FALL 2026
STARVED ROCK POWWOW Experience Native American drums, dance, food and more at a September celebration
MAGAZINE
BUFFALO ROCK'S HIDDEN ART A rediscovered model of an artist's earthworks shines a spotlight on a state park's massive modern art
THE 1920s TOWN IN THE FIELDS
John and Diana Krug created a unique venue where they host popular seasonal markets
QUIZ
Country
NOSTALGIA Experience life in Grundy County through the lyrical storytelling of singer-songwriter Raine Christian
Additional copies at 248 W. Canal St., Utica
WHAT'S YOUR TRAVEL STYLE? Answer 5 questions and use your results to discover recommended destinations in SRC
CL2338406
STARVED ROCK COUNTRY
WELCOME CENTER AN ILLINOIS MADE GIFT SHOPPE
Featuring gifts from Illinois artisans, makers and attractions
248 W. Canal Street, North Utica, IL • Open 12:00PM - 6:00PM every day! Located in Village Hall, between Downtown Utica and Clarks Run Antiques. 248 W. Canal Street, North Utica, IL • Open 12:00PM - 6:00PM every day! Located in Village Hall, between Downtown Utica and Clarks Run Antiques.
Historic Lodging • Dining • Weddings • Meetings/Retreats • Guided Tours
Scan for info! Experience the magic of the Midwest when you escape to nature and wake up with adventure at Starved Rock Lodge. As the only lodging located inside Starved Rock State Park, you're just steps away from breathtaking sandstone canyons and photo-worthy seasonal waterfalls.
One Lodge Lane; Oglesby, IL | 815-667-4211 | starvedrocklodge.com Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 3
10
Inside ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT STARVED ROCK POWWOW
8 Learn about Native American culture and experience indigenous music, dance, food and art at the Starved Rock Powwow THE 1920S TOWN AMONG THE FIELDS
10 The Rusty Halo hosts unique two-day craft and vendor markets at a model town built on a rural Ottawa farm AN AUDIO SCRAPBOOK OF LIFE AROUND MORRIS
12 Country music artist Raine Christian grew up in Starved Rock Country; now he sings about nostalgic memories of rural lifestyle
20
AN EVENING OF GEARS & GRANDEUR
14 Hegeler Carus Mansion will host its inaugural gala blending German-influenced flavors with steampunk-inspired aesthetic BUFFALO ROCK'S HIDDEN MODERN ART
16 A newly rediscovered artifact on display at a museum shines a spotlight on Buffalo Rock State Park's giant earth sculptures
FOOD & DRINK ICE CREAM FULL OF FLAVOR AND FAMILY HISTORY
20 Sisler's Ice Cream makes small batches in Princeton —
and you can try some for yourself at their downtown shop
LODGINGS COUNTRYSIDE HAVEN
22
22 Book a stay at Lazy 8 Ranch for a rural getaway in an 1852 farmhouse with a blend of antique decor and modern farm glam
DESTINATION SRC QUIZ: WHAT'S YOUR TRAVEL STYLE?
26 Take a five-question quiz and follow the results to a curated list of Starved Rock Country locations to add to your itinerary ROCK 'N' ROLL, BBQ & BLUES
32 Downtown La Salle becomes a go-to destination for rock 'n' roll, blues performances and the taste of barbecue for two days in September A DOG'S DAY IN STARVED ROCK COUNTRY
34 Bring the dog when visiting! Check out this list of dog-friendly recreation, dining and lodging around the area
32
ROADSIDE SRC
38 The story behind roadside attractions and oddities in the region
ON THE COVER
Country music singer-songwriter Raine Christian's music celebrates and commemorates the rural lifestyle of his upbringing in Morris, Illinois. Read more on page 12. Photo by Nick Arena
4 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
IN EACH ISSUE EDITOR’S NOTE �������������6
CALENDAR ������������18, 19
POSTCARD ������������������ 39
MEET ME IN Experience the charm of Princeton’s Historic Main Street, ...........where beautifully decorated storefronts and unique ........... ........... ...........boutiques create the perfect shopping destination. Savor a meal at a family-owned restaurant, unwind at our local brewery, and relax with a stay in a charming Airbnb or hotel. Explore our landmarks, museums, parks, or enjoy a festival for a memorable getaway—a short drive that takes you far!
BUREAU COUNTY HOMESTEAD FESTIVA V L VA september 10 - 13 | homesteadfestival.com for full schedule 9/10 - Lawn Event Reception with special guest: Owen Lovejoy IV 9/11 - Down on Main Concert with Tigirlily Gold & 9-11 Ceremony 9/12 - Parade, Craft Show & Blue’s Concerts 9/13 - Car Show, BBQ Contest & 50/50 Drawing
OKTOBERFEST september 25 WITCHES NIGHT OUT october 16 HALLOWEEN PA P RADE october 17 VOICES OF THE BUREAU CO. HIS STORY CENTER october 24
CITY OF PRINCETON, IL - WWW.PRINCETONTOURISM.ORG - Follow us!
princetontourism
visitprinceton_il
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 5
Read about dog-friendly recreation, dining and places to stay on page 34. Photo by Tom Sistak
| EDITOR’S NOT E |
he United States marked the 250th anniversary of its founding this year. As we reflect and celebrate the country’s history, it’s worth looking even farther into the past to honor the people who have called this land home for dozens of generations. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ brief history of Starved Rock State Park reports the region has been home to humans for more than 10,000 years. “The Hopewellian, Woodland and Mississippian Native American cultures flourished here,” the IDNR history says. “Among the most recent and likely the most populous group were the Illinois people. Various subtribes of the Illinois Confederation occupied this area from the 16th century until the early 19th century, with the Kaskaskia being one of those subtribes. They resided directly across from what is now known as Starved Rock State Park, in a place referred to as the Grand Village of the Kaskaskia.” Native American cultures persist in the United States, and representatives from a variety of indigenous nations, bands and tribes will visit Utica in September for the second annual Starved Rock Powwow (page 8). The public is invited to the celebration, where visitors can learn about, witness and experience a variety of Native American drums, dances, food, crafts and art. Earthworks artist Michael Heizer drew inspiration from mound-building Native American societies when he created the Effigy Tumuli earth sculptures in the 1980s at Buffalo Rock State Park in Ottawa. The plaster rendering of his large-scale sculptures was recently rediscovered and is now on display at the La Salle County Historical Society Museum in Utica (page 16). The museum complex is home to several exhibits of noteworthy historical and cultural moments around La Salle County, which encompasses much of Starved Rock Country. If you’re looking for reasons to visit the area, check out our quiz on page 27 to identify your travel style and discover a list of destinations to add to your itinerary. Pages 28 through 30 offer suggestions for three styles of traveler: outdoor adventurers, food aficionados and artistic spirits. Another type of traveler — the canine variety — can find plenty to do during a day trip or getaway in Starved Rock Country. In this issue, we compiled several destinations where dogs are welcome to join their families for recreation, dining and lodging (page 34). Be sure to check out the September and October calendars on pages 18 and 19 for upcoming events and recreational opportunities, including theater performances, fall festivals and seasonal haunted houses, among others. May you have a happy autumn full of positive experiences. We hope some of those experiences are here in Starved Rock Country.
