The NW Illinois Directory
Explore All Places
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
Explore 821 places across Northwest Illinois.
Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary395-acre Illinois Audubon Society sanctuary (former Green Wing Lab, Lee Co). Expanding habitat near Amboy Marsh. Public access after parking area completion.
- Grungy Roots LLCPlants, garden items & décor. We specialize in plants of all kinds. Enjoy our “Pot your own plant station” while you are here. Open Wednesday-Sunday 9AM-5PM.
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.
FeaturedHairy Cow Brewing CompanyEnjoy craft beer, wood-fired pizza, and scenic river views at Hairy Cow Brewing Company in Byron, Illinois. Located on the banks of the Rock River, this popular brewpub combines a relaxed atmosphere with house-brewed beers, creative food offerings, and one of the area's most enjoyable outdoor dining spaces. Guests can unwind on the riverside patio, gather with friends on the covered deck, or enjoy the view from inside the spacious taproom. The menu features artisan wood-fired pizzas, wings, appetizers, salads, and other pub favorites, making it a great stop for lunch, dinner, or an afternoon drink by the water. Whether arriving by road, bike, or boat, visitors will find a welcoming place to eat, drink, and take in the beauty of the Rock River.
Hansen’s Hideaway Ranch and Campground70 campsites for tents, pop-ups, and RVs (with water/electric/full hookups). Swimming, nature trails, arcade, snack bar, playground, pavilion, restrooms, showers, dump station, fire rings, firewood, and ice. Open April 15–Nov 1.
Happily HandmadeHappily Handmade 815 is a vibrant maker’s boutique in downtown Oregon, Illinois, featuring a curated collection of locally made goods and art. Visitors will find a diverse selection of items, including handmade jewelry, home décor, custom gifts, candles, and small-batch skincare products—all created by more than 40 regional artisans. Whether you’re shopping for a unique souvenir, celebrating a special occasion, or simply supporting local creatives, this warm and welcoming shop is worth the stop. Seasonal workshops, pop-up events, and regular new arrivals keep things fresh and fun every time you visit.
Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream - MorrisonHappy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream in downtown Morrison is a locally owned, family-friendly restaurant serving signature pizzas, including its famous Taco Pizza, along with pasta, salads, sandwiches, appetizers, and ice cream. The restaurant offers dine-in, carryout, delivery, online ordering, weekday lunch specials, family-night specials, catering, and party space for groups.
Harry Kidd FieldHarry Kidd Field is a Sterling Park District football facility and the home field for Sterling Jr. Tackle's fifth- through eighth-grade program. Acquired through an Open Space Land and Water Conservation Fund grant in 1976, the site provides a dedicated community football field at West Seventh Street and Woodburn Avenue.
Harvest Bakery & MoreHarvest Bakery & More is a family bakery and full-service restaurant in a beautifully restored 100-year-old building on Erie's town triangle. Stop in Tuesday through Saturday for breakfast, lunch, dinner, fresh baked goods, custom cakes and cookies, homemade meals to go, and seasonal specials. The welcoming venue also offers catering, boxed lunches, bridal packages, business services, and rental space for private gatherings.
FeaturedHavencrest CastleTour Carroll County's grandest mansion, a 5 story, 63 room hilltop home with an eternal love story. Open for self-guided & VIP tours weekends in May and October, Self-guided 10am–4pm. (Close at 5). Dozens of themed rooms, 1000s antiques, art, & fantasy. VIP TOURS are guided by owner/artist Alan St. George limited to 10 people at 4PM sharp.
Hawg DogsHistoric downtown Savanna. Over-the-top food, cold drinks, live music. Bar open 10am–11pm daily.
Hazel’s CafeDowntown Oregon café with gourmet coffee, teas, smoothies, soups, sandwiches, salads, chocolates, and baked treats. Catering available. Relaxed atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert.
