The Illinois and Michigan Canal, or I&M Canal, was an important commercial waterway in the 1800s. This 96-mile canal between Chicago and the small city of LaSalle ushered in a new way to travel and trade in the country. In 1984, the canal became the first National Heritage Area, serving as a place of historical significance. Today, you may choose to travel along the Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail, which follows the waterway along the I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor, and explore several charming canal towns. Let's have a look at some of these towns!

1. LaSalle

With Chicago as the eastern terminus to the I & M Canal, LaSalle became the western terminus. It served an important function in commerce as goods were transhipped between canal boats and Illinois River steamboats before heading off to other large cities. Today, you can stop by the Lock 16 Visitor Center to learn about the canal's history and then explore the charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and a theatre.

2. Morris

Morris is a rural town with several historic buildings sitting right alongside the canal. With easy access to the scenic trail, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. You'll also enjoy walking around downtown, visiting the small, unique shops, and having a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants.

3. Lockport

Lockport served as the canal's headquarters as of 1830. Visit the historic Gaylord Building for canal exhibits and dine at the excellent restaurant that resides there. Stroll along State Street and through some of the residential areas to take in the sight of the historic architecture around town.

4. Lemont

Lemont is the point where three waterways meet - the I & M Canal, the Des Plaines River, and the Sanitary and Ship Canal. Learn about the town's history with a visit to the Lemont Historical Society and Museum, browse boutique and antique shops, and have lunch or dinner at one of the fine restaurants. Book a hotel stay in town if you want to spend more time exploring the area.

5. Channahon

The village of Channahon is where the waters meet. The confluence of the Des Plaines, DuPage, and Kankakee Rivers meet and the I & M Canal runs through most of the town. Visit the picturesque Channahon State Park to view canal locks 6 and 7 as well as the former lock tender's house.

6. Utica

Utica is where limestone used to construct the canal's locks was found. You can visit the LaSalle County Historical Society's Museum located in a former canal warehouse to learn more about the area's history. This town also has a quaint main street with shops and dining options, and it's located close to Starved Rock State Park.

7. Ottowa

Ottowa sits along the Fox and Illinois Rivers. Once the canal was built, the town became prosperous as the sand, gravel, and clay mined here were able to be easily transported. Several landmarks of note are scattered throughout this charming town: the Fox River Aqueduct, the historic LaSalle County Courthouse, and the Reddick Museum, among others.

8. Marseilles

Marseilles is home to several huge mills that were once operated by the rapids of the Illinois River. The portion of the I & M Canal that runs through town is actually dry but you can still see remnants of it. Around town, you can find a large park, hiking trails, and the Marseilles Lock and Dam which is part of the Illinois Waterway. Points of interest include the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial which is dedicated to those who lost their lives fighting in the Middle East and a downtown area.

9. Seneca

The oldest surviving structure along the canal, the M. J. Hogan Grain Elevator, is located in Seneca. Once the canal was established, grain was stored in canal-side elevators before it was shipped elsewhere. The I & M Canal cuts through the heart of the village's downtown where you'll find a park and the Veterans Memorial Wall monument nearby.

How many of these historic canal towns have you visited? Please let us know your thoughts in the comment section.

If you are interested in exploring more of the I & M Canal, there's a mule-pulled historic boat tour you can take. It's an experience unlike any other!