Heritage Corridor Destinations Celebrates Four Partners During September Hospitality Happy Hours

Heritage Corridor Destinations recognized four outstanding partners through Hospitality Happy Hours in September. The program is designed to honor the local businesses and individuals who welcome, inspire, and elevate the visitor experience across the region.

The September honorees included Dollinger Family Farm in Channahon; August Hill Winery in Utica; Audiophil’s Records in Joliet; and the Grundy County Corn Festival in Morris.

“Hospitality Happy Hours are our way of shining a spotlight on the people and places that make the Heritage Corridor region such a vibrant destination,” said Robert Navarro, President/CEO of Heritage Corridor Destinations. “Each of these partners reflects the heart and character of their communities — they not only serve visitors but also help tell the story of what makes this region so special.”

Located in Channahon, Dollinger Family Farm has been in operation since 1852 and remains family-owned. The farm offers family-friendly fall fun with a corn maze, pumpkin patch, animal farm, play areas, and seasonal events — all with free admission and parking.

In Utica, the August Hill Winery at 106 Mill Street features wines crafted primarily from Illinois-grown grapes, many sourced from the winery’s own vineyard in Peru. Winemakers Mark Wenzel and Sarah Hall, who were named Illinois Winemakers of the Year in 2018, have been cultivating their vineyard since 2002.

Audiophil’s Records, located at 76 N. Chicago Street in Joliet, is a family-owned business that celebrates the nostalgia of the 1970s and 1980s record store experience. With an extensive collection of new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and audio equipment, it continues to serve as a community gathering place for music lovers.

Finally, the Grundy County Corn Festival in Morris — now in its 76th year — continues to celebrate the region’s deep agricultural roots. The festival features a craft show, carnival, live music, local food, and one of the largest parades in Illinois, held each year on the festival’s closing Sunday.

Through the Hospitality Happy Hour program, Heritage Corridor Destinations continues to recognize the businesses and individuals who create authentic, memorable experiences for visitors throughout the region.

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