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Little Guide 815

Fulton, Illinois - De Immigrant: built in 2001, De Immigrant was built by traditional mill architects from the Netherlands. This authentic mill offers free tours, allowing an amazing educational opportunity for everyone! The mill is located on the shore of the Mississippi River in Fulton, Illinois. Across the street from the mill is the museum and heritage center, which offers the grains that are milled at De Immigrant. The museum offers an educational center for groups or families. Pick up a pair of wooden clog charms, or Dutch chocolate on your way out! #illinois #homeschool #midwesttravel #littleguide815

Fulton, Illinois - De Immigrant: built in 2001, De Immigrant was built by traditional mill architects from the Netherlands. This authentic mill offers free tours, allowing an amazing educational opportunity for everyone! The mill is located on the shore of the Mississippi River in Fulton, Illinois. Across the street from the mill is the museum and heritage center, which offers the grains that are milled at De Immigrant. The museum offers an educational center for groups or families. Pick up a pair of wooden clog charms, or Dutch chocolate on your way out! #illinois #homeschool #midwesttravel #littleguide815

Zip line Public Parks: experience the spring of the cable bouncing while riding a zip line at one of these parks! Take a trip to Camden Park, Cooper park, or the soon-to- finished Alpine park for your next thrill. These zip lines are low enough to the ground to not require a safety strap. They are fun, and fast! Little Guide 815 loves zip lining so much, that we even put one in our backyard. If you’re looking for a a fun and new experience, visit one of these parks- your kids will remember the long ride down the cable, and the light bounce of the spring at the end! Soon, there may even be a pile of snow to jump into at the end. Looking for our backyard zip line? Visit our “favorite products” on our website to get one in your backyard, too! #littleguide815 #ziplining #northernillinois

Zip line Public Parks: experience the spring of the cable bouncing while riding a zip line at one of these parks! Take a trip to Camden Park, Cooper park, or the soon-to- finished Alpine park for your next thrill. These zip lines are low enough to the ground to not require a safety strap. They are fun, and fast! Little Guide 815 loves zip lining so much, that we even put one in our backyard. If you’re looking for a a fun and new experience, visit one of these parks- your kids will remember the long ride down the cable, and the light bounce of the spring at the end! Soon, there may even be a pile of snow to jump into at the end. Looking for our backyard zip line? Visit our “favorite products” on our website to get one in your backyard, too! #littleguide815 #ziplining #northernillinois

Alpine Park- Rockford, Illinois: the new playground at 950 Alpine Road will be a great place to take all ages! With the addition of an outdoor workout center, older kids (teens) will have a great place in Rockford to workout! The new playground appears to even have a new-to-the-area zip line (Janesville is the closest playground that has one similar- Camden Park) as part of the playground equipment. The workout center is open for use, and the playground is almost open! Just in time for a few more days of fall weather that is coming in later November. Opening date is unknown, but looks to be almost finished! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois

Alpine Park- Rockford, Illinois: the new playground at 950 Alpine Road will be a great place to take all ages! With the addition of an outdoor workout center, older kids (teens) will have a great place in Rockford to workout! The new playground appears to even have a new-to-the-area zip line (Janesville is the closest playground that has one similar- Camden Park) as part of the playground equipment. The workout center is open for use, and the playground is almost open! Just in time for a few more days of fall weather that is coming in later November. Opening date is unknown, but looks to be almost finished! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois

The Home Alone House- Winnetka, Illinois: make your family disappear to Winnetka, Illinois, for a fun-filled day trip! Northeastern Illinois is home to the famous Christmas- movie house and neighborhood. The beautiful, historic homes in Winnetka are set near an amazing coffee & juice shop (Hometown coffee & juice), as well as a quaint and beautiful shopping district. We highly recommend stopping in for a hot chocolate, visiting the toy shop, and strolling the neighborhood (it is all less than a three block stroll, with more strolling if desired). We were able to easily navigate a stroller around, and the shopping district has free parking. I’d also like to open the floor to any great overnight home rental locations to comment if located nearby! #illinois #homealonehouse #littleguide815 #midwesttravel

The Home Alone House- Winnetka, Illinois: make your family disappear to Winnetka, Illinois, for a fun-filled day trip! Northeastern Illinois is home to the famous Christmas- movie house and neighborhood. The beautiful, historic homes in Winnetka are set near an amazing coffee & juice shop (Hometown coffee & juice), as well as a quaint and beautiful shopping district. We highly recommend stopping in for a hot chocolate, visiting the toy shop, and strolling the neighborhood (it is all less than a three block stroll, with more strolling if desired). We were able to easily navigate a stroller around, and the shopping district has free parking. I’d also like to open the floor to any great overnight home rental locations to comment if located nearby! #illinois #homealonehouse #littleguide815 #midwesttravel

The Nuclear Power Plant- Byron, Illinois: supplying approximately 20 million Megawatts of clean energy annually, the Byron Nuclear Power Plant is something you can see for miles in Northern Illinois! Each tower stands at 495 feet tall. This facility employs over 700 people, and is cooled by the nearby Rock River. If you see two large smokestacks from a few counties away (especially on a clear day), you are probably seeing the result of the cooling towers! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #nuclearenergy #midwesttravel

The Nuclear Power Plant- Byron, Illinois: supplying approximately 20 million Megawatts of clean energy annually, the Byron Nuclear Power Plant is something you can see for miles in Northern Illinois! Each tower stands at 495 feet tall. This facility employs over 700 people, and is cooled by the nearby Rock River. If you see two large smokestacks from a few counties away (especially on a clear day), you are probably seeing the result of the cooling towers! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #nuclearenergy #midwesttravel

Veterans’ Memorial Park- Dixon, Illinois: One of the best Veteran and War memorials is in Dixon, Illinois. Artifacts include: a 105mm Howitzer, a ship’s anchor, an M60 main battle tank, a Cobra helicopter, an M-725 Kaiser Jeep ambulance, and an F-105D Thunderchief fighter-bomber. Walk the path, read the history, and remember those who have sacrificed to protect others. The preserved vehicles and machinery are amazing to look at, and the Memorial even has an eternal flame near the entrance! Thank you Veterans! #littleguide815 #veteransmemorial #dixonillinois #rockfordillinois

Veterans’ Memorial Park- Dixon, Illinois: One of the best Veteran and War memorials is in Dixon, Illinois. Artifacts include: a 105mm Howitzer, a ship’s anchor, an M60 main battle tank, a Cobra helicopter, an M-725 Kaiser Jeep ambulance, and an F-105D Thunderchief fighter-bomber. Walk the path, read the history, and remember those who have sacrificed to protect others. The preserved vehicles and machinery are amazing to look at, and the Memorial even has an eternal flame near the entrance! Thank you Veterans! #littleguide815 #veteransmemorial #dixonillinois #rockfordillinois

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Add us by following along! 👋 #littleguide815 #illinois #wisconsin #familytravel

Sugar Dust- Janesville, Wisconsin: Sugar Dust bakery offers some of the softest, most delicious, giant cookies you’ve ever had! We enjoyed the Dubai, Oatmeal Crème Pie, and Chocolate chip cookies so much- and the line outside meant others agree! The homemade cookies are fresh, and come in so many flavors. After being available at the Janesville Farmer’s Market for a while- Sugar Dust finally opened their first storefront today. Take a trip to Janesville, enjoy the city, and stop by the new Sugar Dust bakery to get a few cookies (they freeze well!), and a dirty soda! #littleguide815 #janesvillewisconsin @explorejanesvillewi @sugardust.cookies

