Dixon Travel Guide

Visit Dixon, Illinois with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the natural attractions and cultural heritage of Dixon, and find the best things to do and places to stay.


Introduction to Dixon

Dixon, a serene and scenic city located in Northern Illinois, offers visitors a range of breathtaking experiences. From scenic drives and outdoor adventure to cultural attractions and historical sites, Dixon is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway. The city is known for its serene atmosphere, captivating flora and fauna, recreational parks, and top-notch museums.

List of Places to Visit in Dixon

Dixon has more than enough offerings to explore, creating an ideal vacation spot for tourists and families alike. Here are some of the best places to visit in Dixon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dixon Historic Center and Museum: Located in downtown Dixon, the museum offers an excellent glimpse into the history of Dixon, including the birthplace of Ronald Reagan. Visitors can explore the history of Dixon through exhibits, artifacts, and information.

  • John Deere Historic Site: Dedicated to the history of John Deere farm equipment, this site showcases various equipment and displays of farming tools. The grounds are ideal for exploring, and visitors can take a tour to discover more.

  • Lowell Park: This park has garnered popularity for the beautiful and elegant statue of Mr. Lincoln and a replica of a covered bridge that John Deere used to cross over Grant Creek.

Natural Attractions of Dixon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Page Park: The park offers visitors the chance to explore the outdoors in unique and family-friendly ways. There are plenty of playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, and sports fields. Visitors can also take a stroll or enjoy a picnic surrounded by the stunning landscapes.

  • Sinnissippi Park: With stunning views of the Rock River, this park offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and boating.

  • Ronald Reagan Trail: A 9-miles trail that starts at Lowell Park and ends at Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park. Visitors can either walk or bike through the trail and enjoy the serene landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dixon

Lowell Park

Lowell Park offers visitors some of the best hiking and biking opportunities in Dixon. There are paved trails for both bikers and hikers, as well as a series of dirt trails through the forested areas and around the creek.

Rock River Trail

Rock River Trail is another excellent spot for hikers and bikers. The route covers the whole river and offers several scenic views and points of interest along the trail. The trail runs through cities and small towns, providing an excellent way to explore them.

Best Things to Do in Dixon: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Walking Tour of Downtown Dixon: Walk around downtown Dixon and discover incredible gardens, antique shops, and art galleries.

  • Visit Wooden Nickel Winery: Enjoy some outstanding wine and beautiful vineyards at Wooden Nickel Winery.

  • Explore the City’s Bicentennial Park: The park offers fantastic recreational opportunities, and during summer, visitors can catch free music concerts, fireworks shows, and movies under the stars.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dixon

Day Activity
1 Visit Dixon Historic Center and Museum, the birthplace of Ronald Reagan
2 Enjoy hiking and biking at Lowell Park
3 Discover history and agriculture at John Deere Historic Site
4 Take a tour of the city to the Riverfront, Lincoln Statue, and Veterans Memorial
5 Explore the great outdoors at Sinnissippi Park
6 Go shopping and taste local cuisine at local markets and restaurants
7 Enjoy an evening at the Wooden Nickel Winery

Food and Drink Scene of Dixon

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Chop Sandwich: A delicious pork chop served between two pieces of bread, a classic and favorite dish in Dixon.

  • Italian Beef Sandwich: Thinly sliced beef served on a roll with Italian seasonings. A popular dish in Dixon.

  • Deep Dish Pizza: A thick crust pizza filled with cheese and topped with tomato sauce. The perfect choice for pizza lovers.

Local Beverages

  • Wooden Nickel Wine: Located in the heart of Dixon, the vineyard offers some of the best wines in the region, including cabernet and chardonnay.

  • Ronald Reagan Home-brewed Beer: Visitors can taste a variety of locally brewed beers made in the honor of the former President Ronald Reagan.

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

  • Best Western Hotel: A well-established hotel famous for its accommodating rooms and amenities.

  • Comfort Inn & Suites: A top-rated hotel offering a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

  • Paddle Wheel Inn: A budget-friendly choice with classic rooms and accommodating staff.

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

  • Ronald Reagan Memorabilia: A great way to bring back a memory of the former President Ronald Reagan and his birthplace.

  • Wooden Nickel Wine: A great way to savor and remember one of the best drinks in Dixon.

Local Culture and Customs of Dixon

Dixon is renowned for its hospitality and love for its local cultures. The city takes pride in cultural heritage, which manifests itself through various festivals, events, and markets. For example, the Reagan festival is held annually to celebrate the life of Ronald Reagan, where people gather in large numbers to engage in various activities.

Best Time to Visit Dixon

The best time to visit Dixon is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities and tours. Dixon offers a mix of beauty and tranquility to visitors throughout the year, making it a great place to visit no matter the season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dixon

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs.
  • Carry some cash as many local stores do not accept other forms of payment.
  • Try some local dishes and wines.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Smoke in public areas.
  • Forget to tip the hotel staff and waiters.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dixon

Dixon is generally a safe place to visit and explore. However, visitors should take caution and follow safety tips, including not leaving valuables in cars, staying aware of surroundings, and familiarizing themselves with emergency contact information.

Health in Dixon

Dixon has several healthcare institutions, and visitors can avail themselves of medical assistance if the need arises. However, visitors should be careful to follow standard health precautions and take necessary health precautions before traveling.

Getting to Dixon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dixon

  • Chicago Rockford International Airport: Located 48 miles from Dixon, this airport offers international and domestic flights to visitors.

  • O’Hare International Airport: Located 103 miles from Dixon, this airport offers international and domestic flights to visitors.

Bus Stations Near Dixon

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Dixon city center, visitors can access interstate bus services from this station.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent cars or hire private transportation options to explore Dixon and its surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Dixon

Visitors can rent a car or rely on taxis, hired shuttles, or local transportation. Visitors can also explore the city on foot.

Where to Go Next from Dixon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Chicago: Located 100 miles from Dixon, this world-famous city offers visitors a range of attractions, including the famous Navy Pier, museums, and great restaurants.

  • Starved Rock State Park: Located 80 miles from Dixon, the park offers some of the best outdoor adventures like hiking, horseback riding, and fishing.

  • Moline: Located 70 miles from Dixon, this riverside city offers visitors a great selection of outdoor experiences and historical sites.

Conclusion

Dixon is an excellent destination that offers a range of indoor and outdoor activities, scenic views, and historical and cultural attractions. Whether you are traveling solo or with your family, Dixon is sure to leave you with memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. Plan your visit to Dixon today, and explore all the city has to offer.