The NW Illinois Directory
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Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
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FeaturedAl & Leda PizzeriaFamily-run for over 60 years, Al & Leda Pizzeria is a local landmark in Dixon, IL. Famous for its signature Spaghetti Pizza—a crispy-yet-chewy crust topped with spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, and mozzarella—plus unique pizzas like BBQ Cheeseburger and BLT. Menu includes Italian cheeseburgers, torpedo sandwiches, and homemade classics. Casual, friendly, and perfect for families. Owned by the Bartolomei family since 1960.
FeaturedLost Nation Golf ClubLost Nation Golf Course offers a unique golf experience just south of Dixon, amid rolling hills, forested areas, and open fairways that make each round feel like an escape into nature. The thoughtfully designed 18-hole course challenges players of all skill levels with a blend of strategic shots, elevation changes, and scenic views that set it apart from more traditional layouts. Beyond the golf course itself, Lost Nation offers a friendly clubhouse and bar & grill where players can relax and refuel after a round. Whether you’re teeing off for a casual game with friends, sharpening your skills, or hosting a group outing, this course combines a welcoming atmosphere with the charm of northwest Illinois golf.
FeaturedRonald Reagan Boyhood Home & Visitors CenterTour the restored home where Ronald Reagan lived from 1920–1923. Public tours April–December, Thu–Sat 10am–3pm. Last tour at 3pm. Group tours and special events available by appointment.
Alley Loop Saloon & DeliSince opening our doors in 2004, Alley Loop Saloon & Deli has proudly served as Dixon, IL's favorite spot for good times, great food, and unforgettable nights. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with deli sandwiches, the famous Crazy Cuban, burgers, video gaming, and more. Open seven days a week; kitchen closes at 8 p.m. Locally owned with excellent service.
Angelo’s III Pizzeria - DixonPizza, pasta, and more! Family recipes for 50+ years. Locations also in Sterling & Rock Falls. Hours subject to change, call to verify.
Arthur’s Garden Deli - DixonEstablished in 1977 and voted “best place for lunch” in 2005 by local diners. Deli sandwiches, soups, stuffed potatoes, salad bar, frozen yogurt, and catering.
B.B.Y. Chicken and Carry OutKnown for delicious fried chicken, fried walleye, cod, and more. Dine-in, outdoor seating, carry-out, and local delivery. Open daily 4-9 p.m., closed Mondays.
Baker Street - DixonHouse-roasted coffees, baked goods, soups, and sandwiches. Decadent cakes and pastries. Follow on Facebook for daily specials.
Ballou ParkDixon Park District neighborhood park with lighted ball diamonds, a basketball court, a playground, and the Kiwanis picnic shelter with tables, a grill, and electricity. The shelter and ball fields are available for reservations.
Basil Tree RistoranteFamily owned and operated since 2009, Basil Tree Ristorante offers a unique blend of old-world Italian charm and modern touch in a cozy 1850s building. With more than 30 years of combined chef experience, the widely praised Italian cuisine includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The restaurant features a full bar with signature cocktails and a diverse wine list, ideal for intimate dinners or large celebrations. Private dining and catering are available, with a beautiful banquet room for up to 50 guests. Free off-street parking is available.
Bogey’s Bar & GrillLocated on the lower level of Timber Creek Golf Club, Bogey’s Bar & Grill serves American favorites, burgers, sandwiches, lunch and dinner specials, and a full selection of drinks. A seasonal patio overlooks the golf course.
Brave Arts Creative StudioBrave Arts Creative Studio is a welcoming, community-focused art space offering creative experiences for children, families, and adults. As Dixon’s first dedicated creative arts studio, Brave Arts blends open, drop-in artmaking with guided classes, workshops, and seasonal events designed to inspire all ages and skill levels. The studio encourages hands-on exploration through a variety of mediums, making it an approachable place for beginners while still engaging for more experienced creatives. In addition to in-studio programming, Brave Arts also offers DIY art kits that allow participants to continue creating at home. With an emphasis on creativity, confidence, and connection, Brave Arts Creative Studio provides a supportive environment where imagination is encouraged and artistic expression is accessible to everyone.
