In the early 1850s, construction of the Illinois Central and Rock Island railroads brought a new wave of settlers. Coal mining also became an important part of the Illinois Valley, but by the 1920s the era of the coal mine ended.

The area has 4 distinct seasons with varying weather. The highest humidity of the year averages 70 to 75 percent. Average low temperatures in January dip to 20 degrees with highs near 35 degrees. Spring temperatures are mild with humidity below 70 percent. The highest rainfall of the year occurs during the summer.

The Illinois Valley has 29 public, 5 parochial and 8 high schools plus a vocational center. Higher education is served by Illinois Valley Community College.

Area health care needs are served by 3 neighboring hospitals and a range of medical specialties and services.

Grand Bear Lodge and Water Park is the newest attraction to the Starved Rock area. You'll also enjoy the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center Pow Wow. Cultural needs are served by the Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, Stage 212 Inc., Engle Lane Theatre, Art on the Prairie, the Ottawa Mural Walking Tour and more.

Area museums include the LaSalle County Historical Museum, the Isle a la Cache Museum, Lincoln-Douglas Debate Memorial, Joliet Area Historical Museum, the Union Railroad Museum and more.

Lock 14 on the Illinois-Michigan Canal at LaSalle is great for fishing and is now part of the National Historic Corridor. Also of interest are Coal Mine Park and Matthiessen State Park. Starved Rock State Park offers miles of hiking trails, sandstone bluffs, canyons and the remnants of 2 Indian villages. The Illinois River features super water sports, summer sailing, water-skiing and more. The Vermilion River offers the best white water canoeing in the state. Truly, fishermen and hunters are in their glory in the Illinois Valley!

You'll also find 5 excellent golf courses, bicycling, horseback riding, rafting, camping and much more!

Utica, the Illinois Valley and LaSalle County have much to offer. Come and find out for yourself why this is a great place to live. Our United Country office is here to serve your needs and find your dream!

Photos compliments of Country Village Studio