Comments for Illinois Tourism

Comment on Creekside Vineyards Winery & Inn – Coal Valley, IL by Ellen Getz

Ellen Getz — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:35:30 +0000

My husband and I recently enjoyed a weekend stay at the Creekside Vineyard Inn and loved every minute of it! Our hosts Don & Bev were genuinely kind and hospitable, the hot tub and infrared sauna were so relaxing, the room delightful, and the breakfast delicious! I highly recommend this Bed and Breakfast to anyone who is looking for a relaxing weekend away. We will definitely be staying there again! Five out of five stars!!

Comment on Atlanta Library & Museum – Atlanta, Illinois by Rodger McDaniel

Rodger McDaniel — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 19:52:29 +0000

I am researching a book about Lester C. Hunt. He is a former Wyoming Governor and US Senator who was born in Isabel, IL in 1892 and went to high school in Atlanta around 1902. I am looking for anyone who has any information about Mr. Hunt’s life in Illinois. He played baseball there and was recruited to come to Lander, Wyoming about 1912. If you have family information, school records, newpapers articles, anything…I would be grateful. My email is rodger.mcdaniel@bresnan.net. Thanks. Rodger

Comment on Burden Falls Wilderness- Harrisburg, Illinois by TJ

TJ — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 06:04:00 +0000

my sister and her friend fell 75+ feed from a waterfall cliff here on 5-30-11 and still in the hospital as of 6-2-11, please pray for them (no matter when you read this) and email me if you want an update!

Comment on Six Flags Seasonal Passes – Great America Chicago by lisette hernandez

lisette hernandez — Tue, 10 May 2011 18:43:08 +0000

i had season passes last year and it was worth it,,go as much as u want,,take lunch and u dont even have to spend money,,,if u like roller coasters and walking, this is for u

Comment on Garden of the Gods/Hicks Dome/High Knob – Harrisburg, Illinois by Dianna Evans

Dianna Evans — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:37:21 +0000

I love the garden of the gods in Illinois its the best i went there more then 1nc and i want to go back!!

Comment on Lee County Historical Society-Stella Grobe Research Center – Dixon, Illinois by bill blake

bill blake — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 01:33:45 +0000

Hi, I researching my wife’s genealogy in Dixon, family surname Otto. I have a 1930 census revord for William Arthur Otto (1886-1962) living in a home with several people surname Merlin, I am wondering if this was a group home or a poor house, occupation of males is listed as servant. Any ideas would be most helpful, thank you, Bill Blake

Comment on “Cathedral of the Country”, St. Mary’s Church – Beaverville, Illinois by Scott Stanton

Scott Stanton — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 03:12:38 +0000

I passed through this small town recently while on some business in the area. Being a city person, I often pass quickly through small towns such as Beaverville. Coming into the town though and seeing this beautiful building in the distance caught my attention. I had to stop and look in the beautiful church. It is a gem and I hope that it can remain for a long time to come. The town looks to be struggling though, and being off the beaten path, I hope others see this beautiful house of worship and appreciate the beauty and faith a structure like that brings out. I have not been to mass in a while, but returned on the following Saturday for mass just to feel the presence the church. I was not disappointed and the mass was wonderful. I just wish it was closer to the city so more people could appreciate it. If you live in the area, you are very lucky!

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by Helen McKenna

Helen McKenna — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 23:02:07 +0000

I have a question. Does anyone know the name of the pony to Raggedy Ann and Andy? I see it on figuriens and plates. Sometines in a patchwork outfit. I would be appreciative if someone can tell me the name of the pony. Thanks you a Raggedy Ann and Andy fan forever

Comment on American Woman’s League Chapter House – Andover, Illinois by WILLIAM KIMBALL

WILLIAM KIMBALL — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:04:47 +0000

i HAVE AN ORIGINAL- AMERICAN WOMAN’S LEAGUE- FOUNDERS CHAPTER BUTTON-MADE BY ST.LOUIS
BUTTON COMPANY-ST.LOUIS-IT APPEARS TO BE IN MINT CONDITION.

