Heritage Corridor Destinations Celebrates 2026 I&M Canal Towns Travel Guide

Heritage Corridor Destinations officially unveiled its 2026 I&M Canal Towns and Starved Rock Country Travel Guide on August 18 at Canal Port Park in Morris. The dual-cover guide provides visitors with a new resource for exploring two of the Heritage Corridor region’s distinctive travel destinations. 

The announcement brought together Heritage Corridor Destinations President & CEO Robert Navarro, Grundy County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Christina Van Yperen, Morris Mayor Chris Brown, community partners, and Heritage Corridor Destinations staff to celebrate the new travel guide. Canal Port Park, located along the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal, is featured on the I&M Canal Towns cover of the new guide. 

Tourism is an important economic driver for the I&M Canal Towns. Visitor spending in Grundy County alone generates nearly $10 million in state taxes and $1.4 million in local taxes, according to the latest data from the Illinois Office of Tourism and Tourism Economics. 

“Tourism supports our local businesses, strengthens our downtown and local economy, and helps us share what makes Morris such a special place to visit or call home,” said Morris Mayor Chris Brown. “We are proud of what Morris has to offer — events that celebrate our history, a vibrant and historic downtown, outstanding local businesses, countless festivals, beautiful outdoor recreation, and, most importantly, a welcoming community. Our goal is simple: when people are deciding where to go for a day, what state park to visit, or where to spend their time, we want them to say, ‘Meet me in Morris.’” 

The I&M Canal Towns offer visitors opportunities to explore the history and legacy of the Illinois & Michigan Canal through historic communities, canal trails, museums, local businesses, and waterfront experiences. Starved Rock Country features scenic state parks, outdoor recreation, local dining, shopping, and attractions throughout LaSalle County and the surrounding region. 

Designed to inspire visitors to explore beyond individual destinations, the 2026 guide provides travelers with information to plan a trip through the Heritage Corridor and discover the communities, experiences, and attractions that make the region a Midwest destination. 

Printed copies of the 2026 I&M Canal Towns and Starved Rock Country Travel Guide are available at key travel destinations throughout the Heritage Corridor region. Visitors may also view a digital edition or request a complimentary printed guide here.