging," just a bunch of car folks who like to drive their cars and get together with like-minded enthusiasts. Show starts at 4pm. Enjoy a meal while you’re there, as the event takes place at the San Jose Restaurant’s parking lot – if it's warm enough, there will be hand-dipped ice cream available. So stop by with your vintage wheels or just come out to admire the sweet rides.
CITY: White Hall
Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge
Near the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers lies a veritable bird-watching utopia. Visitors to Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge can expect to see a variety of migratory birds, from waterfowl and warblers to Acadian Flycatchers and American Bald Eagles. In fact, Two Rivers is the winter home to one the largest Bald Eagle populations in the continental United States.
CITY: Brussels
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
Schwiebert Riverfront Park
Located along the Mississippi River in the downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District, this park offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River, an open-air stage, interactive fountain, observation shelter, waterfront promenade, bike trail and digital playgrounds (the first installation of its kind in the Midwest).
CITY: Rock Island
Tara Point Inn and Cottages
Noted in Midwest Living magazine as "a riverside retreat for the romantic," the Tara Point Inn is known for its incredible accommodations and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Atop the palisades bluffs above Grafton, visitors can choose either the main inn or a secluded cozy cabin escape to what some call the most pleasantly memorable getaway experiences in the Midwest.
CITY: Grafton
Lavender Creek Farm
Lavender Creek Farm grows fields of organic lavender plants. Walk the lavender fields, pick bouquets and browse the plants for sale. Lavender soaps, oils, lotions, candles and more are made at the farmhouse - the old fashioned way!
CITY: Mackinaw
Peoria Chiefs Baseball Team
The Peoria Chiefs are a Class A minor league baseball team, affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals, from Peoria, Illinois. They play in the Midwest League.The Chiefs are proud to be Central Illinois’ most affordable family entertainment. Over 5 million fans have enjoyed top quality baseball and non-stop entertainment over the last 27 years. More than 120 former Chiefs have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, including Mark Grace, Greg Maddux, Joe Girardi, Yadier Molina, Dan Haren and Albert Pujols.
CITY: Peoria
Captain Swift Covered Bridge
Located one mile west of Princeton in Bureau County, Illinois is the Captain Swift Covered Bridge. Built in 2006, the bridge derives its strength from its burr arch design, an idea patented by Theodore Burr of New York in 1804. Made entirely of wood using 1800s concepts (it has an outer skin of Douglas Fir), the Captain Swift Covered Bridge is the only two-lane covered bridge in Illinois. It has a 16’-3” vertical clearance, a 28 foot minimum roadway width and a 128’ span over the Big Bureau Creek. GPS co-ordinates - N41 22.745 W89 29.871
CITY: Princeton
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
Fon du Lac Park District
Experience what 1600+ acres of parks, natural areas, riverfront and trails have to offer. Enjoy 2 golf courses, a picturesque marina and campground, Splashdown Water Park, and a variety of recreational programs and activities for all ages.
CITY: East Peoria
The Cottage On Lake Galena
A spectacular 2-bedroom/2.5-bath lakeside cottage in Galena Territory. Private, romantic, pristine and upscale. Hot tubs, sound systems, three stone fireplaces. Enjoy Eagle Ridge Resort amenities. See our website photos to appreciate.
CITY: Galena
Galena On The Fly, Inc.
Hot air balloon rides sunrise and sunset daily. Reservations required. Gift certificates available. Groups welcome. Call for pricing and information.
CITY: Galena
Indian Trails Resort
Indian Trails Resort, near the Mississippi River just outside of Moline, Illinois, is family oriented and has a year round activities director to organize events. A 30 acre wilderness area provides a safe area for children to explore and a great place to hike and camp. Deer and other wildlife may be sighted on occasion. Horseshoe Lake and some nearby dams provide spots for good bass, crappie, walleye, and channel catfish fishing. As with all our resorts Indian Trails offers members camping services and cabins for nightly rental. There is a snack bar on site also.
CITY: Colona
The River House
Relax, reflect and unwind in this private guest house that is a turn-of-the-century cottage completely restored with modern amenities. Located high above the confluence of the Mississippi & Illinois Rivers, it offers a quiet retreat with a spectacular view, yet it is only one block from village shops, marina, restaurants, bike trails and the scenic byway.
CITY: Grafton
Peoria Glen Oak Zoo
Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From Giraffes and Rhinoceros to Spider Monkeys and Lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming, and conservation-based programs are top priorities. www.peoriazoo.org
CITY: Peoria
Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse & The Speakeasy
Enjoy Broadway musicals, comedies, concerts, children's productions, and dinner in this historic, beautifully restored Vaudeville-era theatre. For a schedule of upcoming and current productions please visit the Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse website. Next door to Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse you will find the Speakeasy. This smaller theatre features comedy and concerts throughout the year. To see who is performing at The Speakeasy, go to the Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse website.
CITY: Rock Island
Mackinaw Valley Vineyard
Experience a bit of Napa Valley in Central Illinois. Visit the winery, tasting room and gift shop. Enjoy the panoramic view available for weddings, receptions and meetings.
CITY: Mackinaw
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Blaze Memorial Day Classic
Blaze Memorial Day Classic is a youth soccer game that is held outdoors at McClallen Park. Boys and girls ages 5 -15 will be playing in this tournament. Come out and help cheer these kids on as they play.
CITY: Morton