JULIE BARICHELLO Editor
6 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
Starved Rock Country Magazine is published quarterly or seasonally four times per year. Shaw Media 426 Second St. La Salle, IL 61301 www.starvedrockcountry.com Email photo or article submission queries to jbarichello@shawmedia.com. Copyright 2026. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permission, is prohibited. Vol. 14 No. 3 Fall 2026 Edition 2026-08/25,000 GENERAL MANAGER Jeanette Smith EDITOR & DESIGN Julie Barichello PRODUCTION Rhonda Dillon CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Derek Barichello Stephanie Jaquins Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Ryan Searl CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Anderson Nick Arena Makade Rios Tom Sistak
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| Art s & En t ertai n m en t |
ALL ARE WELCOME AT THE STARVED ROCK
POWWOW Experience Native American drums, dance, art, crafts & food at fall celebration By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske • Photos by Scott Anderson
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I
n his speaking engagements throughout Northern Illinois, Gerald “White Winnebago” Savage shares stories of the Native American tribes that inhabited the land. He tells stories of how they lived and where they lived. “Most tribes that resided here were very peaceful tribes hunting, fishing, trading and trapping,” said Savage, a citizen of the Ho-Chunk Nation. At the annual Starved Rock Powwow returning Saturday, Sept. 12, Savage creates an opportunity for learning and celebrating the area’s Native American heritage. Taking place from 1 to 5 p.m. in Carey Memorial Park in Utica, the event includes drum performances and guest speakers as well as vendors of Native American foods and handmade items. The Starved Rock Powwow isn’t a new idea; rather, Savage sees himself bringing it back into the community, continuing his family legacy of sharing stories and helping others connect with the culture. Last year he hosted a Powwow and was happy with the community response. He recalled how his uncle had been the one to host the event years ago. The 2025 event drew a wonderful community response and engagement, prompting Savage to plan a second year. Savage’s grandfather was Sam Sine, also known by his name Chief Walks with the Wind. Sine lived in the Starved Rock area with his wife, Ruth Malloy Sine. The couple was active in the region, where they raised their family and ran an archery range and souvenir stand in Starved Rock State Park. Savage said his education in his family’s heritage and history came from his grandfather. “He gave tribal lessons as I spent time with him,” Savage said. Today, Savage enjoys opportunities to serve as a guest speaker, sharing his knowledge gained from those tribal lessons, as well as school and his own research on the stories of the Native American tribes that spanned across the
Midwest. Savage is an Illinois Humanities 2025 Road Scholars speaker. For the Starved Rock Powwow, he’s brought together select vendors and special guests from across the Midwest as well as South Dakota and Oklahoma to perform and offer demonstrations at the special single-day event. “Native drums will beat throughout the Illinois Valley,” Savage said. Guests will be able to learn about the art of Native American drum making. Visitors can try Indian tacos known as frybread tacos, blanket dogs and wild rice soup. Savage said the festival includes a harvest ceremony. “We are grateful for all of the harvest we get. That’s one of the reasons we do it,” he said. The event will include honoring local veterans for their services. One of the aspects Savage enjoys is when visitors have the opportunity to join in the Inter-Tribal Dance. “It starts slow. It grows as more people feel the beat,” Savage said. “It’s very spiritual to me. They call the drums the ‘heartbeat of Mother Earth.’” There is a cash-only admission fee of $10 for ages 12 and older and $5 for children, which Savage said helps offset the costs for the event and performers. Visitors are welcome to bring chairs and blankets to the park. This fall, Savage will continue to provide lectures at libraries, schools and community events. At a recent event in Geneva, he welcomed 115 attendees to hear his stories and learn the history and culture of Native Americans. He hopes events like the Starved Rock Powwow continue to bring people together, sharing how his grandfather was one to share tribal stories with him and the greater community. “I try to follow in his footsteps, with presentations at grade schools, libraries,” Savage said. “I do similar things.” CSR
more people feel the beat. It’s very spiritual to me. They call the drums the ‘heartbeat of Mother Earth.’ — Gerald Savage, tribal elder with the Ho-Chunk Nation, speaking of the Inter-Tribal Dance at the Starved Rock Powow
Starved Rock Powwow • 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 • Carey Memorial Park, Utica
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the
1920S TOWN
among the fields
The Rusty Halo's annual craft and vendor markets take place in a model 1920s town on a rural Ottawa farm owned by John and Diana Krug. Shown here is the Rusty Halo Snowman Express Market, which features holiday decor and gifts.
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John and Diana Krug host special craft and vendor markets in their farm's unique setting
T Buildings in the model town, designed and built by John Krug, house vendors during Rusty Halo markets.
10 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos provided by Diana Krug and Julie Barichello
he annual Rusty Halo Autumn Harvest Market, operated the last eight years by John and Diana Krug on a family farm near Ottawa, is a dream for those who love to shop among vendors and artisans. But this is no ordinary vendor market in a barn, tent or school gym. The second weekend in September, vendors will arrive to set up their wares in small buildings that are part of the property’s model 1920s town. Each structure faces a gravel “main street” where shoppers can stroll through what appears to be a town from time gone by. There’s a general store and a book store, a print shop and a church, among others, each designed and built by John
Krug. When Rusty Halo isn’t hosting markets, the structures serve as garages to house the couple’s collection of Model T Fords. As of July, the couple owns 21 Model T vehicles. “We needed someplace to store them, so John built these houses,” Diana Krug explained. With John’s creativity, it wasn’t just a garage or shed. He designed the outside facade to
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look like a building set in a tiny town from the 1920s. It started with a general store, then a jail. And the idea kept growing. “He’s pretty talented,” Diana said. In total, there are more than 30 buildings on the farm, which include a few pieces the couple saved and collected, such as the Metamora Train Depot, which had been disassembled and, over the course of nine trips, brought to the couple’s property where John re-assembled it. The Krugs, married 55 years, share a love for antiques and history. While John is creative with architectural facades, Diana enjoys her own style of crafting she calls cycling up — taking old pieces and creating new features, such as turning an old coffee grinder into a new
UPCOMING RUSTY HALO MARKETS Autumn Harvest Market 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13
Snowman Express Market Saturday, Nov. 14 and Sunday, Nov. 15
Rusty Halo markets take place at 3277 E. 18th Road, Ottawa. Follow Rusty Halo on Facebook for updates and additional mini market events.