Sugar Dust- Janesville, Wisconsin: Sugar Dust bakery offers some of the softest, most delicious, giant cookies you’ve ever had! We enjoyed the Dubai, Oatmeal Crème Pie, and Chocolate chip cookies so much- and the line outside meant others agree! The homemade cookies are fresh, and come in so many flavors. After being available at the Janesville Farmer’s Market for a while- Sugar Dust finally opened their first storefront today. Take a trip to Janesville, enjoy the city, and stop by the new Sugar Dust bakery to get a few cookies (they freeze well!), and a dirty soda! #littleguide815 #janesvillewisconsin @explorejanesvillewi @sugardust.cookies

Ronald Reagan’s Boyhood Home- Dixon, Illinois: the 40th president of the United States grew up in Dixon, Illinois. The book “That Printer of Udell’s” was a book he modeled his life after; and it was a story of a boy aspiring to be a senator. Stop by the local Rock River to see where Ronald Reagan saved dozens of lives from drowning as a life guard- and visit a few sites with memorials dedicated to him. Tours are free, and include a video and tour of his boyhood home. #littleguide815 #history #midwesttravel

Ronald Reagan’s Boyhood Home- Dixon, Illinois: the 40th president of the United States grew up in Dixon, Illinois. The book “That Printer of Udell’s” was a book he modeled his life after; and it was a story of a boy aspiring to be a senator. Stop by the local Rock River to see where Ronald Reagan saved dozens of lives from drowning as a life guard- and visit a few sites with memorials dedicated to him. Tours are free, and include a video and tour of his boyhood home. #littleguide815 #history #midwesttravel

The Burpee Museum- Rockford, IL: the third floor of the Burpee Museum has so many wonderful and unique snakes, lizards, axolotls, and more! This floor is our favorite floor, and doesn’t get as much attention as the dinosaur exhibits (which are fascinating!). Venturing to the third floor may include: possibly petting or holding a snake (if offered by a worker/they’re available), seeing an axolotl (one is named Batman), and talking to a 62 year old turtle. Steve Irwin said, “ I believe education is all about being excited about something.” … and the Burpee museum got us excited! Thank you, @burpeemuseum #littleguide815 #steveirwin #animalconservation

The Burpee Museum- Rockford, IL: the third floor of the Burpee Museum has so many wonderful and unique snakes, lizards, axolotls, and more! This floor is our favorite floor, and doesn’t get as much attention as the dinosaur exhibits (which are fascinating!). Venturing to the third floor may include: possibly petting or holding a snake (if offered by a worker/they’re available), seeing an axolotl (one is named Batman), and talking to a 62 year old turtle. Steve Irwin said, “ I believe education is all about being excited about something.” … and the Burpee museum got us excited! Thank you, @burpeemuseum #littleguide815 #steveirwin #animalconservation

The Wildflower- Princeton, Illinois: The Wildflower A-frame offers espresso, campfires, two cozy, big beds, miles of paths, bikes, and so much more! We escaped for the night to a small town with historical charm - and stayed the night in a beautiful A- frame! The Wildflower Retreat has 4 A-frames (set on 50 acres with miles of paths!), available individually or all together. Bicycles (and tandem bicycles) are also on the property - we loved biking up the road to see the beautiful countryside. Nearby is also the I and M canal with multiple locks. The historical downtown is restored beautifully- with multiple shops, restaurants, boutiques, and a movie theater. I (mom) loved the luxurious experience in nature- and the kids have already been telling me how much they miss it! #overnightstay #littleguide815 #airbnb #vrbo @wildflower.retreat

The Wildflower- Princeton, Illinois: The Wildflower A-frame offers espresso, campfires, two cozy, big beds, miles of paths, bikes, and so much more! We escaped for the night to a small town with historical charm - and stayed the night in a beautiful A- frame! The Wildflower Retreat has 4 A-frames (set on 50 acres with miles of paths!), available individually or all together. Bicycles (and tandem bicycles) are also on the property - we loved biking up the road to see the beautiful countryside. Nearby is also the I and M canal with multiple locks. The historical downtown is restored beautifully- with multiple shops, restaurants, boutiques, and a movie theater. I (mom) loved the luxurious experience in nature- and the kids have already been telling me how much they miss it! #overnightstay #littleguide815 #airbnb #vrbo @wildflower.retreat

Candy Cloud - Rockford, Illinois: Cotton Candy dirty soda, layered ice cream, espresso with brown sugar boba, and more made a fun visit for Little Guide 815 at Candy Cloud in Rockford, Illinois (other locations in Glenview, South Elgin, and Dekalb, Illinois). Inside the store is a kiosk, where you can order and customize any menu item. We loved the better- than-everything layered ice cream and the option to add boba to any drink. The beautifully layered drinks come in clear can with a pop-top lid. Pretzels, donuts, and grilled cheese sandwiches are also available! If you are looking for a fun treat, we recommend stopping by Candy Cloud to try one of these options! #littleguide815 #candycloud

Candy Cloud - Rockford, Illinois: Cotton Candy dirty soda, layered ice cream, espresso with brown sugar boba, and more made a fun visit for Little Guide 815 at Candy Cloud in Rockford, Illinois (other locations in Glenview, South Elgin, and Dekalb, Illinois). Inside the store is a kiosk, where you can order and customize any menu item. We loved the better- than-everything layered ice cream and the option to add boba to any drink. The beautifully layered drinks come in clear can with a pop-top lid. Pretzels, donuts, and grilled cheese sandwiches are also available! If you are looking for a fun treat, we recommend stopping by Candy Cloud to try one of these options! #littleguide815 #candycloud

The Lake Geneva Public Library- Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: Set sail to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin for many reasons! We visited the public library, and found out that they offer great local passes to some of the area’s most famous attractions! One of the gems of Lake Geneva is the Lake Geneva Cruise line- they offer so many great excursions- and you can get a pass to board the Black Point Estates Cruise. While tickets normally cost ~ $53/person, the library offers a free pass for 2 adults and children in the household. Other great passes are also available! Not a Lake Geneva resident? Lake Geneva is able to take many cards within their network of surrounding communities. Not part of the surrounding communities? They offer a temporary(3 month) card to use for $25. We enjoyed seeing the MCM design, playing in the fun children’s area, and shopping the historic downtown. Parking is $2/hour in most of the downtown area. Across the street from the boats and the library are multiple dining options, and all within walking distance! #littleguide815 #lakegeneva @lgpubliclibrary

The Lake Geneva Public Library- Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: Set sail to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin for many reasons! We visited the public library, and found out that they offer great local passes to some of the area’s most famous attractions! One of the gems of Lake Geneva is the Lake Geneva Cruise line- they offer so many great excursions- and you can get a pass to board the Black Point Estates Cruise. While tickets normally cost ~ $53/person, the library offers a free pass for 2 adults and children in the household. Other great passes are also available! Not a Lake Geneva resident? Lake Geneva is able to take many cards within their network of surrounding communities. Not part of the surrounding communities? They offer a temporary(3 month) card to use for $25. We enjoyed seeing the MCM design, playing in the fun children’s area, and shopping the historic downtown. Parking is $2/hour in most of the downtown area. Across the street from the boats and the library are multiple dining options, and all within walking distance! #littleguide815 #lakegeneva @lgpubliclibrary

Edward’s Orchard West- Winnebago, Illinois: just west of Rockford, Illinois, is Edward’s Orchard West: one of the two Edward’s Orchards in the region! Edward’s West is worth a trip to the west side of Winnebago county because they offer their unique cider in a can, and carbonated! Other unique treats like gluten- free donuts and Dairy Haus ice cream are also available in the barn. You might miss the stairs inside the barn- and you don’t want to! The upstairs loft has so many vintage items and other goods for sale. Wagon rides, a free playground and petting zoo, tractors, and fresh donuts await your trip out west! #rockfordillinois #gorockford @gorockford

