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.
Highlighted placements
Featured
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.
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 Veterans Memorial ArchLighted historic memorial arch on Galena Avenue, Dixon, since 1919. Honors veterans of war and is a Dixon landmark.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Northwest Territory Historic CenterHistory research and learning center in Ronald Reagan’s boyhood school, Dixon, IL, affiliated with Smithsonian. Features exhibits on Native Americans, Reagan, Rock River Assembly, Chautauqua, farming, WWII, and more. Art gallery, theater, auditorium, and museum store. Open Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm.
Old Lee County CourthouseCompleted in 1901, the Old Lee County Courthouse is a Classical Revival landmark in downtown Dixon and a contributing property in the historic district. The domed cut-stone building stands on the site of Lee County’s earlier courthouse and continues to house county administrative offices and the County Board meeting room. A marker on the lawn recalls Abraham Lincoln’s campaign speech at the site.
Old Settlers Cabin, Lincoln Statue and Fort Dixon SitePresident’s Park brings together Dixon’s Old Settlers Cabin, Abraham Lincoln Statue, and former Fort Dixon site along the Rock River. Leonard Crunelle’s 1930 bronze depicts the 23-year-old Lincoln as a Black Hawk War militia captain, the only known statue showing him in military uniform. The 1894 cabin preserves local pioneer history and opens for special tours and events. The grounds and riverwalk are open for self-guided visits.
Old Settlers Log CabinBuilt in 1894 as a tribute to early settlers. Relocated to former Fort Dixon site. Also features a statue of Abraham Lincoln in military uniform. Managed by Lee County Historical Society, open weekends and during the Dixon Petunia Festival.
Plum Hollow Family CenterPlum Hollow Family Center in Dixon, IL, is a full-service entertainment destination perfect for families, friends, and groups looking to play, compete, and celebrate. With 24 modern Brunswick bowling lanes offering both regular and cosmic bowling, this local favorite brings classic fun into the present. Beyond bowling, visitors can challenge each other in laser tag, tackle indoor black light miniature golf, rack up tickets in the arcade, and book private party rooms for birthdays, corporate events, or team outings. Whether you’re joining a year-round league, taking advantage of daily specials, or just stopping by for some casual fun, Plum Hollow offers something for every age and interest. With on-site amenities like room rentals and seasonal specials, it’s a versatile spot for laid-back family time or high-energy group celebrations right here in Dixon.
Reagan Peace ParkPark featuring a 20-foot Wings of Peace and Freedom sculpture by Nick Tanev, murals, and a replica of the Berlin Wall, recognizing President Reagan’s impact on world peace.
Ruth Edwards Nature Center at Lowell ParkLocated in Lowell Park, the center offers maps and advice on park recreation. Features weekend activities for kids, environmental education classes, and nature exhibits. Operated by Dixon Park District.
Shinny’sShinny’s Arcade Bar & Golf Simulators Shinny’s is located along the Dixon Riverfront and combines entertainment, relaxation, and stunning views. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of pinball and classic arcade games, or test their skills on two state-of-the-art Trackman golf simulators. Trackman bookings can be reserved through the Trackman App, Shinny’s website, or by phone—online reservations often include special deals. Friday visitors can take advantage of a 2-for-1 token promotion. Shinny’s also offers full-building rentals for private parties. Packages include exclusive access to both simulator bays, club rentals, and $20 per hour in tokens, creating a private and customizable experience. Bar on site The bar features a rotating selection of domestic and craft beers, seltzers, limited liquor options, and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. Guests under 21 are welcome to use the golf simulators when accompanied by a parent or guardian. With its games, golf, and riverfront atmosphere, Shinny’s is a lively destination for casual outings and special events. Hours High-Season Hours (October–Mid April) During the fall through spring golf off-season, Shinny’s is open Tuesday through Sunday. Weekday hours run from 4:00 to 10:30 p.m. On Saturdays, the arcade and simulators are open from noon to 10:30 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m. Off-Season Hours (Mid April–September) In the warmer months, Shinny’s operates Wednesday through Saturday. Weekday hours remain 4:00 to 10:30 p.m., while Saturday hours shift to 2:00 to 10:30 p.m. Private building rentals are also available year-round, with flexible scheduling any day of the week.
Strom Christmas Tree FarmSeasonal family Christmas-tree farm offering choose-and-cut and pre-cut fir, pine, and spruce varieties, with saws and cutting assistance available; current limited dates are posted for each holiday season.
The Dixon: Historic TheaterHistoric Dixon Theatre (est. 1922) with 1000 seats. Available for public shows and private rentals. Volunteers have restored the venue to its former glory.
The Golf Room at Miller Golf ComplexIndoor golf-simulator facility at Dixon Park District's Miller Golf Complex, available for reserved tee times and year-round practice. Check the Park District for current rates and hours.
The Next Picture Show Community Fine Arts CenterFine arts center in a renovated 1854 building in historic downtown Dixon. Features working studio and gallery, open Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. or by appointment. Space available for special events, max occupancy 237.
Veterans Memorial ParkDixon memorial park honoring veterans of all branches and conflicts, with flags, a fountain and arbor, engraved memorials, and military artifacts including a 155 mm howitzer, Cobra helicopter, M60 tank, and ship's anchor.