Cortland IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cortland, Illinois.
1. Star Worlds Arcade
CLASSIC GAMING WONDERLAND
Star Worlds Arcade offers visitors a nostalgic journey through gaming history with its impressive collection of classic arcade games. Visitors can spend hours enjoying both vintage and modern arcade experiences in this highly-rated entertainment venue. The arcade provides a family-friendly atmosphere where gamers of all ages can test their skills across various gaming platforms.
2. Cracker Jax
CHARMING ANTIQUE SHOPPING
Cracker Jax is a beloved antique and specialty gift shop in Cortland that delights visitors with its carefully curated collection. The shop features a wide range of unique items from vintage collectibles to handcrafted gifts that can't be found anywhere else. Treasure hunters and casual shoppers alike appreciate the warm atmosphere and exceptional selection at this highly-rated local establishment.
3. Hometown Sports Bar & Grill
LOCAL FOOD AND FUN
Hometown Sports Bar & Grill serves as both a popular dining destination and social hub for locals and visitors in Cortland. The establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy tasty American fare while watching sporting events on multiple screens. With its friendly service and community-centered approach, this well-rated venue provides an authentic taste of local culture.
4. Otter Cove Aquatic Park
SPLASHING WATER ADVENTURE
Otter Cove Aquatic Park provides a refreshing escape with its extensive water attractions suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy multiple water slides, a lazy river, and various swimming areas in this well-maintained facility near Cortland. The park combines thrilling water activities with relaxing spaces, making it an ideal destination for families seeking summer fun.
5. Pioneer Sholes Historic Site
GLIMPSE INTO THE PAST
Pioneer Sholes Historic Site offers visitors a fascinating window into Illinois' pioneering past through preserved structures and historical exhibits. The site commemorates the early settlers of the region and their contributions to the development of DeKalb County. History enthusiasts can explore authentic period buildings and learn about the challenges and triumphs of frontier life in this educational attraction.
6. Epic Air Trampoline Park
BOUNCING INDOOR EXCITEMENT
Epic Air Trampoline Park delivers high-energy entertainment for thrill-seekers with its extensive indoor trampoline facilities. Guests can bounce, flip, and soar across interconnected trampolines or challenge themselves in specialized activity zones. The park provides a perfect venue for active fun regardless of weather conditions, making it a popular destination for families and groups near the Cortland area.
7. Rochelle Railroad Park
TRAIN WATCHING PARADISE
Rochelle Railroad Park attracts train enthusiasts from across the region with its prime location at the crossing of two major rail lines. Visitors can observe freight trains passing through the diamond intersection from a comfortable, elevated viewing platform. The park features informative displays about railroad history and provides an excellent photography opportunity for those fascinated by these powerful machines.
8. Art History Brewing
CRAFT BEER AND CULTURE
Art History Brewing combines the craftsmanship of beer-making with artistic expression in its unique brewing establishment near Cortland. Visitors can sample a rotating selection of creatively crafted beers in a space that celebrates both brewing traditions and artistic innovation. The brewery offers tours that explain their brewing process while showcasing how art influences their distinctive approach to creating exceptional craft beverages.
9. Cahokia Mounds
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN CITY
Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the remarkable remains of the largest pre-Columbian Native American city north of Mexico. Visitors can explore the 2,200-acre site featuring numerous earthen mounds, including Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen structure in the Americas. The interpretive center provides fascinating insights into the sophisticated Mississippian culture that thrived here between 1050 and 1350 CE.
10. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
GATEWAY TO WESTERN EXPLORATION
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp River Dubois, the winter camp where the Corps of Discovery prepared for their momentous journey westward. The 14,000-square-foot interpretive center showcases fascinating exhibits about the expedition's preparation and the challenges they would face. Visitors can explore an outdoor replica of the camp and gain insight into this pivotal moment in American exploration history.
11. Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY TRAIL
The Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area encompasses numerous historic sites across Illinois where visitors can walk in the footsteps of America's 16th president. Travelers can explore Lincoln's homes, courthouses where he practiced law, and museums dedicated to his life and legacy. This comprehensive collection of Lincoln-related sites provides an immersive journey through the personal and political development of one of the nation's most revered leaders.
12. Northern Illinois University Art Museum
DIVERSE ARTISTIC EXPRESSIONS
Northern Illinois University Art Museum showcases diverse artistic works from various periods and cultural traditions in its elegant gallery spaces. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions that feature both established and emerging artists alongside selections from its permanent collection. Visitors can enjoy thoughtfully curated displays that encourage deeper appreciation of visual arts in this cultural gem near Cortland.
13. Ellwood House Museum
VICTORIAN MANSION ELEGANCE
Ellwood House Museum preserves the magnificent Victorian mansion built by barbed wire entrepreneur Isaac Ellwood in the late 19th century. Visitors can tour the opulent interior featuring original furnishings, ornate woodwork, and period decorations that showcase the lifestyle of one of DeKalb's most prominent families. The museum grounds include additional historic buildings and beautiful gardens that enhance this glimpse into America's Gilded Age.
14. Kishwaukee River
SCENIC PADDLING ADVENTURE
The Kishwaukee River offers outdoor enthusiasts a tranquil escape with its scenic waters flowing through the countryside near Cortland. Paddlers can enjoy kayaking or canoeing along tree-lined shores where wildlife sightings are common in this natural corridor. The river provides accessible recreation for all skill levels with several convenient launch points and gentle currents throughout much of the year.
15. Egyptian Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Egyptian Theatre stands as a stunning example of Egyptian Revival architecture and serves as a vibrant performing arts center near Cortland. Built in 1929, this historic venue hosts a diverse calendar of events including concerts, films, and theatrical productions in its beautifully restored interior. Visitors can marvel at the authentic Egyptian-inspired details while enjoying modern entertainment in this unique cultural landmark.