Gardner Travel Guide

Discover the best of Gardner, Illinois with this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, here's everything you need to know about visiting this hidden gem in the Midwest.


Introduction to Gardner

Nestled in the heart of Central Illinois, Gardner is a charming town that boasts a rich history and natural beauty. Home to just over 1,000 residents, this hidden gem is the perfect place for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of rural America.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best of Gardner, from its top tourist attractions to its hidden gems. Whether you’re looking to soak up some culture, hike through scenic trails, or simply relax and unwind, Gardner has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Gardner

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Garfield Farm Museum: Take a trip back in time at this living history museum, where you can step inside an 1846 farmstead and learn about the daily life of Illinois pioneers.
  • Route 66 Park: Discover the historic Mother Road of America at this roadside park, which showcases vintage cars, classic signs, and other memorabilia from the heyday of Route 66.
  • Gardner Museum: Learn about the town’s rich history at this small-but-mighty museum, which features exhibits on local industries, schools, and military service.

Natural Attractions of Gardner: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area: Lace up your hiking boots and explore one of the largest grassland prairies in Illinois, where you’ll find an abundance of rare plants and wildlife.
  • Seneca Quarry: Marvel at the towering bluffs of Seneca Quarry, which made the town famous as a supplier of limestone for the Empire State Building and other iconic structures.
  • Kankakee River State Park: Cast a line, launch a kayak, or hike through the river’s stunning river valley at this breathtaking state park, located just a short drive from Gardner.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gardner

  • Wauponsee Glacial Trail: This 22-mile trail meanders through picturesque woodlands and prairies, offering stunning views of the Kankakee River and the surrounding countryside.
  • I&M Canal Trail: Follow the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal for 61 miles along a gentle, flat path that’s ideal for cyclists, hikers, and runners of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Gardner: Activities and Tours

  • Skydive Chicago: Take to the skies and experience the thrill of a lifetime with a tandem skydive over the Illinois prairies.
  • Starved Rock Adventures: Hit the water and explore the scenic Fox River on a guided kayak tour with Starved Rock Adventures.
  • Blackhawk Waterways Passport: Embark on a self-guided tour of the region’s top attractions and earn unique stamps to track your progress with the Blackhawk Waterways Passport.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gardner

Day Morning Afternoon Evening
1 Arrive in Gardner Garfield Farm Museum Route 66 Park
2 Goose Lake Prairie Kankakee River State Park Seneca Quarry
3 Skydive Chicago Gardner Museum I&M Canal Trail
4 Starved Rock Adventures Shopping in Downtown Gardner Wauponsee Glacial Trail
5 Blackhawk Waterways Passport Free Time Free Time
6 Day Trip to Chicago Free Time Free Time
7 Depart Gardner    

Food and Drink Scene of Gardner

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork chops: Savor the flavor of locally-raised pork at one of the town’s many cozy diners and family restaurants.
  • Sweet corn: Bite into a juicy ear of sweet corn, which is in season from June through August and grown in abundance in the surrounding fields.
  • Pies: Indulge your sweet tooth with a slice of homemade pie from one of the many bakeries and diners in town.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Sample locally-brewed beers at Tangled Roots Brewing Company, located just a short drive from Gardner.
  • Wine: Sip award-winning wines at August Hill Winery, which offers tastings, tours, and live music events throughout the year.

Where to Stay in Gardner: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Gardner Inn: This affordable, family-owned motel offers clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to the town’s top attractions.
  • The Mansion Bed & Breakfast: Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at this stately Victorian mansion, which boasts elegant rooms and gourmet breakfasts.
  • Kishauwau’s Starved Rock Area Cabins: Enjoy the peace and quiet of the Illinois countryside at these cozy, rustic cabins, which are located just a short drive from Gardner.

What to Buy in Gardner: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Seneca Quarry Limestone: Take home a piece of history with hand-carved limestone souvenirs from Seneca Quarry.
  • Sweet Corn: Bring the sweetness of summer home with you by purchasing locally-grown sweet corn from a roadside stand.
  • Illinois Route 66 Merchandise: Shop for vintage signs, postcards, and other memorabilia from the iconic red, white, and blue highway at one of Gardner’s many souvenir shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Gardner

Gardner is a friendly, welcoming town that prides itself on its strong sense of community. Residents are known for their hospitality and warmth, and visitors are often surprised at how quickly they feel at home in Gardner.

Best Time to Visit Gardner

The best time to visit Gardner is in the summer, when the weather is warm and sunny and the town comes alive with outdoor festivals, fairs, and markets.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gardner

Do:

  • Do stop and say hello to the friendly locals.
  • Do take advantage of the town’s many outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to kayaking and skydiving.
  • Do try the locally-grown sweet corn and other fresh produce.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and bug spray for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t leave without trying a slice of homemade pie!

Safety and Health

Safety in Gardner

Gardner is a safe, welcoming town with a low crime rate. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when hiking or kayaking in remote areas and to be mindful of ticks and other outdoor hazards.

Health in Gardner

There are several medical facilities located within a short drive of Gardner, including Morris Hospital and KSB Hospital in Dixon. Visitors are advised to bring any necessary medications and to consult with a physician before embarking on any physical activities.

Getting to Gardner: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gardner

  • O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
  • Midway International Airport (MDW)

Bus Stations Near Gardner

  • Greyhound Bus Station (Morris, IL)
  • Amtrak Station (Princeton, IL)

Other Options

  • Rental Car
  • Taxi
  • Uber or Lyft

How to Get Around in Gardner

The best way to get around Gardner and the surrounding area is by car. Rental cars are available at nearby airports and in Morris, IL.

Where to Go Next from Gardner: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Starved Rock State Park: Explore the stunning waterfalls and canyons of this beloved Illinois state park, located just a short drive from Gardner.
  • Chicago: Experience the excitement of the Windy City, located just 1.5 hours away by car or train.
  • Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway: Take a leisurely drive along this picturesque route, which showcases historic sites, scenic overlooks, and charming small towns.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to escape the city for a weekend or embark on a longer journey through rural America, Gardner is the perfect destination for travelers looking for culture, adventure, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive travel guide in hand, you’ll be ready to explore all that this hidden gem has to offer.