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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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Canal Towns News Plan Your Season of Road Trips by Getting the Free Travel I&M Canal Towns Guide
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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Route 66 News Meet Jennifer Bronk from Bronkberry Farms in Plainfield, IL
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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Starved Rock News Starved Rock Country Welcome Center & Illinois Made Gift Shoppe
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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Events News Fireworks at the Joliet Slammers Stadium
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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I Want To... News 10 Picturesque Winter Images from Around the Heritage Corridor
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Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
2643 N. IL Rt. 178 Utica, IL 61373
(866) 399-3866 OR 815-667-3866
Visit Our Website

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A spectacular family getaway just beyond the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort offers a casual and playful dining scene with a fun restaurant, bar and a convenient snack shop. The Honey Pot offers a convenient place to grab a quick bite to eat. Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar is a casual dining spot serving classic American cuisine, a selection of beverages, and frozen cocktails. The Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill is the place to unwind after a day of adventure in the beautiful Illinois Valley. The bar is nestled with scenic outdoor views that overlook the Curtis Canyon. Enjoy a drink sitting around the bar or unwinding next to the fire pit. Before a day of exploring Starved Rock State Park stop by the Grand Express Breakfast Buffet for a delicious, hot and fresh all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. The resort's waterpark is scheduled to reopen in Winter 2018.

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What's Nearby?

  • Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center

    Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast or just enjoy relaxing in the Great Hall, Starved Rock Lodge offers an abundance of activities for e...read on

  • Illinois E-Bikes

    At Starved Rock E-Bikes, we believe in sustainable travel and leaving a minimal footprint on the environment. Our electric bikes are eco-friendly and ...read on

  • Illinois Waterway Visitor Center

    This Visitor Center is located across the Illinois River from Starved Rock State Park, offering a great view of Starved Rock. View Starved Rock Lock &...read on

  • LaSalle County Historical Society

    The LaSalle County Historical Society campus is located on the banks of the historic I&M Canal and is situated in the quaint village of Utica, Ill...read on

  • Matthiessen State Park

    Matthiessen State Park is an Illinois state park located a few miles south of the more famous Starved Rock State Park. Matthiessen State Park is a par...read on

  • Back Door Lounge

    Perched on a bluff high above the scenic Illinois River Valley is this laid-back bar. Cool off with your favorite cocktail or try a craft beer, made j...read on

  • Lodge Restaurant

    Within the Lodge, you’ll find historic ambiance in their Main Dining Room, where the atmosphere is friendly and casual. The Main Dining Room serves br...read on

  • The Cafe at Starved Rock Lodge

    For anyone who enjoys a good bottle of wine, the Café at Starved Rock Lodge sells Starved Rock label table wines made by Prairie State Winery, created...read on

  • The Veranda at Starved Rock Lodge

    Join us for lunch or dinner and enjoy the panoramic view of Starved Rock and the scenic Illinois River Valley. Order from the menu or try our creative...read on

  • Bruce & Ollie's

    We proudly serve Capannari's Ice Cream, Starved Rock Coffee, Deli sandwiches, soups, salads, craft beer and wine in a family-friendly setting....read on
  • Apr
    21

    Peace in the Valley – A Tribute to the Gospel recordings of Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley

    Jonathan Lyons captures the true sound, feel, and embodiment of Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley in concert. Gospel music played an integral role in the ...read on
  • Apr
    26

    Noon Whistle Brunch

    Start your weekend off right with a brunch that is anything but ordinary! Each dish is made with a brew from Noon Whistle Brewing! Whether you are a b...read on
  • Apr
    27

    Spring Market

    Come support our local vendors in our Great Hall featuring baked goods, candles, jewelry, crochet, homemade mustards, photography prints, candy flavor...read on
  • May
    4

    Canyonside Art Show

    Come support our local artist in our Great Hall West and Starved Rock Room. $25 per booth – Reach out to Hannah: hannahc@goexplorus.com or 81...read on
  • May
    11

    Mother's Day Buffet

    Mom will truly feel special when you treat her to our Mother's Day Buffet. Join us on Sunday, May 11, 2025 for a delicious buffet that features someth...read on

Scenes from Around the Corridor