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Canal Towns

Canal Towns

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. 

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Attractions Shop Food & Drink Events Features Stay Lodging Packages
Canal Towns News Take on the Mighty Nick Burger
Route 66

Route 66

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!

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Attractions Shop Food & Drink Events Features Stay Lodging Packages
Route 66 News Some of the Best Bloody Mary's Around
Starved Rock

Starved Rock

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.

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Attractions Shop Food & Drink Events Features Stay Lodging Packages
Starved Rock News 5 Restaurants To Visit in the Starved Rock Area
Events

Events

The Heritage Corridor is filled with events that are waiting just for you.  Live music, fun festivals, learning programs, and active adventures await.

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All Events Submit Your Event Lodging Packages Festivals Car Shows Music / Performing Arts Fall & Winter Holidays
Events News Beer Releases: August 28 - September 18, 2020
I Want To...

I Want To ...

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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Grab a Beer Shop Small Eat a Tasty Burger Find Adventure Sip Some Wine Plan My Wedding Plan a Meeting
I Want To... News Support Area Craft Beer with 2020 Ale Trail Digital Passport
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Beer Releases: September 18 - 25, 2020

 09/30/2020 by  
New Releases -  Coming Soon Chicken fried, jasmine, hazy, and full of Oktoberfest-goodness.  That describes this week on the Heritage Corridor Ale Trail.  Keep on reading to find out more about this week's beer releases. From Earlier...READ MORE

Your Monsters Can Mash at Lemontster Days

 09/29/2020 by  
Celebrate Halloween Lemont-style in this multiday experience! The Village of Lemont has planned out many fun fall themed events for you and your family to enjoy. Starting September 29th the Lemont Park District will be selling pumpkin painting kits to get you in the fal...READ MORE

Santa On The Run

 09/29/2020 by  
Save the date and get ready to gear up in your best Saint Nicholas costumes while you take on the 5K Run/Walk through downtown Joliet.    The Joliet Chamber is hosting the family-friendly holiday themed run on Saturday, December 5, 2020 that wi...READ MORE

Get Inspired at the Liberty Art Stroll

 09/29/2020 by  
Support local artists and immerse yourself in the downtown Morris Culture! This Saturday, October 3rd, bring a friend or the whole family to the Liberty Art Stroll. See the amazing local talent and soak in some of the last outdoor events before fall quickly turns to winter!&...READ MORE

Wine Through The Corridor

 09/29/2020 by  
The Heritage Corridor is no stranger to delicious wine and stops to find them.     From reds and whites, to Rose, Sparkling and Dessert wines, no matter what your taste buds are craving, we have it for you.    We created “...READ MORE

Get Corntined in Downtown Morris

 09/22/2020 by  
The Morris Retail Association https://www.heritagecorridorcvb.com/Morris-Retail-Association is hosting the Corntine Fall Fest September 23rd – 26th. Visit all the amazing shops downtown Morris has to offer. With over 40 locally owned shops & restaurants to vis...READ MORE

Introducing Adventure Outside Chicago

 09/22/2020 by  
Do you seek adventure?   Whether it's thrill-seeking adventure like skydiving and ziplining or family-based adventure like waterparks and bowling alleys, we created Adventure Outside Chicago just for you.  365 days a year, there is adventure w...READ MORE

Get Crafty with the Family This Fall at Boggio's - September 26 and 27

 09/22/2020 by  
Boggio’s Orchard has an amazing event you won’t want to miss out on.  Mark your calendar for the 21st Annual Pumpkin Harvest Craft Event September 26th and 27th. Bring the whole family for hay rides, peddle carts, a petting zoo, corn mazes and more fun ...READ MORE

Beer Releases: September 18 - 25, 2020

 09/18/2020 by  
New Releases -  Coming Soon Chicken fried, jasmine, hazy, and full of Oktoberfest-goodness.  That describes this week on the Heritage Corridor Ale Trail.  Keep on reading to find out more about this week's beer releases. From Earlier...READ MORE

Spots Available for 9/20 Pelican Hike in Channahon

 09/15/2020 by  
There are still some spots left in the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s “Pelican Watch Hikes,” program set for noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon. Hikes will be offered hourly at no...READ MORE

