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

The Kable House

Dates from 1939 and is situated on 9 wooded acres on the sunset golf course. Five suites feature private baths, two with jacuzzi tubs, and all have refrigerators, microwaves, phones, tv, queen beds, and central air

CITY: Mount Morris

Harmony Hills Bed & Breakfast

Enjoy country hospitality and charm at this 5 acre retreat in Northern Illinois designed especially for couples seeking time away or small groups wanting to share time together. Our property is nestled among a forest of pine trees and 100 year old oak trees. In addition to offering 4 tastefully and comfortably decorated Suites (each with its own bathroom) we offer many extra amenities.

CITY: Oregon

Sinnissippi Golf Course

This nine-hole course, located in Sinnissippi Park, offers challenges for advanced golfers and novices. The 3,230-yard course is best known for its hilly layout and tree-lined fairways.

CITY: Rockford

Victorian Veranda - Winnebago

This 1865 country house features five guest rooms, all with private baths, are located on the second floor and decorated in an individual style with unique & antique collectibles. Eclectic Victorian decor with wraparound porch, wicker furniture, porch swings, croquet, cards. Specialize in quilting and scrapbooking retreats, private parties, weddings and small meetings.

CITY: Winnebago

Boone County Conservation District

The enchanting charm of Boone County’s Buffalo Creek creates a picturesque scene of nature at its finest. With a mission of preserving nature for generations to come, the area offers numerous educational events and festivals.

CITY: Belvidere

The Next Picture Show

Working studio for artists open to the public by appointment or during special previews. Dates to be determined. Call for appointment.

CITY: Dixon

Historic Auto Attractions

More than 70 historic autos including presidential limousines, Al Capone's car and movie cars such as the Batmobile, PLUS hundreds of "pieces of history" and constantly changing exhibits make this museum a step above the standard auto museum.

CITY: Roscoe

Dixon Welcome Center

We provide information on Dixon area attractions as well as the Illinois Lincoln Highway. Purchase Reagan and Dixon souvenir items. Also houses the "Of The Prairie" Gift Shop specializing in Illinois Wines and other Illinois Products.

CITY: Dixon

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

Atwood Park War Memorial

The memorials here are a tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War, Korean War, Gulf War and World War II. The war memorials are the only ones built in the U.S. by youth, constructed by Boy Scouts of Troop 312 Rochelle as Eagle Projects.

CITY: Rochelle

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

Rockford Art Museum

Part of the Riverfront Museum Park, the Rockford Art Museum features an eclectic collection of 20th century American artworks. Discover pieces by self-taught African American artists, American Impressionist paintings and modern art glass. Changing exhibits feature regional and national artists.

CITY: Rockford

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

Ghost Town Antiques

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

CITY: Pecatonica

Polo Historical Society/Aplington House

Lincoln slept here two nights in 1856, as the guest of his friend Senator Aplington, the founder of the village of Polo. Learn about the history of Polo and view the Ogle County Military Museum, which showcases artifacts from all wars.

CITY: Polo

Krafty Korner - Located inside R & D Do It Best Hardware

Unique gift items including, paintings from Spain, tractor collectables, yard art, candles, glass work, specialty items, and hard-to-find gift ideas.

CITY: Rochelle

Camp Grant Museum and Command Post Restaurant

Memorabilia of Rockford's Camp Grant, U.S. Army induction and training camp during World Wars I and II. The museum, an original building of Camp Grant, houses the Command Post restaurant and contains postcards, pictures, and memorabilia of the camp along with Rockford postcards.

CITY: Rockford

Elliot Golf Course

Located on Rockford's far east side, Elliot is an 18-hole course with 6,443 yards of rolling terrain, large trees and spacious greens. A smattering of water hazards and sand bunkers make Elliot a challenging course for any golfer.

CITY: Rockford

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

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

Eagles Nest Gifts and Gallery

Beautifully crafted silver jewelry, Minnetonka moccasins, log furniture, and an outstanding art gallery filled with sculptures and pottery can be found at the Eagles Nest.

CITY: Oregon

Rochelle Railroad Diamond Lodge

The Rochelle Diamond Lodge is a charming Lodge located just 50 yards from the Rochelle Train Park. Three Guest Suites are currently available and an actual caboose is on site and being renovated and will be available to stay in soon! The Lodge's comfortable and tasteful decor will make you feel right at home. It's all about relaxation, and who would want it any other way? Picnic tables in the back are the perfect spot to barbeque or enjoy a nice tall glass of lemonade in the summer and enjoy your privacy taking pictures in front of the on-site caboose! RAILFANS: Enjoy your day at the Railroad Park and then just walk back across the tracks to your Suite!