Comment on Six Flags Seasonal Passes – Great America Chicago by gihja

gihja — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 02:15:31 +0000

good spot

Comment on Hieronymus Mueller Museum – Decatur, Illinois by David W. Hartmann

David W. Hartmann — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 13:19:33 +0000

I have the only private pharmacy museum in the state of Texas, Richter’s Pharmacy Museum.
Our store opened in 1901 and closed in 1973. I retain the wall cabinets, the soda fountain and thousands of out-dated drugs, instruments, et.al. Included in the collection is a marvelous “Drug Fixtures” catalogue and letters from a Mr. Whalew, representative for the
Mueller Interior Store Fixtures division. The catalogue contains many wonderful pictures of all Mueller Pharmacy fixtures. Sincerely, David W. Hartmann

Comment on Bell Smith Springs – Eddyville, Illinois by Gary

Gary — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 01:54:58 +0000

This is one of my favorite places in Illinois. The greenish-blue color of the water in winter, the natural bridge, and devil’s backbone are just some of the features to take in.

Comment on Starved Rock State Park – Utica, Illinois by michael

michael — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:03:23 +0000

I have heard a lot about Starved Rock and seen many photos. I live in Southern Illinois and have never been there but looks like one of the best places to see on your blog.
May have to check out the Illinois train museum.
Thanks for the infromation have a great weekend, looks like its going to be a nice one.

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by JENNIE

JENNIE — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 03:09:40 +0000

I am so sorry the museum is lost to us. Rochester, New York is not a typical travel destination for people here in the central time zone. It’s a shame that no museum in Illinois Indiana or Missouri grabbed this treasurer. Indianapolis has a great children’s museum with an incredible toy display. Seems to me like they would have been a logical place for the museum to go if Joni coould not longer run it… So, so sad. I work in the travel industry and it was always a suggested place to stop for our visitors traveling north, I was shocked to find it closed… So so sad, I feel like I lost a friend… a place I could take to remember my best childhood friend and secret keeper…

Comment on Woodstock Events – Woodstock, Illinois by nellore

nellore — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 01:45:59 +0000

Great Information.

Comment on Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center – Hartford, Illinois by becca

becca — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 05:44:46 +0000

I was there today (July 21, 2010) and the Confluence Towers is open, there were tour groups populating the 3 deck levels of rivers viewing. They are celebrating their Inaugural 2010 Summer Season.

Comment on Cahokia Mounds – Collinsville, Illinois by Linda

Linda — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 02:27:35 +0000

The highlight of Cahokia Mounds is the climb to the top of Monks Mound, 156 steps, where the leader of the historic Native American’s lived. Cahokia Mounds Interpretive Center is a good place to cool off on a hot summer day, start your tour with the 17 minute film. Guided outdoor tours are available during summer, but they always have taped tours, guide books, or IPOD. The IPODS are not an app, but a rental for $5. Check out the web site for hours, as they some times change due to budget cuts. Only thing not available is food, so pack your picnic and ask to use the patio or picnic area. Great place to get perspective on America prior to 1492! And Don’t go to Cahokia IL —it’s in Collinsville, IL.

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by sally hines

sally hines — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:31:42 +0000

I am so sorry about the closing of the museum. i only saw it once and was planning to come this year. my heart sank when i read about the closing. I have over 300 raggedys and will love them always. sally

Comment on “Cathedral of the Country”, St. Mary’s Church – Beaverville, Illinois by Gavin Glynn

Gavin Glynn — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 22:16:02 +0000

I resided in Beaverville, Il from June 14, 1970 to June 6, 1979 after
completing high school in Donovan, Il. My mother died in a fatal
car crash along the Beaverville Slab a mile south of town on April 6, 1978.
My youngest sibling was born September 4, 1974 at Riverside Hospital
in Kankakee. The eery coincidence was the people who own the house before us
lost thier son Donny Rupp in a very similar car accident in the same vicinity a few years before we bought the house. He had just returned from Vietnam. Beaverville was
small then as it is now but the people made a great place to raise children.
It wasn’t until I was in Montreal, CN in 1998 I realized the beaver was the
national animal of Canada and thus the name of my boyhood town where
I received the most of my formal education. It was a great place to be during the
be all you can be 70s. I will be ever grateful for my education in Beaverville.

