It’s time to give my home state some love. Most people visit Illinois to see the fine city of Chicago. Until a few years ago, I also didn’t pay much attention to the rest of Illinois. Honestly, it always seemed more fun to travel to another state. However, I now have a bucket list of Illinois destinations and have come to appreciate my home state’s offerings.
Introduction
While much of Illinois is flat farmland, there are pockets of more unique landscapes. Everyone in the Chicagoland area knows of Starved Rock and neighboring Matthiessen State Parks. The parks are beautiful and the lodging and restaurant options are plentiful. It can also be very crowded.
The Oregon area allows you to see some similar sights without the crowds. It’s home to some great state parks that border the Rock River. It also has the beautiful bluffs and a lot of the same activities.
Trip Length: 2-3 days
Distance from Chicago: 1 Hour 45 Minutes
Travel “Flavors”: Outdoors, Food, Culture
Itinerary Suggestions
Outdoor Activities
Lowden State Park – the park offers beautiful views of the Rock River, but it’s most west know for the statue of Chief Black Hawk. The statue is titled “The Eternal Indian.” and is the work of sculptor Lorado Taft. Don’t miss the trail to Ganymede Spring on your visit. It was named by Margaret Fuller, journalist and women’s rights activist.
Castle Rock State Park – see the rock formations and ravines that this area is known for and take in some great views across the Rock River. Activities include hiking, boating and picnicking.
White Pines Ranch – the ranch is a full service dude ranch offering weekends for youth, adults or families. They also offer horseback riding on their beautiful property, eve if you’re not a guest.
White Pelican – You can tube, raft, paddle board, canoe, or kayak down the Rock River with the help of White Pelican. They offer rentals as well as a shuttle service.
Journey Through Time Kayak Tours – Do you want a history lesson while you’re out enjoying the outdoors? If so, then these kayak tours are definitely for you.
Retreats
Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center – The retreat center is housed in a Tudor-style castle. If you’d like to stay at the castle, you can book a retreat. If you stay elsewhere, you can still see the castle on a tour. During the first weekend in October, the castle is transformed into an Olde English Faire with performances, merchants, and activities.
Lorado Taft Field Campus of Northern Illinois University – the field campus offers space for conferences and retreats. You can reserve a spot in one of their outdoor education programs or use their space for your own event. They offer lodging and meeting space.
Agritourism
Berryview Orchard – The orchard is open from mid-August through the end of October. Their season starts with opportunities to pick the Aronia berry in late summer. Aronia berries are considered a super-fruit due to a high level of antioxidants.
Museums
Oregon Depot Museum – the depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and houses a museum.
Jarrett Prairie Center Museum – Illinois is the “prairie state”, so take some time to learn how prairies benefits the environment. Explore the exhibits and walk the nature preserve. They even have some live native animals. And it’s FREE!
Cruise
Pride of Oregon – this authentic 102 foot paddle wheel boat offers scenic lunch and dinner cruises on the Rock River.
Racing
Byron Dragway – the dragway is home to NHRA Drag Racing. Check to see if there is a race while you’re in town.
Historical Marker
Brick Road – there is a small section of historic brick road in Oregon. A historical marker at the site provides more information.
Lodging, Food, and Shopping
Hairy Cow Brewing Company – after a fun day of exploring, head north to nearby Byron for some craft beer and artisan, brick oven pizza. Hairy Cow is named after the founders Scottish Highland cows. They brew a full selection of beer onsite.
Blackhawk Steakpit – juicy steaks cooked over an open charcoal pit! If red meat is not your thing, seafood options are also available.
Lake LaDonna – Do you enjoy family campgrounds that are loaded with amenities? Then this is the place for you! No camper, no problem. They also offer rentals.
Ukulele Station America – housed in a historic service station, this fun shop has over 100 ukuleles to chose from.
Travel Accessory
I’m a huge fan of the product and gift lists you see floating around the internet because I usually find some new-to-me product for myself, a friend or family member. I’d like to offer you the same inspiration by highlighting a travel accessory in each post.
This section contains an affiliate link. If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.
Sometimes you find yourself in need of a tool on your travels, but space to bring everything you may need is always an issue. That’s where a great multitool comes in. Need to hammer in your tent stakes, this tool can help. Kick back and enjoy a beer? Here’s your bottle opener! Need to cut open a package? This tool has you covered (and it even looks nice!). Just don’t take it on an airplane.
Those are just the highlights that stood out to me. For more information, check out Oregon’s Visitor Information page. If you use my trip suggestions or if you’ve visited any of these locations in the past, please provide your reviews in the comments. Did I miss something? Please add other itinerary suggestions in the comments, especially if they are off the beaten path. Happy vacationing!
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