Northern Illinois Local Expert: Find Things To Do in Northern Illinois

Starved Rock State Park which includes forests

Northern Illinois showing heritage architecture

Starved Rock State Park which includes interior views

Starved Rock State Park featuring forests and a gorge or canyon

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What to do in Northern Illinois

Popular places to visit

Starved Rock State Park

The lodge provides a luxurious base from which to explore trails leading to bluffs and canyons of this riverside park. Try ice climbing and eagle spotting in winter.

Matthiessen State Park

Look down the chute of Cascade Falls from a rickety bridge and admire the brilliant hues decorating the canyon’s sandstone walls in this eclectic park.

John Deere Pavilion

At this large exhibit space in Moline, see the green machines that have plowed, dug and cut their way across America for over 175 years.

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Learn about the region’s history and its aquatic life in one location. The role of this important river becomes apparent through the many interactive exhibits.

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Rockford’s iconic gardens may be in the heartland of America, but you’ll feel transported to Japan as you explore the winding paths, ponds and waterfalls.

Raging Waves Waterpark

Take the family on an outing to Raging Waves Waterpark during your trip to Yorkville. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

BMO Harris Bank Center

Catch an event at BMO Harris Bank Center during your trip to Rockford.

Diamond Jo Casino

Why not try your luck with a visit to Diamond Jo Casino during your time in Dubuque? Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Eagle Ridge Resort Golf

Enjoy a round of golf in Galena at Eagle Ridge Resort Golf. Wander the riverfront in this family-friendly area.

Areas of Northern Illinois

The Galena Territory

The Galena Territory might not have many top sights, but Eagle Ridge Resort Golf and Horseshoe Mound are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Galena Historic District

Travellers come to Galena Historic District for its stunning river views, and you can see top attractions like Old Market House and Galena-Jo Daviess County History Museum while you're in town.

Downtown Dubuque

Take a trip through time as you stroll down the historic streets of this eastern Iowa city. Visit cafés, shops and galleries in revitalized heritage buildings.

Davenport featuring a city and a river or creek

Downtown Davenport

If you're spending some time in Downtown Davenport, Davenport Skybridge and Rhythm City Casino are top sights worth seeing.

Rockford which includes general coastal views and a city

Downtown Rockford

If you're spending some time in Downtown Rockford, BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado Performing Arts Center are top sights worth seeing.

Historic Millwork District

While Historic Millwork District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Five Flags Center and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.