A weekend’s journey is closer than you might think. Check out these fun destinations that are close to home but still feel so far away.
DeKalb County: The Land of Lincoln is Calling this Spring
By Pat Szpekowski
If getting back out on the lake and soaking in the sunshine have been on your mind since winter arrived, wait no more! It’s finally time to spring into action in the great outdoors. And what better place to do it than in DeKalb County?
“Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area in Shabbona is a tremendous place to get away from the stresses of daily life and get back to the peace of nature,” says Katherine McLaughlin, DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau marketing director.
In the midst of 1,550 acres of rolling hills and prairie, Shabbona Lake offers a 318.8-acre, man-made fishing destination. The natural resources it provides and the rewards of fishing here are many. It’s located off U.S. Route 30 inside a state park by the same name. Called the “Muskie Capitol of Illinois,” Shabbona Lake proudly holds four state Muskie fishing records.
Convenient services and amenities are available, too. “You can rent pontoon boats, fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards at affordable rates,” notes McLaughlin. “Camp sites are available, too, at reasonable prices, such as overnight campsites for $25 and cabins for $50.”
If you love to fish and touring the beautiful lakes and waterways of our region, Lake Shabbona may already be at the top of your list. If it’s not, then plenty of fun awaits.
Don’t miss dining at Pokanoka’s Dockside Café, where you can dine lakeside in an outdoor setting. McLaughlin notes that the menu includes locally raised pork and beef alongside delicious appetizers, salads, sandwiches and drinks.
Springtime sees the opening of outdoor patios throughout DeKalb County. Live music and refreshing imbibements return every Friday and Saturday night to the patios at Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. in DeKalb and Prairie State Winery in Genoa.
Whiskey Acres is noted for handcrafted spirits that are made with grains harvested from the richest farmland soils in DeKalb County. What a treat to sip and enjoy the essence of the land.
Prairie State Winery was just one of 16 wineries in Illinois when Rick and Maria Mamoser established it in 1998. Today, Illinois has 100 wineries, and Prairie State Winery is still at the top with more than 35 wines and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The winery was recently inducted as an official Illinois Maker, a special designation for small businesses across the state.
“The Illinois Maker program celebrates the small businesses whose uniquely Illinoisan style and creativity set their goods apart,” says McLaughlin. “Makers exemplify what it means to be a local artisan. They represent the pinnacle of small businesses in Illinois, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found in the cities, towns and rural communities of the Land of Lincoln.”
Find out for yourself this season. Visit dekalbcountycvb.com and start planning.
If getting back out on the lake and soaking in the sunshine have been on your mind since winter arrived, wait no more! It’s finally time to spring into action in the great outdoors. And what better place to do it than in DeKalb County?
“Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area in Shabbona is a tremendous place to get away from the stresses of daily life and get back to the peace of nature,” says Katherine McLaughlin, DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau marketing director.
In the midst of 1,550 acres of rolling hills and prairie, Shabbona Lake offers a 318.8-acre, man-made fishing destination. The natural resources it provides and the rewards of fishing here are many. It’s located off U.S. Route 30 inside a state park by the same name. Called the “Muskie Capitol of Illinois,” Shabbona Lake proudly holds four state Muskie fishing records.
Convenient services and amenities are available, too. “You can rent pontoon boats, fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards at affordable rates,” notes McLaughlin. “Camp sites are available, too, at reasonable prices, such as overnight campsites for $25 and cabins for $50.”
If you love to fish and touring the beautiful lakes and waterways of our region, Lake Shabbona may already be at the top of your list. If it’s not, then plenty of fun awaits.
Don’t miss dining at Pokanoka’s Dockside Café, where you can dine lakeside in an outdoor setting. McLaughlin notes that the menu includes locally raised pork and beef alongside delicious appetizers, salads, sandwiches and drinks.
Springtime sees the opening of outdoor patios throughout DeKalb County. Live music and refreshing imbibements return every Friday and Saturday night to the patios at Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. in DeKalb and Prairie State Winery in Genoa.
Whiskey Acres is noted for handcrafted spirits that are made with grains harvested from the richest farmland soils in DeKalb County. What a treat to sip and enjoy the essence of the land.
