Kankakee County and the Great Outdoors!

It’s time to stretch your legs at the Kankakee River State Park, a 4,000-acre park that envelopes both sides of the Kankakee River for 11 miles. Bring your boots to explore the park by horseback. 

When the sun starts to set, head on over to Brickstone Brewery for a quick bite. Recently named an Illinois Made Maker, this award-winning craft brewery has built a reputation as one of the region’s finest breweries and has a great menu. If ice cream is more your style, hit up PJ’s Ice Cream & Coffee for a delicious treat.

Stay:

• Country Inn and Suites in Manteno

Start your morning off at Stefari Cafe with a specialty coffee and made to order breakfast before you take the plunge (seasonally, of course!) at Haigh Quarry. Originally a limestone mining site, this spring fed quarry is ideal for snorkeling or scuba diving. No need to be an expert, they offer lessons!

Cap off your day with a glass of vino and a charcuterie board in the backyard at Grapes & Hops or pair your wine with an elegant meal at Flight 102. Elegant, yet relaxing, this friendly wine bar offers an extensive selection of world-class varieties including house, red and white wines sure to appeal to everyone in your party.

Fill up the tank at Yannis Cafe before you take off on a relaxing float down the Kankakee River. Recognized as a National Water Trail and listed on the Federal Clean Stream Register, this two- to six-hour trip takes all your worries away. Reserve your kayak or canoe with Reed’s Canoe Trips. 

If you've got time, dock at Ryan's Pier on the banks of the Kankakee River for lunch and one of their 80+ drink options. You won't get a better view!