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.
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 Kate Meehan
Earth Day this year is Saturday, April 22 and after a cold winter, we are all ready to get out and embrace Mother Nature. Below are some tips of how you can celebrate Earth Day in the Heritage Corridor.
Starved Rock State Park
Information about all events at Star...READ MORE
03/20/2023 by Mariah Scott
Easter is right around corner and if you’re looking for plans to do with your family, we have some ideas that’ll be perfect for you. And don’t worry about cooking a full Easter dinner, cater your spread at one of our local restaurants, so you can ...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
03/13/2023 by Lauren Las
Romeoville & Lockport were recently selected to receive Energy Transition Community Grants from DCEO. These grants are an initiative under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) that provides funding for communities that have been impacted by fossil fuel plant or coal...READ MORE
03/13/2023 by Lauren Las
Congratulations to Pontiac for being chosen as the official destination of National Road Trip Day 2023. Mark your calendar for Friday, May 26th and get planning!
The Friday before Memorial Day is declared National Road Trip Day and serves as the official kickoff of t...READ MORE
03/04/2023 by Lauren Las
Tours at the Old Joliet Prison are OPEN for the season!
Built in the 1850's with Joliet limestone, the Prison house infamous criminals both in real life and in movies/TV. Take one of their sheduled tours, or opt for a self-guided tour where you can walk arou...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
02/15/2023 by Lauren Las
The Joliet Park District just announced that the 5-time platinum band Train is coming to the Taste of Joliet on June 23rd, 2023!
The San Francisco pop rock band found mainstream success with their debut album Train in 1998. Their 2001 al...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
02/11/2023 by Lauren Las
The Rialto Square Theatre just announced that the legendary Patti LaBelle is coming to Joliet on May 19th, 2023!
Beautiful simply does not describe the incomparable force known to the world as Patti LaBelle. As time continues to evolve, the soulful songbird...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
02/08/2023 by Lauren Las
Finance site MoneyGeek published a ranking of the 15 safest cities in America recently, and Joliet made the list at #8!
Joliet, the seat of Will County, is full of history, culture, shopping and great sporting activities. Start exploring with a visit to the Joliet Ar...READ MORE
02/07/2023 by Lauren Las
Congratulations to Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center, The Jacob Henry Mansion Estate, & The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens for being selected as 2023 winners of The Knot Best of Weddings!
To determine the winners, The Knot analyzed millions of ...READ MORE
02/06/2023 by
We’ve all been to weddings, and when it comes time to tie the knot – you want your wedding to be memorable (and better than the ceremonies you have attended in the past!). You want your guests to look back on your special day saying “That was an amazin...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
01/12/2023 by Lauren Las
The Illinois Rock and Roll Museum on Route 66 is about to get a gigantic delivery!
As part of the $1.5 million IL DCEO Route 66 Grant that Heritage Corridor Destinations was awarded last year, a giant guitar sculpture was commissioned from the artist Shannon MacDonald. Th...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
11/17/2022 by Dan Mulka and Beth Rosenbaum
November 17 is National Take a Hike day. And in Illinois’ Heritage Corridor, there are plenty of places for you to take that hike.
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK
Picturesque sandstone canyons, lush trees, and the occasional waterfall if you are visiting after a ...READ MORE
11/15/2022 by Lauren Las
There are countless holiday markets happening around the Heritage Corridor this winter season. From Christkindl to Chris Kringle to Christmas Market, you'll find the perfect place to shop and celebrate the season.
Ottawa, IL - Chris Kringle Market
Dates: November 2...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
11/04/2022 by Lauren Las
Joliet, IL – The Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Joliet City Center Partnership have launched the Joliet Taco Trail, a passport check-in program that challenges users to visit eight local taquerias and discover why Joliet is famous for its auth...READ MORE
07/18/2022 by Mariah Scott
Around the Heritage Corridor Region there is so much rich history from the I&M Canal, Along Route 66 and in the Starved Rock Country area. You can explore many of our historic areas while learning a thing or two about Lincoln and his great debates, Wild Bill an...READ MORE
07/12/2022 by Mariah Scott
Looking for a reason to get out and explore. Check out what Starved Rock State Park has to offer from the next few months that you can participate solo or in a group. From art in the park to night hikes, these are FREE program for you to enjoy.