Prairie State Winery was just one of 16 wineries in Illinois when Rick and Maria Mamoser established it in 1998. Today, Illinois has 100 wineries, and Prairie State Winery is still at the top with more than 35 wines and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The winery was recently inducted as an official Illinois Maker, a special designation for small businesses across the state.
“The Illinois Maker program celebrates the small businesses whose uniquely Illinoisan style and creativity set their goods apart,” says McLaughlin. “Makers exemplify what it means to be a local artisan. They represent the pinnacle of small businesses in Illinois, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found in the cities, towns and rural communities of the Land of Lincoln.”
Find out for yourself this season. Visit dekalbcountycvb.com and start planning.
Starved Rock Lodge: Schedule Some Spring Fun Today
By Kathy Casstevens, marketing manager, Starved Rock Lodge
Winter has been mild this year but we’re still eager to be outside, soaking up the sunlight and watching the leaves turn green and flowers bloom. Starved Rock Lodge is waiting for anyone who wants a getaway that’s close to home but still worlds away.
The spring season started in March with a whiskey dinner featuring Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey. The five-course meal featured whiskey tastings and cocktails infused with Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey. Starved Rock Lodge’s executive chef, Charlie Klinefelter, was also on hand to share his insights on these pairings and their preparations.
Sparks flew in the Lodge’s Great Hall when “Are You Ready For it? A Taylor Experience!” paid tribute to one of the most iconic pop stars of the decade. The show captivated Swifties of all ages as a live band re-created hit after hit from Taylor’s iconic Eras Tour.
There’s plenty more entertainment to come, as May and June bring more shows in Starved Rock Lodge’s Tribute to the Stars series. Watch Doug Brewin capture the look and sound of Alan Jackson on May 13, or see Brewin return with Larry Turner on May 14 to re-create the sound and energy of a Brooks & Dunn show. There’s also Branson on the Road May 20-21, a tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival June 10-11, and a showstopping Barry Manilow set June 17-18. Each show comes with memorable entertainment and a hearty meal.
And speaking of live music, the Lodge’s favorite summer hangout, Music on the Veranda, kicks off May 24 with an exciting lineup of music every Friday night, from 8-11 p.m., throughout the summer months. Enjoy a great meal and amazing views from the Veranda, which overlooks the Illinois River below.
Trolley Trio Progressive Dinners are a fun way to enjoy food and drinks at three local attractions. Hop onboard the Starved Rock Lodge Trolley and let someone else do the driving. The first stop is at August Hill Winery, where a flight of wine is paired with small-bite appetizers. Next, the Trolley travels to Camp Aramoni for cocktails and a three-course small-bite tasting experience. The evening concludes with mini after-dinner drinks paired with three tasty desserts.
Historic Trolley Tours of the Starved Rock area, held on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday afternoons, are a great way to learn about the rich history of LaSalle County. This popular tour resumed in April and continues throughout the spring season.
For reservations, call (815) 220-7386 or book online at StarvedRockLodge.com.
Rock Falls, Ill.: Adventures Here are a Breath of Fresh Air
By Pat Szpekowski
Spring has arrived, and although we can expect the weather to go up and down like a yo-yo, there’s no reason not to get outdoors, meet nature once again and experience something new.
“There are always fun things to do in Rock Falls,” says Melinda Jones, director of Rock Falls Tourism. “Outdoor recreational activities are a big part of the area with our many trails, parks and waterways all year long. The Rock River and the Hennepin Feeder Canal and Trail come alive in the spring and summer months in a whole different way.”
Many people can’t wait for canoeing, kayaking and boating adventures at the Hennepin Canal. No matter if you are seasoned in the sport or want to give it a try, privately owned companies offer kayak rentals on the canal. Fun fact: there’s a local group, the Yak Yak Sisters, who are the unofficial Hennepin Canal Ambassadors. Join this group of women (and men) who love to regularly kayak together on Wednesdays. Friend them on Facebook to find out more.
The Rock Falls area is also steeped in a rich history, and its museums are cherished by the history buffs among us. Honoring its firefighter heroes, the Firehouse Fire Museum is open for tours by appointment. It covers the history of firefighting in Rock Falls and shows off lots of vintage fire equipment. Fun fact: kids can enjoy a water fight, crawl through the smoke house or even take a fire truck ride.
Nearby Tampico honors our 40th president at the Ronald Reagan Birthplace and Museum. Tour the residence that was home to the Reagan family from 1906 to 1911.