Comment on Garden of the Gods/Hicks Dome/High Knob – Harrisburg, Illinois by Ron Dinsmore

Ron Dinsmore — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:23:39 +0000

very beautiful and interesting area. isited here in spring of 2009. We plan on making another trip to Shawnee National Forest area during the peach time so mayu go back again. Would like to see Bell Smith spring area next trip.

Comment on The Art Institute of Chicago – Chicago, Illinois by jafraldo

jafraldo — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 06:16:31 +0000

WELL,,, I hesitate to call the stuff in the Art Institute beautiful–– in the modern wing at least.

More of a conceptual take on art, in the vein of “look even this can be considered art,” than the pursuit of beauty.

Comment on Raging Rivers Water Park by Mary

Mary — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:34:21 +0000

My husband and I are traveling from Alabama to Wisconsin and we wanted a “mid-way” stop. I found this site and thought it would be a fun place to stay.
I feel you should have posted pictures for us to view……..
Thanks

Comment on Bell Smith Springs – Eddyville, Illinois by zachary robinson

zachary robinson — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 17:14:46 +0000

I’m originally from Harrisburg Ill but have traveled all over the U.S. I’ve never come across a more beautiful place.
As a child I remember my father taking to Bell Smith almost every weekend. The mystery of the woods always fascinated
me. You never know what you might find while hiking through the woods or what type of wildlife you may stumble across. It
is such a wonderful place. I am now thirty years old and have come back to the area so that I can share the mystery and wonder of this place with my children One of my hopes is that I may someday be able to work for the forestry commission out there

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by brenda grubb

brenda grubb — Sun, 10 May 2009 20:16:49 +0000

Well, my Raggedy Ann heart is broken!!!!!! We were not able to attend the festival every year but when we did it was wonderful!!!!! I’m also sad that the museum is closing because it was a class museum. I have a whole room devoted to Raggedy Ann/Andy and upon my death I was considering donating everything to the Arcola Museum…..I don’t want it anywhere else!!!!! This is very sad news. Can you give me any details as to why the festival will not be held and why the museum is closing???? Just wondering…..At least I have all the wonderful memories of the festivals….I would get chill bumps walking around and seeing all the original Raggedy Ann/Andy dolls and items….This is a sad day in America!!! Yes, my Raggedy Ann 68 year old heart is broken!!!!!!! I will always will be a Raggedy Ann fan.

Comment on Holy Family Log Church – Cahokia, Illinois by Cathy Zimmerman

Cathy Zimmerman — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:32:08 +0000

Oh my goodness, I grew up in Cahokia – graduated from Holy Family school and attended mass at the historic Log Church daily. What a thrill it is to find this site and revisit the old days. Also, i had no idea that dear Father Mueller rediscovered the Log Church and referbished it. Thank you for this walk down memory lane.

Comment on Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center – Hartford, Illinois by Editor

Editor — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:35:39 +0000

As of April 13, 2009 this is the latest information:
When finished, the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower will rise 180 feet with observations decks at 50, 100, and 150 feet that are accessible by both stairs and an elevator. These decks will provide visitors with a picturesque panorama of the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers to the West as well as a view of the industrial landscape that characterizes the region east of the rivers. In addition, the tower will serve as an interpretative center highlighting the past, present, and future of the Riverbend area.

When the site plan is completed, it will include a 350 seat amphitheater for public and private events, as well as bike access from the Confluence bike trail that tops the levee adjacent to the Tower site. This trail links the many attractions along the Great River Road.

Comment on Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center – Hartford, Illinois by Tom Danter

Tom Danter — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:55:27 +0000

What is the status of the observation tower that was being built in Hartford for the Lewis and Clark Bicentenial? Did it ever open? I know there were some budget problems.

Comment on MCLEAN COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY – Bloomington, Illinois by Donna Holtzinger

Donna Holtzinger — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:30:25 +0000

We had a speaker from the museum to put on a presentation of "tools of the trade" here at the Mclean County Nursing Home and she done a fantastic job. The residents have asked me schedule another presentation. Keep up the good job.