Edward’s Orchard West- Winnebago, Illinois: just west of Rockford, Illinois, is Edward’s Orchard West: one of the two Edward’s Orchards in the region! Edward’s West is worth a trip to the west side of Winnebago county because they offer their unique cider in a can, and carbonated! Other unique treats like gluten- free donuts and Dairy Haus ice cream are also available in the barn. You might miss the stairs inside the barn- and you don’t want to! The upstairs loft has so many vintage items and other goods for sale. Wagon rides, a free playground and petting zoo, tractors, and fresh donuts await your trip out west! #rockfordillinois #gorockford @gorockford

Klehm Arboretum- Rockford, Illinois: Eerie Autumn Lights at Klehm Arboretum is a fall - themed walk with family- friendly decorations, yummy fall treats, a hay bale maze, and happy skeletons along the route! Take the lit path after stopping at the vintage food truck with fall- themed goodies. Enjoy the photo ops along the path to the nature- themed play space, then walk across the bridge, where you can admire the lily pads! Take a picture with Rockford’s biggest pumpkin, weighing over 1800 pounds! #rockfordillinois #gorockford @gorockford

Klehm Arboretum- Rockford, Illinois: Eerie Autumn Lights at Klehm Arboretum is a fall - themed walk with family- friendly decorations, yummy fall treats, a hay bale maze, and happy skeletons along the route! Take the lit path after stopping at the vintage food truck with fall- themed goodies. Enjoy the photo ops along the path to the nature- themed play space, then walk across the bridge, where you can admire the lily pads! Take a picture with Rockford’s biggest pumpkin, weighing over 1800 pounds! #rockfordillinois #gorockford @gorockford

Dekalb, Illinois- Ellwood House Museum: The Inventor of Barbed Wire, Isaac Ellwood, was a farmer in need of new fencing for his farm animals. His invention quickly gained popularity, and the Ellwood family helped establish the town of Dekalb, Illinois with their newfound fencing. We loved visiting the mansion, and taking the tour. Tickets are available online, but the Dekalb library offers family passes (a limited amount) for library card holder (we did not have a Dekalb library card). The beautiful mansion has been historically preserved with many beautiful artifacts from the Ellwood family! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #exploreillinois #familytravel

Dekalb, Illinois- Ellwood House Museum: The Inventor of Barbed Wire, Isaac Ellwood, was a farmer in need of new fencing for his farm animals. His invention quickly gained popularity, and the Ellwood family helped establish the town of Dekalb, Illinois with their newfound fencing. We loved visiting the mansion, and taking the tour. Tickets are available online, but the Dekalb library offers family passes (a limited amount) for library card holder (we did not have a Dekalb library card). The beautiful mansion has been historically preserved with many beautiful artifacts from the Ellwood family! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #exploreillinois #familytravel

The best rainy day hack 🙌Be prepared with a cardboard house (or castle!) for your kids! This is my favorite rainy- day hack: kids of all ages will love it! Our favorite decorating accessory are dot-paint markers, but any crayon or marker will do. #littleguide815 #rainyday #momhack #parenting #craftsforkids

The best rainy day hack 🙌Be prepared with a cardboard house (or castle!) for your kids! This is my favorite rainy- day hack: kids of all ages will love it! Our favorite decorating accessory are dot-paint markers, but any crayon or marker will do. #littleguide815 #rainyday #momhack #parenting #craftsforkids

Waldvogul’s Farm- Juneau, Wisconsin: Wisconsin’s largest pumpkin farm has over 80 attractions for kids’ of all ages! Between the treehouse play village, giant slides, multiple jumping pads, hay bale barn (yes really!), and wagon rides, sits 75 more fun activities. We spent 5 hours on the farm and didn’t even get to experience half the fun! Waldvogul’s admission is under $20 per person (2 and under are free), with everything included in admission (even a train ride and hay bale wagon ride). Food trucks inside the gate offer multiple options for snacks, drinks, donuts and more. Want to bring a picnic lunch? You can eat outside by the red apple barn, since bringing outside food isn’t allowed in the gates. Visit the red apple barn for Wisconsin cheese curds, cider, and donuts, then enjoy a full day of play! #littleguide815 #familyactivities #midwest #waldvogelsfarm

Waldvogul’s Farm- Juneau, Wisconsin: Wisconsin’s largest pumpkin farm has over 80 attractions for kids’ of all ages! Between the treehouse play village, giant slides, multiple jumping pads, hay bale barn (yes really!), and wagon rides, sits 75 more fun activities. We spent 5 hours on the farm and didn’t even get to experience half the fun! Waldvogul’s admission is under $20 per person (2 and under are free), with everything included in admission (even a train ride and hay bale wagon ride). Food trucks inside the gate offer multiple options for snacks, drinks, donuts and more. Want to bring a picnic lunch? You can eat outside by the red apple barn, since bringing outside food isn’t allowed in the gates. Visit the red apple barn for Wisconsin cheese curds, cider, and donuts, then enjoy a full day of play! #littleguide815 #familyactivities #midwest #waldvogelsfarm

Northern Illinois - Elevated Sips Pop-Up: We discovered Elevated Sips Pop-Up last weekend, and had to share the creative, fun, and delicious menu featuring sodas that have been mixed and shaken to create everything from a fish bowl drink (with nerds added to look like rocks, and Swedish fish floating around the “tank” of blue sprite) to one topped with cotton candy. Elevated Sips also has an amazing fall menu, complete with apple flavored sodas! Based out of Ogle County, and traveling for special events, pop-ups, and parties, you are going to want to eventually try everything! I had the classic- Coke blended with lime and coconut- and it was amazing. @elevated_sips_815 #littleguide815 #northernillinois #popupmarket

Northern Illinois - Elevated Sips Pop-Up: We discovered Elevated Sips Pop-Up last weekend, and had to share the creative, fun, and delicious menu featuring sodas that have been mixed and shaken to create everything from a fish bowl drink (with nerds added to look like rocks, and Swedish fish floating around the “tank” of blue sprite) to one topped with cotton candy. Elevated Sips also has an amazing fall menu, complete with apple flavored sodas! Based out of Ogle County, and traveling for special events, pop-ups, and parties, you are going to want to eventually try everything! I had the classic- Coke blended with lime and coconut- and it was amazing. @elevated_sips_815 #littleguide815 #northernillinois #popupmarket

POV: you take a trip in Northern Illinois, with your kids, and discover history, mansions, adventures, and memories that will last a lifetime! Little Guide 815 explores Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin for day and weekend trips. Looking for a great overnight trip that’s not too far? We bring along everyone from baby to grandma to get the full review. Where to next?
#littleguide815 #northernillinois #southernwisconsin

POV: you take a trip in Northern Illinois, with your kids, and discover history, mansions, adventures, and memories that will last a lifetime! Little Guide 815 explores Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin for day and weekend trips. Looking for a great overnight trip that’s not too far? We bring along everyone from baby to grandma to get the full review. Where to next?
#littleguide815 #northernillinois #southernwisconsin

Rockford, Illinois- Culinary Underground & Embassy Suites: Plan ahead to book an overnight stay in downtown Rockford at Embassy Suites!: enjoy the hot tub, pool, game room, and sport simulator between eating meals at @culinaryundergroundrockford. We loved the kids’ menu at Culinary Underground- and all the fun table games and patio games! The adult menu also features great options- like a wagyu hot dog- you will want to try! You don’t need to stay overnight to have a fun dinner at Culinary Underground; we just think you should know that Embassy Suites offers a great place to stay for all the family events coming up at the Metro Center and the Coronado Theater (A Charlie Brown Christmas)! Birthday parties are also an option- this is a great place to have a fun and unique birthday party! #travel #littleguide815 #rockfordil