The sister city to Rock Falls, Sterling, is home to another interesting place: the Wahl Global Headquarters Museum. While you’re there, explore this local company’s roots in the beauty and barber industry.
For those days when “April showers” reign, Rock Falls offers an abundance of indoor entertainment.
“Kids and families enjoy playing arcade games at Aubree’s Fun World and adults take in arcade fun and competition at our local friendly neighborhood Cochran’s Pub,” notes Jones. “The Carry On Range is the nation’s first 24/7 shooting range and it’s state-of-the-art.”
There are several specialty shops in Downtown Rock Falls where you can find something unique to wear, to enhance your home and to enhance your own well-being.
“We have several resale shops and also Jeff’s Juke Joint, which sells treasured items,” adds Jones. “They are all popular with visitors who are looking to find special antiques and sought-after products.”
Who doesn’t love exploring a store that has a surprise at every turn? Mud & Moo Boutique sells women’s clothing in sizes from small to 3X, and it carries accessories, locally made canned goods, perfumes, candles and more. Owned by Chaley Sexton and Ashley Kness, this store has become a hit since it opened this past fall.
Moonlight Apothecary is the place where health and fashion meet; Chakra Tree Crystals is the area’s premier New Age shop; Saged Soul offers a variety of merchandise and a soothing Salt Room.
Explore, stay, and play in Rock Falls. Check out visitrockfalls.com to start planning your spring getaway.
Elkhorn, Wis.: Where Springtime Puts on a Show
By Pat Szpekowski
If you’re looking for a springtime adventure that packs in the best of Wisconsin, look no further than Elkhorn. Located close to the state line, Elkhorn offers a variety of amenities, natural resources and events that will lure you in again and again.
“This is the time of year when our outdoor spring and summer activities come back to life,” says Kate Abbe, partner engagement and marketing director for the Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Center. “Snow skis, skates and snowshoes are now being replaced by hiking gear, bikes and golf clubs.”
If you’re in the mood to boost your golf game and start a few rounds to get in shape, take a trip to the Alpine Valley Resort Golf Course and the Evergreen Golf Club. Both locations offer 27 holes that will challenge any type of game. As you compete with elevation changes, mature trees, bunkers and more, you’ll surely get the practice you need for a successful start. When the weather isn’t conducive, Evergreen Golf Club features a state-of-the-art Trackman4 Golf Simulator. Here, you can swing as you may at your own pace.
An added bonus at Alpine Valley Resort: you and your golf partners can kick back and enjoy the delicious Friday Night Fish Fry, with a choice of fresh hand-battered, deep-fried cod or perch with all the fixin’s.
The great outdoors show off their beauty in springtime, and there’s no shortage of showing off at Kettle Moraine Land Trust Area’s five preserves in Walworth County. The Jackson Creek Preserve is bursting with color as wildflowers, native plants and wildlife wake up from their winter sleep and show off their brilliance. It’s hard not to connect again with nature as you hit refresh and renew your mind amidst what’s been rated as one of the healthiest wetlands in the area.
Pack your bicycles and enjoy some biking adventures at two of Elkhorn’s most popular public parks. Pedal your way around paved bike trails at the White River Bike Trail and Babe Mann Park, and you’re sure to see Elkhorn from a new perspective.
“If you’re famished after a day on the trails or the golf course, we invite you to go on out and explore two special locations to satisfy your palate,” adds Abbe.
Duesterbeck’s Brewing Co. is a fifth-generation family farm producing a wide variety of hand-crafted beer on site. You can’t miss the big, new red barn that beckons you to stop in to the tap room. Duesterbeck beers vary in tastes for every preference and carry imaginative names like Crop Duster, Roosterbeck and Blue Ribbon Cheesecake.
If sipping wine is at the top of your list, the Apple Barn Orchard and Winery is here to please you. Spring isn’t apple season, but that doesn’t stop this great place from serving the next best thing: delicious fruit wines with names like Honey Crisp Apple Harvest, Hardy Pear and Big Buck Blueberry. The country bakery and farm store are stocked with irresistible in-season goodies.
Take some time for yourself, head to Elkhorn and explore the wonders that springtime presents in this unique getaway destination. Start planning now at elkhornchamber.com.