piece of home décor. Diana’s shop name is the Rusty Halo, inspired by an old Mahalia Jackson song, she said. The farm is their full-time work, where they grow corn and soybeans. John comes from a farming family. In a romantic gesture, he planted an acre of sunflowers for Diana on the property. “They were beautiful,” Diana said. In 2018, the couple decided to pull out the Model Ts and invite fellow artists to sell their designs in a market on the property. The first year they had five vendors, Diana said. For the 2026 Autumn Harvest Market, they are expecting to host almost 50 vendors. “We have antiques, vintage items, garden art, candles, jewelry,” Diana said. Shoppers can purchase pumpkins, kettle corn, mums and fall decor. Along with the array of vendors, visitors can check out the couple’s Model T collection, including the crowd favorite: the fire truck. If weather cooperates, John will offer rides to guests. The market has grown through the years. Diana’s son-in-law brings his culinary skills and passion to the event; he prepares soups, smash burgers and Italian beef. Diana said the lines for food are a
testament to the delicious options and his creative culinary skills. For this year’s event, she’ll also have a space for Grandpa’s Homemade Ice Cream with options including vanilla, strawberry, blueberry, chocolate and butter pecan ice creams. Guests also can order root beer floats. Diana saved a spot for The Happy Crab Coffee Bar to prepare caffeinated favorites to fuel shoppers through the two-day event. “We really made it an event that’s different than other fairs,” Diana said. The market draws people from a large area, with many visitors traveling to Starved Rock Country to enjoy the experience. The Autumn Harvest Market is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13, on the couple’s property at 3277 E. 18th Road in Ottawa. Admission is free, but the Krugs are grateful for donations to help cover costs of hosting the event. “Most people are very generous,” Diana said. Rusty Halo will host a second weekend-long event for their annual Snowman Express Market on Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15. Shoppers can find holiday crafts and gifts during Snowman Express. CSR
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An Audio
SCRAPBOOK Singer-songwriter Raine Christian captures his hometown of Morris and surrounding Grundy County through nostalgic country music By Julie Barichello | Photos by Nick Arena
I
f you’re driving down Interstate 80, Raine Christian has a piece of advice. Don’t miss Exit 112. That’s where you’ll find Morris, Christian’s hometown and the subject of his recent country single, fittingly titled “Morris, IL.” The song, which debuted in May, is a tribute to the small city that sits on the north bank of the Illinois River. Local residents appreciate the lyrics’ nod to community icons such as Corleone’s Italian Restaurant, the Illinois & Michigan Canal, the bluestriped water tower and hot rods lining Liberty Street for monthly cruise nights. For visitors, the song is a scavenger hunt of destinations and experiences. For singer/songwriter Christian, his music is a scrapbook of memories. “I see my music as a photo album or home movies,” he said. “I look forward to being able to look back at all these songs and see them as a time capsule of where I’m at in life and my values and experiences.” Christian found a niche in writing and
12 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
performing country music, although the genre wasn’t where his music career began. His early recordings explored melodic dance, pop and melodic rap before he transitioned to country in 2025. “If you ask my dad, he will say that he’s been telling me to do country since I started writing songs,” he said. “I grew up listening to country and singing country with my dad and my family. I think that was always where I would end up, but I was discovering myself in the beginning and trying to figure out who I was.” At age 28, Christian has a stronger grasp of his identity these days. Music was instrumental in his path to self-discovery. “The older I get, the more I learn about who I am, and country feels authentic. I don’t feel like I’m playing a character anymore. I feel like I’m sharing my story and my honest heart now.” He fits the part of a country singer in both sound and appearance. Christian’s lyrics tell feel-good nostalgic stories of rural life and values. When performing with his
guitar, his recognizable curls peek beneath the brim of his hat, and twin crosses dangle from his ears. Christian lives and works in Chicago, where he studied at University of Illinois Chicago School of Law before embarking on a career as an attorney. He credits the city with providing professional opportunities as well as a thriving arts community. He is vice president of the Chicago Songwriters Collective, where he works closely with the group’s president and his mentor, John Ludwig, a voting Grammy member. Christian accompanied Ludwig to Los Angeles for the 68th annual Grammy Awards earlier this year. Despite being a Chicago resident, he will always call Morris home.
QUICK FACTS
• Raine Christian has 11 country singles (five released in 2025, six in 2026) • “Morris, IL” was co-written with his father, Ray • He performs with bandmates Jonathan Safron, Dan Tatge and Brian Happ • Music videos are created by Nick Arena of Elevated Chapter
FOLLOW RAINE CHRISTIAN
Listen to Raine Christian’s music on Spotify and Apple Music. Follow him online and on social media: Website: www.rainechristian.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/RaineChristianMusic Instagram: @Raine.Christian YouTube: youtube.com/c/RaineChristian TikTok: @raine_christian
LISTEN TO 'MORRIS, IL' Scan the QR code to listen to "Morris, IL" on YouTube.
RAINE CHRISTIAN’S ADVICE FOR VISITORS Raine Christian has a tip: if you’re near Morris, swing through town. Once you’re there, you’ll find plenty to do, whether it’s shopping, dining or attending a festival. “There’s a lot of opportunities in Chicago, but nothing beats home,” Christian said. “I try to travel back to Morris as often as I can to see my dad and my nana and my family, and breathe fresh air, if you understand what I mean.” Born and raised in Morris, Christian can trace multiple generations of his family in the community. His grandfather and father both walked the same high school halls he did. When Christian was a student at Morris Community High School, he knew the location of their former lockers, which weren’t far from his own. The influence of his small-town childhood and family values echo through his music. Much of Christian’s country repertoire
imparts life lessons, tells stories and preserves memories. The chorus of his 2025 single “Blame Your Upbringing” opens with “I’m from a small town where they know my name at Casey’s,” while his 2025 release “Silver Tongue” tells a story of following his dad’s one rule: “If you don't got something nice to say, don't say it, ’cause once you do, it just can’t be undone.” Although he performs all of his music on stage, Christian’s heart lies in writing songs. “Performing, I think for me, is secondary. For me, it’s all about the song and the songwriting process,” he said. “I truly believe every song is a gift from God, and I’m just a shepherd of the idea.” CSR
“I love taking people to Morris and to the Grundy County area,” he said. “I feel like to know the location is to know me.” Christian recommends checking the calendar for festivals, such as monthly cruise nights running June through October (two remain in 2026: Saturdays, Sept. 12 and Oct. 10) and Grundy County Corn Festival, running Wednesday, Sept. 23 through Sunday, Sept. 27. “That’s when you see the community and you get to know the people there,” he said. “Which is really what it’s all about.”
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 13
Gears & Grandeur Steampunk style and German flavor headline the inaugural Hegeler Carus Mansion gala By Stephanie Jaquins • Photo by Jayce Eustice
The Hegeler Carus Mansion in La Salle
Victorian-era elegance will merge with steampunk artistry this fall at one of Starved Rock Country’s most recognizable historic landmarks. The Hegeler Carus Foundation is marking the 150th anniversary of the Hegeler Carus Mansion with an inaugural Biergarten & Steampunk Fashion Show
GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM • 1718 N 2525 RD IN OTTAWA
14 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
fundraising gala, 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, under the beautiful tree canopy in the Grove at the mansion. “Our theme is based off the mansion, its German heritage, as well as the industrialization because [Edward] Hegeler and [Frederick] Mathiessen started M&H Zinc Company here in La Salle. So they were
industrialists, and that’s where the steampunk comes in,” said Laura Walker, executive director of the foundation. Walker said the Victorian wear is a nod to the era of the home’s construction. Built in 1876 for Hegeler and his family, the mansion reflects the prosperity that grew from the Matthiessen & Hegeler Zinc Co., which Hegeler founded with his business partner, Matthiessen. The company helped shape the growth of La Salle and Peru before closing in 1978. Designed by Chicago architect William W. Boyington, the seven-level, 57-room mansion spans about 16,000 square feet and features distinctive parquet floors and hand-painted ceilings in each public room. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2007 and is owned and operated by the mansion’s foundation. The gala will combine Hegeler’s German roots with contemporary music and
style, according to a press release from the Hegeler Carus Foundation. The event will feature a full evening of food, drinks, entertainment and fundraising activities. The evening will showcase several Illinois Valley businesses, including Germaninspired cuisine from Thyme Craft Kitchen in Peru, craft beer from Ottawa's Tangled Roots Brewing Co., a custombranded whiskey from Star Union Spirits in Peru and desserts from Blue Eyed Rascal Baking Co. in Streator. The commemorative whiskey will be available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the mansion. Entertainment includes live contemporary music by Manderley Strings from the mansion's gazebo and the National Steampunk Fashion Show Competition, judged by textile artist Jane Case Vickers. “We had submissions from all across the country. One gal is even making her own fabric out of brocade,” Walker said,
adding there will be six to eight costumes included. Guests can be creative with their apparel as well. The evening’s dress code is cocktail attire or steampunk attire, including Victorian-inspired gowns and suits, corsets, top hats, metal and/or gear jewelry, aviator goggles and leather accessories. The evening also will feature a live auction benefiting the mansion, emceed by WGN radio personality John Williams, along with a silent auction. Special outdoor sculptures, courtesy of the city of Lockport, including Steampunk Abraham Lincoln and Steampunk Rocket, will be on display throughout the event. Proceeds will support the ongoing preservation of the Hegeler Carus Mansion, helping maintain one of Starved Rock Country’s bestpreserved historic homes for future generations. The foundation expects about 200 guests to attend. CSR
BIERGARTEN & STEAMPUNK FASHION SHOW GALA 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Hegeler Carus Mansion 1307 Seventh St., La Salle Tickets are available at www.hegelercarus.org/events.