Rockford, Illinois- Culinary Underground & Embassy Suites: Plan ahead to book an overnight stay in downtown Rockford at Embassy Suites!: enjoy the hot tub, pool, game room, and sport simulator between eating meals at @culinaryundergroundrockford. We loved the kids’ menu at Culinary Underground- and all the fun table games and patio games! The adult menu also features great options- like a wagyu hot dog- you will want to try! You don’t need to stay overnight to have a fun dinner at Culinary Underground; we just think you should know that Embassy Suites offers a great place to stay for all the family events coming up at the Metro Center and the Coronado Theater (A Charlie Brown Christmas)! Birthday parties are also an option- this is a great place to have a fun and unique birthday party! #travel #littleguide815 #rockfordil

Mchenry, Illinois- The McHenry Outdoor Movie Theater: One of the best experiences and memories we’ve made is at the McHenry Outdoor Movie Theater! Family nights showcase family- friendly movies (a double feature), fun games, and activities! Mchenry Outdoor Movie theater has other fun events for teens and adults: like a mullet night (mullet-themed movies and a mullet competition) and a Mean Girls night (on October 3rd). Mark your holiday calendars to come experience Christmas movies and hot chocolate under the stars- bring blankets and pillows for the back of your SUV or pick-up to stay warm (or stay in your car if that is your preferred viewing method!). The theater offers a big, open space with picnic tables to enjoy a picnic before the movie. Tune into the movie on your radio to listen, or listen via the loud speakers. Concessions and clean restrooms are available! This 6 story tall and 100-foot wide screen will be the biggest screen you’ve ever seen, and the atmosphere is filled with excitement and nostalgia. We felt completely safe, and loved the family-friendly, fun environment. We are already planning to go back 🙌. #littleguide815 #northernillinois #illinoistravel #outdoortheatre @mchenryoutdoortheater

Mchenry, Illinois- The McHenry Outdoor Movie Theater: One of the best experiences and memories we’ve made is at the McHenry Outdoor Movie Theater! Family nights showcase family- friendly movies (a double feature), fun games, and activities! Mchenry Outdoor Movie theater has other fun events for teens and adults: like a mullet night (mullet-themed movies and a mullet competition) and a Mean Girls night (on October 3rd). Mark your holiday calendars to come experience Christmas movies and hot chocolate under the stars- bring blankets and pillows for the back of your SUV or pick-up to stay warm (or stay in your car if that is your preferred viewing method!). The theater offers a big, open space with picnic tables to enjoy a picnic before the movie. Tune into the movie on your radio to listen, or listen via the loud speakers. Concessions and clean restrooms are available! This 6 story tall and 100-foot wide screen will be the biggest screen you’ve ever seen, and the atmosphere is filled with excitement and nostalgia. We felt completely safe, and loved the family-friendly, fun environment. We are already planning to go back 🙌. #littleguide815 #northernillinois #illinoistravel #outdoortheatre @mchenryoutdoortheater

Wilmette, Illinois- LoveShackFancy: A special boutique opened today, September 19, in Wilmette, Illinois! Northern Illinois has joined NYC and Nashville in offering a LoveShackFancy boutique- a beautiful place for vintage and vintage-inspired clothing and accessories for girls of all ages (they offer baby girl- adult sizes), including matching sets. The Plaza De Lago is a new outdoor mall, with LoveShackFancy being the first store in a series of high-end stores in Northern Illinois. #littleguide815 #northernillinois #loveshackfancy

Wilmette, Illinois- LoveShackFancy: A special boutique opened today, September 19, in Wilmette, Illinois! Northern Illinois has joined NYC and Nashville in offering a LoveShackFancy boutique- a beautiful place for vintage and vintage-inspired clothing and accessories for girls of all ages (they offer baby girl- adult sizes), including matching sets. The Plaza De Lago is a new outdoor mall, with LoveShackFancy being the first store in a series of high-end stores in Northern Illinois. #littleguide815 #northernillinois #loveshackfancy

GameStar Arcade- Durand, Illinois: Drive into the small town of Durand, Illinois, and discover this hidden gem! Gamestar Arcade is locally owned, and offers a clean, comfortable, and fun escape in the country for everyone in the family. We would have enjoyed coming here just for lunch or dinner (the thin crust pizza was excellent!), but we also enjoyed the games and prizes. Plan ahead to schedule the simulater- booked in one hour intervals for up to 8 people- and you can golf, play dodgeball, basketball, and many other sports (so cool!). Enjoy espresso drinks or ice cream on the patio after playing a few games, then stop by the fun playground across the street. From the friendly staff to the foodie- approved menu, you’re going to enjoy the country drive to GameStar Arcade! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #familyindooractivites #familytime @gamestar_arcade

GameStar Arcade- Durand, Illinois: Drive into the small town of Durand, Illinois, and discover this hidden gem! Gamestar Arcade is locally owned, and offers a clean, comfortable, and fun escape in the country for everyone in the family. We would have enjoyed coming here just for lunch or dinner (the thin crust pizza was excellent!), but we also enjoyed the games and prizes. Plan ahead to schedule the simulater- booked in one hour intervals for up to 8 people- and you can golf, play dodgeball, basketball, and many other sports (so cool!). Enjoy espresso drinks or ice cream on the patio after playing a few games, then stop by the fun playground across the street. From the friendly staff to the foodie- approved menu, you’re going to enjoy the country drive to GameStar Arcade! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #familyindooractivites #familytime @gamestar_arcade

Fields of Green and Blue Cedar Coffee - Forreston, IL: A build-your-own candle bar is such a fun and unique experience for anyone! Fields of Green in Forreston, Illinois offers multiple colors of essential oil scented wax to make your own candle (and it’s a great gift idea!). Grab an empty jar, add a wick, then choose your colors and scents! Fields of Green also offers boutique clothing for women and children, gifts, and jewelry (we picked up a Touchland spray- iykyk!). Two doors down is bleu cedar coffee- a delicious and adorable addition to your Forreston adventure! Take a drive out to the country and experience this small town! #littleguide815 #exploreillinois #northernillinois

Fields of Green and Blue Cedar Coffee - Forreston, IL: A build-your-own candle bar is such a fun and unique experience for anyone! Fields of Green in Forreston, Illinois offers multiple colors of essential oil scented wax to make your own candle (and it’s a great gift idea!). Grab an empty jar, add a wick, then choose your colors and scents! Fields of Green also offers boutique clothing for women and children, gifts, and jewelry (we picked up a Touchland spray- iykyk!). Two doors down is bleu cedar coffee- a delicious and adorable addition to your Forreston adventure! Take a drive out to the country and experience this small town! #littleguide815 #exploreillinois #northernillinois

Durand, Illinois- Nick Saelens Memorial Park: this beautifully preserved vintage park has a metal slide, metal merry-go-round, metal swings, and a lion drinking fountain. If you have ever played on an old playground, and want to share a few memories with your kids, you should take them to the Nick Saelens Memorial Park in Durand, Illinois! What memories do you have on a vintage playground? #littleguide815 #familytravel #northernillinois #durandillinois

Durand, Illinois- Nick Saelens Memorial Park: this beautifully preserved vintage park has a metal slide, metal merry-go-round, metal swings, and a lion drinking fountain. If you have ever played on an old playground, and want to share a few memories with your kids, you should take them to the Nick Saelens Memorial Park in Durand, Illinois! What memories do you have on a vintage playground? #littleguide815 #familytravel #northernillinois #durandillinois

Prairie Fire Golf & Grill - Byron, Illinois: Little Guide 815 has been loving everything in Byron, Illinois recently! Nestled outside of downtown Byron, Illinois is Prairie Fire Golf and Grill- a Top Tracer driving range with a comfortable, family- friendly environment! Perfect for bringing an aspiring young golfer, or enjoying a date night. Prairie Fire Grill offers an excellent menu selection (and a kids’ menu), complete with giant, shareable-sized pretzels. Each bay includes indoor and outdoor seating. Bays are reserved by the hour and include unlimited balls. If you prefer to go and just order from the menu, you don’t need to rent a bay (although it is so much fun, whether you are a seasoned pro or have never golfed). Track your progress and your ball with each swing on the screens inside and outside your bay. Deals available on weekdays and mornings! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #familytravel

