Northwest Illinois Directory
Places to Go in Lee County
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties: searchable in one place.
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FeaturedNachusa GrasslandsStretching across more than 4,000 acres near Franklin Grove, Nachusa Grasslands offers visitors a chance to experience one of Illinois' most remarkable natural landscapes. Managed by The Nature Conservancy, this internationally recognized preserve is restoring native tallgrass prairie, oak savannas, wetlands, and woodlands to create a thriving habitat for hundreds of plant and animal species.
Best known for its conservation bison herd, Nachusa gives visitors the opportunity to witness these iconic animals roaming more than 1,500 acres of protected prairie. While bison sightings are never guaranteed, patient visitors often spot them from designated roadsides and viewing areas. Binoculars are recommended.
Five hiking areas invite exploration through rolling hills, wildflower-filled prairies, sandstone outcrops, wetlands, and oak savannas. Birdwatchers, photographers, geocachers, and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to discover throughout the seasons. The visitor center, open daily from dawn to dusk, features interpretive exhibits, accessible facilities, and a short trail introducing guests to the preserve's ongoing restoration efforts.
Whether visiting during spring wildflower season, summer butterfly migrations, autumn colors, or winter prairie vistas, Nachusa Grasslands provides a memorable glimpse into the landscape that once covered much of Illinois.
FeaturedRonald Reagan Boyhood Home & Visitors CenterTour the restored home where Ronald Reagan lived from 1920–1923. Public tours April–December, Thu–Sat 10am–3pm. Last tour at 3pm. Group tours and special events available by appointment.
Al & Leda PizzeriaFamily-run for over 60 years, Al & Leda Pizzeria is a local landmark in Dixon, IL. Famous for its signature Spaghetti Pizza—a crispy-yet-chewy crust topped with spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, and mozzarella—plus unique pizzas like BBQ Cheeseburger and BLT. Menu includes Italian cheeseburgers, torpedo sandwiches, and homemade classics. Casual, friendly, and perfect for families. Owned by the Bartolomei family since 1960.
Alley Loop Saloon & DeliSince opening our doors in 2004, Alley Loop Saloon & Deli has proudly served as Dixon, IL's favorite spot for good times, great food, and unforgettable nights. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with deli sandwiches, the famous Crazy Cuban, burgers, video gaming, and more. Open seven days a week; kitchen closes at 8 p.m. Locally owned with excellent service.
Amboy City Park Wood CarvingsMore than 30 tree trunk wood carvings, including three U.S. Presidents from Illinois (Reagan, Lincoln, Grant) and scenes of Amboy life. More carvings planned.
Amboy Depot MuseumThe Amboy Depot Museum is located in a former depot and division headquarters of the Illinois Central Railroad located in Amboy, Illinois. The building is an architecturally unique two-story building built of brick and cut Joliet limestone and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been completely restored both inside and out, and includes the original brick tarmac surrounding the depot and the grounds of the former rail-yard, now preserved as a city park. Also reconstructed were the distinctive chimney caps on the building's eight chimneys, fully restoring the building to its original exterior configuration. Within the museum are artifacts of both the history of Amboy and the Illinois Central Railroad.
The museum complex also contains a freight house with additional artifacts, a fully restored one-room country schoolhouse, a retired steam engine and a caboose. So, come in to see what's to be seen at one of the best small-town depot museums to be found anywhere!
Amboy Family Restaurant & Pizza JunctionOpen 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Homemade soups and pizza. Open 24 hours on Friday and Saturday.
Amboy Farmer’s MarketLocated at the corner of Main Street and East Avenue in the Amboy Depot Museum parking lot, the Amboy Farmers Market brings the community together with fresh, locally-sourced products. Visit us to find locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, handcrafted items, farm-fresh eggs, and quality poultry—all raised, grown, or produced by local vendors. The market provides a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors to support local agriculture and artisans while enjoying the charm of historic downtown Amboy.
