The Growing Up X exhibition explores the toys, technologies and cultural touchstones surrounding Gen Xers in their childhood. Museum visitors will see items familiar to anyone who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s, from telephones with cords, record and cassette players, and an Apple IIe computer
This exhibition allows us to observe each artist's ability to capture doorways from their viewpoint. The viewer is given insight into several interpretations of doorways from a variety of doors, arches, and gateways. This exhibition celebrates the allure of portals and the intrigue of what lies beyond.
Annual Spring Clean-Up Claim Your Section Of The Canal Trails! The Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail is 62 miles from Rockdale (Joliet) to LaSalle and is a popular recreational trail utilized by hikers, bikers, and joggers. After the long winter, debris and litter descend upon the
This ongoing program runs from Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 31. Preserve hours are 8 a.m. to sunset. Take part in the inaugural Four Rivers bird photography competition! Submit your picture of a migratory bird at McKinley Woods for a chance to win a gift certificate
This ongoing program runs from Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Enjoy this monthlong celebration of our migratory birds! Festivities will include ongoing crafts, family-friendly activities and hands-on exploration of
LEARN, HUNT, BUY...MOREL MUSHROOMS during Ottawa's Midwest Morel Fest. We're excited to welcome back this beloved annual, one-day event in Ottawa, IL. This unique festival offers everything mushrooms from the morel enthusiast to the curious observer! Join us at the Jordan Block (100 Main Street) where you
We’ve waited all winter to be reunited with the amazing vendors at Market on Canal. We are so proud of this sweet, outdoor vintage and handcrafted market that includes over 45 selected vendors, live music, food trucks, and drinks. It’s a vibe you can find nowhere besides
Start your day at Market on Canal with a free yoga class hosted by Nicole Schneider. This class is perfect for all levels and is a preview for the popular spring and summer yoga series. Bring your mat, towel, water, and prepare for a fun time! Register
A murder on the I&M and other personal canal memories by Ottawa's Hank Walsh.
The Four C Notes was created by John Michael Coppola, best known for appearance in Chicago's long running production of the Broadway, smash hit Jersey Boys. The Four C Notes are the Midwest's ONLY tribute dedicated to recreating the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons!
The Lemont Quarryman Challenge 5K and 10‐mile race offers runners a challenging course in Lemont's unique, scenic and small town setting. The 5K and 10‐mile race start and finish in historic downtown Lemont and wind through the hilly neighborhoods of Lemont. Village of Lemont Village Hall Parking
Our Summer Market Schedule is here! Save the dates and join us for the very best outdoor market around. We can't wait to see you!
Children learn how to fish safely, tie knots, identify fish and reptiles, cast, and most importantly, they see the community cares for them. All participants also enjoy a free lunch and giveaways. Fishing is a sport they can participate in and enjoy for the rest of their
Come brunch with us this Mother's Day! This 120 minute cruise will take you west out of Ottawa under the railroad bridge. You’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the rock faces as you travel to Buffalo Rock and get a unique view of the industries that are
Embark on a journey through time with our "Steeples & Saloons" walking tour, a captivating exploration of Ottawa, Illinois' rich history and architectural marvels. This engaging tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant past of a town
Come brunch with us this Mother's Day! This 120 minute cruise will take you west out of Ottawa under the railroad bridge. You’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the rock faces as you travel to Buffalo Rock and get a unique view of the industries that are
It was once the World's Largest Amusement Park - It boasts the world's first suspended roller coaster and first parachute ride. Today, it's merely one of Chicago's best loved memories. The names alone evoke nostalgia: the Pair-O-Chutes, Aladdin's Castle, Shoot the Chutes, and of course, the Bobs
New for this year, we’re dedicating the first ride of each day to providing a fun adventure for our younger passengers aged 5-12. Purchase tickets for the 11:30 am I&M Canal Boat Ride, and children will be invited to board the boat 30 minutes early with their
You can now book your trip for a tour along the I&M Canal on our 1840s-Replica, Mule-Powered I&M Canal Boat. In addition to the leisurely 60-to-90-minute ride, the experience includes the opportunity to meet Moe the Mule as part of our "Mule Tending 101" pre-tour introduction, be
The Chicago Maritime Museum announces the grand opening of two new permanent exhibitions on May 17, the most significant addition to the galleries since the museum opened in 2016. The exhibitions focus on the Lady Elgin, the deadliest disaster on the open waters of the Great Lakes