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 15
A newly resurfaced artifact gives a glimpse into the creation of the Effigy Tumuli earth sculptures Story and photos by Ryan Searl
The model behind Buffalo Rock’s
HIDDEN MODERN ART A
recently rediscovered artifact shines a fresh spotlight on Starved Rock Country’s connection to the world of contemporary art. A plaster artist rendering that was tucked out of view for decades is now spread across a pair of six-foot-long tables at the La Salle County Historical Society Museum in downtown Utica. The model provides context for one of the region’s important — and often overlooked — works of art. In the mid-1980s, landscape artist Michael Heizer designed a series of large-scale earthworks at the site that would become Buffalo Rock State Park. He was commissioned in 1983 by Edmund Thornton and the Ottawa Silica Company in a private/public partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Collectively known as Effigy Tumuli, Heizer’s five larger-than-life sculptures were constructed by moving mounds of dirt with a backhoe to form geometric shapes resembling animals native to the region. Heizer rose to prominence in the late 1960s after leaving the New York City art scene to focus on crafting and documenting “negative sculptures” in the deserts of the American West. These pieces were created by removing earth from the desert floor, resulting in works like “North, East, South, West” and “Double Negative,” a pair of 50-footdeep, 1,500-foot-long trenches that can still be seen in the barren Nevada desert. Those subterranean and remote works stand in sharp contrast to the Effigy Tumuli sculptures that, to the uninitiated eye, might be confused for naturally occurring hills covered in prairie grass at Buffalo Rock State Park. This is intentional for the artwork and land reclamation process. Designed to pay homage to indigenous moundbuilding cultures that inspired his work, Heizer’s sculptures resemble a water strider, frog, turtle,
16 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
catfish and snake. They can still be seen in aerial and satellite images of the park. The Effigy Tumuli project took land that was once scarred by industrial mining practices and rehabilitated it into a riverfront park and piece of public art. The project debuted to the public in 1983 with a three-dimensional artist rendering of the site showing the five sculptures, plus three that ultimately were not included in the final work. The “Earthmoving Proposal” model, like the final sculptures, is massive in scale — approximately 12 feet long by 4 feet wide. It is mounted to black plywood boards and is signed and notated by Heizer. After Edmund Thornton’s death in 2023, the rendering was discovered in his foundation’s storage garage, having not seen the light of day in several decades. Upon discovery, the
piece was added to the historical society’s collection by Thornton’s widow, Susan Thornton, who also serves as a historical society board member. The piece is on special view in the La Salle County Historical Society’s Heritage Center until Sept. 26, celebrating Buffalo Rock and the region’s indigenous history. After Sept. 26, the work will enter the museum’s permanent collection, where it will remain on display. The discovery and preservation of this piece comes at a significant moment in Heizer’s career. In 2025, his sculpture “City” was completed in the remote Nevada desert and opened to the public. This monolithic work began construction more than a decade before Effigy Tumuli was completed. “City” has brought new attention to the career of this singular artist and all of his land art creations. CSR
SEE FOR YOURSELF
The La Salle County Historical Society Museum is located at 208 N. Clark St., Utica and is open from noon to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Buffalo Rock State Park and the Effigy Tumuli sculptures are located at 1300 N. 27th Road, Ottawa.
Come Visit Us!
4387 Venture Dr, Peru • (815) 220-1638 • jalapenosperu.com Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 17
| cal en dar |
September 2026 SUN
the 6 View Labor Day parade at noon in downtown Streator. A free outdoor showing of "Cars" will be screened at 7:15 p.m. at Streator City Park.
MON
7
Take a guided hike at Starved Rock State Park with a naturalist. The Labor Day walk titled "Honoring the Hands That Have Built Our Parks" begins at 10 a.m.
TUE
WED
THU
FRI
1
2
3
4
8
9
the 10 Shop Sunset
Day 2 of the to 11 It'sHomestead 12 Head Marseilles
Market at Heritage Harbor in Ottawa. Find vendors, live music, dinner and drinks on the waterfront, 4-8 p.m.
Festival in Princeton, coinciding with the city's Down on Main Concert Series. Head to Main Street to catch Tigirlily Gold's performance.
5 Classic cars flock
to Streator for the Dream Machines Car Show, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. After the car show, head to Main Street for the famous Roamer Cruise Night, 4-9 p.m.
for a day of medieval entertainment at the Renaissance Faire. Celebrate Native American culture at the Starved Rock Powwow, 1-5 p.m. in Utica.
HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL
to hike 13 Want 14 all of the
a 15 Catch country music 16
canyons at Starved Rock in one day? Sign up for the 7.5-hour guided Mega Hike.
matinee at Starved Rock Lodge. Nashville Connection plays classic country hits over lunch.
shows Oct. 17-20 of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" at Engle Lane Theatre in Streator.
Tickets and information: starvedrocklodge.com/ events
over-the-cuckoos-nest
Tickets and information: starvedrocklodge.com/ events
sip 20 Uncork, 21 and savor at
22
the Vintage Illinois Wine Festival in Utica. The two-day event begins Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and continues noon-5 p.m. today.
one 17 Catch of four
18 Vendors, artwork,
games, music, food and live events fill Madison Street in downtown Ottawa during the Third Tickets and information: Friday Artisan Market, englelane.org/one-flew- 5-9 p.m.
28
29 It's National Coffee Day! Stop at a local coffee shop and order your favorite flavor.
18 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
the 19 Shop Artisan Market
at Hornbaker Gardens, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Indulge in savory food and smooth blues music during BBQ-n-Blues Festival on First Street in La Salle.
to 23 Listen Sophie Coyote 24
beer, third 25 Enjoy 26 The bands annual
perform her blend of Americana, blues, folk, classic rock and honky tonk country during Wednesday Night Live, 5-9 p.m. at Camp Aramoni.
and dancing to the Heidelberg German Band during Oktoberfest, 4-8 p.m. at Rotary Park in Princeton. GRUNDY COUNTY CORN FESTIVAL
27
SAT
30
Renaissance Fair returns to Cedar Creek Ranch this weekend. The event spans two days, Sept. 26-27.
| cal en dar |
October 2026 SUN
MON
TUE
WED
THU
1
food 4 Vendors, 5 trucks and
6
7
autumn spectacles are highlights at Ottawa Fall Fest. The celebration includes a parade at noon on La Salle Street in downtown Ottawa.
the 8 Ride Sainte
Genevieve Riverboat through the Starved Rock Lock and enjoy lunch at Starved Rock Lodge with the Lock and Lunch program.
FRI
SAT
out one Explore the 2 Check of the scariest 3 spooky barns
haunted houses in Illinois! Insanity Haunted House in Peru is open every Friday and Saturday, beginning Sept. 25 and continuing through Nov. 7.
and creepy grounds at Nightmare Haunted Attraction at the Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton. Open Fridays and Saturdays in October.
husband 9 Aplots 10 Burgoo the Festival is
perfect murder of his wife in Morris Theatre Guild's production of "Dial 'M' for Murder," 7:30 p.m. at the Tickets and information: Morris Theatre Guild Playhouse. starvedrocklodge.com/
back in Utica! Shop 375+ craft vendors and enjoy live entertainment all weekend. Burgoo stew sold Sunday only
events
Civil War is 11 The 12 Today 13 returns to Indigenous life in Shadows of the Blue and Gray, a re-enactment at City County Park in Princeton. The event runs both Saturday and Sunday.
