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.
Dixon’s Railroad Street ArchesThree locally quarried Galena-limestone railroad arches carry Dixon’s shared-use trail above First, Second and Third streets. Built for the Illinois Central Railroad in the 1850s, the arches are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and were rehabilitated in 1999. Today walkers and cyclists can cross the historic structures en route to downtown and the Rock River.
Dunk's Bar & GrillWelcome to Dunk’s Bar & Grill, Dixon’s newest hangout for good food, cold drinks, and a laid-back local vibe. Opened in Summer 2025 in the former Corner Spot location, Dunk’s is quickly becoming a go-to spot for lunch, dinner, and evening fun. Catch live music, cheer on your favorite teams on the big screens, and enjoy a casual atmosphere any day of the week. Whether you’re stopping in after work or making it your weekend destination, Dunk’s is serving up great times—no frills, just friendly. Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM Friday–Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM The kitchen is open daily until 9 PM; extended kitchen hours for wings may be available on weekends.
E.C. Smith ParkDixon neighborhood park at 455 West 7th Street with the Kiddie Koral playground, a sledding hill, three tennis courts and space for picnics and outdoor play. The park was donated to the Dixon Park District by Dixon Public Schools and remains a family recreation site.
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites DixonFairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Dixon is a contemporary hotel in Dixon, Illinois, conveniently located near I-88 and close to the city’s top attractions, dining, and historic sites. Ideal for both leisure and business travelers, the hotel provides a comfortable home base for exploring downtown Dixon, the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, and the Rock River corridor. Guest rooms and suites are designed for relaxation and productivity, featuring plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, free high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerators, and coffee makers. Each stay includes a complimentary hot breakfast, and guests can take advantage of on-site amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, free parking, and an on-site restaurant. Whether visiting Northwest Illinois for a weekend getaway, a family trip, or business travel, Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Dixon delivers reliable comfort, friendly service, and a convenient location in the heart of Lee County.
Flowers Etc.Flowers Etc. is a local full-service floral and gift shop in Dixon creating custom arrangements for everyday occasions, weddings, sympathy, holidays, and special events. The shop also carries gifts and accessories and offers both traditional and distinctive floral designs.
Flynnie's KitchenDetails Located in a small but iconic spot in downtown Dixon (formerly home to Sow Belly’s and Pee Wee’s), this cozy eight-seat diner brings back all the warmth and flavor that made their previous venture a local favorite. Order to-go, and walk less than a block to Dixon’s beautiful riverfront to enjoy your meal. What to Expect (Menu Highlights): - Classic diner favorites: juicy burgers, all-beef hot dogs, crispy onion rings - Unique specials: smashburger tacos, fried pickles, homemade cupcakes, and rotating daily comfort-food surprises - Ingredients sourced locally—including meats from Oliver’s Corner Market—and crafted with hometown care Ambiance Flynnie’s Kitchen may be small, but it’s big on heart. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or sitting down to savor a nostalgic meal, this spot is all about great food and genuine hospitality. Hours Monday-Friday: 11 am to 2 pm | 4-7 pm Saturday: CLOSED Sunday: 11 am to 2 pm
Fresco On FirstDowntown Dixon. Healthy, fresh menu, local coffee/tea/smoothies. Dine-in/carry-out. 2nd floor 4000 sq ft event space (rentable/catered), basement gym (First Street Fight Club). Call 815-677-5192.
Fresh Finds BoutiqueFresh Finds Boutique is a locally owned downtown Dixon women's fashion shop offering contemporary clothing, shoes, and accessories across a wide range of styles, sizes, and budgets. Shoppers can browse brands including Birkenstock, Judy Blue, and Vervet, with clothing sizes extending through 24.
Grace Johnston ParkGrace Johnston Park is a year-round Dixon neighborhood park with a playground, basketball hoop, and ball field. The Dixon Park District lists the park at 1110 Highland Avenue and keeps it open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
John Dixon ParkJohn Dixon Park is Dixon's oldest neighborhood park and a community gathering place on North Galena Avenue. Children can explore multiple play areas, including Dixon's first inclusive playground with accessible ramps, a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, slides, and rubber surfacing. The reservable Lions Shelter has picnic tables, a grill, water fountain, and electricity; the park also hosts seasonal events such as Music at the Square and farmers markets.
- King Family Homestead4BR, 2BA brick bungalow on 80 wooded acres. Sleeps 8. Park-like yards, porch, hardwoods. Close to parks, golf, river, downtown Dixon, restaurants.
