20 Attractions to Explore Near Illinois and Michigan Canal

Dellwood Park offers a unique opportunity for nature lovers by allowing its visitors to observe a wide variety of flora and fauna up close. This park is made up of nearly 500 acres of recreational land, including three ponds and an amateur disc golf course. The park also hosts fishing areas, picnic tables, hiking trails, open field spaces, nature play areas, and many more offerings to keep visitors busy throughout the day.

The Illinois State Museum with its permanent exhibits feature ancient Native American artifacts dating back thousands of years as well as items from more recent civilizations that have lived in the area. Additionally, there are interactive displays that help visitors gain a better understanding of Illinois culture and development. Since it first opened its doors in 1974, this museum has been an invaluable asset in documenting and preserving the past for future generations to appreciate.

The Gaylord Building has a rich local history. Built in 1867, it was originally used as a general store and post office before being converted into the offices for many businesses in this growing area. Throughout the years it has seen many uses, including retail shops, service clubs, and professional offices. Recognized for its beauty and design, the Gaylord Building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Messenger Marsh is a wetland complex that has become home to many different types of plant and animal species. This beautiful marsh is situated on 1200 acres of land and is one of the most significant habitats in Illinois for migrating waterfowl. As well as its striking beauty, Messenger Marsh provides excellent recreational opportunities for visitors including fishing, boating, birdwatching and more. Populations of frogs and turtles find refuge in this wetlands area.

Eaton Preserve Park is a fantastic natural retreat spanning 77 acres, the park offers a wide variety of activities for nature lovers to enjoy including picnicking, fishing, bird watching and more. The park is set in a beautiful wooded valley that is filled with diverse flora and fauna native to the area. In addition to recreational activities available at Eaton Preserve Park there are also several miles of trails for visitors to explore.

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.

The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago is a vibrant and culturally important place of worship for members of the Hindu religion. The temple was built in 2007, and serves as a welcoming hub for thousands of Hindus who live in the surrounding area. It features two large prayer halls, individual praying spaces for personal contemplation and meditation, an imposing statue of Ganesh, four unique shrines dedicated to various gods from the Vedic pantheon.

The Illinois Aviation Museum is an impressive experience for aviation enthusiasts. On display are aircraft from the golden age of flight along with exhibits from WWI and WWII, as well as modern military machines. Visitors to the museum can explore the history of aviation through tour guides who have a wealth of knowledge about each aircraft and their historical context. Educational programming includes speakers, lectures, and interactive workshops for children of all ages.

Hickory Creek Preserve, is a nature lover's paradise. This 748-acre public park contains some of the most stunning landscapes in the Midwest, many of which are protected by state and federal law. Visitors can take advantage of a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, wildlife watching, and even horseback riding on unique bridle trails. With two lakes for fishing as well as picnic areas and observation platforms for bird-watching.

The West Branch DuPage River is a beautiful and tranquil river flowing through Will County. It has many picturesque landscapes that you can enjoy, from rolling hills freshly blanketed in snow to colorful forests bursting with life. Along the river there is ample opportunity for both fishing and canoeing, making it a popular spot for those looking to get outdoors. The gentle current of the West Branch allows casual paddlers a chance to take in the sights while getting some light exercise.

Whalon Lake is a popular spot for outdoor recreation. It is situated in the DuPage River watershed, and there are numerous opportunities for visitors to experience nature and all that it has to offer. The lake itself offers fishing and boating, while scenic trails provide perfect spots for hikers, joggers, and bicyclists alike. Picnic areas are scattered around the lake and ideal for family get-togethers or just unwinding after a long day outdoors.

The DuPage River Park offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities for visitors. Boasting over 40 miles of trails that connect to numerous other parks, the DuPage River Park is ideal for walking, biking and even horseback riders. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll or explore the wetlands and woodlands, there's something here for everyone. The park also includes fishing piers and boat launches, giving anglers access to the river.