The economy is poor and for many, money is tight. That summer vacation you planned for is now a distant dream. Don’t despair. Even with a tight budget, there are many affordable things to do right here in Northwest Illinois; in Whiteside County; even in our own community of Morrison. Why not take this opportunity to rediscover our own region and all the great attractions it has to offer?
Recreational opportunities abound right here in our own backyard at Morrison-Rockwood State Park and Lake Carlton. Hiking, picnicking, camping, fishing, boating, archery, and equestrian trails are some of the outdoor activities the park has to offer. Let this be the summer you make some treasured memories at Morrison Rockwood.
Check out other great parks and outdoor activities in the area including Mississippi Palisades State Park; Prophetstown State Recreation Area; Sinnissippi Walkway pedestrian bridge, which spans the Rock River between Rock Falls (Arduini Boat Launch) and Sterling (Dillon Home); and Lock & Dam 13, located north of Fulton.
For those history buffs, visit our very own Heritage Museum, where you will find many interesting exhibits of Morrison memorabilia and about the history of the community. Displays include many products manufactured locally in the past such as Rich Toys, Summit Stoves, Illinois Refrigerator, and Volckman Furniture. The museum, which is owned and staffed by the Morrison Historical Society, is a great place to spend an afternoon and to broaden your knowledge of the community. Hours for the museum are Friday - Sunday 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. and additionally from 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Saturdays during the Farmers’ Market. Admission is free, although donations are accepted.
Located just up the bank from the mighty Mississippi river in Fulton, Illinois is Heritage Canyon. The 12 acre park transports you back to the 1800's with its log cabin settlement, blacksmith shop, one room school house, old mill water wheel, print shop and many other shops and businesses. The canyon has many other surprises and treasures to see, as you take your time and enjoy its beauty. The park is open daily, weather permitting from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission is charged during special events, although donations are always welcome.
While in Fulton, why not take a tour of the De Immigrant Windmill? This authentic Dutch windmill was engineered and pre-fabricated in the Netherlands and shipped to the United States. Dutch millwrights and masons traveled to the United States and rebuilt the windmill in Fulton. The mill is fully functional, producing a variety of flours which are for sale in the gift shop. The windmill is open Monday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Across the street from the Windmill is the Windmill Cultural Center, open daily through the end of October, Monday - Friday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Center houses an extensive collection of European windmills, video presentations, children’s activities, and a gift shop.
Other cultural attractions in the area worthy of a visit are the Reagan Statue, in the recently completed Heritage Crossing Riverfront Plaza along the Rock River in downtown Dixon; the John Deere home and blacksmith shop in Grand Detour; and the Dillon Home Museum in Sterling, home of Paul W. Dillon, son of the founder of Northwest Steel and Wire.
While not located in Illinois, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a must see for any visitor or resident of the area. The museum houses six large aquariums and many exhibits featuring giant catfish, turtles, otters, ducks, frogs, reptiles and the history of America's most famous river… the Mississippi River. Interactive exhibits and Living History demonstrations bring this exciting river-front campus in Dubuque, Iowa, to life. There is something here for everyone.
Although these are just a few suggestions, there are limitless getaways and activities right here in our own backyard just waiting to be discovered and most are free or a minimal charge. Stop by the Morrison Chamber of Commerce Office and pick up local tourism information and start traveling our region today!