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.
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1870 Buffalo Grove Lime KilnHistoric lime kiln on the Old Galena Trail, operated until early 1900s. Restored and on the National Register of Historic Places since 2002. Burned local stone for mortar used by pioneers.
Birdland Skate ParkConcrete public skate park with a bowl, quarter pipe, ramps, banks, and rails for a range of skill levels. Open from dawn to dusk in Polo.
Burns HouseDr. William Burns House built in 1854, Polo’s first brick house. Dr. Burns arrived in Buffalo Grove in 1848 and moved to Polo in 1854. He was called Polo's most prominent, historic character. The 1909 History of Ogle County had this to say about Dr. Burns: "In every community, great or small, there are found men who, by reason of super abilities and more industrious effort, have risen above their fellows in public, business or personal life, and such a man was the late William Wallace Burns, M.D."
Chesty P’s PubLong-running downtown Polo pub at 104 E. Mason Street serving beer, wine and spirits in a casual small-town bar setting. Check current hours before visiting.
Cimino’s PizzaPolo pizzeria serving pizza, cheese bread, lasagna, baked pasta and other Italian-American favorites. Takeout and delivery are available; check current hours before ordering.
Country FloralFamily-owned Polo florist offering fresh floral arrangements and gifts for everyday occasions, weddings, memorials and special events. Local delivery and same-day service may be available; order ahead and confirm current hours.
- Downtown Polo, IL
Henry School1878 one room country school on the Galena Trail, used until 1957. Now restored by Polo Historical Society, with displays on Blackhawk War, local history, and hemp mill. Open by appointment or for special events. Please check our Facebook page or email us at polohistoricalsocietyinfo@gmail.com
Jeff's RefsJeff's Refs is a casual sports bar in downtown Polo with cold beer, cocktails, pizza, pool, darts, and live music. Settle in with friends for an easygoing night out, watch the game, or catch one of the bar's special events and performances.
La Esmeralda Mexican RestaurantLa Esmeralda Mexican Restaurant is a cozy downtown Polo spot serving homemade Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites prepared with fresh ingredients. The welcoming dining room is a local hidden gem for tacos, enchiladas, combination plates, and other comforting classics, with dine-in and takeout available.
On Any Sunday Motorcycle MuseumPrivate motorcycle collection in downtown Polo with about 90 bikes on display, especially European motorcycles from 1928 through 1978, plus racing and street-bike memorabilia. Hours can be limited and access may be by chance or appointment, so call before traveling.
Our House AntiquesIn-home shop, primitive to Victorian antiques, quality local handcrafts. Open Thu-Fri 10am–7pm, Sat 10am–5pm.
Polo Area Community TheatreEnriches Ogle County with live theater for all ages. Productions quarterly; see website for audition and performance info.
Polo Historical Society | Aplington HouseBuilt in 1853, houses Polo artifacts, exhibits, Civil War hats, and an extensive genealogical collection. Open Saturdays 8:30am–2:30pm; check Facebook or email for weekday appointments.
Polo History MuseumMuseum in a handicapped-accessible building with vintage printing machines, military memorabilia, tools, and artifacts. Open Saturday 8:30am - 3:00pm, or by appointment/chance. Tours available. To arrange an appointment please email us at polohistoricalsocietyinfo@gmail.com
Polo Public LibraryBuilt in 1904 with Carnegie funds. Classic revival-style building. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
Polo Swimming PoolOutdoor pool open seasonally. Visit the website for information on lessons, lap swimming, and days and hours of operation.
Rock River Christian Camp and Retreat Center8 miles NW of Polo. Open year-round for youth/adult programming and rentals. Accommodates 15–250, housing, meals, recreation, A/V, and event space. Great for meetings, reunions, or retreats.
Rock River Riders M/CLong-running motorcycle club and recreation venue hosting AMA-sanctioned hill climbs, dirt drags, trials, and other off-road motorcycle activities.
- SubwaySubway in Polo serves made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, salads, and catering from its South Division Street location.
The Dogwood InnFull-service restaurant at Rts 26 & 64. Tue–Fri 10am–7pm, Sat 8am–7pm, Sun 7am–2pm (buffet 11am–2pm).
The Polo RoomPolo sports bar, restaurant, live-music venue, and banquet facility serving food and drinks with pool, darts, video gaming, outdoor seating, and flexible space for weddings, reunions, meetings, and private celebrations.
Trotter Restorations & AntiquesPolo antiques showroom and restoration specialist focused on period lighting, architectural hardware, furniture, parlor stoves, and old-home restoration supplies. The showroom is open by chance or appointment, so call before visiting.
