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.
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!
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.
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.
12/15/2023 by Mariah Scott
Downtown Morris has everything you need for a perfect Christmas outing!
2nd Annual Holiday in the Park
December 16, 2023
Save the date for the 2nd Annual Holiday in the Park, hosted by the City of Morris! Enjoy ice skating, visits with Santa, and fare from...READ MORE
09/11/2023 by Mariah Scott
The state's largest wine festival returns to North Utica this year!
Make plans to travel to Carey Memorial Park in Downtown Utica on Saturday, September 16th, from 11 a.m. - to 6 p.m. and Sunday, September 17th, from noon - to 5 p.m. During this two-day event, s...READ MORE
04/10/2023 by Mariah Scott
If you have a sweet tooth, then all your dreams are about to come true! Casually stroll the streets of Utica as you try some of the tastiest treats in town on April 29, 2023 from 11am - 5pm. From cupcakes, ice cream, popcorn, candy, boozy shots and more!
Support the loca...READ MORE
03/20/2023 by Mariah Scott
Easter is right around corner and if you’re looking for plans to do with your family, we have some ideas that’ll be perfect for you. And don’t worry about cooking a full Easter dinner, cater your spread at one of our local restaurants, so you can ...READ MORE
07/18/2022 by Mariah Scott
Around the Heritage Corridor Region there is so much rich history from the I&M Canal, Along Route 66 and in the Starved Rock Country area. You can explore many of our historic areas while learning a thing or two about Lincoln and his great debates, Wild Bill an...READ MORE
06/28/2022 by Mariah Scott
Your Monday nights just got a whole lot better! Cruise up to the Old Joliet Prison for a spectacular car show at the main prison parking lot with the view of the castellated gothic structure in the background. Stroll through all the awesome cars presented by the Manhatt...READ MORE
06/22/2022 by Mariah Scott
There is peanut butter & jelly, Batman & Robin, Summer and …. WINE! Some things are good on their own but just better together, and while wine can be enjoyed any time of the year, it feels best when it’s warm outside and you can enjoy your favorite glass...READ MORE
06/21/2022 by Mariah Scott
Save some gas and hop on the Metra to explore the Heritage Corridor region this summer! The Metra will be offering special services to the Heritage Corridor Line in Joliet, for ten consecutive Saturdays starting July 2nd through September 3rd,2022. The stops along the w...READ MORE
06/21/2022 by Mariah Scott
Whether you are someone who want to learn more about wine, looking for something new to try, or a wine connoisseur, this event is great for you! Come join Wine & Cheese Company for their Wine Garden Tasting Party this Sunday.
Spend time in their beautifully open Wine...READ MORE
06/17/2022 by Mariah Scott
The 2022 Great Race is coming to Plainfield on June 22, 2022 and bringing more than 120 vintage cars to the downtown area.
Plainfield is a rest stop for the drivers and they will be welcomed in with an opening ceremony at 4PM. Shortly after, ...READ MORE
06/14/2022 by Mariah Scott
Enjoy the outdoors with beautiful views and live music at The Mount at The Forge all summer long. Their Summer Concert Series has begun, and you do not want to miss out on all the fun this year. Check out the lineup listed below:
Too Hype Crew
The 90’s Hip H...READ MORE
05/31/2022 by Mariah Scott
Enjoy a full day of family-fun at the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area this Saturday. Witness authentic pioneer crafts done by the Prairie Partners & Friends as they re-enact in authentic dress. Stroll through the new Cragg Cabin history exhibit and the prairie life...READ MORE