Vintage Illinois at The Canal Market

 09/15/2020 by  
This year, the state’s largest Illinois wine festival is operating market-style!  Don’t miss Vintage Illinois at The Canal Market on September 19 and 20, 2020 in Utica, IL.  You can still purchase and enjoy Illinois wine, while being outdoors ...READ MORE

Take Your Learning Through an Adventure at Starved Rock

 09/15/2020 by  
Starved Rock State Park & Lodge has found a new way for students to have an adventure in discovery while learning.    They have created 20 fun things to do on a “Remote Learning Field Trip” to Starved Rock. You will get a free study guide...READ MORE

Ninth Annual GTOAA Pontiac Museum Regional

 09/15/2020 by  
On September 19th and 20th, visit the City of Pontiac for the ninth annual GTOAA Regional All Pontiac Cruise and Show 2020!  This will be a jammed pack weekend filled with entertainment, tours, shows, cruises, fun and much more!    Here is...READ MORE

Skeleton Key Shows Off Future Expansion

 09/15/2020 by  
  Skeleton Key Brewery showed off their new site for their future expansion, next door to their current location, today in a Facebook Live video.  The site is going to allow for more room, a permanent patio, expanded bathrooms and more.  This will also al...READ MORE

Cog Hill's Third Annual Farm to Table to feature Pollyanna Brewing and more

 09/13/2020 by  
Make sure to get your tickets for Cog Hill's 3rd Annual Farm to Table Dinner, featuring Pollyanna Brewing Company, Wooden Paddle, and Fairway Farms.  The event takes place on Sunday, September 20. To help keep our guests, vendors, and staff safe, the event will b...READ MORE

Beer Releases: August 28 - September 18, 2020

 09/11/2020 by  
New Releases - Pre-order Now -  Coming Soon Welcome to the new web page!  The Heritage Corridor CVB released its new web site on Tuesday, September 8 - which combined its current site with some sub sites, like the Heritage Corridor Ale Trail.  We hope ...READ MORE

Some of the Best Bloody Mary's Around

 09/10/2020 by  
Pour tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, your choice of vodka, a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of salt and pepper in a glass and mix that all together to get a classic Bloody Mary.   Perfect for a nice Sunday brunch or just in general. This unique yet classic drink c...READ MORE

Outdoor Live Music with a Side of Wine

 09/10/2020 by  
Sit back, relax and have a drink while you enjoy live music and the outdoors. August Hill Winery in Utica, IL is finishing out the summer with their popular outside concerts on the hill at their winery. This weekend you can experience a new perfor...READ MORE

The Perfect Sunflower To Take Home

 09/09/2020 by  
As summer slowly comes to an end, I wanted to take a trip to Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm located in Minooka, IL for the last weekend of the sunflower harvest.   I remember seeing several of their images on Facebook and couldn’t help but notice how beaut...READ MORE

Take on the Mighty Nick Burger

 09/03/2020 by  
We love burgers.  And, the Nick's Burger from Lemont's Nick's Tavern is one that we hear as the best in the area.  In fact, it has been featured on Chicago's Best, WGN's "Around Town with Ana Beleval," and has even taken home the title...READ MORE

Lodi's Burger of the Month (Sept) - The Ranch Hand

 09/03/2020 by  
Lodi Tap House in Utica has another amazing burger lined up for us this month.  Meet, the Ranch Hand. This tasty burger is their all-too-good Smash'd patty, covered in mozzarella and bacon.  On top of that, you've got fried pickles, cheddar cubes, an...READ MORE

Local Foods Restaurant Week set to Take Over Ottawa, IL

 08/27/2020 by  
Ottawa, IL is coming together for Local Food Restaurant Week, running September 5-14, 2020.  The event is a celebration of local farmers and restaurants in the area coming together to offer special dishes at participating restaurants. Try a dish or two at multip...READ MORE

Burger Me Thursday (8/20/2020) - The French Onion Burger from Uptown Grill

 08/20/2020 by  
LaSalle's Uptown Grill has another great "Burger Me Thursday" today!  It's The French Onion Burger, which ia a 100% angus beef patty.  The burger is topped with a crispy crouton, vidalia french onion sauce, and emmental swiss cheese.  Get it ...READ MORE

