De Pue IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near De Pue, Illinois.
1. Lake DePue
SCENIC WATERFRONT RECREATION
Lake DePue is a centerpiece of the village offering opportunities for boating and fishing despite environmental challenges. The lake hosts the annual DePue Pro National Championship Boat Races, drawing spectators from across the country to this exciting event. Visitors can enjoy the lakeside park with food vendors and entertainment during racing weekends.
2. Donnelly-DePue State Fish & Wildlife Area
NATURAL HABITAT PRESERVE
The Donnelly-DePue State Fish & Wildlife Area provides excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching near DePue. This protected natural area showcases the rich biodiversity found along the Illinois River Road. Nature enthusiasts can observe various species in their natural habitat while enjoying outdoor recreation activities.
3. Illinois River Road Scenic Byway
PICTURESQUE DRIVING ROUTE
The Illinois River Road Scenic Byway passes through DePue, offering travelers a picturesque driving experience with stunning views of the Illinois River valley. This designated scenic route connects visitors to numerous natural areas, historical sites, and small river towns. Travelers can enjoy the changing seasons and diverse landscapes as they explore this beautiful corridor.
4. DePue Men's Club
COMMUNITY SOCIAL ORGANIZATION
The DePue Men's Club is a social and volunteer organization that plays a vital role in community events and activities. This group organizes the famous boat races on Lake DePue in partnership with the American Power Boat Association. Their dedication to the community was demonstrated when they helped build a dam and raise water levels to save the National Championship Races during the drought of 2012.
5. Tiskilwa Farms Alpacas
CHARMING ALPACA FARM
Tiskilwa Farms Alpacas offers visitors a unique opportunity to meet and learn about these gentle, curious animals. The farm, located near DePue, provides educational tours where guests can interact with alpacas and learn about alpaca fiber production. Visitors often enjoy shopping for alpaca wool products in the farm's store, taking home a soft, sustainable souvenir.
6. Chapel Hill Golf Course and Events Center
GOLF AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Chapel Hill Golf Course and Events Center provides recreational golfing opportunities for visitors to the DePue area. The well-maintained course offers a pleasant day of golf for players of various skill levels. Their events center also hosts special occasions such as weddings and gatherings in a picturesque setting.
7. Lovejoy Homestead
HISTORIC ABOLITIONIST SITE
The Lovejoy Homestead is a specialty museum near DePue that preserves the history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois. This historic site was once the home of abolitionists Owen and Eunice Lovejoy who helped enslaved people escape to freedom. Visitors can tour the preserved 1850s home and learn about this important chapter in American history.
8. Bureau County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVATION
The Bureau County Historical Society Museum showcases the rich history of the region including DePue and surrounding communities. Located in Princeton, this museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area's development. Visitors can explore multiple galleries highlighting different aspects of Bureau County's heritage.
9. Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
HISTORIC CANAL RECREATION
Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts a 104.5-mile linear park following a historic canal near DePue. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing along this engineering marvel that once connected the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. The park's trail system provides scenic views of woodlands, wildlife, and historic locks and aqueducts.
10. Red Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE
The Red Covered Bridge is a picturesque historic landmark located in rural Princeton near DePue. Built in 1863, this wooden covered bridge spans Big Bureau Creek and is one of only five remaining covered bridges in Illinois. Visitors can walk through this well-preserved structure and enjoy the peaceful countryside setting.
11. Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area provides excellent opportunities for fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation in the DePue region. The area features multiple lakes stocked with fish species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Bird watchers will appreciate the diverse habitats that attract various species throughout the seasons.
12. Hornbaker Gardens
SPECTACULAR PLANT DISPLAYS
Hornbaker Gardens is a renowned horticultural destination featuring extensive collections of hostas, daylilies, and other ornamental plants near DePue. Visitors can wander through beautifully designed garden spaces showcasing thousands of plant varieties in a natural setting. Their retail nursery offers many of these specimens for purchase, allowing garden enthusiasts to bring home unique plants.
13. Bureau County Fair
ANNUAL COUNTY CELEBRATION
The Bureau County Fair is a beloved annual event drawing visitors from DePue and throughout the region to Princeton. This traditional county fair features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, food vendors, and grandstand entertainment. Families can enjoy livestock shows, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and musical performances during this week-long celebration.
14. Matthiessen State Park
DRAMATIC CANYON LANDSCAPES
Matthiessen State Park showcases spectacular canyons, streams, prairie, and forest areas within a short drive from DePue. Visitors can hike trails that wind through dramatic rock formations, alongside picturesque waterfalls, and through lush vegetation. The park's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife and provide opportunities for photography, picnicking, and seasonal activities.
15. Starved Rock State Park
ICONIC ILLINOIS WILDERNESS
Starved Rock State Park is Illinois' most famous natural attraction located near DePue, featuring 18 sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater. Hikers can explore more than 13 miles of trails leading to stunning overlooks, seasonal waterfalls, and unique rock formations. The park's lodge and visitor center provide amenities and educational programs about the area's natural and cultural history.