He-Leo Forest Preserve Kayak LaunchByron Forest Preserve kayak launch, floating docks at Rock/Leaf River confluence. 48-acre preserve: trails, savanna, wetlands, birding, picnics, sand volleyball, shelter. No motorized launch. Info: Byron Forest Preserve.
He-Leo Two Rivers PreserveHe-Leo Two Rivers Preserve is a scenic 48-acre Byron Forest Preserve District property where the Rock and Leaf rivers meet. Explore prairie, woodland, wetland, and floodplain habitat on foot, fish from the accessible riverfront, or launch a canoe or kayak from the non-motorized launch. Amenities include floating docks, a fishing pier, picnic shelter and tables, charcoal grill, sand volleyball, and portable toilets. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Hearts Desire D.I.Y. StudioHearts Desire D.I.Y. Studio is a Prophetstown creative workshop and craft shop where visitors can make projects, take classes, and browse supplies such as Iron Orchid Designs transfers, stamps, and moulds. The studio participates in current downtown events with demonstrations and make-and-take activities. Regular access and project offerings vary, so check current community event announcements or call ahead.
Hector’s CocinaHector’s Cocina is a family-owned restaurant in Oregon’s Conover Square serving generous portions of authentic Mexican favorites. Enjoy homemade chips and salsa, queso and guacamole, tacos, burritos, chimichangas, pozole and rotating weekend specials, plus horchata and fresh margaritas. Dine in, carry out, or ask about catering for your event.
Helle ParkHelle Park is a two-block neighborhood park in Savanna with separate modern play areas for children ages 2–5 and 5–12. The park also includes a basketball court, an easy paved walking path, open green space, and convenient parking, making it a relaxed stop for families.
FeaturedHennepin Canal State ParkwayThe Hennepin Canal State Parkway offers a unique blend of history and outdoor recreation, stretching across Northwest Illinois, with accessible points throughout Whiteside County, including a scenic section in Rock Falls. Once a working canal connecting the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, today it serves as a peaceful destination for walking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore miles of flat, crushed limestone towpath—ideal for cyclists of all skill levels and casual walkers alike. Along the way, historic canal locks, aqueducts, and bridges offer a glimpse into the area’s past while adding visual interest to the journey. The calm water and tree-lined paths create a quiet, relaxing setting that feels worlds away from busy roads. In Whiteside County, the canal provides easy access points for a quick outing or a longer ride, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the outdoors at their own pace. Whether you're planning a short stroll, a morning bike ride, or a day spent exploring, the Hennepin Canal State Parkway delivers a scenic and laid-back experience in every season.
Hennepin Feeder Canal ParkwayThe canal covers 5,400 acres and more than 104 miles, offering bike and hiking trails, canoeing, fishing, and historic sites. Features include the Guard Lock Gate, Arduini boat launch, historic buildings, nearby Crystal Lake RV Campground, and easy access to parks and amenities. The canal is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Henry C. Adams Memorial LibraryBuilt in memory of Henry Adams, founder of Eclipse Lawn Mower in Prophetstown.
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
Heritage Farm MuseumByron Forest Preserve District. Five restored farm buildings showing early country life. Open daily Apr 1–Oct 31, 8am–8pm. Free self-guided tours, some guided tours (fee).
Hero's TapHero’s Tap is a relaxed hometown bar and grill in downtown Morrison with beer, wine, mixed drinks, pub food, gaming, darts, a jukebox, and a friendly local atmosphere. Stop in for happy hour, catch live entertainment, or settle in with a burger and a drink.
Hickory HideawayEscape to the peaceful countryside and enjoy our fully-equipped 12 cabins located on 10 acres of partially wooded property. Just imagine soaking in a bubbly tub with your special someone while the fireplace glows in the privacy of your own cabin. If a bigger gathering is on your mind such as a family reunion or a corporate retreat, we can arrange for that too! There have been many stories shared around the campfire with friends and family. We are open year-round so you may enjoy each season with Mother Nature while making unforgettable memories.
