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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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It’s time to pull out your wine glass and pour it to celebrate National Red Wine Day August 28. Down the Heritage Corridor we have some of the best wineries and wine shops that will expand your taste palate.
Wine Retailers:
August Hill Winery – Utica
An award-winning winery that has been making wine since 2002. This winery includes caves for aging wine, a tasting room, a sparkling wine program, and a friendly staff. Here is a list of their red wines for purchase:
Bishop’s Hill Winery – Joliet
Have a glass of wine or party in a newly restored historic castle. The winery imports grapes directly from California and uses heir years of wine making experience to produce the best wine possible.
PK UnKorked Wine Shop and Tasting Room – Pontiac
Located in the historic downtown of Pontiac, come relax in their cozy lounge area sipping on one of over 100 wines while overlooking Downtown Pontiac.
Clarks Run Creek Wine & Gifts – Utica
Located near Starved Rock State Park, this wine shop has the perfect environment for getting a taste of the local culture and spending time with friends. The store features a great selection of wine from all over the world.
Herman’s Liquor ‘N’ Wine Store – Ottawa
This store offers a wide selection of domestic and imported beers wines and spirits along with many other supplies. They have been serving their community since 1944. You can find other local wineries bottles inside such as August Hill Winery.
Sable Creek Winery – Plainfield
This winery has a total of 15-20 different wine of carious wine styles from grapes purchased on premier vineyards in California, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, and New York. They offer wine tastings, wine clubs, couple events and much more!
River Hawk Brewing – Channahon
Although brewery is in their name, they also feature great wine for you to take home. Their taproom is designed with community and socialization in mind, making it a great place to gather with friends and family. Here’s a couple of red wines for you to try:
Wine Bars:
Wine and Cheese Co. – Plainfield
Enjoy a fine wine and artisan cheese shop, wine bar and cade located in downtown Plainfield. This is a great place to go whether you know nothing about wine or a connoisseur looking to sip on something new.
Cat’s Eye Wine Bar – Ottawa
Right in the beautiful downtown Ottawa, this eclectic wine bar with wonderful urban vintage charm with a cozy neighborhood feeling. Their wines are rotated seasonally and offer handcrafted cocktails, spirits, barrel aged beer and clever plates.