Prairie Fire Golf & Grill - Byron, Illinois: Little Guide 815 has been loving everything in Byron, Illinois recently! Nestled outside of downtown Byron, Illinois is Prairie Fire Golf and Grill- a Top Tracer driving range with a comfortable, family- friendly environment! Perfect for bringing an aspiring young golfer, or enjoying a date night. Prairie Fire Grill offers an excellent menu selection (and a kids’ menu), complete with giant, shareable-sized pretzels. Each bay includes indoor and outdoor seating. Bays are reserved by the hour and include unlimited balls. If you prefer to go and just order from the menu, you don’t need to rent a bay (although it is so much fun, whether you are a seasoned pro or have never golfed). Track your progress and your ball with each swing on the screens inside and outside your bay. Deals available on weekdays and mornings! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #familytravel

Rockford, Illinois- The Discovery Center Museum: built for kids of all ages, the Discovery Center Museum has hundreds of hands-on activities, manipulatives, and scientific demonstrations to make learning fun! #littleguide815 #kidsactivities #scienceexperiments #rockfordillinois

Rockford, Illinois- The Discovery Center Museum: built for kids of all ages, the Discovery Center Museum has hundreds of hands-on activities, manipulatives, and scientific demonstrations to make learning fun! #littleguide815 #kidsactivities #scienceexperiments #rockfordillinois

Fulton, Illinois: This day trip in Northern Illinois is extremely fun! Stop at the new 10th Ave Park, visit the working mill (and hear about how Millstones work!), enjoy the Windmill Cultural Center (free museum and indoor educational space), walk along the Mississippi River, and get lunch and coffee at Steam and Anchor Coffee! This small town has a lot to offer! #littleguide815 #familytravel #northernillinois

Fulton, Illinois: This day trip in Northern Illinois is extremely fun! Stop at the new 10th Ave Park, visit the working mill (and hear about how Millstones work!), enjoy the Windmill Cultural Center (free museum and indoor educational space), walk along the Mississippi River, and get lunch and coffee at Steam and Anchor Coffee! This small town has a lot to offer! #littleguide815 #familytravel #northernillinois

Fresco- Rockford, IL: Fresco at Anderson Japanese Gardens is a breakfast and lunch spot that offers chef- made menu items and a juice and espresso bar. Fresco closes at 2 PM. Admission to Anderson Japanese Gardens is separate than the restaurant, but the restaurant overlooks the beautiful outdoor space; on the porch or inside the restaurant with big, gorgeous windows. A kids’ menu, high chairs, and a baby changing station in the restrooms are all available! #littleguide815 #andersonjapanesegardens #northernillinois #familytravel

Fresco- Rockford, IL: Fresco at Anderson Japanese Gardens is a breakfast and lunch spot that offers chef- made menu items and a juice and espresso bar. Fresco closes at 2 PM. Admission to Anderson Japanese Gardens is separate than the restaurant, but the restaurant overlooks the beautiful outdoor space; on the porch or inside the restaurant with big, gorgeous windows. A kids’ menu, high chairs, and a baby changing station in the restrooms are all available! #littleguide815 #andersonjapanesegardens #northernillinois #familytravel

American Girl Place- Chicago, IL: The American Girl Place in Chicago, IL, can be a great place to visit- if you know these tips! We came from Northern Illinois (bordering Wisconsin), and recommend knowing these things:
1. Plan to leave around 10 AM on a weekday to not hit rush hour traffic in the morning. We didn’t experience any issues with heavy traffic.
2. Plan to drive to the Water Tower Place parking garage- this is where The American Girl store and cafe are! Parking is right below the building, and is marked on the street.
3. 24 hour parking is ~$60, smaller incremental parking fees are available, but if you want to take your time, anything over 4 hours is considered 24 hours here (at least when we visited).
4. Reserve your dining experience before going! We enjoyed the birthday package- it included a gift and a big cake!
5. AG has a wall of dolls that can be chosen to eat in the cafe with you- at no extra charge.
6. The shopping at AG (I don’t think) would take longer than two hours (it’s not going to take the whole day to look around).
7. Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Ralph’s Coffee are within walking distance- great places to visit for espresso!
8. The American Girl store is technically in a mall- this might be confusing when you are parking- the building is The Water Tower Place Mall.
That’s it! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #travel #americangirlplace #familytravel

American Girl Place- Chicago, IL: The American Girl Place in Chicago, IL, can be a great place to visit- if you know these tips! We came from Northern Illinois (bordering Wisconsin), and recommend knowing these things:
1. Plan to leave around 10 AM on a weekday to not hit rush hour traffic in the morning. We didn’t experience any issues with heavy traffic.
2. Plan to drive to the Water Tower Place parking garage- this is where The American Girl store and cafe are! Parking is right below the building, and is marked on the street.
3. 24 hour parking is ~$60, smaller incremental parking fees are available, but if you want to take your time, anything over 4 hours is considered 24 hours here (at least when we visited).
4. Reserve your dining experience before going! We enjoyed the birthday package- it included a gift and a big cake!
5. AG has a wall of dolls that can be chosen to eat in the cafe with you- at no extra charge.
6. The shopping at AG (I don’t think) would take longer than two hours (it’s not going to take the whole day to look around).
7. Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Ralph’s Coffee are within walking distance- great places to visit for espresso!
8. The American Girl store is technically in a mall- this might be confusing when you are parking- the building is The Water Tower Place Mall.
That’s it! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #travel #americangirlplace #familytravel

Rockford, IL- Oxford Park: hidden in one of Rockford’s most historical communities is Oxford Park! Acres of grass, a nice soccer field, drinking fountain, rubber flooring, and -our favorite- a self-spinning merry-go- round are all available. We came to visit the brick road (in the neighborhood)but stayed for the park(!). Picnic tables, swings, and a climbing wall are also available. Spend some time driving around the neighborhood (Harlem Blvd, National Ave, and Clinton are all recommended!), and stop at the nearby @frescorockford for fresh juice, espresso, or other breakfast and lunch items. If you prefer to bring bikes, there is a beautiful path nearby, as well, that rides parallel to the Rock River! Do you know where this is? #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois

Rockford, IL- Oxford Park: hidden in one of Rockford’s most historical communities is Oxford Park! Acres of grass, a nice soccer field, drinking fountain, rubber flooring, and -our favorite- a self-spinning merry-go- round are all available. We came to visit the brick road (in the neighborhood)but stayed for the park(!). Picnic tables, swings, and a climbing wall are also available. Spend some time driving around the neighborhood (Harlem Blvd, National Ave, and Clinton are all recommended!), and stop at the nearby @frescorockford for fresh juice, espresso, or other breakfast and lunch items. If you prefer to bring bikes, there is a beautiful path nearby, as well, that rides parallel to the Rock River! Do you know where this is? #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois

Wooden Playgrounds near the 815 area- with the closing of all wooden parks in the Rockford, Illinois city limits- here are three other options, all within 15-45 minutes of Rockford, Illinois:
1. Little Angels Playground- this won’t show on your maps, but this playground is located on the corner of Reed Street and W. 7th street in Pecatonica.
2. Krape park has a huge and classic wooden playground! Krape park in located in Freeport, Illinois.
3. Camden Playground- this accessible playground is a newer wooden park, and has all of the classic elements you would expect at a wooden park!
Which one would you visit first?
#littleguide815 #woodenplayground #winnebagocounty #activitiesforkids

Wooden Playgrounds near the 815 area- with the closing of all wooden parks in the Rockford, Illinois city limits- here are three other options, all within 15-45 minutes of Rockford, Illinois:
1. Little Angels Playground- this won’t show on your maps, but this playground is located on the corner of Reed Street and W. 7th street in Pecatonica.
2. Krape park has a huge and classic wooden playground! Krape park in located in Freeport, Illinois.
3. Camden Playground- this accessible playground is a newer wooden park, and has all of the classic elements you would expect at a wooden park!
Which one would you visit first?
#littleguide815 #woodenplayground #winnebagocounty #activitiesforkids