Canterbury Concert Series | Rendezvous ArtsRendezvous Arts — a series under Canterbury Concert Series — brings music, visual art, and community spirit together across Northwest Illinois and greater Chicagoland. Initially founded in spring 2020 by a collective of artists responding to pandemic-era challenges, Rendezvous Arts has grown into a vibrant nonprofit platform dedicated to reshaping artistic expression, nurturing emerging talent, and spreading the joy of live music and art. As part of Canterbury Concert Series, Rendezvous Arts delivers a curated lineup of performances and exhibitions across multiple venues — including Dixon, Lake Forest, and Chicago — offering 23 events in the 2025–26 season alone. These monthly gatherings (plus special events like the Ravenswood ArtWalk) showcase everything from string quartets and jazz ensembles to live painting and multimedia art. Whether you’re a longtime music lover or new to the arts scene, Rendezvous Arts offers something for everyone: world-class performances, local talent, and an inviting community atmosphere under the broader Canterbury umbrella.
Coffee CrushEnjoy a casual, relaxing environment with your favorite chocolate-flavored coffees and baked items. They offer breakfast or lunch, dine-in or take-out. Visit our website for a list of our menu items.
Dement Town TavernLocated in Dixon’s Dement Town neighborhood. Open Thurs–Sat at 4 pm. Full bar, pool, and live music.
- Discover DixonAs a hybrid organization, Dixon Chamber & Main Street (Discover Dixon) works to grow Dixon by advocating for our business members and giving them a voice in local decision-making. We also organize and host community events to enhance the quality of life for the people and businesses in Dixon and the surrounding areas. The City of Dixon also contracts us to promote Dixon as a place to visit. Through this partnership we’ve enhanced Dixon’s brand presence throughout the Northern Illinois area while also promoting the cultural, economic, and cultural aspects of our region.
Distinctive Gardens, Inc.Dixon garden center and nursery specializing in creative container gardening, unusual annuals, perennials and woody plants. Distinctive Gardens also offers garden art and gifts, landscaping services and display gardens. Shop online for pickup or delivery, and follow the official social pages for current workshops, events and seasonal updates.
Dixon Boat RampBoat launches, canoe access, and fishing.
Dixon City MarketDixon City Market brings 50+ local and regional crafters, artisans and food vendors to the riverfront, with live music, drinks and kids activities. The 2026 market runs 5–8 p.m. Wednesdays from May 27 through Aug. 5 on the published event dates, concluding with Dixon City Market Jr. Check Discover Dixon for the current schedule and vendor applications.
Dixon Family YMCACommunity health and recreation center serving all ages with fitness classes, personal training, aquatics and swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps and community events. The main facility includes an indoor pool, gym and wellness spaces. Check the official schedules and membership pages for current hours, programs and access details.
Dixon Lincoln Highway Interpretive GazeboRiverfront Lincoln Highway gazebo with interpretive panels about the Dixon Arch, the 1919 Transcontinental Motor Convoy and the highway’s broader history. Built in 2009 through the Illinois Interpretive Gazebo Project with National Scenic Byway funding and City of Dixon support, it marks Illinois’ nationally designated Lincoln Highway corridor.
Dixon Lincoln Highway Interpretive MuralOne of Lee County’s three Illinois Lincoln Highway interpretive murals, this downtown Dixon artwork depicts the 1919 Transcontinental Motor Convoy that included future President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The scene recalls the convoy’s arrival at the courthouse and community lunch, connecting Dixon to the highway’s influence on American travel.
Dixon Municipal BandThe Dixon Municipal Band is one of Dixon’s longest-standing traditions, bringing more than a century of live music to the community. This volunteer-powered ensemble blends the talents of high school musicians, community players, and experienced professionals, creating warm, crowd-pleasing performances all season long. Each summer, the band fills the Page Park Band Shell with marches, classics, Broadway hits, and other familiar favorites during its free outdoor concert series. They also present an annual Christmas concert—free to attend with reserved tickets—along with appearances at parades and special community events. Committed to offering meaningful musical opportunities and enriching local culture, the band continues to grow through community support, fundraising, and sponsorships. Performances take place at venues throughout Dixon, with the Page Park Band Shell and The Historic Dixon Theatre serving as frequent hosts.
Dixon Park DistrictDixon Park District manages parks, trails, recreation programs and facilities throughout the community, including historic Lowell Park, Park 4 Paws, a nature center, sports facilities and reservable shelters and event spaces. The district offers program registration, rentals, seasonal activities and community events; use the official website for current schedules and reservations.
- Dixon Petunia Festival, Inc.
Dixon Veterans Memorial ArchLighted historic memorial arch on Galena Avenue, Dixon, since 1919. Honors veterans of war and is a Dixon landmark.
Dixon Water Wonderland Splash PadHot days. Cold water. Tired, happy kids. This family-friendly park was new in 2019. It offers 23 different water features, beautiful landscaping with a fountain, picnic tables with solar-powered chargers, and a paved and striped parking lot. Hours: Seasonally, 9 am - 8 pm daily. FREE