July
Live Falcons a...READ MORE
06/28/2022 by Mariah Scott
Your Monday nights just got a whole lot better! Cruise up to the Old Joliet Prison for a spectacular car show at the main prison parking lot with the view of the castellated gothic structure in the background. Stroll through all the awesome cars presented by the Manhatt...READ MORE
06/27/2022 by Mariah Scott
Bolingbrook
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Bolingbrook for a firework show at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. The festivities will begin at 3PM with DJ Tim from Ready, Set, Dance Entertainment. Throughout the day there will be other performers, then the firework show will st...READ MORE
06/22/2022 by Mariah Scott
There is peanut butter & jelly, Batman & Robin, Summer and …. WINE! Some things are good on their own but just better together, and while wine can be enjoyed any time of the year, it feels best when it’s warm outside and you can enjoy your favorite glass...READ MORE
06/21/2022 by Mariah Scott
Save some gas and hop on the Metra to explore the Heritage Corridor region this summer! The Metra will be offering special services to the Heritage Corridor Line in Joliet, for ten consecutive Saturdays starting July 2nd through September 3rd,2022. The stops along the w...READ MORE
06/21/2022 by Mariah Scott
Whether you are someone who want to learn more about wine, looking for something new to try, or a wine connoisseur, this event is great for you! Come join Wine & Cheese Company for their Wine Garden Tasting Party this Sunday.
Spend time in their beautifully open Wine...READ MORE
06/17/2022 by Mariah Scott
The 2022 Great Race is coming to Plainfield on June 22, 2022 and bringing more than 120 vintage cars to the downtown area.
Plainfield is a rest stop for the drivers and they will be welcomed in with an opening ceremony at 4PM. Shortly after, ...READ MORE
06/15/2022 by Mariah Scott
While Spring has just ended, we would love for you to share all of your Spring photos taken from around the Corridor, so that we can share them with everyone else! Let us see all the exciting adventures you've expereince in this beautiful warm weather with...READ MORE
06/14/2022 by Mariah Scott
Enjoy the outdoors with beautiful views and live music at The Mount at The Forge all summer long. Their Summer Concert Series has begun, and you do not want to miss out on all the fun this year. Check out the lineup listed below:
Too Hype Crew
The 90’s Hip H...READ MORE
06/06/2022 by Mariah Scott
There’s nothing better than live music, amazing views, and outdoor dining! This year Starved Rock Lodge has an awesome line up for you this summer with live music on the Veranda every Friday night. There will be good food and drink available or purchase while you liste...READ MORE
06/06/2022 by Mariah Scott
Enjoy the start of Summer at the Taste of Joliet on June 24-26th. This event gives you a great mix of live music, food, drinks, and fun at the carnival! There will be live performances from:
Friday, June 24
Sugar Ray
Collective Soul
Ann Wilson of Heart...READ MORE
05/31/2022 by Mariah Scott
Enjoy a full day of family-fun at the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area this Saturday. Witness authentic pioneer crafts done by the Prairie Partners & Friends as they re-enact in authentic dress. Stroll through the new Cragg Cabin history exhibit and the prairie life...READ MORE
05/31/2022 by Mariah Scott
Sit in the same room as greatest at the 2nd Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Sunday, June 5th, 2022 at the beautiful Rialto Square Theatre in downtown Joliet. Experience a special night by celebrating the rich history of Illinois’s music with live performances...READ MORE
05/24/2022 by Mariah Scott
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.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of downtown Ottawa while exploring the ...READ MORE
05/24/2022 by Mariah Scott
There are so many foods to pick from, but nothing can beat a good ol’ burger! This popular American food can be found on the menu at several different restaurants and can be customized in so many ways. You can go to 10 places in your area, order the same kind of burger...READ MORE
05/18/2022 by Mariah Scott
Make your way down to Morris for their NEW music festival, vendor market and food truck rally on Saturday, June 4, 2022. This new summer fest will provide everything you need all in one area. Explore the one-of-a-kind shopping experience with 200 vendors, enjoy del...READ MORE
05/10/2022 by Mariah Scott
Baseball mixed with food, drinks and friends equals a great time! The Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp Baseball league has their full game line up ready for you this year and you do not want to miss out. Make sure you get your tickets!