Peoples' Day. The Illinois people and subtribes of the Illinois Confederation occupied the area around Starved Rock State Park from the 16th through early 19th centuries.
18
19
14
26 It's National Pumpkin Day! Illinois farmers grow more pumpkins than any location across the globe.
your pick Kick off 16 Take of two witchy 17 Halloween events! Celebrate and shop during Princeton's annual Witches Night Out, or at the Utica Witches Walk. Witchy attire is welcome at both events.
in Princeton with a 5:30 p.m. parade followed by the Monster Mash celebration with games, food stands and a haunted house.
20 Sample German wine, 21
Dress up in the 22 "Sweeney 24 Uncover Todd" begins 23 your best chilling tales
beer and foods and listen to authentic German music at Starved Rock Lodge's Oktoberfest matinee.
a four-night run, Oct. 22-25, at Engle Lane Theatre in Streator.
of Starved Rock's haunted history with the Ghosts of Starved Rock's Past tour.
www.englelane.org/ sweeney-todd
Registration opens 8 a.m. Sept. 24 on Starved Rock State Park's Eventbrite page; spaces fill quickly.
witch-inspired outfit and shop downtown Morris during the annual Witches Night Tickets and information: Out.
Tickets and information: starvedrocklodge.com/ events
25
15
27
28
29
30
31 Happy Halloween! Enjoy a safe and fun celebration.
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 19
| Food & Dri n k |
Only at
SISLER'S This ice cream is made exclusively at a downtown Princeton shop By Derek Barichello | Photos by Julie Barichello
An indoor dining room is available, but guests can also eat ice cream on the shop's patio during nice weather.
All ice cream served at Sisler's Ice Cream is made in small batches in Princeton – a family tradition for nearly 120 years.
A wall of newspaper articles tell the Sisler family’s story over the decades.
A Snickers specialty sundae
20 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
he smell of freshly made waffle cone fills the air at Sisler’s Ice Cream in Princeton. Behind a glass display, a gallery of frozen treats await customers. The ice cream is made exclusively at the downtown shop, making Sisler’s a one-of-a-kind destination in the region with all sorts of personality. Flavors range from classic arrangements like cookie dough, moose tracks or mint chip to specialty flavors like “$10 million,” which is vanilla ice cream, caramel swirl and Nestle crunch, or Billy’s Bounty, a mixture of salty caramel, brownies, M&Ms and peanut butter M&Ms. The beauty of the frozen confections being hand-crafted on site in small batches twice a week is that it allows owners and siblings Lucas Sisler and Tieg Carpenter to put their own spin on flavors and have complete oversight of the quality. “That’s the fun of making ice cream in small batches,” Tieg said. “We can experiment with different flavors and keep trying new things. It keeps it interesting.” Overall, Sisler’s has more than 40 flavors in rotation. One of the most popular is Working
Cow, a combination of vanilla, butterscotch swirl, brownies and peanut butter cups. Rossy’s Razzle Dazzle, which features almond ice cream, biscoff cookies and a raspberry swirl, is another trending concoction, a collaboration with Rossy’s BBQ Joint in Wyanet. The Sisler’s Ice Cream shop opened at 421 S. Main St. in 2021, but the family has been making ice cream since 1908 when Lucas and Tieg’s great-grandfather started the business. Their father, Billy Sisler, dreamed of someday opening an ice cream shop for the public to try their family’s many locally made flavors. Billy died in 2011, and Lucas and Tieg’s uncle ran the family business for the next 11 years. Lucas and Tieg took over in 2021 and brought their dad’s vision to fruition. “We did it for him,” Tieg said. “Our history is really important to us. It’s what inspired us to open the shop in the first place. He always wanted somewhere for people to come and try all the different flavors of ice cream we made.” That history is splashed over the walls of the downtown shop. A wall of mostly black-and-white newspaper articles tell the family’s story over the decades. Another wall is dedicated to a timeline
Sisler's Ice Cream makes its own waffle cones.
and photos of the business’s history. The spacious shop also features several chairs and tables to dine in, plus an outdoor patio. Customers can choose to get their ice cream in a dish, or in a sugar, cake or waffle cone. If they have trouble choosing between the many different options, they can request an ice cream flight. If a customer falls in love with a particular flavor, they can take ice cream home by the half gallon or pint. The shop also serves root beer floats, milkshakes, malts, cookie sandwiches and sundaes. There are specialty milkshakes and sundaes available, along with several toppings for customers to mix and match their own. Allergy-friendly options also are available.
A specialty milkshake, The Billy, pays tribute to the milkshake Lucas and Tieg’s dad made for them when they were children. It’s a chocolate peanut butter banana shake with chocolate drizzle, whipped cream and a cherry on top. Sisler’s added a mobile ice cream cart to attend festivals, birthday parties, weddings and other events. “That’s been super popular,” Tieg said. “We do a lot of wedding receptions [and] corporate events. It allows us to take our ice cream other places and meet new people.” The family likes to hear from customers about what flavors they like and what ideas they have for new treats. “That also makes it fun. We love to hear from our customers.” CSR
WANT TO GO?
421 S. Main St., Princeton • 815-872-3678 • www.sislersicecream.com
OPEN
IN UTICA!
IL Rt. 178 • (815) 408-5125 • habanerosutica.com SM-LA2336301
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 21
| Lodgings |
Countryside
HAVEN Lazy 8 Ranch offers a secluded getaway By Julie Barichello | Photos by Tom Sistak q MEET YOUR HOST, SARAH Sarah Skerston Walczynski owns and hosts Lazy 8 Ranch with her husband, Mark. Lazy 8 Ranch is Sarah's family farm.
LAZY 8 RANCH 2135 E. 675th Road, Tonica 815-343-2707 www.lazy8ranch.com
22 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
Established in 1970
* Daily Carvers * Lunch specials * Dinner specials * Homemade Chips * Chicken * Catering * Soups and salads 1219 Fulton Street, Ottawa, IL 61350
815-433-0478 chzshop1@gmail.com Monday - Saturday 11 am - 7 pm | Sunday - Closed
W
hen Sarah Skerston Walczynski opened her childhood home as a vacation rental in December 2025, she envisioned it as a destination for girls’ weekends and buddy trips. The 1852 farmhouse ticks multiple boxes for group getaways. It’s secluded among farm fields on a rural side road, with the nearest neighbor almost a half-mile away. The grounds include plenty of gathering spaces, including a furnished patio, full kitchen, dining room, living room and about three acres of yard. The three bedrooms can accommodate six guests, and a gravel driveway offers free parking. “I thought I was going to have more of the girl and buddy weekends to go to the wineries and Starved Rock – more of that late 20s to early 50s gals getaway,” Walczynski said. “Instead, I’m getting a lot of families.” That continues Lazy 8 Ranch’s history of being a family place. Walczynski grew up in a family
INDEPENDENT. LOCAL. YOURS. of 10 on the farm, which was first named Lazy 8 Ranch in the 1960s when her parents raised American saddlebred horses. Walcyznski and her husband, Mark, now live a short distance down the road from Lazy 8 Ranch. In recent years, they used Lazy 8 as a guesthouse for visiting relatives. Now as a rental home, it’s an ideal family destination simply by retaining pieces of Walczynski’s family gatherings. “Because I had so many brothers and sisters, we have tons of yard games and board games,” she said. A cupboard in the house’s library is stocked with dozens of board games and puzzles. Video game consoles are available in the basement. A variety of yard games, such as croquet, bocce and volleyball, also are on site. One of guests’ favorite play pieces is a cupboard full of feather boas. “I always find feathers,” Walczynski laughed. “Everybody plays with the boas.”