Cherry Valley Public Library- Cherry Valley, Illinois: Use any surrounding-area library card to check out youth golf clubs, fishing poles, tackle boxes, pickle ball sets, sensory bags, learning totes, and so much more! Cherry Valley Public Library also has group activities that your family can register for and enjoy during cold-weather months (and throughout the year). Older kids can play Nintendo Switch while younger children enjoy the play area. Learning activities are also offered on child- sized computers. We enjoyed browsing all the new books, playing search-and-find with zoo animals hidden across the library, and shopping at the used- book rack. After renting a pickle ball sets, we played pickle ball at the local Baumann Park! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #library #cherryvalleyillinois #rockfordillinois #belvidereillinois #travel #familyactivities #coldweatheractivities

Cherry Valley Public Library- Cherry Valley, Illinois: Use any surrounding-area library card to check out youth golf clubs, fishing poles, tackle boxes, pickle ball sets, sensory bags, learning totes, and so much more! Cherry Valley Public Library also has group activities that your family can register for and enjoy during cold-weather months (and throughout the year). Older kids can play Nintendo Switch while younger children enjoy the play area. Learning activities are also offered on child- sized computers. We enjoyed browsing all the new books, playing search-and-find with zoo animals hidden across the library, and shopping at the used- book rack. After renting a pickle ball sets, we played pickle ball at the local Baumann Park! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #library #cherryvalleyillinois #rockfordillinois #belvidereillinois #travel #familyactivities #coldweatheractivities

Loves Park, Illinois- Wantz Park: Wantz Park is one of the best playgrounds in the 815 area! We enjoyed high climbing structures for the older kids, and the smaller climbing spaces for the younger kids. Different swing styles are available, including baby swings, a harness swing, and a parent- baby swing. A large rock climbing wall allows for climbing on both sides. The climbing merry-go-round went faster than we expected, but it was a blast! Take a break in the shade, bring a picnic (picnic tables are under the pavilion), or walk to the baseball diamond also located at Wantz Park when you are done at the playground. The Playground is fenced in on the two sides facing the street. Parking is also along the street. Garbage cans and bathrooms are also located at Wantz Park! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #family #activitieswithkids #lovesparkillinois

Loves Park, Illinois- Wantz Park: Wantz Park is one of the best playgrounds in the 815 area! We enjoyed high climbing structures for the older kids, and the smaller climbing spaces for the younger kids. Different swing styles are available, including baby swings, a harness swing, and a parent- baby swing. A large rock climbing wall allows for climbing on both sides. The climbing merry-go-round went faster than we expected, but it was a blast! Take a break in the shade, bring a picnic (picnic tables are under the pavilion), or walk to the baseball diamond also located at Wantz Park when you are done at the playground. The Playground is fenced in on the two sides facing the street. Parking is also along the street. Garbage cans and bathrooms are also located at Wantz Park! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #family #activitieswithkids #lovesparkillinois

Fulton, Illinois- De Immigrant Windmill: built in 2001, this authentic Dutch mill (built in Holland and shipped and assembled by millwrights from Holland) mills wheat, corn, buckwheat, and rye, and offers it in bags (it’s very inexpensive, and needs to be frozen or refrigerated) for the public to purchase. Tours are available during open hours, and free to the public with a donation box available.
Across the street is the Windmill Cultural Center, with models of windmills from all over the world. The cultural center also offers a small kitchen for baking/cooking with the milled grain, and an education center for small field trips/playthings for children. The cultural center also sells small trinkets and chocolates from Holland. Both attractions are free to the public.
The drive to Fulton, Illinois was gorgeous and took us through a few small towns, where we saw small diners and ice cream stops along the way! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #midwesttravel #illinois #rockfordillinois #windmills #exploreillinois #familytravel

Fulton, Illinois- De Immigrant Windmill: built in 2001, this authentic Dutch mill (built in Holland and shipped and assembled by millwrights from Holland) mills wheat, corn, buckwheat, and rye, and offers it in bags (it’s very inexpensive, and needs to be frozen or refrigerated) for the public to purchase. Tours are available during open hours, and free to the public with a donation box available.
Across the street is the Windmill Cultural Center, with models of windmills from all over the world. The cultural center also offers a small kitchen for baking/cooking with the milled grain, and an education center for small field trips/playthings for children. The cultural center also sells small trinkets and chocolates from Holland. Both attractions are free to the public.
The drive to Fulton, Illinois was gorgeous and took us through a few small towns, where we saw small diners and ice cream stops along the way! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #midwesttravel #illinois #rockfordillinois #windmills #exploreillinois #familytravel

De Immigrant- a working, authentic Dutch Mill in Northern Illinois. Built in 2001, this mill celebrates Dutch culture, offers free tours, and has fresh milled grain for sale! Learn about millstones, gears, and wind currents. Mill it over- we’ll be happy you’re here 🙌. #littleguide815 #northernillinois #midwesttravel #familytravel #homeschool

De Immigrant- a working, authentic Dutch Mill in Northern Illinois. Built in 2001, this mill celebrates Dutch culture, offers free tours, and has fresh milled grain for sale! Learn about millstones, gears, and wind currents. Mill it over- we’ll be happy you’re here 🙌. #littleguide815 #northernillinois #midwesttravel #familytravel #homeschool

The Rockford Rescue Mission Thrift Store- Rockford, Illinois: donate and shop to help your community in Rockford, Illinois! Each donation (time to clean out the closets for cooler weather!) helps the needy in your community. The Rockford Rescue Mission helps Rescue, Recover, and Restore lives - providing meals, a bed, necessities, and support for those in need. Stop in and shop- each purchase helps fund the mission. If you would like someone to come and pickup furniture, clothing, toys, etc., call (815) 316-0607. Ask for a tax- deductible receipt- you can claim your donation as a tax write -off for this year! We recommend shopping the book selection, and finding a few seasonal pieces for fall and winter! #thriftshopping #northernillinois #littleguide815 #thriftstore #rockfordillinois @gorockford

The Rockford Rescue Mission Thrift Store- Rockford, Illinois: donate and shop to help your community in Rockford, Illinois! Each donation (time to clean out the closets for cooler weather!) helps the needy in your community. The Rockford Rescue Mission helps Rescue, Recover, and Restore lives - providing meals, a bed, necessities, and support for those in need. Stop in and shop- each purchase helps fund the mission. If you would like someone to come and pickup furniture, clothing, toys, etc., call (815) 316-0607. Ask for a tax- deductible receipt- you can claim your donation as a tax write -off for this year! We recommend shopping the book selection, and finding a few seasonal pieces for fall and winter! #thriftshopping #northernillinois #littleguide815 #thriftstore #rockfordillinois @gorockford

📍Machesney Park, Illinois- Wentland Sports complex playground: constructed this summer and open for play! This Rockford Park District Playground is one of the best in town! We loved the foam flooring with soft turf, and enjoyed the multiple play spaces for kids of all ages! This playground is tucked away- you may not even know it’s there- it is located near 173 and Perryville Road. Bring a picnic or enjoy a snack at one of the many businesses offering snacks nearby! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #activitieswithkids #illinois #playgrounds @gorockford

📍Machesney Park, Illinois- Wentland Sports complex playground: constructed this summer and open for play! This Rockford Park District Playground is one of the best in town! We loved the foam flooring with soft turf, and enjoyed the multiple play spaces for kids of all ages! This playground is tucked away- you may not even know it’s there- it is located near 173 and Perryville Road. Bring a picnic or enjoy a snack at one of the many businesses offering snacks nearby! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #activitieswithkids #illinois #playgrounds @gorockford