CITY: Rochelle

Abreo Restaurant, Wine Bar & Patio

In the heart of the up-and-coming 500 block, Abreo has become known as downtown's premiere restaurant and nightspot. Housed in vintage 1888 architecture, the atmosphere is uniquely its own. From its cozy wine bar with a beautiful stone fireplace, its whimsical dining room, its peaceful garden patio, to its intimate wine cellar, Abreo is an experience for all of the senses.

CITY: Rockford

The Office Niteclub

Located in downtown Rockford’s historic River District, The Office offers dancing, drag shows, karaoke and an outdoor patio in warm-weather months.

CITY: Rockford

Crawford House Inn

This Italianate style mansion offers year 'round hospitality for that romantic getaway or an extended stay in Dixon. Elegance and relaxation await your arrival in the 12 spacious rooms furnished with Victorian furniture.

CITY: Dixon

Lincoln Highway Association National Headquarters

Visitors from around the world enjoy researching highway information in this restored 1860 dry goods store built by Abe Lincoln's cousin. The Lincoln Highway Museum and Store is also housed inside.

CITY: Franklin Grove

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

Lincoln Highway Seedling Mile and Interpretive Gazebo

Malta is home to the "first seedling mile" on the Lincoln Highway. As one of the 16 Interpretive Gazebos located along the Lincoln Highway, the Malta gazebo offers a unique way for visitors to enjoy stories of the early Lincoln Highway and its Illinois communities.

CITY: Malta

Tom Guirl's Beaver Creek Pottery

Find skillfully handmade and kiln-fired pottery to decorate your home.

CITY: Belvidere

Byron Dragway

See NHRA championship drag racing.

CITY: Byron

Ethnic Heritage Museum

Six nationalities that helped shape the cultural region are represented in this home museum, built in 1850. Located in the heart of the old water power district, the house features a room for each ethnic group it represents: African American, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, and Hispanic. Call to confirm hours and admission fees.

CITY: Rockford

Byron Civic Center

Musicals, comedies and mysteries are performed August-May at this civic center located in Byron High School.

CITY: Byron

Lowell Park

Featuring 240 acres, Nature Center, parking, boat launches and Rock River access, fishing, hiking, nature preserve, cross-country skiing, shelters, grills, playground equipment, and more. Ronald Reagan saved 77 lives here as a lifeguard during his boyhood years.

CITY: Dixon

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

Rockford College Art Gallery

Six exhibitions per year featuring local and national artists, including Rockford College students and faculty.

CITY: Rockford

Apollo Activity Center

The Apollo is an all-purpose activity center, featuring a renovated historic 1912 theater.

CITY: Belvidere

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

Mount Morris Motel

Nearest motel to White Pines, one level no stairs to climb, cable TV, A/C, eat, and 24 hour phone.

CITY: Mount Morris

A.G. Spalding: From Byron to the Big Leagues Exhibit

Located at the Byron Museum of History, this exhibit features Hall of Fame baseball pitcher Albert Spalding, from his youth in Byron to his league pitching career and the founding of the Spalding Sporting Goods Company.

CITY: Byron

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

Patchwork Inn

Step back in time to a gentler age when hospitality was an art form and life was unhurried. Relax in the elegant parlor, while away an hour on the front porch or explore many of the area's attractions and state parks. Located in a restored 1840's inn, guest rooms feature restored and functional antiques along with individual room telephones and cable TV. The lower level is a great place to hold meetings or celebrate special events.

CITY: Oregon

deVine Wine Bar

Stop by to see Rochelle's newest addition to the Hickory Grove building offering fine wines on tap and micro-brew beers. We offer an elegant atmosphere & sophisticated menu.

CITY: Rochelle

Studio Theatre at Rock Valley College

During the fall and spring semesters, Rock Valley College sponsors a Studio Theatre program, giving students and amateur actors in the area a chance to perform with guest professionals in plays such as Wings, Black Coffee, and 1940's Radio Hour. Each year the Studio Theatre presents a William Shakespeare classic. The Studio Theatre also has a new play development program with productions that have included American Rock!, Kite's Book, and Christmas With the Conroys.

CITY: Rockford

Artists' Ensemble Theatre

Artists's Ensemble is a thriving theater group that offers five professional productions a year in the Clark Arts Center at Rockford College. Tickets are available by phone or online.

CITY: Rockford

Prairie View Golf Course - Byron Forest Preserve

This 18-hole course has bent grass fairways, tees and greens, a practice area, full-service clubhouse, and rental carts with canopies.

CITY: Byron

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

White Pines Dinner Theater

Entertainment abounds with a dinner theater sporting musical comedies and murder mystery plays. Groups large or small. Call for reservations located in the beautiful White Pines Forest State Park.