Comment on “Cathedral of the Country”, St. Mary’s Church – Beaverville, Illinois by James Soucie

James Soucie — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 05:53:17 +0000

I was rained on a farm between St. Anne and Beaverville. My Grandparents and Great Grandparents farmed south of the rail road tracks on the Morocco road. The first farm sets on the south side of the road, still standing today or at least up to my last trip by in 2007. My father was raise on that farm till about 13 than moved west of Papineau to the Baron Hill Farm. My great and grandparents are buried in the church Cemetery alone with many Aunts and Uncles. There was a private girl’s school that was attached to the Church up until about the early sixties. Many Chicago families sent daughters to be educated by the Nuns in Beaverville. The town was first called St. Marye’s but chanced it name as mail got mixed up with a town by the same name in Indiana. Prior to the draining of the great Kankakee lake area just ten miles to the east after the Civil War this area was full of Beavers and other wild life that lived on the edge and in the waters of the large lake. Not much of a town left. Of course the church still stands in all it beauty, Small business that support farming and few new homes remain. It was never a large town but it was the center of the farming area in the late 1880’s up until the end of the sixties as travel became much easier business and better employment was available in Watseka and Kankakee.

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by John Buckingham

John Buckingham — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:55:17 +0000

It’s terrible news the museum is closing! We visited (from Connecticut) in 2007 and were planning on returning. Maybe we can make it back before you close this year.

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by Editor

Editor — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 22:57:28 +0000

There will not be a festival in 2009.

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by Nelda Weber

Nelda Weber — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:36:41 +0000

Will there be a Raggedy Ann Festival in Arcola in June, 2009?
I will be visiting from N.M. during the month of June.
Sincerely, nelda weber

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by Editor

Editor — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:59:45 +0000

I just called the museum and got a recording (apparently I called to early) and told them about their site being down. Although the site is down (and hopefully they will get it up and running again) they obviously are still open. Sorry for any problems you had.
Pat

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by John Fawcett

John Fawcett — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:35:27 +0000

Hi, Has the raggedy Museum closed? I keep clicking on their link and it will not come up. I have some incredible Raggedy art that is looking for a home and thought they might be interested. Thanks
John Fawcett Manie Antique Toy & Art Musem

Comment on Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch – Rantoul, Illinois by Editor

Editor — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 17:20:50 +0000

I have forwarded your inquiry on to the ranch and requested they contact you directly.
It should be a wonderful stop on your tour!
Pat Watson
Editor

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by Editor

Editor — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 17:19:22 +0000

I have forwarded your inquiry on to the museum and asked them to contact you directly. I am certain that your group will enjoy the museum, who couldn’t be charmed by Raggedy Ann and Andy??

Pat Watson
Editor

Comment on Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum – Arcola Illinois by MARION BURNS

MARION BURNS — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 03:21:24 +0000

I am bringing a bus group of adults to your area in October, 2009 and would love to take them through your museum. Please e-mail me with details of your tours and how a tour can be arranged. I will have 50 people.
Thank you,
Marion Burns, President
Travelwalk
PO Box 397
Slingerlands, NY 12159

Comment on Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch – Rantoul, Illinois by happy trails tours

happy trails tours — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 18:10:36 +0000

I am interested in bringing a group in the fall of 2009. Do you have specials for groups? What is available. Please send a package with all the info. Happy Trails Tours 70 Town & Country Decatur, IL 62526

Comment on Eagle Watching in Alton – Alton, Illinois by James Belote

James Belote — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:03:09 +0000

An excellent post. From Christmas to the end of February Alton, Illinois area boasts more American Bald Eagles than any other palce outside Alaska. There are Eagle Watching Packages available at many area many area bed and breakfasts and motels, Eagle Meet & Greet at the Alton Convention and Visitors Center, and Bald Eagle Days at Pere Marquette State Park. You owe it to yourself to explore the area and enjoy these majestic creatures.

Comment on David Davis Mansion – Bloomington, Illinois by E. Boehme

E. Boehme — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 06:41:09 +0000

I read the above artical….it was interesting but inacurate.
My birthmother was the housekeeper for Mrs. Davis Sen. David Davis’s mother who lived in the house before David gave it to the state. As a little girl and teenager I stayed with (Aunt Anna and Mrs. Davis) in the house. The curtains in the dinning room etc…were changed with the seasons…Aunt Anna’s room with shower etc. was located on the second floor at the head of the steps to the right. Where she ironed and sewed was the next room over. I loved to sit and talk to Mrs Davis and she always told me the same stories…about the house…It wasd the blinds in the study were she set…the room on the right of the front entry door, that intreged me. They had Europian scenes that came into view during the daylight hours. I’m a 74 year ols woman now. But my days and nights spent at the David Davis mansion are fond memories…But I didn’t know that Aunt Anna was my birthmother untill my (dad) her bother died May 23, 2002.
Thank you. Everetta Boehme Lakeland, Florida