Your local library- library of things: most libraries offer a “library of things” for kids, teens, and adults. In the kids department, this might look like Magnatiles, Tonie Boxes, STEM kits, and other manipulatives. For teens and adults, the library of things might have metal detectors, sewing machines, and we have even seen crockpots available to check out! If you happen to see a library without a “library of things”, ask them to add one, or search for a neighboring library that may have what you want. We’ve seen pickleball sets and even keyboards! #library #littleguide815 #libraryofthings #freethingstodo #freethingstodowithkids #kidsactivities

Your local library- library of things: most libraries offer a “library of things” for kids, teens, and adults. In the kids department, this might look like Magnatiles, Tonie Boxes, STEM kits, and other manipulatives. For teens and adults, the library of things might have metal detectors, sewing machines, and we have even seen crockpots available to check out! If you happen to see a library without a “library of things”, ask them to add one, or search for a neighboring library that may have what you want. We’ve seen pickleball sets and even keyboards! #library #littleguide815 #libraryofthings #freethingstodo #freethingstodowithkids #kidsactivities

Ashton, Illinois- Cheesekake Ko: With a rotation of over 200 amazing flavors, Cheesekake Ko. Has your favorite flavor(s)🙌! Katelyn, Keri, and Tina make all of the cheesecake options- from Cheesecake jars to lemon bars and cheesecake nachos, everything is homemade in Ashton, Illinois. They deliver to multiple 815 locations, too! Cheesekake Ko. Offers special- order opportunities; fundraisers, special events, and gifting are some popular options! Which of these flavors would you choose? #summerwithkids littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #815 #midwest

Ashton, Illinois- Cheesekake Ko: With a rotation of over 200 amazing flavors, Cheesekake Ko. Has your favorite flavor(s)🙌! Katelyn, Keri, and Tina make all of the cheesecake options- from Cheesecake jars to lemon bars and cheesecake nachos, everything is homemade in Ashton, Illinois. They deliver to multiple 815 locations, too! Cheesekake Ko. Offers special- order opportunities; fundraisers, special events, and gifting are some popular options! Which of these flavors would you choose? #summerwithkids littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #815 #midwest

Byron, Illinois- Bald Hill, the biggest tree in Illinois: right outside of Rockford, Illinois is Illinois’ largest tree! The giant tree is approximately 200 years old. Bald Hill Forest Preserve offers parking and a half-mile path to the giant tree. The beauty of the path rivals many national parks! Rolling small hills, flowers, butterflies, and a wide path offer opportunities to enjoy nature and the short journey. Half the trail was shaded. At the base of the tree are benches and a picnic table, offering a great opportunity to bring a snack, too🙌. Enjoy more trails if you would like- the preserve offers great trails! This would also be a beautiful walk in the winter. Bathrooms are at the head of the trail, and another picnic spot is near the head of the trail, too. About the tree: It is an Eastern cottonwood tree. 26.5 feet in circumference and 122 feet tall. Each state has a register that adds these dimensions plus 1/4 of the crown width to get the overall score, and this is the highest scoring tree in Illinois. Did you know about this path? #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #southernwisconsin #travelillinois #enjoyillinois #byronillinois

Byron, Illinois- Bald Hill, the biggest tree in Illinois: right outside of Rockford, Illinois is Illinois’ largest tree! The giant tree is approximately 200 years old. Bald Hill Forest Preserve offers parking and a half-mile path to the giant tree. The beauty of the path rivals many national parks! Rolling small hills, flowers, butterflies, and a wide path offer opportunities to enjoy nature and the short journey. Half the trail was shaded. At the base of the tree are benches and a picnic table, offering a great opportunity to bring a snack, too🙌. Enjoy more trails if you would like- the preserve offers great trails! This would also be a beautiful walk in the winter. Bathrooms are at the head of the trail, and another picnic spot is near the head of the trail, too. About the tree: It is an Eastern cottonwood tree. 26.5 feet in circumference and 122 feet tall. Each state has a register that adds these dimensions plus 1/4 of the crown width to get the overall score, and this is the highest scoring tree in Illinois. Did you know about this path? #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #southernwisconsin #travelillinois #enjoyillinois #byronillinois

Oregon, IL- The Soap Shoppe: Stop in and smell the soap at The Oregon Soap Shoppe! We’ve heard - only by word-of-mouth- that this is the best soap shop in the Midwest. Between making soap and packaging soap to be sent around the USA, Lynnel and Michael will make you feel a part of the family: Lynnel will ask you if you have any skin concerns, and direct you to the best soap (babies, eczema, etc.). She has been making soap for 37 years, and using her own products. Her skin is absolutely gorgeous! The soap is all marked with a use- after date to allow the soap to dry. Once it is ready, it will last for a long time (no worries if your kids leave it floating in water). Soap dishes, trinket trays, and other small accessories are also available. Your soap will be packaged with love and care, and you’ll enjoy the drive out to the country 🙌. The Soap Shoppe 91C Daysville Rd, Oregon, IL 61061. #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #oregonillinois #homemadesoap #northernillinois @visitoregonil #eczema

Oregon, IL- The Soap Shoppe: Stop in and smell the soap at The Oregon Soap Shoppe! We’ve heard - only by word-of-mouth- that this is the best soap shop in the Midwest. Between making soap and packaging soap to be sent around the USA, Lynnel and Michael will make you feel a part of the family: Lynnel will ask you if you have any skin concerns, and direct you to the best soap (babies, eczema, etc.). She has been making soap for 37 years, and using her own products. Her skin is absolutely gorgeous! The soap is all marked with a use- after date to allow the soap to dry. Once it is ready, it will last for a long time (no worries if your kids leave it floating in water). Soap dishes, trinket trays, and other small accessories are also available. Your soap will be packaged with love and care, and you’ll enjoy the drive out to the country 🙌. The Soap Shoppe 91C Daysville Rd, Oregon, IL 61061. #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #oregonillinois #homemadesoap #northernillinois @visitoregonil #eczema

Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin- if you know a great farm stand, drop it below. We are here for it 🙌 tomatoes, eggs, zucchini, squash, pumpkins, and baked goods (I haven’t yet found a cottage bakery in the wild, but would love to find one!) #rockfordilllinois #littleguide815 #countrydrive #roadtrip #northernillinois #southernwisconsin

Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin- if you know a great farm stand, drop it below. We are here for it 🙌 tomatoes, eggs, zucchini, squash, pumpkins, and baked goods (I haven’t yet found a cottage bakery in the wild, but would love to find one!) #rockfordilllinois #littleguide815 #countrydrive #roadtrip #northernillinois #southernwisconsin

Dixon, Illinois- East of Yellowstone Lodge: This large, luxury lodge is the perfect spot for a gathering of friends or family to spend a week together! Secluded on a fenced-in 43 acres with miles of trails, a chicken coup, a creek, and bonfire spots, this converted Girl Scout Camp is the perfect place to unwind. With up to 80 beds available via converted cabins, you can bring all the cousins, aunts, and uncles! Large, gorgeous windows overlook nature in every cabin. Multiple packages available, including a stay and play package, which offers opportunity to golf next to the lodge! East of Yellowstone lodge also can be a venue for weddings and vowel renewals- the gorgeous scenery and charm might be exactly what you are looking for! An outbuilding for cooking (or catering) is on the property, too (besides the kitchen in the home). The home includes everything you need to make your visit comfortable, including a highchair, crib, bikes, lawn games, and wheelchair accessible cabins. Golf carts are also available for use on the property! With new additions coming every week, this new(er) rental will be booked up quickly!
#littleguide815 #vacationrental #midwesttravel #familytravel #northernillinois @eastofyellowstonelodge