Las PalmasLas Palmas is a friendly Dixon restaurant serving authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites in a warm, relaxed setting. The menu offers tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, combination plates, and other familiar favorites, along with a broad selection of drinks for an easy lunch or dinner out.
Lee County Historical & Genealogical SocietyResearch center with extensive historical and genealogical information for Lee County, including burial records, census records, and over 1.2 million microfilm records from local newspapers. Wheelchair accessible. See website for hours.
Lil’ Smoked Bar & GrillDixon BBQ spot. Smoked meats, sides, homemade sauces. Drive-up window, full bar, vibrant atmosphere.
Lo's LoungeThis is a classic local sports bar and neighborhood hangout in downtown Dixon at 81 S. Galena Avenue. Known for its welcoming, laid-back vibe, Lo’s Lounge is the place to catch the big game on TV, grab drink specials like $3 Busch Light cans, and unwind after a long day with friends. The lounge offers billiards, dart boards, a jukebox, and occasional special events, such as karaoke and themed parties, that keep the social calendar lively. With friendly service and a casual atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike looking to relax, sip a cold one, and enjoy good company in the heart of Dixon. Open 7 days a week.
Loveland Community House and MuseumLoveland Community House and Museum combines a free local-history museum with an active Dixon community and event venue. Exhibits include a full-length portrait of city founder John Dixon, equipment from Charles Walgreen’s first drugstore, Civil War weapons, dolls and toys, pioneer tools, local industry artifacts, art, and Reagan memorabilia. The historic building also offers lounges, meeting rooms, a stage, full kitchen, and a dining hall seating up to 200 for weddings and events.
Lowell ParkLowell Park, the National Register of Historic Places, spans 240 acres along the Rock River and features the Ruth Edwards Nature Center, restrooms, parking, boat launches with Rock River access, fishing, hiking trails, a nature preserve, cross-country skiing, shelters, grills, playground equipment, and more. Ronald Reagan saved 77 lives here as a lifeguard during his boyhood years. Until you have walked through this nature wonderland, you will not appreciate this wonderful gift that was presented to the City of Dixon near the turn of the 19th century. Established in 1907, it has stood the test of time as a place where people could relax and enjoy recreation to the fullest. History Fun Fact: It is where Ronald Reagan took a summer job as a lifeguard and reportedly saved 77 people from the river during his tenure.
Lowell Parkway TrailLowell Parkway Trail is a 3-mile paved rail-trail linking Dixon’s Washington Avenue area with Lowell Park. Built on the former Illinois Central rail bed, the route opened in 1992 and provides a scenic, mostly separated path for walking and bicycling. Park at the southern trailhead off Washington Avenue or at the north end inside Lowell Park, where visitors can continue to woodland trails, picnic areas, fishing, playgrounds, and Rock River access.
Mad Water SaloonNew in 2024, Mad Water Saloon in downtown Dixon is a bar and full live music venue with a large back room for private parties and events. Features line dancing on Mondays, bingo on Thursdays, karaoke on Fridays, and a variety of local and regional bands. Contact for event booking.
Maria’s PizzaMaria’s Pizza is a family-owned Dixon pizzeria making its own sauce and dough with fresh ingredients. The menu centers on classic and specialty pizzas, with sandwiches, pasta, chicken wings, chicken strips, Italian beef, lasagna, appetizers, and party-size options rounding out the selection. Order online for pickup or delivery, and check the website for current specials and hours.
Mary’s DinerLocated in Dixon’s Dement Town neighborhood, Mary’s Diner offers breakfast and lunch. Known for home-cooked meals, generous portions, friendly service, and affordable prices. Follow on Facebook for daily specials.
Meadows ParkMeadows Park is a 567-acre Dixon Park District recreation area stretching from Washington Avenue toward the Rock River. Its trails support hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and seasonal nature exploration, while the park also serves local soccer programs. Families can visit Wooden Wonderland playground and the adjacent accessible Water Wonderland splash pad with 23 water features, picnic space, pavilion, restrooms, and paved parking.
My Play VillageInteractive children’s play center/party venue, Dixon Plaza. Mini village for creative/dramatic play. Ages 1–10. Open play, parties, themed events. $9/child, adults free (limit 2/adult per child). FB for updates.
Nichol's Flowers & GreenhousesLongtime Dixon florist and greenhouse offering fresh floral designs, seasonal flowers, plants and gift-ready arrangements. Contact the shop for current greenhouse availability, custom floral orders and seasonal hours.
