A mid-1800’s architectural wonder helped make Chicago the city it is today. The 96-mile Illinois & Michigan Canal (I&M Canal) connected the Great Lakes in Bridgeport, Chicago to the Illinois River at LaSalle-Peru, and amazingly unique towns sprung up that maintain their authentic charm to this date.
Freedom. The Open Road. The American Dream. All are still alive on The Mother Road. The nostalgia of diners, museums, tourist stops and neon lights are there for you to visit as you make the drive from Chicago to Santa Monica, CA. You can still get your Kicks on Route 66!
A visit to Starved Rock State Park consists of many sights to behold, including breathtaking views of its many canyons and awe-inspiring scenes of eagles flying during the winter month.
Are you looking for a specific type of place to visit in the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor? If you're a craft beer fan, you will love the Heritage Corridor Ale Trail? Seeing a thrilling journey or just an escape, check out Adventure Outside Chicago. We've got all the info to unlock your next trip right here.
06/07/2023 by Jared Smith
Pride Month is officially here! Not only do we dedicate this month to celebrating and commemorating the LGBTQ+ community, but we also dedicate this month to the Stonewall Riots in 1969. If you're still figuring out what events to participate in, don't worry. Here are...READ MORE
06/06/2023 by Jared Smith
The Morris BBQ Association presents its 2nd annual Rhythm & BBQ Festival! This Father's Day weekend, plan a trip to Goold Park in Morris, IL, Saturday, June 17th, from 10 am - 6 pm to enjoy a day of live music, friendly competition, awards, and mouth-watering ba...READ MORE
06/06/2023 by Jared Smith
La Salle's biggest party is back! Enjoy an evening of games and activities starting Thursday, June 22nd, through Sunday, June 25th. With each day offering something different, this is the perfect event to bring your family and friends. Whether you enjoy creating art, lis...READ MORE
05/25/2023 by Jared Smith
Throw down with some BBQ this Father's Day at Q on Canal in Lemont along Canal Street. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to spend Father's Day with food and games for Dads and kids alike. Enjoy menu items from Lemont's best restaurants and bars, ...READ MORE
05/23/2023 by Jared Smith
Get out, and enjoy a weekend getaway surrounded by wine, good weather, and even better company. The Ottawa 2 Rivers Wine Fest is just around the corner, and trust us when we say you do not want to miss out. The festival will take place; Friday, June 2nd, from ...READ MORE
05/23/2023 by Jared Smith
Returning for the 12th year, Star Wars Day is back! Join the fun Saturday, June 3rd from 11am - 4pm at the Joliet Public Library - Ottawa Street Branch. Returning this year will be a parade of costued characters, games, food vendors, Artist and Author Alley, and merch vendor...READ MORE
05/22/2023 by Jared Smith
On Saturday, June 3, 2021, take part in the 37th Annual Cabin Festival at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area. This day was created to honor the pioneers who moved into the area in the 1830s.
From 10 AM to 3 PM, gather your family and enjoy a full day of fun for free! W...READ MORE
05/19/2023 by Jared Smith
Plan your perfect getaway at Kishauwau Cabins for the weekend. With 17 cabins and over 60 acres of land, this special place is perfect for a romantic escape or family vacation. In addition to being located near Starved Rock, Kishuawau Cabins also offers many packages and spe...READ MORE
05/15/2023 by Jared Smith
Get ready to soar high during the Kites in Flight Fest in Ottawa, IL. This two-day event, held from 11 am-5 pm on May 20th and 21st, is open to all ages and will feature kite demonstrations from the Chicago Kite Company. You might see giant fish, giant astrona...READ MORE
05/15/2023 by Jared Smith
Plan a day in Joliet to celebrate the 12th annual New Orleans North event. This Mardi Gras-style music event will happen on Friday, June 2nd, from 5 - 11 PM in Downtown Joliet. This New Orleans event will feature bands, beer tents, food, and street entertainme...READ MORE
05/09/2023 by Jared Smith
Bring your friends and family and jam on the third Sunday of the month (May 21st) during Rusty Wheel Circle Jam at the Eagle Performing Arts & Conference Center in Pontiac. Rusty Wheel Circle Jam will consist of a group of musicians playing traditiona...READ MORE
05/08/2023 by Jared Smith
NCI Artworks will be hosting an opening reception for the photgraphic work of Paula Guttila and Shanna Dugan, Friday, May 12 from 6:00PM to 9:00PM in the west wing of the Westclox buiding. This month long reception is free and welcome to all.