Dixon, Illinois- East of Yellowstone Lodge: This large, luxury lodge is the perfect spot for a gathering of friends or family to spend a week together! Secluded on a fenced-in 43 acres with miles of trails, a chicken coup, a creek, and bonfire spots, this converted Girl Scout Camp is the perfect place to unwind. With up to 80 beds available via converted cabins, you can bring all the cousins, aunts, and uncles! Large, gorgeous windows overlook nature in every cabin. Multiple packages available, including a stay and play package, which offers opportunity to golf next to the lodge! East of Yellowstone lodge also can be a venue for weddings and vowel renewals- the gorgeous scenery and charm might be exactly what you are looking for! An outbuilding for cooking (or catering) is on the property, too (besides the kitchen in the home). The home includes everything you need to make your visit comfortable, including a highchair, crib, bikes, lawn games, and wheelchair accessible cabins. Golf carts are also available for use on the property! With new additions coming every week, this new(er) rental will be booked up quickly!
#littleguide815 #vacationrental #midwesttravel #familytravel #northernillinois @eastofyellowstonelodge

📍Rockford, Illinois - West Rock wake park: open 6 days a week, and ready to get you on a board! West Rock wake park offers group lessons (4 people-2 hours) for $30/person. You and your friends and family will love this place! The staff at West Rock are helpful and thorough with preparing you for your first or hundredth time on the board. With special cable lines popular in places like Germany and France, this unique opportunity is located in Rockford, Illinois (and one of the only opportunities in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin). If you aren’t ready to take a lesson, West Rock offers wakeboard competitions you can attend and enjoy for free! #rockfordillinois #littleguide815 #wakeboards #northernillinois #midwesttravel #wakeboarders @westrockwakepark

📍Rockford, Illinois - West Rock wake park: open 6 days a week, and ready to get you on a board! West Rock wake park offers group lessons (4 people-2 hours) for $30/person. You and your friends and family will love this place! The staff at West Rock are helpful and thorough with preparing you for your first or hundredth time on the board. With special cable lines popular in places like Germany and France, this unique opportunity is located in Rockford, Illinois (and one of the only opportunities in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin). If you aren’t ready to take a lesson, West Rock offers wakeboard competitions you can attend and enjoy for free! #rockfordillinois #littleguide815 #wakeboards #northernillinois #midwesttravel #wakeboarders @westrockwakepark

📍Rochelle, Illinois - The Train Park: train enthusiasts will love visiting the park built for watching the intersection of two major train lines! We were on the property for about an hour, and saw three trains! Picnic in the pavilion, play on the old train (meant for play), visit the store, and listen to the whistling of the trains! There is no cost to visit and stay. This fun spot in Rochelle is nearby an adorable downtown square with shops and restaurants, too! The indoor shop also sells cold drinks and ice cream. Inside is also a small watching area. #littleguide815 #trains #midwesttravel #rockfordillinois #oglecounty #placestotakethekids

📍Rochelle, Illinois - The Train Park: train enthusiasts will love visiting the park built for watching the intersection of two major train lines! We were on the property for about an hour, and saw three trains! Picnic in the pavilion, play on the old train (meant for play), visit the store, and listen to the whistling of the trains! There is no cost to visit and stay. This fun spot in Rochelle is nearby an adorable downtown square with shops and restaurants, too! The indoor shop also sells cold drinks and ice cream. Inside is also a small watching area. #littleguide815 #trains #midwesttravel #rockfordillinois #oglecounty #placestotakethekids

Skokie, Illinois- Nut & Candy Factory: These Chocolate Factory Tours feel like you’ve won a golden ticket! At the start of the tour, we learned how the cocoa bean is harvested and roasted to create cocoa powder. We didn’t just see it- we used the cocoa powder and cocoa butter to make our own chocolate bar! We also put on gloves and a hairnet to enter the chocolate-making facilities- and in our own dedicated space- we made caramel apples and dipped Oreos and pretzels to create our own bag of treats to take home. Fountains of Belgium chocolate flowed, the scent of warm caramel filled the air, and the memory of “working” at the Nut and Candy Factory will stay with us forever! The Nut and Candy Factory offer tours for up to 8 people at a time, tickets are $19.50 each, and the tour lasts approximately 1-2 hours (depending on the size of the group). @ncchocolatier #littleguide815 #northernillinois #familytravel #chicagosuburbs #chocolatemaking #southernwisconsin #familyactivities

Skokie, Illinois- Nut & Candy Factory: These Chocolate Factory Tours feel like you’ve won a golden ticket! At the start of the tour, we learned how the cocoa bean is harvested and roasted to create cocoa powder. We didn’t just see it- we used the cocoa powder and cocoa butter to make our own chocolate bar! We also put on gloves and a hairnet to enter the chocolate-making facilities- and in our own dedicated space- we made caramel apples and dipped Oreos and pretzels to create our own bag of treats to take home. Fountains of Belgium chocolate flowed, the scent of warm caramel filled the air, and the memory of “working” at the Nut and Candy Factory will stay with us forever! The Nut and Candy Factory offer tours for up to 8 people at a time, tickets are $19.50 each, and the tour lasts approximately 1-2 hours (depending on the size of the group). @ncchocolatier #littleguide815 #northernillinois #familytravel #chicagosuburbs #chocolatemaking #southernwisconsin #familyactivities

Oregon, Illinois- Castle Rock Overlook: drive to Oregon, Illinois, to climb up to Castle Rock Overlook- and experience a view you’ll never forget! 138 stairs to the top with multiple landings along the way make the climb very doable for 4 and 5 year olds. I brought along a baby carrier to take a littler one, and the climb up was really enjoyable in the 72° weather! Once at the top, multiple overlooks nestled in the sandstone give you excellent views of multiple counties. How to prepare: there’s many trees, and you might want to prepare for bugs (although we had no issues) along the climb. Secure any loose belongings, as the stairs have slots that expose the ground below (nothing more than an inch). Also: at the base of castle rock are multiple picnic table and grills along the Rock River! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #southernwisconsin #familytravel #midwesttravel #oregonillinois

Oregon, Illinois- Castle Rock Overlook: drive to Oregon, Illinois, to climb up to Castle Rock Overlook- and experience a view you’ll never forget! 138 stairs to the top with multiple landings along the way make the climb very doable for 4 and 5 year olds. I brought along a baby carrier to take a littler one, and the climb up was really enjoyable in the 72° weather! Once at the top, multiple overlooks nestled in the sandstone give you excellent views of multiple counties. How to prepare: there’s many trees, and you might want to prepare for bugs (although we had no issues) along the climb. Secure any loose belongings, as the stairs have slots that expose the ground below (nothing more than an inch). Also: at the base of castle rock are multiple picnic table and grills along the Rock River! #littleguide815 #rockfordillinois #northernillinois #southernwisconsin #familytravel #midwesttravel #oregonillinois

Oregon, Illinois- Mix Park: This Small- Town park has a beautiful square park that includes a new playground, a pavilion (with bathrooms, a water fountain, and picnic tables), a fountain, and a large statue of Abe Lincoln and Blackhawk (A local & historical Native American) with the history of their relationship. We loved the multi-level climbing opportunities on the playground, and the history lesson near the statue! Comment MIX for the address in your inbox, and to know a few other local spots to make this a fun day trip! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #southernwisconsin #familytravel #rockfordillinois #travelwithkids #midwest

Oregon, Illinois- Mix Park: This Small- Town park has a beautiful square park that includes a new playground, a pavilion (with bathrooms, a water fountain, and picnic tables), a fountain, and a large statue of Abe Lincoln and Blackhawk (A local & historical Native American) with the history of their relationship. We loved the multi-level climbing opportunities on the playground, and the history lesson near the statue! Comment MIX for the address in your inbox, and to know a few other local spots to make this a fun day trip! #littleguide815 #northernillinois #southernwisconsin #familytravel #rockfordillinois #travelwithkids #midwest

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