Comment on Garden of the Gods/Hicks Dome/High Knob – Harrisburg, Illinois by Editor

Editor — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:41:45 +0000

Carita,
Thank you for the inquiry, it’s an interesting inquiry so I have forwarded on to the National Park Service and asked them to please respond to you and to copy me so I can add the information to our site.

Pat Watson
Editor

Comment on Garden of the Gods/Hicks Dome/High Knob – Harrisburg, Illinois by carlta walls

carlta walls — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 20:34:21 +0000

I wonder if any of the caves in this area has anything to do with Hicks Dome? The Garden of the Gods, and Rim Rock Trail the whole area if that seems to have some kind of geological story behind them. Strange, nobody investagates Cave Hill, I hear it goes on for miles, even under the Ohio river. How was all this created? Ice Age, or was this area under great water at some point?

Comment on Illinois Amish Interpretive Center – Amish Country Tours – Arcola, Illinois by cole Buchanan

cole Buchanan — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:37:06 +0000

beautiful

Comment on The Art Institute of Chicago – Chicago, Illinois by Ancient Art - from Greek, Roman, Etruscan and Egyption … | Eyes On Living

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:50:07 +0000

[...] pottery, and funerary art are just a few of the different types of works visitors will see at the Art Institute of Chicago. The European Painting and Sculpture section has more than 3,500 paintings and sculptures from the [...]

Comment on C. H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum – Clinton, Illinois by Editor

Editor — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:26:47 +0000

Thank you for contacting http://www.illinoisbeautiful.com with your inquiry. The dates are:Apple & Pork Festival September 27 & 28, 2008. We hope you attend and enjoy this celebration.

Pat Watson
Editor

Comment on C. H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum – Clinton, Illinois by Charles Vrabel

Charles Vrabel — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 02:41:06 +0000

What dates is the Apple and Pork Festival?

Thank you.

Comment on Illinois Railway Museum – Union, Illinois by Editor

Editor — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 15:06:40 +0000

The museum is open with a huge welcome to all that visit. Your daughter will love the train rides and the sights as will you!

Union is near Lincoln so a nice drive from where you are in Naperville.

The Editor

Comment on Illinois Railway Museum – Union, Illinois by Sue Ellen Stewart

Sue Ellen Stewart — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 10:06:59 +0000

So you are currently open for business? What are your hours and would a little 4 yr old girl that loves trains find this interesting? We’re in Naperville, IL. What is Union close to?

Thank you!

Sue Ellen Stewart

Comment on Hidden Lake Winery – Aviston, Illinois by Editor

Editor — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 05:37:23 +0000

Thank you for contacting the travel site http://www.illinoisbeautiful.com with your question. Althought there are not accommodations at the winery following is a list of facilities in the general area that you may want to check into.

Silent Forest Retreat Cabins
at Hidden Lake Winery
10580 Wellen Rd.
Aviston, IL 62216
(618) 228-7428
http://www.silentforestretreat.com

Timmermann House Bed & Breakfast
6130 Old US Highway 50
Aviston, IL. 62216
(618) 228-7068
http://www.timmermannhouse.com

Holiday Inn Express
20 Central Blvd.
Highland, IL. 62249
(618) 651-1100
http://www.hiexpress.com

Knotty Pine Motel
215 N 4th Street
Breese, IL. 62230
(618) 526-4556

Super 8 Carlyle Lake
1371 William Road
Carlyle, IL. 62231
(618) 594-8888
http://www.super8.com

Okawville Original Mineral Springs
506 Hanover
Okawville, IL. 62271
(618) 243-5458
http://www.originalokawville.com

Thank you again for contacting us.
Pat Watson
Editor

Comment on Hidden Lake Winery – Aviston, Illinois by Pattie Raposo

Pattie Raposo — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 23:40:15 +0000

Is there lodging available at Hidden Lake???