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.
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Looking to level up your social media content? Or maybe you just want a beautiful or unique place to take photos? Whatever you are looking for, check out these places for a great photo back drop!
The Forge: Lemont Quarries
We are starting of the list with a unique option that features gorgeous backdrops of the canal town. The Forge is a first -of-its-kind adventure park, located in Lemont, IL. Get views like no other from the top of the Eight Towers Adventure. It is the largest aerial challenge course in the country!
Not looking to conquer your fear of heights, and prefer photos where your feet touch the ground? No problem, The Forge offers a beautiful natural backdrop of Lemont on their walking trails!
True North
This antique shop in Morris, IL is not only a fun place to shop for unique items, but also a great place where you can take photos with retro and vintage backgrounds! They have an arcade that is the perfect place for a vintage aesthetic photoshoot. Or, head into one of their themed sets that showcases their merchandise! (Pro tip: match your outfit to the color scheme for an even better photo.)
Gemini Giant
This picture-worthy landmark stands outside the Launching Pad Drive-In Restaurant. The Gemini Giant is named after the Gemini space program. It holds a silver rocket ship in his hands, while sporting an astronaut's space helmet that resembles a welding mask. Weighing in at an incredible 438 pounds and 30 feet tall, the Gemini Giant is the perfect place to stop along Route 66 to take your picturesque selfie.
Starved Rock Lodge
Dinner and a view always makes for a great photo and a happy stomach! Visit Staved Rock Lodge and be sure to eat at The Veranda. This location features outdoor dining on a bluff, overlooking Starved Rock. What more could you ask for! Feel free to get your four-legged best friend in the shot, as leashed dogs are welcome to join you for your meal with the best view.
Krema Coffee House
This cozy coffee house in downtown Plainfield, IL is the perfect place for all your caffeine needs. Order a specialty latte for a great photo of their latte artistry! Or if you have time to sit and enjoy your drink,3/9 New the aesthetic ambiance of Krema is the perfect backdrop for your next picture.