Nestled beside the colourful canyons and historic trails of Illinois’ riverside state parks, this charming town is made up of wineries, markets and museums.
The Illinois and Michigan Canal runs through the middle of Utica, a quaint village flanked by dense woodland. Visit the wine tasting rooms and museums in its historic centre, which is often used as a base for exploring the state parks straddling the nearby Illinois River.
The region’s rich history is on display at LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum. Enter the complex’s 19th-century structures that include the Canal Warehouse and the One-Room School House. Inspect the selection of 20th-century military artefacts in the Heritage Centre. Try the range of reds and whites in the Illinois River Winery and the August Hill Winery Tasting Room.
Absorb local culture with a stroll through the weekly Canal Market on Sundays. The market also opens monthly in summer on Friday nights. Attend the annual Burgoo Festival in October. It features a street party, with musicians, vendors and entertainers.
Cross to the southern side of the Illinois and Michigan Canal for Mix’s Trading Post, where you can purchase a range of leather goods. Continuing south, you’ll reach the Illinois River and several picturesque parks.
Stay overnight in the elegant lodge in Starved Rock State Park and explore its bluffs and valleys. The adjacent Matthiessen State Park is known for the colourful sandstone walls of its canyons. Venture east for Buffalo Rock State Park and marvel at the enormous sculpted mounds representing animals indigenous to the area.
Note that the hamlet’s official name is North Utica, although locals simply call it Utica. The village is on the northern side of the Illinois River in LaSalle County in northern Illinois. Fly to O’Hare International Airport in the western outskirts of Chicago and drive southwest for 90 miles (145 kilometres). The journey should take about 90 minutes.
As well as an enchanting market town and historic centre, Utica is a gateway to some of Illinois’ most picturesque state parks.