CITY: Mount Morris

Byron Natural History Museum

This natural history museum displays prairies, woodlands, wetlands and other interesting exhibits illustrating life as it existed hundreds of years ago in Northern Illinois. Be sure to make a stop at the museum gift shop.

CITY: Byron

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

Rockford College Performing Arts Department

Four productions per year in Clark Arts Center's Maddox and Cheek Theatres, performed by theater students, plus student-directed 3-Penny Theater productions, the Rockford College Forum Series, and Common Destines programs.

CITY: Rockford

Erlander Home Museum

The cultural centerpiece of Rockford's Swedish-ancestry community, Erlander Home Museum is located in Rockford's first brick home, built by John and Inga Stina Erlander family in 1871. Restored to its original Victorian decor, the twelve-room home features collections that include Rockford-made furniture, a renowned collection of more than 50 dolls created by Charlotte Weibull and many artifacts recalling Swedish immigration to northern Illinois and Rockford's Swedish heritage. Don't miss the Midsommar festival in mid-June; the First Annual KUBB Tournament in early June; Julmarknad in late November; Lucia in early December; Camp Sweden, a youth camp, in July; Swedish language classes offered in the fall and spring.

CITY: Rockford

Macktown Living History Education Center

Built in 1834 on the Pecatonica River by fur trader Stephen Mack, one of the area's first settlers. See the walnut cradle Mack made for his children, plus Native American artifacts, donated by Mack's descendents. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Macktown is where Stephen Mack, his Native American wife, Hononegah, and the people who inhabited the village conducted their daily business. Remnants of 8,000 years of Native American occupation of this same site can be seen. Stephen Mack’s Home and the Whitman Trading Post still stand, and a reconstruction of the village is being undertaken, including the disassembly of the 2-story shop and schoolroom to be rebuilt at its original site. There are many historic and prehistoric artifacts in the Education Center.

CITY: Rockton

Wetlands Preserve

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

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

Sportscore One

This 105-acre sports complex, host to local and national tournaments, features eight lighted softball diamonds, eight regulation and 11 practice soccer fields, nine sand volleyball pits, concession stands, a soccer center with lockers, a boat ramp and a walking path.

CITY: Rockford

Olympic Tavern

Friendly neighborhood place for drinks, pizza, homemade soup or full dinners. Steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, ribs, barbeque, pizza, pasta and salads. Patio dining in summer. Full bar.

CITY: Rockford

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

Motel 6 - Rockford

With newly renovated guestrooms and lobby, the hotel is convenient to I-90 and Illinois Business 20. Always fresh, always clean, our 131 guest rooms include a remote-controlled TV with free cable. No pets except service guide animals.

CITY: Rockford

Erlander Home Museum

The cultural centerpiece of Rockford's Swedish-ancestry community, Erlander Home Museum is located in Rockford's first brick home, built by John and IngaStina Erlander family in 1871. Restored to its original Victorian decor, the twelve-room home features collections that include Rockford-made furniture, a renowned collection of more than 50 dolls created by Charlotte Weibull and many artifacts recalling Swedish immigration to northern Illinois and Rockford's Swedish heritage. Don't miss the Midsommar Dag festival in mid-June, and Lucia Fest in early December.

CITY: Rockford

Graham-Ginestra House

An 1857 Italianate limestone house with ceiling murals, parquet floors, pocket doors, stained glass, curved staircase, carriage house and stables. English garden. Special events. Guided tours for groups on Sundays by appointment.

CITY: Rockford

Lexington Hotel at Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort - Rockford

Cliffbreakers overlooks the beautiful Rock River. Whether you have come here to attend a business meeting or celebrate with loved ones during a wedding reception, enjoy an evening of fine dining in Cliffbreakers Restaurant, a view of the Rock River will offer a pleasant and memorable time. On-site fine dining restaurant, martini lounge, Swedish hot rock sauna, business center, 25,000 sq. ft. of function space.

CITY: Rockford

Boone County Historical Museum

Explore this varied collection of local memorabilia. The museum includes a log home, Civil War artifacts, a natural history room, historic dolls, clothes, tools and transportation ranging from a 1906 Eldredge Runabout to Belvidere's first Chrysler.

CITY: Belvidere

Byron Museum Of History & Lucius Read House

The Byron Museum Complex consists of a large Exhibit Hall and the historic Lucius Read House, which was on the Underground Railroad and is a listed site on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The Read House features a permanent exhibit entitled, ‘From Shackles to Freedom: The Underground Railroad’ which shines a spotlight on Byron’s participation in the Underground Railroad. We are happy to accommodate group tours outside regular hours. Tours are free and are self-guided or a docent can be arranged. We also have ample meeting space available.

