Summer Fun in the Corridor



Illinois Route 66. Find fun surprises along Route 66 as it winds through the I & M Canal

Gemini Giant Stands Tall in the History of Route 66

05/14/2025 by  
Legends of the Road: The Story of the Muffler Men Before GPS and glowing billboards, there were giants—towering fiberglass sentinels standing guard over America’s highways. Known as Muffler Men, these 18- to 30-foot-tall figures were originally designed in the...READ MORE

05/14/2025 by  
Wilmington’s Gemini Giant Before GPS and glowing billboards, there were giants—towering fiberglass sentinels standing guard over America’s highways. Known as Muffler Men, these 18- to 30-foot-tall figures were originally designed in the 1960s as eye-catc...READ MORE


Buy Two, Get One Free – All Year at the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center!

05/13/2025 by  
We’re running a Buy Two, Get One Free offer all year long at the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center Gift Shoppe—open daily from 12 PM to 6 PM in North Utica, IL. This special applies to specific products during specific months, so there’s always somethi...READ MORE

Tangled Roots Craft Beer & Kitchen Opens in Downtown Washington, IL

05/07/2025 by  
Tangled Roots Expands to Washington Square  Tangled Roots Brewing Company, one of our standout regional members, has just opened its newest location in downtown Washington, Illinois. With craft beer, locally sourced food, and a strong commitment to community, this ...READ MORE


A Foodie Favorite in Wilmington: Nelly’s on Route 66

Foodie Favorite: Nelly's on Route 66

03/25/2025 by  
In a town known for its small-town charm and Route 66 history, Nelly’s on Route 66 has carved out its place as a go-to stop for great food and friendly service. Opened in 2007, Nelly’s began as a walk-up stand with a simple mission: serve fresh, flavorful food fa...READ MORE

Member Spotlight: Illinois Rock & Roll Museum & Audiophil’s Records

03/20/2025 by  
Member Spotlight: Illinois Rock & Roll Museum & Audiophil’s Records – A Music Lover’s Must-Visit in Joliet Music has always been a big part of Illinois’ identity. Some of the most influential rock, blues, and jazz artists have roots her...READ MORE


Rising Star in American Craft Distilling

12/12/2024 by  
  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 ...READ MORE

What to Do in the Heritage Corridor This Winter

12/03/2024 by  
The Heritage Corridor is full of festive activities to make your winter season unforgettable. From markets to tree lightings, here’s your guide to the best events in chronological order: Holiday in the Park When: December 6, 2024 Where: Morris-Goold Park, ...READ MORE


I&M Canal and Centennial Trail Connection Officially Open: A New Link for Scenic Adventures

11/05/2024 by  
On October 7, a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the grand opening of a trail connection linking the 3.26-mile Centennial Trail with the 11-mile I&M Canal Trail. This new pathway offers the public 14.5 miles of uninterrupted, scenic trail, spanning from Lemont to Joliet an...READ MORE

Starved Rock State Park wins vote for favorite IL state park!

10/11/2024 by  
   Starved Rock voted Illinois’ favorite state park! The Illinois Conservation Foundation recently announced that Starved Rock State Park was voted Illinois' Favorite State Park! Starved Rock beat out 26 other state parks in the 400,000+ visito...READ MORE


Fall Things To Do Around The Corridor

09/24/2024 by  
  Fall is here, and we want to make sure you are ready for all the fun festivities to come! If you’re wondering what there is to do around the Heritage Corridor in the fall, well here’s a list of things you can do as a family, solo, or with friends. F...READ MORE

Celebrate the Season: Fun Fall Events for the Family

09/17/2024 by  
Fall is here, bringing crisp air and vibrant colors! Get ready for a season filled with family fun as exciting fall events are just around the corner. From pumpkin patches to autumn festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this cozy time of year.  &nb...READ MORE


Scenes from the Corridor