Straight Off I-88: Small-Town Stops from Dixon to Sublette
When autumn rolls in and the Midwest air turns crisp, there’s no better time to head west on I-88 for a quick escape. Within two hours of Chicago, the exit at Dixon opens the door to Lee County, where three communities—Dixon, Amboy, and Sublette—offer history, food, art, and plenty of small-town surprises. Whether you’re after an easy day trip or a weekend getaway, this itinerary shows why this stretch of Northwest Illinois is worth the drive.
Stop 1: Dixon — Big Comfort Meets Riverfront Charm
Population: ≈15,000
History & Culture
As the largest community in Lee County, Dixon makes a natural starting point. Stroll through Heritage Crossing Riverfront Plaza, a scenic space along the Rock River, or enjoy one of the city’s walking paths. Art and history lovers will find plenty to explore, from visual arts at The Next Picture Show to live theatre and entertainment at The Dixon: Historic Theatre andDixon Stage Left.
Hot Tip: Visit Heritage Crossing around sunset for glowing fall views over the Rock River.
Food & Outdoors
Dixon’s dining scene includes homestyle eateries like Mom’s Restaurant and flavorful dishes at Leo’s Marvelous Bites, a Puerto Rican favorite. For casual evenings, grab a seat at Shamrock Pub, Alley Loop, or Sonny’s Bar. Shoppers will enjoy Dixon’s retail therapy, and new lodging like the TRU by Hilton makes overnight stays easy.
Hot Tip: Dixon has so many restaurants that it’s hard to choose. Ask a local for their favorite—you’ll get a different answer every time.
Stop 2: Amboy — A Town Built on History
Population: ≈2,200
History & Culture
Amboy’s railroad heritage shines at the Amboy Depot Museum, where exhibits highlight how the rails shaped the region. Just down the road is the site of the first Carson Pirie Scott store, an Illinois retail landmark. Today, it’s home to the Long Branch Saloon, where you can literally dine on history.
Hot Tip: Snap a photo at the Carson Pirie Scott plaque, then head inside Longbranch for a meal at the birthplace of a retail giant.
Food & Outdoors
Amboy’s dining is hearty and welcoming. The Last Alarm Firehouse Pub serves classic pub fare, while Sheridan’s Walton Tap (on the Amboy/Dixon border) is legendary for fried chicken. Outdoors, the Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve offers trails and bird-watching, and Green River Oaks Camping Resort is a relaxing spot for camping in a cabin, tent, or camper.
Hot Tip: Order the fried chicken at Walton Tap. It’s the stuff of local legend.
Stop 3: Sublette — Small but Spirited
Population: ≈370
History & Culture
Sublette may be small, but its community spirit is mighty. Sublette 365, an organization that promotes events to support the village, promotes year-round events. It brings locals and visitors together for markets, festivals, and gatherings that showcase small-town life.
A highlight is the Hops + Harmony Festival, held each September. This annual celebration of craft beer and live music has quickly become one of Northwest Illinois’ favorite fall events. Be sure to put it on your calendar for next year.
Hot Tip: Sublette is home to Illinois’s only reproduction set of Burma Shave signs. Installed in 1995 after the town won a national contest, these nostalgic roadside signs are a fun piece of Americana.
Food & Outdoors
Sublette’s eateries are cozy and welcoming. Stop at Local Cup & Cake for coffee and dessert, Roadhouse for a hearty plate, or La Fiesta for Mexican flavors. Surrounded by farmland and vast skies, the village offers a peaceful finale to your Lee County road trip.
The Perfect Lee County Loop
This road trip is easy on time but big on experience. Dixon anchors the journey with hotels, arts, and riverfront scenery. Amboy balances history with hearty eats and natural escapes. Sublette closes the loop with quirky energy and hometown hospitality. Together, they showcase what makes Lee County special.
And with I-88 dropping you right into Dixon, there’s no hassle getting here—just a straight shot to small-town Illinois at its best.