As you probably know, there is no shortage of things to do in Illinois One of the things that I most love about living in the Prairie State is just how easy it is to be a traveler in my own state. Each region has its own look and vibe, and all the small towns and cities within each region have their own cultures and defining features. This, of course, makes it perfectly possible to be an explorer over and over again. And, as any road tripper knows, pulling off at rest stops and visitor centers is one way to help make or break a long drive and, more frequently than not, learn a little something about the surrounding area. Sometimes, a visitor center may, itself, be so fascinating that it becomes a stop-along attraction in its own right. If you're like me and believe that the journey is just as - if not more - important as the destination, then you'll definitely want to pay a visit to the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center: It's just a day trip away - and it may be the best visitor center in Illinois.
This Illinois visitor center is located at 950 N. 27th Road, in Ottawa, and just across the river from Starved Rock State Park. Its simple brick design - which is vaguely reminiscent of Prairie Style architecture - offers incredible views of nature and access to the world of water transportation.
The Starved Rock Lock and Dam visitor center is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
The site straddles the Illinois River, and it sits adjacent to the Starved Rock Lock and Dam.
Like the lock and dam, the visitor center is maintained and operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
Throughout the day, the lock opens to allow boats of all shapes and sizes to dock or pass through.
The river traffic passing through the lock is most often essential vessels transporting goods and utilizing the country's network of water highways.
From massive barges and tug or tow boats to steamboats and modern river cruise ships, the vessels flow into and out of view.
It's always a treat when one of the great river boat queens, like the luxurious American Duchess, pays a visit to the lock and dam.
Even at sunset, the sights are stunning.
Who knew such beauty could exist at a lock and dam visitor center?
The best part? Visitors can take it all in.
With outdoor viewing decks and several fixed viewing scopes, this traveler destination is beloved as a favorite spot among both boat watchers and birders - especially those with a particular affinity for bald eagles, many of which nest and winter in the area. Others pass through as they use the river as a migratory flyway.
Just across the river from Starved Rock State Park, eagle-eyed visitors have the chance to see the rare national bird. The visitor center even has its own wildlife viewing area.
Inside, the visitor center is filled with taxidermied specimens of native birds and animals, as well as maps, displays and exhibits, and plenty of other resources to learn more about water travel, commerce, and Illinois' waterways.
In and around the building, you'll find authentic, decommissioned boat parts and paraphernalia, such as diving suits, huge propellers, and even a wheelhouse you can explore.
So, will you add the best visitor center in Illinois to your Prairie State bucket list? Is there another favorite visitor center or rest stop that we should know about? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip now by checking out the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center website - and while you're putting together your itinerary, why not turn your visit into a weekend getaway? Starved Rock State Park is one of the best state parks in Illinois; it's home to many trails, scenic overlooks, and waterfalls. And just steps from Starved Rock and the Illinois River you'll find the perfect tiny cabin to stay in, complete with all the amenities you'll need, like a queen size bed, kitchenette, private bathroom with shower, fire pit, and more. Pro tip: Try this guided kayaking tour to add in a fun water activity.
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