A Classic Slice of Pizza

 08/18/2020 by  
There is something that is just classic about a slice of cheese pizza. The flavor of fresh mozzarella cheese, accentuated by an authentic sauce and traditional crust. We have a list of places where you can get a great slice of cheese pizza – or one with whatever toppin...READ MORE

Rockin at the River with Libido Funk Circus

 08/18/2020 by  
Continue to rock out with the City of Pontiac for their free concert at Humiston-Riverside Park Bandshell this Saturday, August 22nd from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.   Special guest Libido Funk Circus will be performing their best hits to groove to.  T...READ MORE

Take a Two Day Trip Down the Illinois River this October

 08/18/2020 by  
Pack your bags and enjoy a 1 night, 2-day trip on the Illinois River with the Spirit of Peoria on October 15-16, 2020.  This exciting overnight trip will include two relaxing days of cruising down the river, with all-you-can-eat buffet meals (including the chef&rsquo...READ MORE

Ways to Play in the Heritage Corridor

 08/15/2020 by  
Looking for something fun to do as a family with memories to cherish forever? Check out a few ideas that are great to do as a families, a group friends, or even a nice outing with yourself. Everyone's a kid at these family-friendly attractions. Haun...READ MORE

Blues Brothers Movie Night at Old Joliet Prison - August 21 and 22, 2020

 08/11/2020 by  
Here's your chance to see The Blues Brothers inside the Old Joliet Prison.  The movie will be projected on a large 45-foot screen. On both days, gates will open at 5pm and the movie will start at 8pm.  Food and beverage concessions with a touch-less transact...READ MORE

Live @ Lunch with the Illinois Rock & Roll Hall Museum on Route 66

 08/06/2020 by  
It's Friday, and you want to get out of the office.  Head to Downtown Joliet for Live @ Lunch, a weekly acoustic performance at the Van Buren Street Stage.  The free weekly outdoor summer event is brought to you by the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 6...READ MORE

The Chairman of the Board Visits The Forge: Lemont Quarries

 08/04/2020 by  
Jason Berry, Chairman of the Board for the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Board, originally published this article on July 23, 2020 for LemontDowntown.com.  The Forge: Lemont Quarries Opening Day! It’s Here! It’s Open! “Bigge...READ MORE

An Unforgettable Trip Through The Starved Rock Area

 08/04/2020 by  
Being from the city of Chicago, I am use to seeing tall buildings, crowded highways and people everywhere. The only times I felt like I was surrounding myself with the outdoors were the times I would go to the lakefront to lay in the grass and watch the waves of the water. ...READ MORE

Lodi Tap's August Burger of the Month: The Blind Tiger

 08/03/2020 by  
May want to stretch out and grab some water, because Lodi Tap House - Utica's August Burger of the Month is a doozy.   Are you ready for The Blind Tiger?  This one is a Smash'd patty with bacon, grilled onions and grilled peppers smothered in chedda...READ MORE

Two Great Summer Deals at Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock

 08/03/2020 by  
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock (formerly Grizzly Jack's Resort) is offering two great deals for late July / early August. Summer Fun Weekend:  10% off and 2 free aluminum water bottles.  Valid July 24 - August 9, 2020 for Friday and Saturday nights onl...READ MORE

Photos of the Matthiessen Sunflowers

 07/28/2020 by  
Our friend Kathy Casstevens sent us these great photos of the sunflowers at Matthiessen State Park!  We wanted to share these to help brighten up your day....READ MORE

Celebrate Harry Potter's Birthday at Prairie Fox Books

 07/27/2020 by  
Make sure to visit Ottawa, IL's Prairie Fox Books on Saturday, August 1st from 10am - 3pm to celebrate Harry Potter's Birthday!  Your wizard-in-training will be able to make a potion to take home, participate in Herbology class, visit Honeydukes for free candy, ...READ MORE

Who's ready for Sweet Corn?

