Northwest Illinois Directory
Explore All Places
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties: searchable in one place.
Dietrich RanchFamily farm (since 1947) using outdoor, pasture-based, rotational, grass-fed livestock production. No hormones or antibiotics; sustainable and transparent. Visitors welcome by appointment.
Dillon Home MuseumThe 1858 Dillon Home Museum offers a glimpse into Sterling’s past through the beautifully preserved Victorian home of Ambrose and Julia Dillon. Built in the late 19th century, the home reflects the craftsmanship, furnishings, and everyday life of a prominent local family, bringing regional history to life room by room.
Visitors explore the home through guided tours led by knowledgeable docents who share stories about the Dillon family, the home’s architecture, and its role in the community. Original details, period décor, and thoughtfully maintained spaces make each tour both informative and engaging.
Guided tours are offered every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Additional tours are available by appointment only from 3–5 p.m. The museum is also open the second weekend of each month, with guided tours on Saturday and Sunday at the same times. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Sterling’s heritage, the Dillon Home Museum provides a meaningful and memorable stop.
Admission
General Admission: $7
Seniors (60+): $6
Dips Chicago EateryDip – Famous Chicago Eats is the go-to spot for Classic Chicago fast food. Italian beef, Chicago dogs, fresh fries, and the flavors that made Chicago famous — served fast and at a price for everyone.
Drive-through & Indoor seating available.
Open 7 days: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Discover DixonDiscover Dixon is a tourism organization that showcases the attractions, events, and opportunities available in Dixon, Illinois, a small town rich in history and community spirit. Visitors can explore outdoor activities, local dining, shopping options, and cultural experiences.
Distinctive Gardens, Inc.Dixon garden center and nursery specializing in creative container gardening, unusual annuals, perennials and woody plants. Distinctive Gardens also offers garden art and gifts, landscaping services and display gardens. Shop online for pickup or delivery, and follow the official social pages for current workshops, events and seasonal updates.
Dixon Boat RampBoat launches, canoe access, and fishing.
Dixon City MarketDixon City Market brings 50+ local and regional crafters, artisans and food vendors to the riverfront, with live music, drinks and kids activities. The 2026 market runs 5–8 p.m. Wednesdays from May 27 through Aug. 5 on the published event dates, concluding with Dixon City Market Jr. Check Discover Dixon for the current schedule and vendor applications.
Dixon Family YMCACommunity health and recreation center serving all ages with fitness classes, personal training, aquatics and swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps and community events. The main facility includes an indoor pool, gym and wellness spaces. Check the official schedules and membership pages for current hours, programs and access details.
Dixon Lincoln Highway Interpretive GazeboRiverfront Lincoln Highway gazebo with interpretive panels about the Dixon Arch, the 1919 Transcontinental Motor Convoy and the highway’s broader history. Built in 2009 through the Illinois Interpretive Gazebo Project with National Scenic Byway funding and City of Dixon support, it marks Illinois’ nationally designated Lincoln Highway corridor.
Dixon Lincoln Highway Interpretive MuralOne of Lee County’s three Illinois Lincoln Highway interpretive murals, this downtown Dixon artwork depicts the 1919 Transcontinental Motor Convoy that included future President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The scene recalls the convoy’s arrival at the courthouse and community lunch, connecting Dixon to the highway’s influence on American travel.
Dixon Municipal BandThe Dixon Municipal Band is one of Dixon’s longest-standing traditions, bringing more than a century of live music to the community. This volunteer-powered ensemble blends the talents of high school musicians, community players, and experienced professionals, creating warm, crowd-pleasing performances all season long.
Each summer, the band fills the Page Park Band Shell with marches, classics, Broadway hits, and other familiar favorites during its free outdoor concert series. They also present an annual Christmas concert—free to attend with reserved tickets—along with appearances at parades and special community events.