Paula Guttilla is a pro...READ MORE
05/03/2023 by Jared Smith
Live music is back at Starved Rock Lodge. Enjoy live music with a great view and outdoor dining every Friday and select Saturdays from 8 PM - 11 PM. Whether you enjoy classical rock, country, or the blues, you surely will enjoy listening to these talented musicians. The firs...READ MORE
05/01/2023 by Jared Smith
Kick off the start of the Joliet Taco Trail at Salsa Fest. Head to Downtown Joliet on Friday, June 9th, for a night of free salsa tastings, unique menu items, margarita trucks, and salsa dancing. The purpose of this event is not only to celebrate the taco trai...READ MORE
05/01/2023 by Jared Smith
Get up and dance during the Summer Street Concerts Down on Main in Princeton, IL. Grab your friends, family, and lawn chair for an evening of live music and food trucks beginning at 6:00 PM. The concerts will be located on South Main St, between Peru St & Marion St. Admi...READ MORE
05/01/2023 by Jared Smith
Mother's Day is around the corner, and although many of us may purchase a gift from our local store, we would still like to do more. This Mother's Day, take Mom out to an event or activity. Whether it's shopping, hiking, or dining, there's ...READ MORE
04/25/2023 by Jared Smith
Full of rich history and constructed with Joliet limestone, the Jacob Henry Mansion is known throughout Joliet by its striking, historic atmosphere. View the unique architecture while eating lunch or enjoy a one-of-a-kind show during dinner.
When visiting ...READ MORE
04/24/2023 by Jared Smith
Celebrate the 16th Annual Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival on May 6th & 7th, 2023. This two-day festival emphasizes family fun on one of the most famous two-way highway in America - Route 66. This annual festival invites everyone to expe...READ MORE
04/18/2023 by Jared Smith
Join the LaSalle County Historical Society for the 3rd Annual Antiquin' Weekend held on April 29-30, 2023. We will have many different vendors selling their vintage and antique items in and around our LCHS Canal Market!
Don't forget to shop the other g...READ MORE
04/17/2023 by Jared Smith
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Independent Bookstore Day at Prairie Fox Books in Ottawa. Independent Bookstore Day (IBD) is celebrated every year to highlight to uniqueness and independence each of these stores have. Every party is different. In addition to the many ...READ MORE
04/04/2023 by Jared Smith
What better way to learn history than actually being there? Travel back to 1848 as Illinois Congressman Abraham Lincoln salutes the opening of the I&M Canal. This free, 45-minute outdoor program will take place at three locations throughout the day and is the first event...READ MORE
04/04/2023 by Jared Smith
Travel to St. James at Sag Bridge to attend Old Catholic Mass Wednesday, April 12 at 3pm. Catholic Mass will be celebrated by Pere Jacques Marquette and S.J. at St. James at Sag Bridge. There will be a reception to follow in the parish hall.
Other events ce...READ MORE
03/28/2023 by Jared Smith
Celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the I&M Canal. April marks the beginning of the year-long celebration in honor of the I&M Canal. This month will feature special events and activities that span the 60 communities in the I&M Canal National Heritage Area. Here ar...READ MORE
03/22/2023 by Jared Smith
What do you call an alcoholic drink consisting of a spirit or several spirits mixed with other ingredients, such as fruit, lemonade, or cream? If you guessed, A Cocktail, then you’re right!
National Cocktail Day is Friday, March 24, and we would love to share with ...READ MORE
03/20/2023 by Jared Smith
Congratulations to the Forge Parks for winning Best Adventure Course in Best of the Midwest Awards. Just southwest of Chicago, the Forge: Lemont Quarries offers a variety of outdoor activities ranging from zipline, laser-tag, rock climbing, axe throwing, and more! Whether yo...READ MORE
03/16/2023 by Jared Smith
The road is calling! Hop in the car and see what Spring in the Heritage Corridor has in store for you. From The First Hundred Miles of Route 66 to the charming towns along the I&M Canal and out to Starved Rock Country, Heritage Corridor Destinations has endless...READ MORE
03/15/2023 by Jared Smith
Joliet is home to many entertainment venues, events, and restaurants. After or even before a show, it may be overwhelming to choose which restaurant to grab some grub. To make it easier, here are a few options for dinner and drinks.