Amboy Marsh Nature PreserveThe Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve is a 302-acre Illinois Audubon Society sanctuary featuring diverse ecosystems including marshes, oak savannas, meadows, and prairies. This exceptional preserve is home to rare and endangered flora and fauna, making it a vital conservation area in northwest Illinois. The preserve offers outstanding seasonal birding opportunities, with trails open from sunrise to sunset year-round. Visitors can explore the natural habitats while observing wildlife in their native environment. Please note that pets are not permitted to protect the sensitive ecosystems and wildlife. This preserve plays a crucial role in conservation education and protecting Illinois' natural heritage.
Amboy Sporting GoodsLocally owned since 1997. Hunting, fishing, archery, muzzleloading, trapping, guns, ammo, live bait, licenses, archery pro shop.
Angelo’s III Pizzeria - DixonPizza, pasta, and more! Family recipes for 50+ years. Locations also in Sterling & Rock Falls. Hours subject to change, call to verify.
Arthur’s Garden Deli - DixonEstablished in 1977 and voted “best place for lunch” in 2005 by local diners. Deli sandwiches, soups, stuffed potatoes, salad bar, frozen yogurt, and catering.
B.B.Y. Chicken and Carry OutKnown for delicious fried chicken, fried walleye, cod, and more. Dine-in, outdoor seating, carry-out, and local delivery. Open daily 4-9 p.m., closed Mondays.
Baker Street - DixonHouse-roasted coffees, baked goods, soups, and sandwiches. Decadent cakes and pastries. Follow on Facebook for daily specials.
Ballou ParkDixon Park District neighborhood park with lighted ball diamonds, a basketball court, a playground, and the Kiwanis picnic shelter with tables, a grill, and electricity. The shelter and ball fields are available for reservations.
Basil Tree RistoranteFamily owned and operated since 2009, Basil Tree Ristorante offers a unique blend of old-world Italian charm and modern touch in a cozy 1850s building. With more than 30 years of combined chef experience, the widely praised Italian cuisine includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The restaurant features a full bar with signature cocktails and a diverse wine list, ideal for intimate dinners or large celebrations. Private dining and catering are available, with a beautiful banquet room for up to 50 guests. Free off-street parking is available.
Beaver Den Tavern & GrillPaw Paw, IL. Small-town classics: burgers, fish & chips, beer. Family-friendly, large patio, separate bar/dining sides. Tue–Fri 11am–2pm & 5–8pm, Sat–Sun 11am–8pm.
Bogey’s Bar & GrillLocated on the lower level of Timber Creek Golf Club, Bogey’s Bar & Grill serves American favorites, burgers, sandwiches, lunch and dinner specials, and a full selection of drinks. A seasonal patio overlooks the golf course.
Books on FirstA beloved fixture in downtown Dixon since 1998, Books on First is much more than an independent bookstore. It's a gathering place where great stories, delicious coffee, and community connections come together.
Founded by Larry Dunphy and Carolyn Chin, this charming bookstore and coffeehouse has been welcoming readers, coffee lovers, and curious visitors for more than 25 years. Browse thoughtfully selected books, discover local and Midwest history, explore children's favorites, or settle in with a freshly brewed coffee, specialty latte, or sweet treat.
Located at the corner of First Street and Hennepin Avenue, Books on First has long been a hub for conversation, creativity, and culture. Author visits, poetry readings, and special events add to its enduring appeal.
Whether you're searching for your next great read, a thoughtful gift, or a cozy spot to unwind, Books on First offers an authentic slice of downtown Dixon hospitality. It's the kind of place where you might stop in for a cup of coffee and stay for an entire chapter.
A true downtown Dixon treasure—and a must-visit stop when exploring Northwest Illinois.
Brave Arts Creative StudioBrave Arts Creative Studio is a welcoming, community-focused art space offering creative experiences for children, families, and adults. As Dixon’s first dedicated creative arts studio, Brave Arts blends open, drop-in artmaking with guided classes, workshops, and seasonal events designed to inspire all ages and skill levels.