Check out their 2022 su...READ MORE
05/10/2022 by Mariah Scott
Whether it’s made on you grill out back or devoured at your favorite restaurant, you can’t have a full Summer without having delicious barbecue to enjoy. Next Monday is National Barbeque Day and around the Corridor we have a few undeniably tasty restaurants for y...READ MORE
05/03/2022 by Lauren Las
This National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), there is more reason than ever to celebrate the collective strength and promising future of the U.S. travel and tourism industry.
The 39th annual NTTW, taking place May 1-7, recognizes the Future of Travel and the cr...READ MORE
05/02/2022 by Mariah Scott
The Wine on the Hill Series at August Hill Winery & Illinois Sparkling Co is back and starts next Friday, May 13th and will continue each weekend until October.
Kick back and relax at the August Hill & ISC winery and vineyard as you enjoy the beautiful outdo...READ MORE
05/02/2022 by Mariah Scott
Join the LaSalle County Historical Society for their 3rd Annual Wild Bill Days this Memorial Day weekend. On May 28-29th you can celebrate LaSalle County Native James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickok for a two-day event. There will be a live re-enactment of his life, a ...READ MORE
04/27/2022 by Mariah Scott
Stroll the streets of downtown Morris for their Girls Night Out event May 6, 2022. Grab all the ladies and come enjoy shopping, deals, delicious food and stuck around for the after party.
Start the day explore all the unique shops in the area from 4 PM – 8 PM, then...READ MORE
04/25/2022 by Mariah Scott
Get ready for a summer filled with excitement and adventure at The Forge: Lemont Quarries where they are back with a jammed packed and inciting summer events line up for 2022.
Starting June 11, The Forge will be hosting many events which include live concerts, premiere ou...READ MORE
04/19/2022 by Mariah Scott
Help get The Forge: Lemont Quarries as the number one aerial adventure park in America for the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice!
If you’ve ever been to The Forge, then you know about the endless views and adventures. For the thrill-seekers you can zipli...READ MORE
04/19/2022 by Mariah Scott
Star Union Spirits in Peru, IL was awarded a Gold Medal for their new 75-25 Light Whiskey and a Silver Medal for their American Corn Series Apply Brandy Barrel Light Whiskey at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The 2022 San Francisco World ...READ MORE
04/19/2022 by Mariah Scott
The Joliet Area Historical Museum (JAHM) invites all of their museum members for a new exhibit unveiling next Thursday, April 28, 2022 from 6:30pm – 9:30PM. They are encouraging you to bring a friend to sign up and be a part of the JAHM family!
The event will inclu...READ MORE
04/12/2022 by Mariah Scott
Stroll the streets of downtown Pontiac and be a part of a collaborative celebration of the arts for their Swinging Bridges Arts Festival, May 7-8, 2022. There will be many activities planned for the full weekend such as music, food, interactive arts-related display...READ MORE
04/07/2022 by Mariah Scott
Support Lockport’s very own Thimbles Quilts during the Seeds of Friendship Shop Hop on April 14, 2022. This is a virtual event and begins this Friday, April 8, 2022, and includes 7 quilt shops from around the US. Each quilt shop will go live on Facebook at 7P...READ MORE
04/07/2022 by Mariah Scott
Mabel’s Market is kicking off their 10th Market on Canal on May 1st and you do not want to miss out! Cruise the charming downtown of Lemont while exploring 40 different vendors, selling beautifully handcrafted and vintage items. Stick around and enjoy live music, beer ...READ MORE
04/06/2022 by Mariah Scott
Here is what’s to come at The Forge: Lemont for the Spring time that you do not want to miss out on:
Easter Saturday Brunch with Live Music
Saturday, April 16
Enjoy a delicious Forgefire Easter Brunch where you can kick bac and relax while the air fills wit...READ MORE
03/29/2022 by Mariah Scott
If you have a sweet tooth, then all your dreams are about to come true! Casually stroll the streets of Utica as you try some of the tastiest treats in town on April 30, 2022. From cupcakes, ice cream, popcorn, candy to wine, boozy shots and more!
Support the local busine...READ MORE
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