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.
Amboy City Park Wood CarvingsMore than 30 tree trunk wood carvings, including three U.S. Presidents from Illinois (Reagan, Lincoln, Grant) and scenes of Amboy life. More carvings planned.
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.
Chaplin Creek VillageChaplin Creek Village in Franklin Grove, Illinois, is a historic village setting that brings the area’s past to life through preserved buildings, open green space, and community gatherings. Serving as the primary event site for the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society, the village provides an immersive backdrop for seasonal festivals, living history programs, educational activities, and special events throughout the year. Visitors can stroll the grounds, explore historic structures, and experience hands-on opportunities that highlight rural life and local heritage. With its welcoming small-town atmosphere and flexible outdoor spaces, Chaplin Creek Village is a popular destination for families, school groups, and history lovers alike. Whether attending a special event or simply enjoying the historic setting, Chaplin Creek Village offers a memorable glimpse into Franklin Grove’s roots.
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’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.
First Carson Pirie Scott Store PlaqueThis historic plaque marks the Amboy storefront where Samuel Carson and John T. Pirie established the dry-goods business in 1854 that became Carson Pirie Scott & Co. The marker is mounted at the original brick building, now home to the Long Branch Saloon.
Franklin Creek Grist Mill & Interpretive CenterReconstructed four-story 1847 grist mill in Franklin Creek State Natural Area. Features a working waterwheel, milling equipment, native tree panels, fossils, and interpretive trail. Wheelchair accessible, open seasonally April 1–Oct 31. Suggested donation $5.
Franklin Grove Area Historical SocietyThe Franklin Grove Area Historical Society in Franklin Grove, Illinois, preserves and shares the rich heritage of this small but storied community. Through engaging exhibits, local artifacts, and carefully maintained collections, the society offers visitors a closer look at the people, places, and events that helped shape the region. History enthusiasts and curious travelers alike can explore displays that highlight early settlement, community life, and notable local figures. The organization also supports educational programming and special events throughout the year, making it a meaningful stop for anyone interested in Northwest Illinois history. Whether you’re researching family roots or simply enjoy stepping back in time, the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society provides an informative and welcoming experience.
H.I. Lincoln BuildingBuilt in 1860 by Henry I. Lincoln, a distant relative of Abraham Lincoln, this restored limestone landmark houses the Lincoln Highway Association's national headquarters and Interpretive Center. Explore exhibits on America's first coast-to-coast highway, browse local art and merchandise, and pick up regional visitor information. Open weekends seasonally through October and at other times by advance appointment; call before visiting.
Mormons in Amboy Historical MarkerThis downtown Amboy historical marker identifies the site of Goldman’s Hall, where Joseph Smith III was ordained president-prophet of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on April 6, 1860. The event formalized the church’s reorganization, now known as Community of Christ. The marker also recalls Amboy’s early Mormon congregation and was erected in 1974 by the Lee County and Illinois State Historical Societies.
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.
