Discover the pulse of our vibrant community! A world of winding rivers, historic main streets and urban destinations await you in Kankakee County. We are just an hour south of Chicago, conveniently located along I-57. Feeling adventurous? The 4,000-acre Kankakee River State Park is the perfect destination for a day trip or campout under the stars. Explore over 10-miles of trails, ideal for leisurely strolls, invigorating bike rides or joyful family outings. Paddle through Kankakee County’s picturesque landscape where you are greeted with breathtaking views of native foliage and fauna, limestone outcrops, and even the rare bald eagle. The local kayak and canoe outfitter, Reed’s Canoe Trips, offers drop off and pickup with multiple options for length and duration of trips. Make a whole day of it and stop for a bite to eat and a cold beverage along the way. The Kankakee River is recognized as a Federal Clean Stream and offers plentiful opportunities to catch small and large mouth bass when shoreline wading, boat, or fly-fishing.  Enjoy a great day with family at The Grove, in Bourbonnais, where the young, as well as the young-at-heart, can whirl around the outdoor synthetic ice rink, cool off in the splashpad or relax around the firepits. 

Kankakee County boasts plenty of festivals and events offering a unique blend of heritage and fun. Let the foodie in you explore the grounds of the annual Food Truck Festival where you can indulge in some of the best barbecue, tacos, and sweets. Vendors come from all over Illinois to share their delicious delicacies. Take in the art and sounds of the area’s top summer music festival, Merchant Street MusicFest, where local, regional, and national acts all come together to celebrate music, community, and culture. 

Kankakee County is bursting with entertainment! From cozy date nights to nights out on the town, there’s a spot for everyone. Experience elevated dining at Flight 102 Wine Bar, Rigo’s Place and BrickStone Brewery. The Venu’ Lounge invites you to unwind with your favorite libation and a side of smooth jazz. Create your own wine flight at Cork Wine Bar or sip on a creative cocktail or mocktail paired with a fudge flight at The Lush Vine. Taste the hops at Knack Brewing & Fermentations in the fun eclectic atmosphere of their tasting room or by relaxing on the patio, which offers spectacular views of the Kankakee River. Embark on a beer flight journey at BrickStone Brewery, an Illinois Made Maker. We highly recommend the Hop Skip and Cherry Bomb, paired with mouthwatering appetizers. Candied bacon? Yes, please! If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, head to Locavore Farm for their signature Saturday night Dine-on-the-Land Dinner Experience. This four-hour, five-course meal spotlights the bounty of the week’s harvest. Connect with friends, both new and familiar, enjoy acoustic tunes and catch a magical midwestern sunset as you dine at this beautiful 110-foot wooden table.

History and architecture buffs will love exploring the B. Harley Bradley House, Frank Lloyd Wright’s first prairie style home located in the beautiful Riverview Historic district. Take a trip back in time to learn about Kankakee County’s French-Canadian heritage at the Kankakee County Museum and French Heritage Museum. Easy to get to, yet hard to leave, Kankakee County has it all!  

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