Chicago Street Pub
A stapl...READ MORE
03/13/2023 by Jared Smith
To celebrate their opening day on March 18th and the launch of their new Explorer Season Pass, the Forge: Lemont Quarries will host a sweepstake to give one lucky winner a 2023 season pass. From archery and axe throwing to digital scavenger hunts and laser tag...READ MORE
03/02/2023 by Jared Smith
If you are an avid explorer of nature, then look no further. The Will County Triple Crown Challenge is sure to keep you active. Embrace the challenge of hiking the three longest trails in Will County. Hike the 22-mile Wauponesee Glacial Trail, 14 miles of...READ MORE
03/01/2023 by Jared Smith
The highly-anticipated Summer Concert Series is here! This summer, enjoy a concert every Friday at the Hegeler Carus Mansion. Each show will feature a different artist and music style. This concert series will keep you entertained and may help add to your music playlist...READ MORE
02/27/2023 by Jared Smith
There are numerous ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The most common ways to celebrate are by attending parades or festivals. At many of these events, beer is the item of choice for many individuals, being one of the most consumed items on St. Patrick's Day. If yo...READ MORE
02/27/2023 by Jared Smith
St. Patrick's Day is always a widely celebrated holiday. Not only do we feast, party, and attend parades, but we also recognize this day as an important event in history, when we commemorate Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity into Ireland, and the history and ...READ MORE
02/23/2023 by Jared Smith
fForest Fest is back in Morris, IL! The festival will take place Saturday, June 3rd, 2023, in Goold Park from 10:00 am - 8 pm. This festival is put on by True North and the I&M Canal Cleanup Coalition (IMC3), a non-profit focused on cleaning up and caring ...READ MORE
02/14/2023 by Jared Smith
Explore all the many flavors from Lockport’s Restaurant Week, beginning February 27th – March 12th, 2023. Experience something new and expand your taste palette with restaurants in Lockport.
Nik & Ivy Brewing
Offering: 2 pints ($7 value or less...READ MORE
02/14/2023 by Jared Smith
Being healthy mentally or physically is crucial to a happy life. Although many of us support healthy practices and emphasize wellness, we always don't know which route to take when it comes to our health. The Westclox Metaphysical and Wellness Fair is intended to educate...READ MORE
02/09/2023 by Jared Smith
National Wildlife Day occurs on February 22nd. On this day, we are reminded to step back, relax, take a deep breath, and admire all the things that surround our communities. Beyond the concrete are beautiful landscapes, relaxing atmospheres, and lively animals. During t...READ MORE
02/06/2023 by Jared Smith
History buffs, this is your time! Visitors to LaSalle County, IL will have a unique oppurtunity to visit six local museums, historical societies and a historic mansion at a very special bargain price. This passport may be purchased at any of the six venues, and the pric...READ MORE
01/31/2023 by Jared Smith
Valentine’s Day is around the corner! As you’re planning reservations and activities, choosing the right one can sometimes be difficult. The classic dinner on Valentine’s Day is always a good choice, but don’t just limit yourself to one...READ MORE
01/31/2023 by Jared Smith
Calling all artists, enthusiasts, and admirers! The Starved Rock Annual Art Show is back! Whether you’re a novice, casual, or expert artist, this show is the perfect place to view beautiful artwork. Although it might be too late to submit your own nature-inspired artwo...READ MORE
01/31/2023 by Jared Smith
Museums offer us a chance to learn rich history and view artifacts. Not only does the Joliet Area Historical Museum offer an in-deph look into the Joliet area's history, but they also host events to keep you entertained. From live music &...READ MORE
01/20/2023 by Jared Smith
Whether it's warm or cold, Starved Rock State Park has many events and activities to keep you entertained. If you are a lover of nature and animals, then Starved Rock is the perfect place to visit. Mark your calendars now for Sunday, February 5th for ...READ MORE
01/18/2023 by Jared Smith
Cupid has been shopping in Downtown, Joliet and needs your help. Each of his arrows has an item on his shopping list written down, but he lost all his arrows! Join Cupid and his quest to find all his arrows before the end of Valentine's Day. Print out the game card ...READ MORE
01/17/2023 by Jared Smith
SAVE THE DATES! The 2nd Annual LHG Test Kitchen Week is January 20-26, 2023. The event is presented by the Heritage Corridor Business Alliance, the Chamber of Commerce representing Lemont and Homer Glen, IL. Participating restaurants will have updated menu items availab...READ MORE
01/10/2023 by Jared Smith
One of the best ways to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr Day is through volunteering. This year, go out and make a difference in your community on Monday, January 16th.
