Chasing Summer in Northwest Illinois

July might be winding down, but Northwest Illinois’s summer is still strong. Before back-to-school sales start creeping in and pumpkin spice takes over, there’s still time to squeeze out every last drop of sunshine. Whether craving a river float, local flavor, or a scoop of something sweet, Lee and Ogle Counties in Northwest Illinois deliver small-town summer magic in spades.

Read on for six ways to make the most of the season, while it’s still sizzling.

1. Float the Rock River

There’s no better way to chill out than drifting down the Rock River. Head to White Pelican in Oregon for kayak, canoe, or tubing rentals. They’ll even shuttle you upriver, so all you have to do is sit back, paddle a little, and soak in the scenery. You might spot bald eagles, herons, or just the bottom of your cooler.

Pro tip: Reservations recommended on weekends. They fill up fast when the sun’s out.

2. Hike the Open Prairie—or Splash Through a Shaded Creek

For wide-open prairie views and a chance to see real bison, head to Nachusa Grasslands. The sweeping landscape is home to native wildflowers, pollinators, and a herd of free-roaming bison. Explore public trails or join a guided hike to learn more about this rare and beautiful ecosystem.

Prefer shade and pine-scented air? White Pines State Park near Mt. Morris offers cool, wooded trails and a summer favorite—Pine Creek, which winds through the park (and even crosses the road in spots). Kids love splashing through the shallow water, and the whole park is perfect for a slower-paced hike, picnic, or photo op beneath the limestone bluffs.

Pro tip: Nachusa is all open prairie—go early to beat the heat. For a cool, shaded stroll, White Pines is your go-to.

3. Dine Outside with a View

Craving a meal with a breeze and a beer? Grab a seat on the patio at Hairy Cow Brewing Company in Byron, where riverfront views pair perfectly with craft brews and wood-fired pizza.

Other standout spots for outdoor dining with a twist:

• The Flight Deck Bar & Grill in Rochelle – Located at Chicagoland Skydiving Center, this place serves up burgers, beer, and a front-row seat to skydivers floating down from the clouds. It’s got serious “did that just happen?” energy.
• The River’s Edge Inn in Dixon – A laid-back riverside bar and grill with its dock on the Rock River, making it a favorite stop for boaters and bikers alike. Cold drinks, hot food, and Rock River views? Yes, please.

?Pro tip: Call ahead for patio seating at Flight Deck or Hairy Cow Brewery—both fill up fast on warm, clear evenings.

4. Cool Off with a Local Cone

Scoop up summer nostalgia at these beloved ice cream stops:

• Dairy Delite in Amboy – Classic walk-up stand with soft serve, shakes, and sundae smiles.
• Dairy Delite in Dixon – Same charm, local favorite. Flurries, dipped cones, and root beer floats.
• Jay’s Drive-In in Oregon – Old-school cool with burgers, cones, and red vinyl booths. This place deserves its own blog article (and don’t worry—it’s coming).

Pro tip: Enjoy your cone along the Dixon Riverfront or take it to Mix Park in Oregon for a classic summer scene.

5. Hit up a Farmers Market (or two)

Northwest Illinois keeps it fresh—literally. Whether you’re after sweet corn, baked goods, or handmade soap, there’s a market with your name on it.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Dixon City Market – Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m.
  Held along the Dixon Riverfront, this evening market runs from June through August and feels like a mini-festival. Expect live music, food trucks, and a fun crowd.
• Dixon Farmers Market at Haymarket Square – Wednesdays & Saturdays, 7 a.m.–noon
  This is your more traditional, early-bird-style market with produce, plants, and locally made goodies.
• River’s Edge Farmers Market in Oregon
  • June–July: Thursdays, 5–7:30 p.m. at the corner of 2nd & Washington
  • August–September: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at 418 W. Washington St.
    It’s small but mighty, with local produce, crafts, and a welcoming vibe.

Pro tip: Evening markets are great if you want a social scene. Morning markets are best for getting first pick of the goods.

6. Free Music

Summer evenings were made for relaxing in lawn chairs and enjoying live music. Check our event calendar under “live music” often to find what’s closest to you. Dixon had two weeknight events during the summer, the Dixon City Market on Wednesdays and Music at the Square on Fridays. In Mt. Morris, the Mt. Morris Jamboree draws large crowds every Friday evening. The weekly outdoor concerts are community-sponsored and cost nothing but a good attitude.

Bring a blanket or a chair, grab a beverage, and catch that small-town sparkle under the stars.

Don’t Let Summer Slip By

From prairie hikes to patio nights, Lee and Ogle Counties are full of summer moments waiting to happen. So grab your sandals and sense of adventure—there’s still time to chase the sun before the leaves start turning.