The NW Illinois Directory
Explore All 821 Places
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
Byron Civic TheaterProduces four shows per season plus annual Gala. Located in Byron High School. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students/children. Evening shows at 8pm, Sunday matinees at 2pm. Website for show/ticket info.
Byron Civil War Soldiers MonumentIllinois’ oldest Civil War monument (built 1866), honoring local soldiers. At intersection of two streets in Byron. Listed on National Register of Historic Places. Inscribes names of local Civil War veterans.
Byron DragwayFor sixty years, Byron Dragway has created lasting memories for race fans and racers alike. This family-owned NHRA championship quarter-mile dragstrip offers affordable family fun in a clean, safe environment. Located about 1.5 hours from Chicago, we're known for unique events including the World Power Wheel Standing Championships, Glory Days Vintage Drag Race, and the U.S. Bracket Nationals. Open weekends April through November, featuring both 1/4-mile and 1/8-mile timing classes. The track is comparatively wide due to its history of running cars four abreast in the 1960s. A passionately managed facility that's clean, family-friendly, and inviting - truly 'The Playground of Power!'
Byron Forest Preserve Cross Country SkiingCross-country ski rentals and trails at Jarrett Prairie Nature Preserve, Byron. Rentals $5/hr during Jarrett Prairie Center hours. Guided outings available; sledding hill and hot chocolate also offered.
Byron Museum of History & Lucius Read HouseMuseum and historic home preserving Byron’s history. Features exhibits on farming, Byron’s railroad era, A.G. Spalding, the Underground Railroad, and more. Lucius Read House was a stop for runaway slaves. Open Feb–Dec, Wed–Sat, 10am–3pm. Free admission. Tours and meeting space available.
Heritage Farm MuseumByron Forest Preserve District. Five restored farm buildings showing early country life. Open daily Apr 1–Oct 31, 8am–8pm. Free self-guided tours, some guided tours (fee).
Weiskopf ObservatoryPublic observatory with an 11" Celestron reflecting telescope. Weekly public viewing sessions show planets, moon, and faint sky objects. Open Tuesdays and Saturdays at dusk for three hours. Free; call ahead for times.
