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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!Why does date night have to be just a night? In the Heritage Corridor, there are many ways to stretch date night into an entire day!
Here are just a few ideas you can recreate:
Travel to Utica, IL and begin your day with a little wine in your cup at August Hill Winery. Explore their tasting bar where you can enjoy wine tasting, browse their different flavors and style, and also shop and take home the ones you love most.
Once you’ve stirred up an appetite you can take a short drive down to Woody’s Steak House in Ottawa, IL for the perfect dinner to leave you full and satisfied. From seafood, to pasta, to steak, there’s many options to choose from so you can savor every last bite.
Or you can try a meal that’ll make you feel like you’re right in New Orleans at Cajun Connection. On their menu you’ll find jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish, and even alligator. Trust me, you’re in for a real treat!
Then once you’re good and full, you can fall into a warm and cozy bed at the Grand Bear Resort. Book their Whirlpool Suite, the perfect romantic getaway. It features a two-person whirlpool tub and all the of their signature amenities, plus a king size bed and fireplace.
Lockport is a great place to experience the outdoors and fine dining. You can start off the day with a nice walk along the I&M Canal trail. This is a great idea if you’re looking to be outside with the fresh smell of nature and a lovely view of the water.
Once you’ve had a nice little stroll, you can regain some energy by trying some of the tastiest treats in town at Hollingworth Candies. All of their toffees and chocolate candies are handcraft with love. Who said you shouldn’t have dessert before your dinner?
Then once you’re ready to have a delicious meal, head on over to The Public Landing located inside the historic Gaylord Building. While you’re there, you can also explore the museum and Gallery Seven Art Gallery in the same building.
Or find yourself at Embers Tap House, which is a must when in the Lockport area. Not your typical Tap House, they are very in tune with details, which shows with their presentation of each meal. Bring joy to your tastebuds while dining here.
Joliet is the perfect place to enjoy a nice dinner date for two with a comfortable overnight stay.
Add something new to your palette by visiting Barolo Restaurant. This restaurant offers a European atmosphere and a unique spin on authentic Italian cuisine.
For divine flavors in every bite, visit Chevere Latin Café in downtown Joliet. They offer a wide array of fresh food, but I recommend their Plantain sandwich that is made to perfection.
If you’re looking for something more classic, then you can never go wrong with a steak house. Get dressed up and reserve a dinner for 2 at Al’s Steak House. This is one of the oldest established upscale dinning restaurants in the area with some of the best charbroiled steaks.
Then once you’ve gotten full enough, kick back and relax at one of our many Joliet hotels in the area:
No matter where you decide to explore for your next date in the Heritage Corridor, it will always be an adventure well worth it.
Due to the COVID-19 virus, organizations may have different hours and services. Events may be rescheduled or cancelled. Please check with the organization/event prior to traveling to ensure hours/status.