Forest Preserve District of Will County
Location: Rock Run Preserve - Black Road Acce...READ MORE
01/03/2023 by Jared Smith
Cheers to the New Year! We are proud to debut our new name and logo - Heritage Corridor Destinations!
"By adding Destinations to our name, it allows us to focus on our product pillars of Starved Rock Country, The First Hundred Miles of Route 66 and the I&M Canal ...READ MORE
01/03/2023 by Jared Smith
Bring in the New Years with Lemont and celebrate their 150th Anniversary. On January 21st, Downtown Lemont will host their 3rd annual Ice and Lights Fest from 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of ice, lights, and family fun in historic Downtown Lem...READ MORE
01/03/2023 by Jared Smith
Winter may seem grueling, but there is no doubt that the displays and sights of winter are a thing of beauty. One of the most beautiful places to visit in the midwest is Starved Rock Country. With so much to do and see, the temperatue will be the last thing you notice. ...READ MORE
12/30/2022 by Jared Smith
Illinois is rich in history, espcially when it deals with Honest Abe. On your visit to Illinois, take a journey through all the towns Lincoln once visited in the Looking for Lincoln Scavenger Hunt. On this hunt, you will get first hand experience to Lincoln'...READ MORE
12/29/2022 by Jared Smith
January 31st is National Plan for Vacation Day! Celebrated annually on the last Tuesday of January, NPVD is a day to encourage people to plan their vacation days for the whole year at the beginning of the year. Not only does NPVD inspire us to explore the USA, but it al...READ MORE
12/20/2022 by Jared Smith
In our previous blog, we discussed memberships of the Ale Trail. This week, we wanted to focus on something different. That is why we have compiled a list of wineries/wine bars of the Heritage Corridor. Many locations not only offer great wine, but also host events and live ...READ MORE
12/19/2022 by Jared Smith
Outdoor activites are great, but not when the temperatures drop! But you don't have to sit at home bored - we rounded up fun indoor activities to keep your warm and entertained this winter.
Whether you want to learn about wildlife from your couch, hear live&...READ MORE
12/15/2022 by Jared Smith
Congratulations to these Heritage Corridor members who were recognized by Herald-News readers as the Best of Will County 2022!
FAMILY / SPECIALTY / HOBBY
Axe Factor Throwing
"One of the best" - Family Recreation
Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on R...READ MORE
12/12/2022 by Jared Smith
The holidays are near, which means the new year is almost upon us! This calls for a time of celebration with family and friends. While your're thinking of places to celebrate New Year's Eve, here are a couple events to help you plan!
New Year's Eve ...READ MORE
12/09/2022 by Jared Smith
It may be cold out, but that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors to have fun. For all you outdoorsy enthusiasts, there's tons of oppurtunities to get out and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere that nature has to offer during the winter. Grab your coat and get...READ MORE
12/08/2022 by Jared Smith
PSA to all beer enthusiasts: Joining brewery loyalty clubs can make your beer drinking even more rewarding, all year long! Members get access to apparel, discounts, first-dibs, and invitations to exclusive events. Here are a few for you to consider...
Before you go: sign ...READ MORE
11/30/2022 by Jared Smith
The holidays just aren't the same without lights! While you're out with family and friends, make sure to check some of the beautiful lighting displays in Starved Rock Country. Grab your camera and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ottawa De...READ MORE
11/30/2022 by Jared Smith
Take a stroll through Downtown Lemont and enjoy the holiday display. There will be loads of dazzling lights nuzzled against family-owned shops, restaurants, taverns, and breweries. Now is the perfect time to capture photos of this Winter Wonderland. The display wil...READ MORE
11/29/2022 by Jared Smith
With the many events happening during the holidays, it can be difficult to choose something. Do you want to catch a classic Christmas movie with friends and family? Experience a stage performance like no other? Take the family out to pictures with Santa? No matter the e...READ MORE
11/18/2022 by Jared Smith
The most wonderful time of year is here. The holidays are fast approaching, and it's time for lights! While you’re out searching for your holiday gifts, take a detour and enjoy these holiday events around the Heritage Corridor.
...READ MORE
11/10/2022 by Jared Smith
It has been a long year. Relax this Thanksgiving and leave the cooking to the culinary artists from the restaurants of the Heritage Corridor. Each restaurant is unique and offers their own style of food. Whether you choose to dine-in or pick-up a tasty dinner, our restaurant...READ MORE
FREE VISITORS GUIDE
FREE VISITORS GUIDE