 07/27/2020 by  
One of the best things about summer is sweet corn.  And, you can get some amazing sweet corn from Bronkberry Farms in Plainfield, IL.   Bronkberry Farms is a family-owned garden center, farm stand, apple orchard, and pumpkin farm that opened up in 2012...READ MORE

Mabel's Market featured on Fox 32

 07/27/2020 by  
Lemont's own Mabel's Market was featured on Fox 32 on Thursday, July 23. Mabel's owner Sommer talks about running her business during the pandemic. We've got the clip embedded in this article. You can find out more about Mabel's Market at https://www.m...READ MORE

Support Area Craft Beer with 2020 Ale Trail Digital Passport

 07/27/2020 by  
...READ MORE

Beer Releases: July 24-31, 2020

 07/24/2020 by  
From Earlier This Week Flapjack Brewery Vortex City Skeleton Key Brewery Paintball Fight with a Zombie Tangled Roots Brewing Co. Path Mender Metal Monkey Brewing Bikini Bot...READ MORE

Support Local - CVB Member Restaurants, Breweries, and Wineries Offering Services

 04/02/2020 by  
Here at the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, tourism and community are at the heart of what we do. During this time of uncertainty and to help stop the spread of COVID-19, we have been creating lists and options on how to assist our members and others around...READ MORE

CVB Member Restaurants, Breweries and Wineries - Drive-Thru, Carryout and Delivery options

 03/18/2020 by  
Here at the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, tourism and community are at the heart of what we do. During this time of uncertainty and to help stop the spread of COVID-19, we have been creating lists and options on how to assist our members and others around...READ MORE

Plan Your Spring Break Around the Corridor

 03/10/2020 by  
As winter slowly coming to an end, this means spring is approaching! It’s time for the flowers to blossom and the weather to get warmer. This also means spring break is right around the corner!    There’s always something to do around the Corridor...READ MORE

Owl Prowl Weekend is Back at Starved Rock Park

 03/10/2020 by  
Get ready for Owl Prowl Weekend starting this Friday, March 13th – 15th, 2020. With such an eventful weekend that lies ahead, here is what you can expect:    On Friday and Saturday, ornithologist Steve Bailey will be leading Owl Programs and Owl Wa...READ MORE

Will County Brewing Anniversary Two!

03/03/2020 by  
Help Will County Brewing celebrate their second Anniversary this weekend, March 6-8, 2020,  with a three-day event!  There will be two fresh new Berliner releases, an encore of Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Amber Ale, and their Anniversary Two Blueberry Pancakes Stout r...READ MORE

The Many Different Businesses of The Westclox Building

03/03/2020 by  
You are invited to join the businesses of the Historic Westclox Building next Friday, March 13th, 2020 for an evening of sipping, shopping, meeting and greeting!  This burgeoning community of small businesses each have their own unique identities, with something...READ MORE

Warm Up at The Public Landing

 02/25/2020 by  
A chill of a forecast has been in the air all this week, but The Public Landing has the solution.  Their Winter Warm Up! 3 Course Menu is available for a limited time, offering an amazing meal at a truly affordable price. The dinner special is available from Tue...READ MORE

The Blues is Alive - Buddy Guy Plays at The Rialto

 02/25/2020 by  
A legend takes the stage at the legendary theater.   What can we say about Buddy Guy?   When you think of Chicago Blues, you think of Buddy Guy.   When Rolling Stone came out with their “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time,&rdqu...READ MORE

Catch a Killer at Prairie Fox Books

02/25/2020 by  
Are you ready for a glamorous evening of mystery and intrigue?  Are you ready to bring out your best evening wear, ball gowns, suits or tuxes?  Can you catch a killer?   Join Prairie Fox Books for a Masquerade Ball and a murder mystery! ...READ MORE

Third Annual Bridal Expo 2020 at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate

 02/11/2020 by  
The Third Annual Bridal Expo 2020 at The Jacob Henry Mansion Estate is happening this Sunday, February 16 from 11am – 2pm. Come and meet with top preferred area vendors and enjoy a one stop planning experience.  You and your friends will be able to sample t...READ MORE

The Kiwanis Club of Joliet Exhibit Unveiling at the Joliet Area Historical Museum

 02/04/2020 by  
The Joliet Area Historical Museum will be hosting the Kiwania Club and Zonta International’s 100 years of service to the community with an unveiling of their new exhibit.   They will be focusing on their service and the impact it has made on communities gl...READ MORE

Winterfest Flurries, Fun, and Free! - Bolingbrook, IL

02/04/2020 by  
Enjoy winter fun with the entire family this Saturday, February 8, 2020 at the Annerino Community Center in Bolingbrook, IL.  This will be a free day of fun for everyone to let loose, with many activities to do indoor and outdoor such as:    Outdoors ...READ MORE

