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Canal Towns

Canal Towns

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. 

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Canal Towns News Plan Your Season of Road Trips by Getting the Free Travel I&M Canal Towns Guide
Route 66

Route 66

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!

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Route 66 News Meet Jennifer Bronk from Bronkberry Farms in Plainfield, IL
Starved Rock

Starved Rock

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.

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Starved Rock News Starved Rock Country Welcome Center & Illinois Made Gift Shoppe
Events

Events

The Heritage Corridor is filled with events that are waiting just for you.  Live music, fun festivals, learning programs, and active adventures await.

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All Events Submit Your Event Lodging Packages Music / Performing Arts Festivals
Events News Fireworks at the Joliet Slammers Stadium
I Want To...

I Want To ...

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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Read the Blog Flock to the Rock Grab a Beer Shop Small Find Adventure Sip Some Wine Plan My Wedding Plan a Meeting
I Want To... News 10 Picturesque Winter Images from Around the Heritage Corridor
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Cool Off: Water Adventures in the Corridor

Make a splash this summer with unforgettable water adventures across the Heritage Corridor. Whether you’re cruising, kayaking, or paddling through nature, there’s a refreshing experience waiting for you. Here’s your roundup of this summer’s water-based fun:

Starved Rock Lodge Cruise

Land and Water Cruise – Starved Rock Lodge

Mon. June 30, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Hop aboard this scenic river cruise and trolley tour combo from Starved Rock Lodge. Perfect for relaxing and sightseeing with historic narration and incredible views of the Illinois River.

Starved Rock Guided Kayak Tour

Starved Rock Guided Kayak Tour

June 28, 2025 | 10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM

Location: 1170 N. 27th Road, Ottawa, IL 61350
Admission: $15–$69 per person
Contact: 630-567-4653

Paddle through some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes with this guided kayak tour. A great way to cool off while exploring nature close-up.

St. Genevieve Riverboat

Sightseeing Cruise with Narration – St. Genevieve Riverboat

June 28, 2025 | 231 Albin Stevens Drive, Ottawa, IL

Step aboard the St. Genevieve for a narrated river cruise. Learn the history of the Illinois River while enjoying beautiful views and fresh air from this unique water experience.

McKinley Paddle and Hike

McKinley to McKinley Paddle and Hike

Aug. 12, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Location: 25055 S Walnut Lane, Channahon, IL 60410
Admission: $20.00 per person
Contact: 815-722-9470

Blend your love of kayaking and hiking in one exciting day. Paddle a scenic stretch of the river and then hike back along the historic I&M Canal. It’s an adventure and a workout all in one.