20 Attractions to Explore Near Lowden State Park

The Black Hawk Statue is an impressive monument dedicated to the renowned Sac leader from the same name. Standing 32 feet tall, the bronze statue honors Black Hawk's courage, strength and resilience as a fighter and leader for his people. Built in 1911 by sculptor Loredo Taft, the statue commands attention upon approach with its grandeur and remarkable detail - from its bold feathers to its intricate facial features.

The Chana School Museum is a window into early education in the Midwest. Originally opened as a one-room schoolhouse in the 1880s, it continued educating students up until 1956 when consolidation of the local schools took place. Now frozen in time, this unique museum allows visitors to get a glimpse of what schooling was like for earlier generations in rural America. Its many exhibits include desks, period books and artifacts from early schools across the county and region.

Conover Square Mall is a beautiful and bustling shopping center. Located in the rolling hills of the region, the mall provides a classic shopping experience with over 25 specialty stores and numerous restaurants. it's easy to find something perfect for you or your family. Whether you're looking for that special something at one of its clothing shops, searching for electronics at Radio Shack, grabbing an ice cream cone at Dairy Queen, or just taking a stroll through the wide corridor.

This Public Library has served its community since 1925. With three locations and a bookmobile service, It offers countless books and digital materials for readers of all ages and interests. Not only are there many books to choose from, but the library also offers a wide variety of activities that visitors can attend like storytimes, movie nights and volunteer programs. Visitors can turn to the library not only for incredible resources, but also as a place to connect with their local community.

Oregon Park West is a beautiful public park nestled amongst forests and rolling hills, the park provides visitors with a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy multiple outdoor activities such as biking, fishing, hiking and camping in natural woodlands and prairies. There's also plenty to see including a chapel, wetlands and wildlife areas. Oregon Park West also offers a range of educational programs about nature conservation.

The Oregon Depot Museum is a true treasure trove of American history. Located in the charming town of Oregon, this unique museum archives local and national artifacts related to transportation, agriculture, education, leisure and more. With over 24,000 different items spread across three floors — from an old train line steamer to antique milk crates from local dairy farms — the Oregon Depot Museum serves as both a historical archive and an educational resource for visitors alike.

Castle Rock State Park is a marvelous display of natural beauty that draws locals and tourists alike. With its abundant forests and stunning views, the park offers activities from biking and rock climbing to backpacking and hiking. It is also home to a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, red foxes, and bobcats. A unique feature of the park is its striking sandstone formations called the "Devil's Doorway," which were created millions of years ago by erosion.

White Pines Forest State Park, is full of natural beauty and outdoor fun. The park has over 1,510 acres for visitors to explore and features both unique geological features and a diverse array of wildlife. At the park you can also enjoy camping, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails and more! White Pines also has two ski hills that are a blast any time of year. Beyond the variety of activities available to guests, it's especially noteworthy for its namesake.

Nestled away in the wilds of Ogle County. The lake was formed by glaciation and is only 60 acres large, making it perfect for swimming and fishing. When the sun is out, visitors often enjoy a peaceful canoe ride over its sparkling waters. Boats and canoes are available for rent from the nearby park office. The wildlife around Lake Louise is abundant, with a wide variety of fish including bluegill and bass, many species of waterfowl.

Nachusa Grasslands is a remarkable reserve managed by The Nature Conservancy. Spanning 17,200 acres of beautiful wildflower-filled meadows and wetland wetlands, this grassland habitat provides protected and diverse home for the rare eastern bison herd in the state. Home to more than 650 native plant species and thriving animal populations, Nachusa Grasslands breathes life into an otherwise depleted natural region by providing restorative land management services.

The John Deere Historic Site, is a popular destination for visitors with an interest in the history of agriculture. At this farm and museum complex, visitors can come to learn all about John Deere's world-famous farming equipment and its importance to American agriculture. Visitors can explore seven acres of buildings, displays, tools and videos that give insight into the impact that the legendary farm equipment brand had on domestic and international farming.

The Kishwaukee River is one of the most scenic and popular rivers in Illinois. Stretching for more than 30 miles, it moves slowly through small rural towns with an array of scenery from marshes to hardwood forests, making it an ideal site for wildlife viewing. Fishing enthusiasts visit year-round, taking advantage of the stocked trout and catfish. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular, creating a peaceful route for enjoying the landscape.

Rochelle Railroad Park, is a picturesque outdoor recreation spot for visitors and locals alike. The park offers a variety of activities, such as kayaking in the lake alongside views of the historic antique railroad equipment. Visitors can explore the boardwalks and trails or take a train ride to see some of the amazing views this park has to offer. The art sculpture garden features locally created metal structures, adding another element of interest to visitors.

Flagg Township Museum is a fascinating destination to explore the history of the local community. It features a variety of displays and artifacts that artfully tell the story of this rural area and its inhabitants throughout the years. Located on over two acres, visitors are able to connect with nature as they wander through restored pioneer log cabins and nature trails. The museum hosts events throughout the year such as reenactments and antique appraisals.

Bell Bowl Prairie, a 22-acre protected natural area consists of marsh and wet woods ecosystems surrounded by a large cattail marsh. Wild turkeys, beavers, deer and other wildlife thrive in these habitats and visitors can enjoy observing them in their natural environment; the sheltered landscape also serves as a breeding site for numerous species of both songbirds and waterfowl. Further nature lovers can explore the beautiful trees and wildflowers that grow around.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden covering 140 acres of beautiful grounds, visitors are able to take tours that provide insight into the local and regional flora and fauna of the area. There are three miles of pathways for hiking or biking, and events like Nature Story Time for kids offer a gentle introduction to the wild world outdoors. Additionally, an array of starlight events are available throughout the summer months.

The Graham-Ginestra House is a Queen Anne style Victorian home that was built in 1895 for the newly-married couple, William and Elizabeth Graham. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999 and is currently owned by the Jameson family, who purchased it from William's daughter and her husband. The house has a clapboard exterior and includes various details such as a wrap-around porch with spindle trim and ornamental corner brackets.

The Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens is a wonderful place for people to visit! In this historic home and gardens, visitors can explore the splendor of the Victorian period and bask in the fresh air and lush foliage of the beautiful outdoor garden. Built by Robert Hall Tinker around 1849, today it is a National Historic Landmark that houses an eclectic collection of 19th-century artifacts belonging to the original family.

The Coronado Performing Arts Center, is a premier cultural and educational venue. The 1,600-seat theater hosts drama, musicals and concerts throughout the year. Corporate events, meetings, galas and other special events often take place at the facility as well. Patrons are able to enjoy a broad range of creative performances from classic dramas to exciting musicals or even classic rock concerts .

The Lake-Peterson House is a two-story brick Italianate dwelling that was built in 1873 by Erastus and Maria Lake. This house is located on two lots in the heart of downtown Rockford, a city that has long been known as one of the major industrial centers of the Midwest. With its distinctive ornamental windows and bracketed cornice, this home stands out among many other 19th century houses in the area. To this day it continues to draw interest for its excellent example of architectural style.