A locomotive sits in front of the Amboy Depot Museum
The Amboy Depot Museum is just one of many attractions throughout Lee County that make it the perfect destination for history and winter fun. Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

Whether you enjoy learning about history, winter activities, experiencing community theater or having quiet time at a local coffee shop, Lee County has a variety of offerings for all ages and interests.

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For more information and resources to help plan your trip, visit leecountyfun.com.

Named after Henry “Light-Horse Harry” Lee III, an officer in the American Revolutionary War and signer of the Declaration of Independence, Lee County counts 12 communities, including Ashton, Dixon, Franklin Grove, Paw Paw and Sublette.

From the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home to Nachusa Grasslands, read on for some must-see Lee County attractions to experience on your next visit.

1. Historical Museums

Amboy Depot Museum exterior
Photo credit: Lee County Tourism

Learn about the role newspapers played in the town’s history at the Dixon Telegraph Museum. Artifacts include an 1850s printing press, historic newspapers and photographs, a tribute to President Reagan, including photos from his days in Dixon, and more. The museum is open Tuesdays through Fridays for self-guided tours.

Built in 1876, the Amboy Depot served as the Illinois Central Railroad division headquarters in Amboy. The architecturally unique building, open April through October, allows visitors to tour the 19 museum rooms, including a freight house, a one-room schoolhouse, a steam engine, a caboose and an outdoor jail.

Journey through the founding of the city of Dixon from the 18th century through modern times at the Loveland Community House and Museum. Exhibits include a portrait of Dixon’s founder, John Dixon; original chemistry equipment from Charles Walgreen, founder of the first drugstore; Civil War weapons and artifacts; and much more. You can even host your special event here, with rooms available to rent throughout the property.

2. Dixon Stage Left

An actor on stage at Dixon Stage Left
Photo credit: RSHPhotography | Ross Haley

An intimate venue in downtown Dixon’s National Historic District, Dixon Stage Left is a small cabaret-style theater offering both classical and new productions. The theater provides six high-quality plays and musicals each season, ranging from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella to Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. As theater guests enjoy the talent of local thespians, whether a comedy, musical or serious drama, they can also partake in a beverage from The Crystal Cork to make it a fun and entertaining night out.

3. Franklin Creek State Natural Area and Grist Mill

The Franklin Creek Grist Mill with snow on the ground
Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

The Franklin Creek State Natural Area transforms into a winter wonderland with 4 miles of equestrian trails serving as snowmobile trails after hunting season concludes and a 4-inch snow base exists. The other 2 miles of equestrian trails transition to ski trails for skiers to wind their way through 65 acres of snow-covered wooded landscape. Additional sites at Franklin Creek include milling equipment, fossil viewing, a self-guided interpretive trail and the state’s only water-powered grist mill in operation (open April through October).

See more: Immerse Yourself in a Historical Getaway to Monroe County

4. Nachusa Grasslands

A bison covered in snow at Nachusa Grasslands
Photo credit: Charles Larry

Visitors of Nachusa Grasslands will most likely mention the free-roaming bison where you can drive your car to the viewing area and see adult bison and their calves. Chosen in 1986 by The Nature Conservancy as the best opportunity for the state to restore grasslands, the 3,500 acres of grassland feature many plants and animals, support cutting-edge ecological and environmental research projects, and host scientific studies to enhance habitat management practices. Upon arrival at the Visitor Center, follow a sloped area to the pavilion that features exhibits that tell the story of Nachusa.

5. John Deere Historic Site

Statue at John Deere Home and Historic Site
Photo credit: Todd Bennett

See history come alive when visiting John Deere’s original blacksmith shop. Visitors can stand in the spot where he created the first commercially successful steel plow. A free, wheelchair-accessible attraction, guests can explore the John Deere family home on their own or listen to guides as you experience what pioneer life was like in 1836. A blacksmith works in the shop daily, offering demonstrations while creating items for the unique and rustic gift shop. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic lunch under a covered pavilion.

See more: Heritage Canyon Showcases Farming Heritage Teaching Lessons From the Past

6. West First Street

A woman enjoys a book and coffee at Books on First in Dixon
Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

The West First Street area of Dixon has plenty for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican habanero salsa at Salamandra Restaurant, buying a new hobo bag at J Boutique or perusing the book selection at Books on First. Don’t miss the West End Wings, a larger-than-life painted mural by Nora Balayti that uses a cornucopia of color outside Balayti’s Automotive, her brother’s full-service automotive shop, where passersby often take fun winged selfies.

7. Reagan Boyhood Home

Exterior of Reagan's boyhood home
Photo credit: Lee County Tourism

Built in 1891, the restored Queen Anne-style three-bedroom home in Dixon allows visitors to meander through the rooms, visitor center and gift shop where the 40th president of the United States, Ronald Reagan, lived from when he was 9 to 12 years old in 1920 to 1923. Open for tours from March to December, guests watch a pre-tour film before enjoying an hourlong tour where you can learn how Reagan and his brother, Neil, shared a second-floor bedroom. Visitors also learn they used an outbuilding on the property for raising rabbits and the side yard for pickup football games.

See more: Visit the Past and Present in Petersburg

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