Rachael & Kurt
Things To Do
Starved Rock State Park
Exploring the majestic bluffs and canyons is the park’s primary attraction, and there are 13 miles of well-marked trails to help you enjoy them. The trails are open all year from 7 a.m. until sunset. Please be advised that there are many stairs! For those physically able to hike, we recommend French Canyon and Starved Rock hiking trails. Starved Rock also has camping, fishing, hunting, and kayaking.
Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
Bruce & Ollie's is a family-owned gem nestled inside The Bickerman Building in Utica, Illinois. They serve a delightful array of offerings, including Capannari's ice cream, Starved Rock coffee blends, August Hill wine, craft beers, and more.
Clarks Run Creek Gifts & Wine
Clarks Run Gifts & Wine offers not only wine but also offers bourbon, domestic and craft beer, slushies, and mixed drinks. They also offer wine and Bourbon tastings. Enjoy a drink in the upstairs seating area or on the outside patio!
August Hill Winery Tasting Room
Come enjoy individual creations conceived in the heart and expressed through the hand in this Tasting Room located in downtown Utica or the Wine on the Hill location located in Peru. Enjoy tastings and flights of wines and purchase a glass or a bottle, or even a case of wine to share with friends and family.
Matthiessen State Park
Canyons, streams, prairie, and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park. Located in LaSalle County, approximately 4 miles south of Utica, and 3 miles east of Oglesby, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology, as well as recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities, make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for an outing.
Hegeler Carus Mansion
Discover the Hegeler Carus Mansion, an 1876 Second Empire masterpiece and National Landmark by architect W. W. Boyington. With seven levels, fifty-seven rooms, and 16,000 square feet, this impeccably preserved mansion showcases intricate parquet floors and hand-painted ceilings. Beyond its architectural splendor, the mansion played a pivotal role in industry, philosophy, publishing, and religion. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era and a family's captivating history, both locally and internationally.
I&M Canal Boat
Relive the fateful turning point in history that led to a new era of transportation and the growth of the region by taking a trip on The Volunteer, a Canal Boat. This vessel is not only a replica of those from the 1840s. It also runs on the same energy source: mule power! Your journey includes: a “Mule Tending 101” class in which you’ll meet Moe the Mule, interact with crew of period dressed guides, hear tales of the canal’s heyday and enjoy a 60-90 minute boat ride.
Cedar Creek Ranch
Nestled amidst the sprawling beauty of over 60 acres of dense woods, meandering creek crossings, and vast fields, Cedar Creek Ranch is a slice of Western paradise. Cedar Creek Ranch offers horseback riding, ATVs, fishing, and a petting zoo. They also offer overnight camping accommodations in replica teepees and pioneer cabins.