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firststatebank.biz l 800.362.9623 Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 23
845 1ST STREET LASALLE
Dine-In Pick-Up
MONDAY - SATURDAY 11:00am - 8:00pm SUNDAY 10:30am - 5:00pm
0-8080 815-78
Type of foodS Desayunos Chimichangas TaCos Tostadas Platillos Burritos Tortas Quesadillas FajiTas hamburguesas BeBiDas
Included in the home’s library are seven books by Mark Walczynski, who is a regional historian as well as the Starved Rock historian. Other local history books are included in the collection, plus westerns, mysteries and science fiction. Guests can become part of Sarah Walczynski’s family story in a special way. One of the home’s unique touches is a wall marked with her family members’ heights over the past 60 years. On an adjacent wall, she invites guests to mark their own names and heights. “I put a note up that we encourage the kids – although
24 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
the adults love to do it, too – to put their name on the new wall,” Walczynski said. The atmosphere at Lazy 8 Ranch is a blend of history and contemporary. The kitchen is filled with modern appliances and lighting, while some of the wood floors creak under foot and slope with age. Part of the house is the original 1852 structure, with an addition built in 2025. Antique farm elements such as horse collars and hooks from Lazy 8’s past are alongside leather couches and fur accents. “When my mom bought the place in 1961, she got furniture from Clydesdale Furniture in
WHAT'S NEARBY
Lazy 8 Ranch is within a 15-mile drive to some of the region’s most popular destinations. For recreation, entertainment, dining and shopping, check out these nearby destinations: • 1 mile to Camp Aramoni
(for guests attending a wedding or visitors attending Wednesday Night Live)
Sarah Walczynski stands beside Rein Dance, one of the horses living at Lazy 8 Ranch. Contessa and Thor watch in the background.
Oglesby, so there’s that little bit of rustic cowboy feel,” Walczynski said. “But it’s a little more curated, too. I try to add a little bit of luxe, a little bit of shine. Lots of leathers, velvets and furs to add that modern farmhouse glam.” Sarah and Mark Walczynski repurpose as many of the farm’s original items as possible. They converted the kitchen floor’s original hand-hewn wooden beam into an outdoor bar on the patio. Old farm tools found in the outbuildings now decorate the exterior walls of a shed. Cast-iron rendering cauldrons once used while butchering
• 5.5 miles to Matthiessen State Park • 8 miles to Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center • 8 miles to Oglesby • 8.5 miles to Utica • 11 miles to La Salle-Peru • 15 miles to Ottawa
livestock now serve as flower planters. When guests book Lazy 8 Ranch, they reserve the entire house and yard. However, they’ll be sharing their stay with three permanent residents: two horses named Rein Dance and Contessa, and Thor, a miniature pony. Visitors are welcome to watch the trio from the other side of the fence, but physical contact is prohibited unless Walczynski is present. “We don’t have people ride here. We send them to Cedar Creek Ranch in Cedar Point,” Walczynski said. “Our horses are here for photo ops.” CSR
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COMFORT & STYLE
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SPECIALS Mondays
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Fridays
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* Additional specials offered Saturday to Saturday!
The yard at Lazy 8 Ranch immerses guests in farm country.
1610 N. Bloomington St., Streator 815-672-0033
PRIVATE GAMING AREA Open Mon. - Sat. 11am to. 8pm
3rdstreetcafestreator.com
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 25
| Destination S RC |
What's Your
Travel Style? Are you always on the lookout for scenic hikes? The best culture and entertainment? The greatest places to eat? Take the quiz on the next page to discover your travel style, then follow your results to a curated list of Starved Rock Country destinations that will suit your style this fall!
26 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
Photo by Tom Sistak
TRAVEL
QUIZ
Love is...
Fresh Bread
1 What is the perfect activity on the first morning of a weekend getaway? A. Hiking a scenic trail B. Ordering coffee and a pastry at a local cafe C. Reading on the porch of your cabin
2 You have a free afternoon while traveling. What do you choose to do? A. Rent a bike to explore the area B. Visit local eateries to sample regional treats C. Browse art galleries and creative studios
3 When booking a place to stay, you prioritize: A. A campground or cabin with nature at your door B. A hotel with a concierge to recommend the best local dining C. A location close to your favorite forms of entertainment
Handcrafted, Made from Scratch Daily Locally Roasted Coffee and Espresso 821 First Street Contact: LaSalle, IL 61301 (815) 250-0877 www.millstonebreads.com Like us @MillstoneBreads
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polished. modern. casual.
4 Which type of travel photo is most likely to appear on your social media profile? A. A view of the landscape B. An entree or cocktail at a local restaurant C. A snapshot from a festival, concert or show
UPTOWN GRILL
5 Which souvenir would you bring home? A. A photo of wildlife spotted during a hike B. A local specialty food item C. Ticket stubs from a performance or exhibit
AMERICAN CUISINE WITH THE MOST EXTENSIVE MENU STARVED ROCK COUNTRY HAS TO OFFER SATISFYING APPETITES SINCE 1985
RESULTS Mostly A: You are an Outdoor Adventurer who seeks excitement, nature and active experiences! Turn to page 28.
Mostly B: You are a Food Aficionado who gets to know destinations through their regional cuisine! Turn to page 29.
FULL MENU EVERYDAY • SERVING LUNCH THRU DINNER KITCHEN & BAR SERVING LATE CUT & AGED STEAKS IN-HOUSE • FRESH SEAFOOD & OYSTERS GOURMET BURGERS & SANDWICHES CRAFT BREWS • LARGE WINE SELECTION PRIVATE BANQUET ROOM • LIVE MUSIC KID FRIENDLY FOOD • PATIO DINING • DOGS WELCOME
Mostly C: You are an Artistic Spirit who immerses in a destination's culture and creative experiences! Turn to page 30.
815.224.4545 • 601 FIRST STREET • LASALLE UPTOWNGRILL.COM • SM-LA2336304
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 27
AUTUMN AGRITOURISM Fall is the perfect time for families to get outside and spend a day on a farm. Two of the region's premier farms are: • Kane Family Farms 2165 N. 3020th Road, Ottawa • Boggio's Orchard 12087 Route 71, Granville Experience corn mazes, pumpkin patches, you-pick produce, playgrounds, games, animal encounters, hayrack rides, family activities, apple cider doughnuts and more.
HIKE A LOCAL PARK
Some of the state's best trails are found in Starved Rock Country. Explore woodlands, canyons, prairies and the banks of waterways on these trail systems: • Starved Rock State Park • Matthiessen State Park • Buffalo Rock State Park • Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area, Morris • Dayton Bluffs Preserve, Ottawa • Spring Lake Nature Park, Streator • Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail • Hennepin Canal Trail
Travel Quiz: Mostly A's
OUTDOOR ADVENTURER
TAKE THE LEAP
If you're looking for a fresh adventure you can't find everywhere, jump out of a plane at Skydive Chicago! Starved Rock Country is home to a world-class skydiving facility north of Ottawa. Sessions can be booked (weather permitting) through late October. First-time jumpers will be paired with an experienced skydiver for a tandem jump. For information or bookings, visit www.skydivechicago.com.
