About the Illinois Valley
Ranked best places to live in the Illinois Valley, with a variety of Things to Do – boutique and specialty shopping, entertainment, parks, fairs, and festivals.
- Peru Ranked #1 Place to Live in LaSalle County
- Oglesby Ranked #2 Place to Live in LaSalle County
- LaSalle Ranked #3 Place to live LaSalle County
- Utica Ranked #1 for Best Public Schools in LaSalle County.
With many cities and towns in the Illinois Valley area voted on the "Best Places to Live" lists, our vibrant community offers a remarkable quality of life with a traditional Midwestern lifestyle and values. Home of the #1 voted Attraction in the State of Illinois, Starved Rock State Park, whether you are here for a weekend, attending an event, or on business, there are plenty of things to do here and we hope you enjoy your visit and return often. Made up of 24 cities and villages in three counties, the region's educated workforce not only provides an abundant talent pool for companies, but also bolsters the region’s vibrancy, artistic and musical essence, and competitive edge in technology and innovation. The Illinois Valley is defined by a diverse economy, low costs of living and doing business, a creative culture and a well-educated population. Cultural diversity, unique neighborhoods, a variety of industries and a thriving creative community make north central Illinois among the nation’s best locations for relocating, expanding and startup companies.
We invite you to discover the wealth of exciting attractions the Illinois Valley has to offer, with a multitude of arts, culture and entertainment, trails and parks, fairs and festivals, restaurants, hotels, and shopping.
Discover Illinois Valley History
Traveling in the Illinois Valley
Community Clubs & Organizations