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

NEW I&M CANAL MERCH! Check out these new T's, totes and more on our partner site >

**Limited Time Offer** Get Tom Willcockson's PASSAGE TO CHICAGO signed by Tom! Great for lovers of local & U.S. history, illustrations and art or for people who just enjoy a compelling story >

Check out the updated menu at THE LOCK 16 CAFÉ and come enjoy scratch-made breakfasts, lunches and baked goods along with made-to-order cold beverages and coffee drinks⁠ >

Explore La Salle with our LA SALLE COUNTY HISTORY PASSPORT! Get the guide book. Collect stamps at 12 sites within the county. And, enter to win prizes. Click for all the details >