Committed to offering meaningful musical opportunities and enriching local culture, the band continues to grow through community support, fundraising, and sponsorships. Performances take place at venues throughout Dixon, with the Page Park Band Shell and The Historic Dixon Theatre serving as frequent hosts.
Dixon Park DistrictDixon Park District manages parks, trails, recreation programs and facilities throughout the community, including historic Lowell Park, Park 4 Paws, a nature center, sports facilities and reservable shelters and event spaces. The district offers program registration, rentals, seasonal activities and community events; use the official website for current schedules and reservations.- Dixon Petunia Festival, Inc.
Dixon Veterans Memorial ArchLighted historic memorial arch on Galena Avenue, Dixon, since 1919. Honors veterans of war and is a Dixon landmark.
Dixon Water Wonderland Splash PadHot days. Cold water. Tired, happy kids. This family-friendly park was new in 2019. It offers 23 different water features, beautiful landscaping with a fountain, picnic tables with solar-powered chargers, and a paved and striped parking lot. Hours: Seasonally, 9 am - 8 pm daily. FREE
Dixon’s Railroad Street ArchesThree locally quarried Galena-limestone railroad arches carry Dixon’s shared-use trail above First, Second and Third streets. Built for the Illinois Central Railroad in the 1850s, the arches are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and were rehabilitated in 1999. Today walkers and cyclists can cross the historic structures en route to downtown and the Rock River.
Docks on the RockMarina on Rock River near Arduini Boat Launch, Rock Falls. Boat slips, fuel, food, boat repairs, storage, jet ski storage, winterizing, tours, convenience store, dock building. Seasonal: closed Oct 15–Apr 15.
Dollinger Christmas Tree FarmOpen in November and December for locally grown trees. Cut your own or choose pre-cut. Wreaths, swags, decorations, gift shop, hot cider, and popcorn. Open daily 8am-5pm, Thanksgiving 8am-3pm, last day typically Sunday before Christmas. Family-owned since 1956. Fir, Spruce, and Pine trees of all sizes. Gift shop with locally made gifts and vintage Christmas items. Located 5 miles north of Lanark on Rt. 73, then 1 mile west on Payne Road. Call ahead to confirm hours.
Don Hamer Recreation PathPaved multi-use path connecting the Byron Forest Preserve area with the Byron community. The route is used for walking, running, and bicycling, and leashed dogs are allowed along the Don Hamer Recreation Path.
Don Pedro’sDon Pedro's is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Sterling, IL, serving authentic Tex-Mex cuisine since establishment. Known for quality ingredients and generous portions, we offer everything from classic nachos and tacos to specialty items. Our family-friendly atmosphere welcomes diners looking for great Mexican fast food at affordable prices. Whether you're dining in or carrying out, we pride ourselves on fresh, made-to-order meals that have kept customers coming back for years. We're also mindful of dietary restrictions and work with customers who have allergies to ensure a safe dining experience.
Don’s Flamingo PalaceDowntown Oregon antique and vintage shop with more than 5,000 square feet of mid-century furniture, collectibles, décor and distinctive finds. Don’s Flamingo Palace also offers custom framing and picture restoration, with additional items available through its online store. Check the official website or Facebook page for current hours and inventory.
Don’s Seafood & ChickenLocally owned Sterling restaurant established in 1992, serving battered fish and chicken, bone-in chicken, sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, sides and family-style meal options. Don’s Seafood & Chicken is known for approachable prices and generous comfort-food choices; check the official website or call for the current menu and hours.
Dos Amigos Mexican RestaurantFamily-owned Byron restaurant serving authentic Mexican favorites, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas and combination plates. Dos Amigos offers dine-in and takeout with a broad menu in a casual, family-friendly setting. Check the official website or call for current hours and menu details.
Double G SaloonFamily-friendly full-service bar and grill in downtown Morrison serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Double G Saloon offers burgers, smoked barbecue, comfort dishes, beer, wine and cocktails in a renovated historic space, with dine-in, takeout, reservations and group-party options.
