Whiteside County
Sterling
Sterling faces its twin city, Rock Falls, across the Rock River, the two linked by bridges and a shared riverfront that’s the social center of Whiteside County. Sinnissippi Park’s rose garden and playgrounds sit right on the water, and Sterling’s downtown keeps a good mix of longtime shops and newer restaurants.
Fuel the day
Eat & Drink
Air Play Espresso & BakeryThe Air Play Coffee Shop and Micro-Bakery provides our community with fresh, premium coffee, espresso and bakery items. We are currently offering INSIDE DINING We opened with our first cup of coffee on December 1, 2010. We quickly became locally famous for our fresh-baked scones. In 11 years, we have sold over 140,000 of these delicious treats. We are a full-service coffeeshop, we feature the finest Espresso and Lattes. We have been voted #1 favorite Place for Coffee in the Sauk Valley area for 6 years. Think of us when you are ready for some great caffeine and fresh-baked pastries. We are a great meeting place for friends or business. Coffee groups, book clubs, and we are great with children, including a changing station in our clean bathroom. ENJOY our DRIVE-THRU access from the alley on the corner at 202-4th Avenue, one block east of the city offices. Make Air Play Espresso your favorite place, too. Join our frequent customer program to earn free beverages. Link to us on Facebook, Twitter and SnapChat to stay up to date on what's cooking for the day or for our upcoming events. See you soon.
Angelo’s II Pizzeria - SterlingFamily-friendly: pizza, salad bar, hot sandwiches. Dine-in/takeout. Lounge with TVs. Hours may vary—call to verify.
Angelo’s Pizzeria - DeliveryAngelo’s Sterling delivery location serves pizza, pasta, Italian dishes and signature sandwiches. Delivery and takeout are available daily, with late-night hours on Friday and Saturday.
Out and about
Things to Do
Blackhawk LanesFamily-friendly bowling center offering open and cosmic bowling, leagues, birthday parties, arcade games, pool, darts, video gaming, a restaurant and bar, and a pro shop.
Bugsy’s Arcade and GamingBugsy's Arcade and Gaming is a popular entertainment spot, known for its fun and diverse range of activities. While it's not a widely recognized brand, if you're looking for arcades and gaming centers, you might find such places that offer a variety of classic and modern arcade games, redemption games, and other entertainment options.
Color Me Happy LLCA downtown Sterling DIY art studio offering canvas painting, wood workshops, ceramics, candle making, spin art, private parties, and creative activities for children and adults.
Crow Valley CampgroundOpen April 15-Oct 15. Nothing beats a relaxing stay along the Rock River at Crow Valley Campground in Sterling, Illinois. Located just off Interstate 88 and surrounded by nature, this family-friendly campground offers a peaceful setting for RV and tent campers alike, as well as anyone looking to spend more time outdoors. Visitors can fish along the river, cool off in the swimming pool, enjoy a campfire, or simply unwind beneath the trees. The campground features electric and water hookup sites, primitive tent camping, free Wi-Fi, a game room, playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, hiking trails, and a pavilion for gatherings. Holiday weekends often include family activities and campground games, making it a fun option for both weekend getaways and longer summer stays. Its location near Sterling and Rock Falls also makes it easy to explore local restaurants, shopping, biking trails, and river recreation throughout the Sauk Valley area.
FeaturedRuffit Park CampgroundRuffit Park in Sterling offers a welcoming, family-friendly camping experience with something for all ages to enjoy. Open seasonally from May 1 through October, the campground provides a comfortable setting for RV travelers, tent campers, and visitors looking for a fun and relaxed stay in Whiteside County. The park features a variety of campsite options along with camper rentals, giving guests flexibility whether they prefer a traditional camping setup or a more comfortable stay. Families can spread out and enjoy the open layout, making it easy to relax, play, and spend time together outdoors. Ruffit Park includes a range of amenities designed to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. An in-ground swimming pool offers a refreshing way to cool off during warmer days, while open green spaces and recreational areas provide room for games and activities. The campground also hosts a variety of family-friendly events during the season, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for returning guests and first-time visitors alike. While Ruffit Park is especially accommodating to guests traveling with pets—including designated dog areas—it remains a well-rounded destination focused on creating a positive experience for the whole family. Located in Sterling, the campground offers convenient access to local shops, dining, and nearby attractions while maintaining a laid-back, community-oriented feel. With its mix of amenities, seasonal activities, and flexible lodging options, Ruffit Park is a great choice for a family camping trip in Northwest Illinois.
