Explore Area Attractions and Dining

Apple River Canyon State Park is a scenic 1,907‑acre park in Jo Daviess County, northwest Illinois, just a short drive from the motel. The park features limestone bluffs, deep ravines, springs, streams, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking on wooded trails, fishing in the Apple River, exploring the historic Millville site, or picnicking amid natural beauty. The rugged terrain reflects its origins as part of an ancient inland sea.

Located in Elizabeth, Apple River Fort State Historic Site preserves a reconstructed frontier fort that played a pivotal role in the 1832 Black Hawk War. Visitors can tour the replica stockade and visit the interpretive center, which features exhibits, a short film, and costumed reenactors. Period demonstrations bring frontier life to life on weekends. The battle itself lasted about an hour and involved nearly 200 Native warriors attacking about 30 militia defenders.

Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort, near Galena and overlooking the Mississippi, offers year-round outdoor activities. Winter visitors can ski or snowboard on 19 trails with a 475‑foot vertical drop, while summer brings alpine sliding, ziplining, mountain biking at the Farside Bike Park, and Mississippi River cruises. The resort also offers lodging, indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, and dining options like The Summit and Mountain Top Café.

The Stagecoach Trail is a scenic historic drive connecting Galena and Lena along the original 1830s stage route to Chicago. The gently winding two-lane road traverses rolling farmland, dairy country, and small historic towns. It remains popular with cyclists and motorcyclists who enjoy its curves and rural charm. Signposted and scenic, the drive offers a transportation history experience through northwest Illinois.

Horseshoe Mound Preserve spans nearly 200 acres just south of downtown Galena. Hiking trails climb to elevated viewing areas and a central council ring, offering panoramic vistas across three states, including forests, the Mississippi River, and surrounding geological mounds. Scenic outlooks include the Cooke and Mills Family overlooks. This relaxing site is ideal for nature walks, birdwatching, and witnessing state-wide sweeping views.

Massbach Ridge Winery, located a few miles from Elizabeth, has produced estate-grown wines since 2003. Guests can tour the vineyards and sample award-winning wines in the rustic tasting room overlooking the rolling hills. Both scenic outdoor seating and informative wine presentations are offered. The vineyard experience is enhanced by its rural setting and a variety of vintages crafted entirely on-site.

The Dowling House, built in 1826, is Galena’s oldest house and originally served as the town’s first trading post. Constructed of limestone by early settler John Dowling, it now functions as a museum with furnished rooms and artifacts from Galena’s lead-mining heyday. Guided tours of the restored structure, offered seasonally from May through November, last about 30 to 45 minutes and explore life in early nineteenth-century Galena.

Built in 1859–60 in Italianate style and presented to Ulysses S. Grant by Galena residents in 1865, this house is now preserved as the U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site. The interior features many original 1860s furnishings and interpretive tours focus on Grant’s Civil War service, political rise, and presidency. Opened to the public in 1904, it's managed by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency as a presidential historic site.

Situated approximately 13 miles south of Galena on the east bank of the Mississippi River, Blanding Landing Recreation Area offers boat ramp access and a picnic shelter. The site is known for excellent birdwatching and fishing in the river backwaters. Campers can enjoy kayaking, biking, and quiet riverside views in a woodland setting, away from busy roads.

Operated by the Elizabeth Historical Society, the Elizabeth History Museum houses over 4,000 artifacts that trace local life—from lead mining and agriculture to community institutions like schools and churches. The collection also includes a significant display of military memorabilia from local veterans. Open weekends from May through October, the museum offers free admission and rotating exhibits that bring Elizabeth’s history to life through authentic local artifacts.

Located in a refurbished 1875 Presbyterian church on Historic Highway 20, Highway 20 Brewing Company is a craft brewery offering a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Their menu features a rotating selection of beers brewed on-site, often paired with live music during weekends. The atmosphere in the restored brick and wood interior makes for a pleasant stop just minutes from Marcotte’s Family Motel.

Three Sisters Sweet Shoppe, situated on Highway 20 in Elizabeth, is a family-owned dessert boutique offering ice cream, cupcakes, and sweet treats. Visitors highlight its clean and cheerful atmosphere, with standout flavors from Chocolate Shoppe. It’s an ideal stop for dessert lovers and families exploring the Elizabeth area, blending a classic charm with modern sweets.

Small Town Saloon delivers classic bar food, pizza, and mixed drinks in a welcoming atmosphere. Customers note its affordable pricing and friendly service. Located just down the street from the motel, it’s a casual spot offering comfort food with a laid-back vibe—making it a reliable option for relaxed dinners or after‑hours drinks.

Lola’s Deli is a local deli in Elizabeth known for its hearty sandwiches made with fresh ingredients. Located within walking distance of the motel, the deli receives praise for its friendly service and generous portions. Though not formally chain-affiliated, it consistently ranks among the top dining spots in town, offering a casual place for breakfast or lunch with a local feel.