SEE THE FALL COLORS FROM A WHOLE NEW ANGLE 15% off a Sightseeing Cruise*
BY WHEEL OR WATER
Rent a bike or book a cruise to take in the sights of Starved Rock Country. Bike rentals are available through: • Adventur-E-Bike (Streator, Ottawa, Marseilles and Utica locations) • Quest Watersports (Ottawa) • I&M Canal bike rental stations (Morris, Marseilles, Utica, La Salle)
TICKETS & EVENT CALENDAR
For a more leisurely sightseeing expedition, book a cruise on the Illinois River. Two options are the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat in Ottawa or the Eagle I tour boat at Starved Rock Lodge.
USE CODE STEGEN15 *Visit stegenriverboat.com for terms & conditions.
(815) 200-4781 • STEGENRIVERBOAT.COM SM-CL2303662
28 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
Photos by Scott Anderson and Makade Rios
REGIONAL FOODS
If you see ravs on the menu in Starved Rock Country, there's a good chance it's actually tortellini; ravs is a regional nickname. Look for these two local favorites on area menus: • Ravs in broth • Breaded pork tenderloins
FOOD AFICIONADO Travel Quiz: Mostly B's
To take local flavors home: • Mareta Ravioli, made in Leonore, sells its frozen tortellini and pasta at local supermarkets. • Buy Polancic's regionally famous sausages and pork tenderloins at Polancic's Meat Market in Ottawa.
RIP'S TAVERN
The small village of Ladd is on many food fans' radar because of the famous fried chicken served at Rip's Tavern. The restaurant gets its name from its founder, Sylvio “Rip” Gualandri, who established the business in 1936. A favorite treat at Rip's is an appetizer of fried batter called "crispies." Flakes of batter that fall off chicken in the fryer are collected and served as a snack with a side of pickles.
Jumbo pork tenderloin at Smitty's Bar & Grill in Leonore
WINE AND SPIRITS
Don't miss August Hill Winery, where you can sample and buy wines made from a local vineyard. Try the Experience Flight Trio at the downtown Utica tasting room; this features three sparkling wines chosen by the winemakers to showcase their line. Also check out Star Union Spirits, a small-batch microdistillery in Peru's historic Westclox Building. Visitors can find brandies, grappas, rums, whiskies and vodka. Sample cocktails in the tasting room and buy bottles to take home.
HANK'S FARM RESTAURANT
A visit to Hank's Farm Restaurant is a full experience. The restaurant is inside a former dairy barn, and the grounds feature a pond, gazebo and wandering fowl. Be on the lookout for multiple peacocks strutting around the property. When it's time to eat, don't skip the salad bar, which comes with every dinner entree. It's stocked with freshly baked breads, an enormous block of cheese and a variety of salads and sides prepared in-house. For weekend travelers, Sunday brunch is a must. Photos by Rip's Tavern, Ryan Searl, Hank's Farm Restaurant
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 29
Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens, Princeton
MURAL TOURS
Make a day of touring murals in two nearby cities. Start in downtown Streator with a self-guided tour of 18 murals showcasing famous moments and people in the city's history. Guide books are available at the Streator Chamber of Commerce office or streatorpublicart.com/guide-books. Next, head north to downtown Ottawa for a second self-guided tour. An interactive map is available at viewer.mapme.com/enjoy-downtownottawa; select the Public Art filter to easily find murals and sculptures.
CATCH A PERFORMANCE
Travel Quiz: Mostly C's
ARTISTIC SPIRIT
If live theater is your passion, check the schedule of performances at one of the region's local theaters. • Morris Theatre Guild Playhouse • Stage 212, La Salle • Engle Lane Theatre, Streator • Festival 56 at the Grace Performing Arts Center, Princeton For other performing and visual arts programs, check the schedule at the Ottawa Center for the Arts, which hosts music, lectures, films and more.
SHOP LOCAL ARTISANS
Bring home custom-made creations by artisans from Starved Rock Country. Destinations to shop include: • Starved Rock Country Welcome Center and Illinois Made Gift Shop, Utica • Market on Mill Retail Plaza, Utica • Princeton Art District, North Main Street in Princeton • Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, Ottawa • Starved Rock Hot Glass, Ottawa • Rusty Halo Market, Ottawa (Sept. 12-13) • Hornbaker Gardens Artisan Market, Princeton (Sept. 19)
MUSEUMS, MANSIONS & GARDENS
FOREVER IS JUST A RING AWAY. VISIT US ONLINE HERE
615 LaSalle St. • Ottawa 815-433-5653 310 E. Main St. • Streator 815-672-2614 www.vanduzerjewelers.com
30 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
Explore history, culture and beauty at these popular attractions: • Union Depot Railroad Museum, Mendota • La Salle County Historical Society Museum, Utica • Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum • Reddick Mansion, Ottawa • Streatorland Historical Museum • Hegeler Carus Mansion, La Salle • Weber House and Gardens, Streator • Hornbaker Gardens, Princeton Photos by Becky Kramer, Engle Lane Theatre, Scott Anderson, Derek Barichello
Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 31
Rock,
BBQ
& Blues First Street transforms into a food and music destination during annual Festival in La Salle By Stephanie Jaquins | Photos by Scott Anderson and Makade Rios
D
owntown La Salle will transform into an outdoor concert venue in September as Rock the Block and BBQ-n-Blues bring live music, local food and drinks, and one of Starved Rock Country’s favorite festivals to First Street. The free, family-friendly Rock the Block is 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, under the lights on First Street in downtown La Salle before giving way to the 12th annual BBQ-n-Blues on Saturday, Sept. 19. “The atmosphere, music, food has made this event something that many in the community look forward to every year, and we are incredibly proud of that,” said Tony Bacidore, of the La Salle Business Association, which organizes the event. Rock the Block is a new event this
32 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
year, replacing Jazz’N the Street. “We wanted to find two genres of music that would entice a wider range of people to attend the event, and we felt rock ’n’ roll would be a better genre to do that than jazz,” Bacidore said. Ben and Kate will perform as a street band from 5 to 6:15 p.m. before returning for another set from 7:30 to 8 p.m. Friday.
The evening continues with REO Survivor and Co., a tribute to REO Speedwagon, Loverboy and Survivor, beginning at 6:15 p.m. They will be followed by headliner Chicago Rewired, a Chicago tribute band, at 8 p.m. Steve Westerman, also of the La Salle Business Association, has selected the bands for these events for several years. “He is amazing at understanding what people from our area are looking for in terms of music when they come to an event like this,” Bacidore said. “Typically Steve already has bands in mind for future years, and it just takes time to get them all to fall into place.” The music continues Saturday with the return of BBQ-n-Blues, featuring performances by the Ivy Ford Band at 4:30 p.m., The Jimmys at 6:30 p.m. and The Jimmy Nick Band at 8:30 p.m. Of those acts, The Jimmys will be a familiar face to returning festivalgoers.
The Jimmys were a hit at last year’s festival and are returning by popular demand, Bacidore said. “They’re well-loved throughout the Illinois Valley,” he said. Saturday also includes another popular festival attraction, the annual BBQ Rib Cook-Off. Teams will spend the day preparing their entries before turning them in for judging at 6 p.m. Guest judges representing several of the event’s largest sponsors will evaluate the ribs on taste and tenderness, with winners announced on stage at 8 p.m. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded to the top five teams. The celebration concludes with a fireworks display at 10 p.m., courtesy of the city of La Salle. Festivalgoers can expect returning La Salle food vendors including Haze Smokehouse, The Dog House, Big B BBQ, Mickey’s Massive Burritos, 9th Street Pub and the La Salle VFW. The beverage tent will feature domestic beer, seltzers, wine from Utica’s August Hill Winery and signature cocktails from Star Union Spirits in Peru. With two days of live entertainment, barbecue, local beverages, food and fireworks, organizers hope visitors make a weekend of it by exploring La Salle’s downtown shops, restaurants and nearby Starved Rock Country attractions. “We work with our downtown businesses to promote their stores in hopes that while people are downtown, they’ll see all of the amazing small businesses in La Salle and hopefully stop in and make a purchase,” Bacidore said. CSR
Rock the block
New!