CITY: Byron

‘Begins the Trail’ Reagan Statue

A bronze statue of Ronald Reagan, astride the likeness of a palomino horse he rode nearly 60 years ago, sits at the head of the Heritage Crossing Riverfront Plaza located on River Street in downtown Dixon. The statue, created by local artist Don Reed, serves as the centerpiece of Heritage Crossing, an open-air plaza that looks out onto the Rock River.

CITY: Dixon

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

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

Giovanni's Restaurant & Big Al's Bar

A local favorite, Giovanni’s Restaurant is known for its good food, service and competitive prices. Extensive banquet facilities. Big Al's Bar, an upscale entertainment and jazz bar, has a bar menu that includes pasta dishes, sandwiches appetizers & much more.

CITY: Rockford

Franklin Creek Preservation Area

Franklin Creek Grist Mill, 1893 Twist Road off Old Mill Road, Franklin Grove. Covered wagon tours. Interpretive Center.

CITY: Franklin Grove

Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad and Silvercreek Museum

All aboard, as a 36-ton, 1912 Heisler steam locomotive pulls three cabooses, including an antique red caboose reported to be the oldest in the state, for a four-mile ride through farmlands. Purchase your ticket at the Silver Creek Depot, a turn-of-the-century replica filled with railroad artifacts, and browse the Freight House Gift Shop and Silvercreek Museum that's filled with early Americana.

CITY: Freeport

Slip and Slurry Pottery

Full working pottery studio and store for 24 years, stoneware and porcelain.

CITY: Oregon

Pec Playhouse Theatre

Performances produced by people dedicated to proividing quality community theatre in an intimate, rustic venue.

CITY: Pecatonica

JMK Nippon

Midwest's finest Japanese restaurant where they prepare your meal right before your eyes at the Teppan tables. Traditional seafood, steak and chicken dishes and sushi bar. Karaoke Bar.

CITY: Rockford

StudioPLUS - Rockford

Conveniently located, just off I-90 and Business Rt. 20, all rooms have full kitchens, including a full refrigerator and freezer, oven and four burner stovetop, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, and kitchen utensils, and free Wifi. Conveniently located, just off I-90 and Business Rt. 20. Near Magic Waters waterpark, CherryVale Mall, antique shops, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center.

CITY: Rockford

Lowden-Miller State Forest

A 2,225-acre state forest situated along the Rock River. Enjoy hunting, hiking, cross-country skiing and equestrian trails.

CITY: Oregon

Book Stall of Rockford

Used and rare books: history, military, cookbooks, art, antiques, poetry, fiction, technology, natural history. First editions, hard-to-find and antiquarian books. By chance or by appointment.

CITY: Rockford

Courtyard by Marriott - Rockford

Courtyard surrounds travelers with the conveniences that make business and pleasure travel easy. Relax and get ready for the day ahead in one of our spacious guest rooms, featuring a comfortable sitting area, large work desk, two phones with data ports, free in-room high speed Internet access, in-room coffee service, HBO, in-room movies, and a newspaper. Unwind in our swimming pool, whirlpool and fitness room. No pets except service guide animals. Totally non-smoking facility. 24 hour Courtyard Market with snacks and drinks for your convenience. WiFi in lobby. You can also dine at the The Bistro, a "fast casual" restaurant for guests and the public, serving breakfast and dinner. The restaurant proudly serves Starbucks coffee and products 24 hours a day.

CITY: Rockford

Exclusively Yours Leiza-George

A shopping experience like no other, this store has floor-to-ceiling gifts from around the would. Its specialties include handmade oak and Amish furniture, jewelry, linens, cards, Christmas items and more.

CITY: Belvidere

4 Season Bowling Center

40-lane center with automatic scoring. Jumpin' Joe's Sports Bar & Grill and full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Gensler Gardens

Gensler Gardens is a family owned operation specilizing in greenhouses and locally grown vegetables.

CITY: Loves Park

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

River House Bed & Breakfast Getaway Retreat - Machesney Park

The River House is actually two waterfront lodges, well separated on five tree shaded acres. The luxury Getaway Lodge offers couples romance in three suites complete with Jacuzzi, fireplace, and gourmet breakfast, plus special occassion amenities for honeymoon or anniversary romance. The Timeaway Lodge, with five family sized guestrooms, offers comfortable, child friendly accommodations for leisure travel or group retreat. It is an ideal location with its large gathering room, conversation bar and outdoor deck to host a family reunion, church or business retreat, scrapbooking weekend, or wedding ceremony and reception. Special package options are available. An Extended Stay furnished apartment also available for weekly rental.

CITY: Machesney Park

Silver Ridge Golf Course

Silver Ridge is an 18-hole public golf course.

CITY: Oregon

Burns House

The first brick home built in Polo is now a tourist information center and home of the local Convention and Visitors Bureau.

CITY: Polo