The Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area is the first of its kind: a national park of communities, not federal land. Based around the I&M Canal, which connected the Illinois River to Lake Michigan creating an all-water, inland route from the East Coast to the Gulf of Mexico, our National Heritage Area is made up of 60 cities and towns, from Chicago to LaSalle-Peru, who owe their growth to the canal.

Come Enjoy This Unique National Park

Get out of the classroom and introduce students to the canal that built Chicago. Click for more details about FIELD TRIPS.

Plan a fun, reasonably priced outing on our 1840s-replica Canal Boat for your company, organization, etc. Contact our GROUP TOUR Specialist today >

Become an I&M Canal JUNIOR RANGER. Have fun and learn about our National Heritage Area. Find locations and dates for our next Jr. Ranger Day.

SUPPORT OUR MISSION. Discover our 2023 achievements and 2024 plans. Then aid our efforts by donating!