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.
READ ON!Canal House Antiques, Lockport
Find American antiques of the 18th and early 19th centuries, including country furniture, folk art, silver and period accessories like oil lamps at this large antiques store on Lockport’s main shopping stretch.
Uniques Antiques, Joliet
This store offers 2,000 square feet of antiques, including estate jewelry, neon signs and vintage furniture. Uniques Antiques is open the last two weeks of each month.
Vintage Faire, Minooka
This sprawling vintage country market is held outdoors along the DuPage River on the last Sunday of the month from May through October. Find antiques, refurbished pieces, primitive artwork, handmade gifts and more.
Two Hounds Antiques, Wilmington
A husband-and-wife team who love antiques and beagles opened this quaint downtown Wilmington shop that offers their own repurposed vintage finds, along with antiques sold by local vendors.
Water St. Flea Market, Wilmington
Held on historic Water Street, this flea market takes place on the first Saturday of the month from April through October. The market offers antiques, collectibles, vintage items and crafts.
Main Street Estates, Ottawa
This full-service estate sale company provides services for estates, downsizing, clean-outs and auctions. Visit their 25,000-sq.-ft. store where estate sales and auctions are held and grab a bargain.
3 French Hens French Country Market, Morris
Antiques, handcrafted items, artisan works, baked goods and flowers can all be found at this charming French country market held at the Grundy County Fairgrounds. Held the second Saturday of every month from May-October, with a special two-day holiday market in November.
Betty’s, Morris
This retro shop sells women’s clothing from the 1950-1970s, as well as newer fashions. You’ll also find cool accessories, including hats and shoes, and furniture such as charming vanities.
Matthew Bullock Auctioneers, Ottawa
Monthly auctions offer a wide range of antiques, including fine and costume jewelry, art pottery, toys, military items, collectible coins, vintage photographs and high-end furniture.
Mae’s Vintage Goods, Ottawa
Located on Main Street, Mae’s features antiques and collectibles that span from primitive to mid-century modern styles. Mae’s also sells new home decor items.
Clarks Run Antiques, Utica
Dealers at this antique mall sell quality, well-priced pieces from the early 1900s to the mid-1970s. More than 50 display showcases offer jewelry, restored furniture and artwork. Don’t miss the Eagles Nest gift shop upstairs.
Canal Market, Utica
The LaSalle County Historical Society hosts this antiques and artisans market on the banks of the I&M Canal on select Sundays in May, July and September. Pick up antiques, collectibles, handmade artworks and homegrown goodies.
Canal Cargo Market, LaSalle
With over 6,500 square feet of inspiration, discovery, one-of-a-kind finds and unbelievable prices, there is always something new to see, do or buy at Canal Cargo Market.
Peru Antique Mall, Peru
More than 200 dealers sell their wares from booths at this huge, 20,000-squarefoot antique mall. You’ll find quality antiques here, and the mall is open seven days a week.