4 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 First Street, downtown La Salle Free admission, free downtown parking
bbq-n-blues 4 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 First Street, downtown La Salle Free admission, free downtown parking
Private, Gated, Recreational Camping Resort | Sublette, IL
GIVE US A CALL OR VISIT AT WOODHAVENASSOCIATION.COM | 815-849-5209 Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 33
A Dog's Day Photo by Tom Sistak
When visiting Starved Rock Country, there’s no need to leave the dogs at home. Canine companions can join the fun at multiple destinations. Here are suggestions to add to your itinerary when traveling with your dog.
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around Starved Rock Country
State and local parks
The region’s star attraction for tourists is state parks. Dogs are allowed on the trails at Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock state parks as long as they are leashed at all times. Starved Rock State Park’s trail system features packed dirt, boardwalks and wooden staircases. The River Trail, which can be easily accessed from the Parkman’s Plain lot, is one of the more popular canine hikes at Starved Rock. Matthiessen State Park offers plenty of fun locations for leashed dogs to explore. Hikes in the dells area feature creek crossings and shallow pools for pets that love to play in water. The park also has prairie-lined trails. Access to the dells area includes several staircases descending into the canyon. Expect muddy feet and paws if exploring the canyon floor. Buffalo Rock State Park has crushed gravel, dirt and grass trails. The park offers sweeping vistas from bluffs overlooking the Illinois River and over 290 acres of scenic prairie. The park's trails wind through massive earthen sculptures, forested paths and open grassy areas. A favorite spot for visitors is walking around the buffalo enclosure where two bison live.
Photo provided by Megan Byczynski
Compiled by Starved Rock Country Magazine staff
Dayton Bluffs Preserve in Ottawa has a trail system through woodland and prairies. The prairie trails are wide, grassy paths that circle restored native grasses and wildflowers. Woodland trails are packed dirt surfaces. Dayton Bluffs does have some fairly rugged hikes in the woods, with some narrow trails, ravines and steep treks (including Heart Attack Hill, with a rope to help hikers ascend or descend the steep grade). Spring Lake Nature Area in Streator features a system of 12 trails, most of which are grass-covered half-mile or shorter loops that offer easy hikes for people and pets. Highlights include the cascading Spring Lake Falls and a short swinging footbridge that is stable enough for dogs to cross.
Dining
For people and pups who work up an appetite after a hike, a prime place to eat is Skoog’s Pub and Grill in Utica. Dogs are welcome on the
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Another dog-friendly place to dine is the Starved Rock Lodge Veranda, found at Starved Rock Lodge inside the state park. The Veranda is a casual bar and grill with an al fresco dining terrace. Dogs can join their families at one of the lounge’s outdoor tables overlooking trees and the Illinois River. A “doggy menu” is available. Court Street Pub in downtown Ottawa provides a shaded patio with plenty of space for a dog to relax while families eat. The patio sits on the extra-wide sidewalk along Court Street. The nearby brewpub The Lone Buffalo on La Salle Street also offers dogfriendly outdoor dining on a sidewalk patio.
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outdoor dining patio on Mill Street. The restaurant offers a special “Skoogie Snacks” menu for dogs that includes an all-beef patty, a grilled chicken breast cut into strips, mini all-beef wieners and a sweet treat. For human diners, the pub is known for its burgers, sandwiches and locally famous wings.
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Starved Rock Country • Fall 2026 | 35
A dog-friendly evening activity is a trip to the Route 34 Drive-In in Earlville. Two outdoor movies are shown each weekend from May through October. Dogs must be leashed when they are outside of vehicles. Visitors can walk dogs on the east side of the grounds and must clean up after their pets. For information about tickets and showings, visit www.34drivein.com. SPECIAL EVENT: Families can visit Starved Rock State Park with their dogs over Halloween weekend for Howloween, a special event that includes games, treats, a pet parade and an opportunity to dress dogs in fun costumes. Howloween runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, at Eagle Roost Cabin near the Starved Rock Visitor Center. The event is free, but registration is required. Tickets are available via EventBrite beginning at 8 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1. To register for this and other Starved Rock events, visit www.eventbrite.com/ o/starved-rock-statepark-28488500269.
Photo by Tom Sistak
Other Activities
If a dog needs time and space to burn energy off-leash, several dog parks are available around the region. They include: • Tag-A-Long Dog Park, Michael Drive, Morris • Bill's Barking Lot, corner of Lafayette and Guion streets, Ottawa • River Run Dog Park at Heritage Harbor, Ottawa • Hardscrabble Lions Club Dog Park, 820 James St., Streator • Starved Rock Dog Park, East Walnut Street (across from Lehigh Memorial Park), Oglesby • Rotary Dog Park, 2837 E. Fifth Road, La Salle • Wiggley Field Dog Park, 2600 Plank Road, Peru • Barkley Park (inside Zearing Park), Zearing Park Drive, Princeton
Places to Stay
Starved Rock Lodge, located inside Starved Rock State Park, includes the historic lodge and a variety of cabins. People traveling with dogs can book one of the Lodge’s pioneer cabins. For information about the full pet policy, visit www.starvedrocklodge.com/dog-friendly. Kishauwau Cabins, located within a 10-minute drive of Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks, offers four dog-friendly cabins on its grounds. To view the cabins and for the pet policy, visit www.kishauwaucabins.com/dogfriendly-cabins. A variety of waterside vacation rentals are available at Heritage Harbor in Ottawa. The resort community is built around a marina on the Illinois River and welcomes pets in multiple units. For a full list of available pet-friendly rentals, visit www.visitheritageharborinn.com/ pet-friendly.
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| Breakfast Served All Day | Daily Specials | Delicious Soups | Homemade Desserts Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 36 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
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Postcard Cabins Starved Rock sits on 250 acres of woodland in Ottawa and welcomes dogs to participate in a family’s camping experience. The grounds feature 58 cozy, upscale cabins. For information, visit https://bit.ly/PostcardCabins. For those who want to pitch a tent with their pup, Pleasant Creek Campground allows up to two pets at each campsite. Pets are allowed with campsite bookings only; they are not allowed in rental trailers or cabins. For additional pet policies, visit www.pleasantcreekcampground. com/policies. Hickory Grove Campground, situated along the Hennepin Canal in Sheffield, welcomes RV and tent campers traveling with dogs. The grounds include a dog park and easy access to the Hennepin Canal hiking/bike trail. Pets are not permitted in rental cabins. For information, visit www.hickorygrovecamp.com.
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Roadside
The story behind local landmarks and roadside oddities in Starved Rock Country For more than a decade, a roadside oddity named Volvo Island has snagged attention at the intersection of U.S. Route 6 and Route 71 in Ottawa. The car originally was parked on a small manmade island in the pond by a local auto repair shop owner, who challenged people to guess how the car got there. Recently, the local landmark expanded to include an installation of Volkswagen Beetles "climbing" trees around the pond.
Photo by Scott Anderson
38 | Fall 2026 • Starved Rock Country
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You never know what kind of reaction you might see when scarecrows populate Ottawa during the annual scarecrow competition. Local businesses and organizations build scarecrows relevant to each year's contest theme, and the creations are on display for the public to view and interact with for one weekend each October. This young girl seems more amused than frightened of this Jack Skellington scarecrow. Photo by Tom Sistak
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