1st Anniversary Party - Hibernation Haze Fest at Ike & Oak Brewing

 02/04/2020 by  
Get ready to have some fun while celebrating all weekend long with Ike & Oak Brewing Co. in Woodridge, IL for their 1st anniversary party! From February 7, 2020 – February 8, 2020 you can enjoy live music, daily specials releases, and 9 guest breweries featuri...READ MORE

Valentine's Day Events

 02/04/2020 by  
Grab your loved one, put on your best fit and bring on the romance as we celebrate Valentine’s Day around the Corridor!  There are so many things to do this Valentine’s day that you can enjoy with your significant other. Here is a list of events to mark o...READ MORE

Illinois Valley Wedding Show - The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens

 01/21/2020 by  
This is the season for any future brides to be! The 40th Illinois Valley Wedding Show happening at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton, IL Sunday 26, 2020.  In such a beautiful venue you will meet with an exclusive group of businesses who will help you ma...READ MORE

Throwing Bullseyes For Bullies

01/21/2020 by  
Throw an axe and help raise awareness!  Come join Hedd Mutt Foundation at their first Axe Throwing fundraiser this Sunday from 1pm-4pm at the Axe Factor Throwing located in Plainfield, IL.  Hedd Mutt Foundation is a non-for-profit in the Chicagoland area foun...READ MORE

Eagle Watch Weekend 2020

01/21/2020 by  
The Eagle Watch Weekend is a two-day event, which celebrates the American Bald Eagle in Illinois. This event will offer many programs, activities and exhibits occurring simultaneously at three locations: The Starved Rock Lodge, Illinois Waterway Visitors and the Starved...READ MORE

5 Restaurants To Visit in the Starved Rock Area

 01/14/2020 by  
There are so many reasons why you should plan your next visit to the Starved Rock area, and the tasty food is a big one!  Here are a few local restaurants to check out that are sure to please you. With many different flavors to fulfill every pallet, yo...READ MORE

Flock To The Rock 2020

01/07/2020 by  
There is a lot of reasons why you should plan your next adventure to the Starved Rock Area. Fun sightseeing, unique progressive dinner experiences, several places to enjoy a nice glass of wine in a relaxing atmosphere, there is something exciting to do for everyone! &nb...READ MORE

Win Over $1,000 in Restaurant Gift Cards - Joliet Area Restaurant Week 2020

01/07/2020 by  
Get excited for Joliet Area Restaurant Week 2020, happening February 1-13. Some of your favorite restaurants are back again this year, along with a few new ones that will have your taste buds dancing.  This year, we are excited to include a digital passport that you ...READ MORE

Romeoville, IL Super Bowled Party at Bowlero

01/07/2020 by  
The Friday before the Super Bowl, January 13, 2020, put together a team of 4 and join the Romeoville Area Chamber of Commerce in their first ever Super Bowled event at Bowlero.  There will be special games, super bowl themed food and drink offerings. The Chamber ...READ MORE

The Lost City of Sag Bridge with Father Thomas Koys

 12/03/2019 by  
Welcome back to another Around the Corridor with Mariah. This week, we have traveled to a beautifully secluded area in Lemont, IL where the trees stand tall, the air smells fresh and the water isn’t too far away.  Being a city girl, I don’t...READ MORE

Taking A Trip Back in Time with Lemont Area Historical Society

 11/05/2019 by  
My travels around the Corridor took me right into the Lemont Area Historical Society with Susan Donahue who is the museum coordinator. She was really excited to share with me all the history that lies within this historical landmark.  The organization is located ...READ MORE

Sometimes You Need A Slice

 11/05/2019 by  
What’s flat, baked like an open-faced pie, but yet savory and can add any topping you want? If you guessed pizza, then you’re right!  Pizza is a food that is so universal, and can be tailored to just about anyone. To satisfy your cravings, I want to share...READ MORE

Tapping Into My Creative Side At Thimbles

10/21/2019 by  
Hi Everyone! My name is Mariah and I am back again with another adventure through the Corridor. This week’s travels lead me into a shop filled with colors, crafts and creativity.  Thimbles is a quilt shop located in the downtown Lockport area where you can buy ...READ MORE

Scenes from the Corridor