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Trip Ideas & Trails
Signature driving trails and day-by-day itineraries across Carroll, Lee, Ogle & Whiteside counties, with real stops, honest timings, and end-to-end maps.
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Itineraries
48 HoursItineraryFeatured48 Hours in Reagan CountryLee County · Whiteside CountyTwo days built around the two houses that made a president, the Dixon boyhood home and the Tampico apartment he was born in, with the Lincoln Highway, a restored Illinois Central depot and a four-thousand-acre bison prairie filling the space between them.HistoryCouplesFamilies
WeekendItineraryA Family Weekend Outdoors in Ogle CountyOgle CountyTwo days of white pine forest, Rock River bluffs and open prairie, with a roller rink from 1948, a fifty-foot statue on a clifftop and a free natural history museum. Almost everything on this weekend is free, and the paid parts are cheap.FamiliesOutdoorsBudget-Friendly
Half DayItineraryArts & Nature Combine for a perfect Illinois eveningCarroll CountyThis half-day adventure is jam packed with fun, starting at Point Rock Park and choosing your own adventure there whether it be a leisurely stroll, sitting near the water and listening to it murmur by or letting kids burn off steam on the playground. Then head over to Copper Cow for delicious food and drinks pre-show. Finish the evening off with an incredible performance at Timber Lake Playhouse and you won't be disappointed!Families
Full DayItineraryThe Charm of Dixon, IL: Stunning Nature and Friendly FacesLee CountyNot only are some of my favorite photos a part of this trip, but the culture in Dixon is outstanding. I didn't realize how much rich history was in Dixon with Germany, a former president, and peace. If you can't find peace for your soul here, you'll definitely find signs! Dixon, IL is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan, the 40th president of the United States.. One of the most notable events in Dixon is the Petunia Festival, which takes place every summer. The festival includes parades, live music, a carnival, and, of course, thousands of petunias that decorate the city streets. Castle Rock State Park, located near Dixon, is another highlight of the area. The park offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird-watching. Its unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems make it a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts.FamiliesHistoryFriends
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Every Stop, in One Directory
823 restaurants, trailheads, museums and shops across Northwest Illinois. Filter by town, type or map.