The IL Valley identifies the towns along the Illinois River and includes LaSalle-Peru, Ottawa, Utica, Mendota, Princeton, and other surrounding towns
Map
Sections
3
Food and drink
Shopping
Places to visit
Food and drink
Local restaurants, cafes, and beverage shops
My family has gone here specifically for breakfast for YEARS! They never fail!
Country House Restaurant - LaSalle
A must go for breakfast or brunch
Garden Berry Cafe - Ottawa
This will forever be the best Chai latte I’ve ever had, my go to every time!
Bean Box Espresso - LaSalle
A variety of fresh baked breads and pastries every day! The staff here is so friendly
Millstone Bakery - LaSalle
The best and most authentic Chinese food around! The buffet is amazing but they also have a menu to order from if you ask me
China House - Mendota
This place is known for their bagels and it does not disappoint! I love the plain bagels with a mixed berry cream cheese
4th Street Bakery & Cafe - LaSalle
This little snack spot is based off the owners dogs- they sell coffees, teas, ice cream, and sandwiches! I love a lemonade with strawberry boba
Bruce & Ollie's - Utica
Shopping
Support independent businesses!
The owners are so nice and host multiple oddity venders that feature crystals, bones, furs, insects, jewelry, and more
Chaos and Curiosities - LaSalle
LGBTQ+ owned! They always have stuff for sale, they host classes, and you can buy a membership to use their studio space
Grateful Clay Studio & Gallery - Ottawa
This place is FULL with such a wide variety of vintage goods- clothes, dishware, appliances, nick knacks, jewelry, tools, furniture, and more! Also pay attention to how stuff is discounted based on how long it’s been there
Main Street Estates - Ottawa
Places to visit
Cost free activities
Matthiessen is my favorite to do some more down and dirty hiking! Trails are easily accessible while still being an engaging way to get your body moving
Matthiessen State Park
This park is full of interesting indigenous history and offers clear walking trails
