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.
READ ON!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!
READ ON!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.
READ ON!The Heritage Corridor is filled with events that are waiting just for you. Live music, fun festivals, learning programs, and active adventures await.
READ ON!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.
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Bob Windy and Jeff Yosowitz, founders of Star Union Spirits, are redefining the craft distilling scene in the Midwest. Their distillery, located in the historic Westclox building in Peru, Illinois, has quickly become a symbol of innovation in the American spirits industry.
Star Union Spirits was recently featured in the Who's Who in Craft Distilling article in the prestigious American Craft Spirits magazine (pages 40-41). This recognition underscores the impact of their inventive approach to craft spirits and their contributions to the revitalization of the local community.
Since opening its doors to the public in 2018, Star Union Spirits has gained a reputation for its Navy Strength Dark Rum, award-winning 75-25 Light Whiskey, and distinctive Single Barrel Cherry Brandy. Their spirits have been celebrated for their rich flavors and creativity, earning accolades such as double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Their mission goes beyond crafting exceptional spirits. Windy and Yosowitz are committed to preserving the history of the Westclox building, once an abandoned factory, and transforming it into a thriving hub of economic and cultural activity. The duo's passion for collaboration has also led to unique partnerships, such as their work with Mississippi River Distilling Co.
From their laid-back, music-filled vibe to their house-made syrups and garnishes, Star Union Spirits creates an experience as memorable as the spirits they produce. The distillery continues to embrace innovation, with plans to release new products like a barrel of six-year-old Apple Brandy and a seasonal Coquito cocktail.
As part of the American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA), Star Union Spirits exemplifies the spirit of American craft distilling—resilient, innovative, and community-focused. Learn more about their journey and their incredible lineup of spirits at starunionspirits.com.