20 Attractions to Explore Near Heidecke Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

The Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area is an outdoor paradise full of unspoiled beauty and natural wonder. This protected land is comprised of over 6,400 acres, including swamps, quaking bogs, prairies, and marshes. Numerous species of plants and animals thrive in this diverse and delicate environment; among them is the state-endangered Mead's Milkweed along with other rare wetlands flora. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to be excited.

The Des Plaines River winds through the forests and farmlands of Grundy, providing an important habitat for wildlife and a source of recreation for its residents. Popular activities along the river and in nearby parks include fishing, kayaking, camping, and boating. The area has many historical sites, such as old homesteads, mills and cemeteries that add to the unique beauty of this region. The Des Plaines River is an integral part of life in Grundy County and an essential part of its history.

Gebhard Woods State Park, is a standout among state parks in the Midwest due to its unique offerings. The lush forest with towering oak and hickory trees provides hikers with a peaceful setting and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Fishing is open year-round, where anglers have reported catching large bass and other species. Swimming is allowed in certain designated areas of the lakes as well, making it a great spot for families looking to cool off on hot summer days.

Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area, contains wooded areas as well as wetlands that provide habitat for local wildlife such as white-tailed deer, waterfowls and amphibians. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, birdwatching or simply taking in the tranquil beauty of the forest and all of its creatures. Facilities like primitive camping spots and a picnic area are also available to take advantage of the area's peaceful atmosphere.

Channahon State Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience breathtaking natural beauty. Covering over 2,000 acres, this state park is filled with sprawling prairies and marshes along with deep ravines and wooded areas. It provides a prime habitat for numerous plant and animal species throughout its diverse ecosystem. Outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, camping, walking trails and picnic areas allow visitors to fully appreciate the park's incredible ecological diversity.

Shorewood Park is a great choice for a peaceful and picturesque getaway. It is 38 acres of breathtaking scenery, providing plenty of outdoorsy activities like kayaking, canoeing and fishing for experienced or novice visitors. The park also has an ADA accessible trail which takes visitors through the oak-hickory forest and past the pond overlooking the DuPage River. No matter if you are looking for a peaceful nature escape or an active day of recreation, Shorewood Park has something for everyone.

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a remarkable example of conservation success. Once the site of a US Army Ammunition plant, the 19,000+ acre federal reserve is now home to some of the most diverse grassland wildflowers and biodiversity found anywhere in the Midwest. From celebrating endangered species that can survive here to allowing visitors to roam throughout areas on trails and activities such as guided tours.

The Seneca Railroad Bridge, is a noteworthy example of truss bridge construction. Built in 1889 by prolific bridge builder Henry Hodge, this particular bridge is an early instance of the Pratt design which utilizes cast and wrought iron components. As a significant structure along the Chicago- Aurora line, this bridge helped to establish railroad access to local townships and saw heavy traffic right up until it was decommissioned in 1935.

The Hiram B. Scutt Mansion is an impressive property built in 1880 by the wealthy coal-mining entrepreneur Hiram B. Scutt. The mansion is a sight to behold with its intricate brickwork and ornate glasswork due to materials being imported from France. This estate consists of 40 rooms distributed over three stories and occupies 20,000 square feet of land in rural Illinois. The vast lawn contains several outbuildings such as a carriage house, gardener's cottage, summerhouse and more.

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park is a perfect way to get out and explore nature. Located on historic Bluff Trail, the park offers a variety of recreational activities from kayaking and fishing to hiking and bird watching. With nearly 500 acres of land spreading out along both sides of the Des Plaines River, there's plenty to explore! The park also features multiple picnic pavilions, loaders for personal boats, boat beaches, a restroom building open during summer hours.

Harrah's Joliet, is a popular entertainment destination for locals and tourists alike. This lavish casino and hotel resort offers a wide variety of gaming options such as slots, a poker room, table games like blackjack and roulette, as well as an onsite sportsbook. Visitors to Harrah's can also enjoy live music or comedy shows in Chicago Street Theater, shop at designer stores or relax at the 10th-floor pool.

The Rialto Square Theatre is a beautiful building with a rich history. Built in the early 1920s to resemble grand opera houses of Europe, it features Baroque sculptures, velvet curtains and period balconies. The venue has seen performances from great performers such as Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, Tony Bennett and more. It remains one of the most iconic theatres in the Midwest and provides an unmistakable atmosphere for shows like symphonies, ballets and other live acts.

The historic Jackson Street Bridge has been a fixture in Will County, for nearly a century. Built in 1919, the truss bridge was the first publicly-funded structure of its kind in the area, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spanning 80 feet across Fox Creek, it is not only a marvel of engineering, but also a cherished part of local history. With its inviting wooden railings and grand rustic design, this iconic relic has become an attraction to many visitors.

Joliet Kicks on Route 66 is a popular tourist site for those looking to journey along historic Route 66. The attraction is an Americana-style truck stop and diner that also houses a gas station and convenience store. Stop at Joliet Kicks to experience the nostalgia of traveling down one of America’s most iconic highways. With prices that are cheaper than traditional fuel stations, helpful staff, great service, delicious food, and vintage vibes.

The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site offers visitors a unique look into the area's rich industrial history. Built in 1873, this National Historic Landmark was once an active iron works that created an impressive number of mining tools and products for the area's booming mining industry. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of many of the site's buildings and machinery to gain a greater understanding of how the local economy operated during its heyday.

The Norsk Museum was founded in 1980 by Harold Jordahl and Mildred "Tut"Moe. It showcases the distinct heritage of Nordic immigrants who first settled in the region during the mid-19th century. The museum has five interpretive galleries, with a stunning exhibit featuring authentic furniture, tools, pottery, photographs and more, plus hundreds of manuscripts and artifacts related to the Norwegian immigration story.

Old Joliet Prison was once a formidable structure that acted as a symbol of the power of the State. Founded in 1858 and closed in 2002, it served many economic and criminal justice functions within the region over its 144 year history. Originally constructed to ease overcrowding within the Cook County prison system, it eventually became a juvenile correctional facility during its later years. It housed some of the most dangerous criminals in Chicago and surrounding areas.

Illini State Park is a nature-lovers paradise. Located in the northern region of the state and nestled along the Illinois River, Illini State Park offers its visitors an abundance of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking and boating. With over 400 acres of rolling meadows and woodlands combined with its riverside location, nature-watchers can observe bald eagles soaring through the skies or white tailed deer nibbling on fresh vegetation.

Ambler's Texaco Gas Station is a place that brings together the past, present, and future. It has been around since 1929, acting as a beacon of stability to the surrounding community. It's iconic blue roofs stand out among the other businesses in town and it offers more than just gasoline - it provides a wide array of services such as engine repair and car washes. In addition to keeping up with modern technology for fuel efficiency,

The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial is a monument to honor those lost in conflicts in the Middle East. The wall features the names of the deceased, along with monument bricks inscribed with messages from their family and friends. This memorial provides a solemn reminder of how grim the cost of war can be, reminding visitors of the brave individuals who dedicate their lives for reasons greater than themselves.