After spending time looking at the condition of the wall surrounding the Wallace-Dickey Cemetery on the north bluff in Ottawa, both Chuck Sanders, president of the Wallace-Dickey Cemetery Preservation Association, and Keith Stehl, Ottawa Masonry, acknowledge it going to be a large and expensive undertaking. “We want
Join reenactors and living historians as they represent many time periods from the Roman Empire through World War II. They will be encamped all weekend and have uniforms and equipment on display for the public to inspect. Also, the original 19th century buildings on site that were
Kites in Flight This 2-day event will feature professional kite flying demonstrations from the Chicago Kite Company, a designated area for kids/family kite flying, live entertainment the whole family will enjoy, a candy drop, balloon artists, face painting, bounce houses & obstacle course, and much more! Kites
Join reenactors and living historians as they represent many time periods from the Roman Empire through World War II. They will be encamped all weekend and have uniforms and equipment on display for the public to inspect. Also, the original 19th century buildings on site that were
After spending time looking at the condition of the wall surrounding the Wallace-Dickey Cemetery on the north bluff in Ottawa, both Chuck Sanders, president of the Wallace-Dickey Cemetery Preservation Association, and Keith Stehl, Ottawa Masonry, acknowledge it going to be a large and expensive undertaking. “We want
Kites in Flight This 2-day event will feature professional kite flying demonstrations from the Chicago Kite Company, a designated area for kids/family kite flying, live entertainment the whole family will enjoy, a candy drop, balloon artists, face painting, bounce houses & obstacle course, and much more! Kites
Gerald Savage, HoChunk Native American, as Chief White Winnebago will describe the culture and history of the HoChunk nation. Location: Maria's Ristorante Dinner is at 6:30 pm and program starts around 7:00 pm. RSVP by May 15th. Cost of dinner is $30. Call Museum to reserve your
Did you know that the first picture postcards in the United States were printed for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair? Which means Illinois played a pivotal role in postcard development. Join us for our May Think & Drink as we delve into the fascinating history of picture
In shell-ebration of World Turtle Day on May 23, an interpretive naturalist will give an informative presentation on the different turtle species that can be found in Will County, followed by a feeding of our resident Blanding’s turtles. No registration required. Free. All ages welcome Isle a
Experience the signature flavors & soul of Chicago in the suburbs, at The Forge in Lemont, IL on May 25th with "Blues, Brews & BBQ. " Enjoy live Chicago blues music from local talents like Windy City Rev Ups, Andrew Diehl, Big Dog Mercer, and The Blooze
Join the Old West Regulators as they perform the life and times of James Butler Hickok! Re-enactments both Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Family friendly entertainment, live blacksmithing, special exhibits and much more!
Join the Old West Regulators as they perform the life and times of James Butler Hickok! Re-enactments both Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Family friendly entertainment, live blacksmithing, special exhibits and much more!
Join the Old West Regulators as they perform the life and times of James Butler Hickok! Re-enactments both Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Family friendly entertainment, live blacksmithing, special exhibits and much more!
37th Annual event at Lock #14, LaSalle For boys and girls - two different age groups: 4-12 and 13-15. Registration 8:00 a.m. Fish: 9:00 am - 11:00 am. Bring your own tackle (one pole and one hook). No artificial lures. Snacks & drinks provided! Bait provided! Prizes
Come celebrate Pullman Railroad Days – a whole weekend of historic railcars, exciting exhibits, tours, food, music & family-fun! One of Chicago’s greatest events is back for a third incredible year – Pullman Railroad Days: People, Progress & Innovation. Don’t miss your chance to see these historic
38th Annual Cabin Festival Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 10 AM to 3 PM FEATURING the Cragg Cabin Cabin Festival 2024 will be held at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area, 5010 N. Jugtown Road, Morris, IL 60450 on Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to
Come celebrate Pullman Railroad Days – a whole weekend of historic railcars, exciting exhibits, tours, food, music & family-fun! One of Chicago’s greatest events is back for a third incredible year – Pullman Railroad Days: People, Progress & Innovation. Don’t miss your chance to see these historic
Dr. Jeanne McDonald from Waubonsee Community College will share from her extensive research on the Illinois Antislavery movement, including those citizens of LaSalle County that were directly involved in the abolition movement from 1830-1860. Admission is free.