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!
This Sunday, July 18 is National Ice Cream Day! There is nothing like a cold treat on a hot summer day. Down the Heritage Corridor we have a few tasty places in mind for you to try when you have a sweet tooth.
Rich & Creamy – Joliet
When you see the Jake and Elwood “Blue Brothers,” dance atop of the tower wrapped in neon lights, then you know you’ve made it to Rich & Creamy. Located on Route 66, this ice cream shop serves up delicious sundaes, shakes and flurries!
The Launching Pad Drive In – Wilmington
One of the most known stops along The First Hundred Miles of Route 66, The Launching Pad holds a special place in the Wilmington community. Not only does it house the famous Gemini Giant, but also the famous Dole Whip machine known from Disney World.
Polk-a-Dot Drive In – Braidwood
Once entering into this drive in, you will feel like you were instantly sent back into the 1950s. Not only will you enjoy great meals in their family friendly atmosphere, but also can peruse through memorabilia from the 50s and Route 66. Don’t leave without a sundae, float, malt or shake to cool off!
Bruce & Ollie’s – Utica
Don’t forget to bring your pup a cold treat this summer! That’s right, at Utica’s newest coffee, ice cream & sandwich shop your furry best friend can too enjoy an ice cream treat made special for dogs to enjoy.