The studio encourages hands-on exploration through a variety of mediums, making it an approachable place for beginners while still engaging for more experienced creatives. In addition to in-studio programming, Brave Arts also offers DIY art kits that allow participants to continue creating at home.
With an emphasis on creativity, confidence, and connection, Brave Arts Creative Studio provides a supportive environment where imagination is encouraged and artistic expression is accessible to everyone.
Busy Bee BakeryBusy Bee Bakery is a locally owned bakery located at 205 N. Main St. in downtown Amboy, Illinois. Michelle Wiemken opened the shop, which brings a wide selection of fresh, made-from-scratch baked goods to the community and fills a long-standing need for homemade treats in town.
Customers can find a rotating variety of items, including breads (such as sourdough), cookies, pies, cinnamon rolls, and coffee cakes, along with savory options like quiches, meat pies, soups, and chicken salad sandwiches. The bakery also offers breakfast favorites like biscuits and gravy and egg casserole, plus made-to-order cookies, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, and coffee cakes.
Busy Bee Bakery is currently open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to noon, making it a convenient stop for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat.
Operating Hours: Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. To confirm hours, check their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/busybeebakeryandgifts.
Bybee Christmas Tree FarmSeasonal choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm offering Fraser fir and white pine, wreaths, saws, tree bagging and baling, plus free hot coffee and cocoa. Open on limited dates after Thanksgiving; confirm the current season schedule before visiting.
Candlewood Suites DixonFormerly the Quality Inn & Suites, this property is undergoing renovations as it transitions to Candlewood Suites. It will be an extended-stay hotel.
Gold Award-winning hotel near I-88 & Route 26. Free hot breakfast, waffle station, King/Family/Whirlpool suites, microwave, refrigerator, sleeper sofa, heated indoor pool w/slide, whirlpool, fitness center, game room. Meeting space for up to 200, business amenities, customizable event catering.
Canterbury Concert Series | Rendezvous ArtsRendezvous Arts — a series under Canterbury Concert Series — brings music, visual art, and community spirit together across Northwest Illinois and greater Chicagoland. Initially founded in spring 2020 by a collective of artists responding to pandemic-era challenges, Rendezvous Arts has grown into a vibrant nonprofit platform dedicated to reshaping artistic expression, nurturing emerging talent, and spreading the joy of live music and art.
As part of Canterbury Concert Series, Rendezvous Arts delivers a curated lineup of performances and exhibitions across multiple venues — including Dixon, Lake Forest, and Chicago — offering 23 events in the 2025–26 season alone. These monthly gatherings (plus special events like the Ravenswood ArtWalk) showcase everything from string quartets and jazz ensembles to live painting and multimedia art.
Whether you’re a longtime music lover or new to the arts scene, Rendezvous Arts offers something for everyone: world-class performances, local talent, and an inviting community atmosphere under the broader Canterbury umbrella.
Chaplin Creek VillageChaplin Creek Village in Franklin Grove, Illinois, is a historic village setting that brings the area’s past to life through preserved buildings, open green space, and community gatherings. Serving as the primary event site for the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society, the village provides an immersive backdrop for seasonal festivals, living history programs, educational activities, and special events throughout the year.
Visitors can stroll the grounds, explore historic structures, and experience hands-on opportunities that highlight rural life and local heritage. With its welcoming small-town atmosphere and flexible outdoor spaces, Chaplin Creek Village is a popular destination for families, school groups, and history lovers alike.
Whether attending a special event or simply enjoying the historic setting, Chaplin Creek Village offers a memorable glimpse into Franklin Grove’s roots.
CheeseKake Ko.Bakery in Ashton, IL, specializing in handcrafted cheesecakes in a variety of flavors. Classic and specialty options. Order for pickup or online. Perfect for special occasions or treats.
