20 Attractions to Explore Near Prophetstown State Recreation Area

The Birthplace of Ronald Reagan, also known as the Graham Building, is located in an apartment on the second floor of a late 19th-century commercial building in Tampico, Illinois, United States. The building was built in 1896, and housed a tavern from that time until 1915. On February 6, 1911, the future 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, was born in the apartment there.

Morrison Rockwood State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor lovers. Located within the Loess Hills region of northwestern Illinois, the park encompasses 684 acres and features rolling hills, historical sites and woodlands full of wildlife. The woodlands were once a farm owned by the Holcomb family who farmed it from 1831-1994. Visitors can explore special interests including glacial history, natural areas, birdwatching and recreational activities.

Centennial Park is an amazing oasis set along the banks of the Rock River. The park offers a wide array of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, boating, sailing, hiking, swimming and more. It's easy to escape into the natural beauty of this picturesque destination while enjoying some much needed peace and quiet. There are also plenty of concessions and restrooms available throughout the grounds if you're feeling peckish or need a bathroom break.

RB&W District Park is known for having a wide variety of recreational opportunities, from biking and fishing to camping and picnic areas. There are also jogging trails and basketball courts in the park, as well as a one-of-a-kind disc golf course. RB&W District Park offers something for everyone that loves the outdoors. Visitors can expect stunning views of hills, valleys and the nearby Rock River.

The Dillon Home Museum is a testament to the area's history. Located on historic Lafayette Street and within sight of the Mighty Mississippi, the museum is nestled in a nineteenth century home. The museum offers guided tours and events throughout the year where visitors can experience not only the original furniture and artifacts from Whiteside County but they can also soak up the unique local flavor of early-day living.

Sinnissippi Park is a popular destination for locals and vacationers alike. Spanning 455 acres, the park features towering trees, sculpted hills, a rolling landscape of wildflowers, and crystal clear water from the Rock River. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling and bird watching on its miles of trails. Camping is also available with access to modern restroom facilities and a designated swimming area.

The Clinton, Iowa Riverfront is a scenic and recreational area along the banks of the Mississippi River. The riverfront area is known for its natural beauty, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River. Parks, green spaces, and walking paths enhance the scenic experience for residents and visitors.

The Clinton Area Showboat Theatre is recognized for hosting a variety of theatrical productions, including plays, musicals, and performances featuring local and sometimes professional actors. The theater aims to provide a cultural and artistic outlet for the community.

NelsonCorp Field is a stadium in Clinton, Iowa. It is primarily used for baseball, and is operated by and is the home field of the Clinton LumberKings collegiate summer baseball team of the Prospect League. It was built in 1937 and its capacity is roughly 5,500 fans.

De Immigrant is a unique structure that is steeped in history. It was constructed in 1928 by Dutch immigrants Jacob and Hillegonda Maasland who were living on their family farm. The windmill features traditional Dutch-style architecture; its 60ft tall frame and rotating blades are made of galvanized steel and are still functional today. As an iconic landmark in Whiteside County, the windmill stands as a reminder of the area's Dutch roots.

Bickelhaupt Arboretum is known for its diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and other plant species. The arboretum is carefully curated to showcase a variety of plants, including both native and exotic species.The arboretum features beautifully landscaped gardens, each designed to highlight specific plant varieties or themes. Visitors can explore different garden settings that may include perennial beds, themed plantings, and seasonal displays.

St. Boniface Church is a former parish church of the Diocese of Davenport. The church was founded in the town of Lyons, which is now the north side of Clinton, Iowa, United States. The church building is now a museum named The Catholic Historical Center at St. Boniface, with exhibits about the history of the Clinton area Catholic community, and an archive of local Catholic church artifacts and records. The church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

The Mississippi River Lock Dam Number Thirteen is more than a century old and still plays an important role in keeping the Mississippi River navigable. At this location, water flow is restricted by 12 gates that control the level of the river between the Rock Island Pool and pools farther east. The dam also allows passage for boat traffic when open, limiting erosion from swift currents. An observation area on White Oaks Bend near the dam offers a scenic view of the area.

The Buffalo Bill Museum in Iowa is dedicated to preserving the legacy and memory of the famous American frontiersman, William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody. Located in LeClaire, Iowa, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive look into the life and times of Buffalo Bill, who was known for his adventures as a soldier, buffalo hunter, scout, and showman.

Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, is a cultural and recreational oasis covering nearly 70 miles of the Hennepin Canal. Along the gravel towpath that traverses it, travelers may find remnants of Illinois' 19th century industrial history as well as hunting grounds, wildlife reserves, fishing spots and camping areas. The diverse landscape also includes numerous picnic areas and 27 scenic bridges—many listed on the National Register of Historic Places—that offer spectacular overlooks along the way.

Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area is a unique and scenic location for outdoor recreation. This area includes a lake surrounded by lush greenery that is perfect for picnicking and fishing. Visitors can go for stunning hikes along trails with great views of the hills and valleys of the region. The campgrounds provide all the necessaries to experience an extended stay in nature. Although motorized vehicles aren't allowed, horseback riding on the trails is a popular activity.

Ryan’s Historic Round Barn built in 1917 by Anton J. Ryan and his brother-in-law Leonard Schullenzee, this historic structure was meant to last for many years. This round barn is made of wooden frame covered with wooden shingles and the interior is finished with a bright white wash. The main feature of this building is its 52-foot diameter that allows for plentiful storage space for livestock and other agricultural supplies while still providing plenty of light and ventilation.

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is truly a sight to behold. Spanning 261 miles of the beautiful Upper Mississippi River, this refuge is one of the largest wildlife refuges in the entire United States. The refuge is home to a variety of fish and wildlife habitats like moisture filled prairies, forests, islands and backwaters. Visitors can explore this wonderland of nature by taking guided boat tours that showcase the best of what the refuge has to offer.

Francis Park is a stunning example of rolling terrain and lush green foliage. Located on 158 acres east of the small town of Atkinson and overlooking the Rock River, it offers diverse and peaceful recreation opportunities for all types of visitors. Whether you're looking for a place to go for a hike, bike, or picnic with your family, Francis Park has something to offer. For those seeking more strenuous activities such as canoeing and kayaking, you won't be disappointed.

The Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead, located in Scott County, Iowa, is a historic site that preserves the birthplace and early life of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the legendary American frontiersman and showman. The homestead consists of the original farmhouse where Buffalo Bill was born in 1846, along with several outbuildings and a visitor center.