I&M Canal National Heritage Area — Attraction in LaSalle

This welcome center for the Illinois and Lake Michigan canal is wonderful. There are graphics all around the store to tell the stories. They have lots of gift items for sale. I bought one that shows Lincoln and says I walked the IM canal. It was one of his major infrastructure goals to have it built. The canal and other waterways would connect the east coast and New Orleans. I also bought a children's book telling many interesting stories about life on the canal. Jeri and I had the corned beef sliders and a homemade cookie each. They were very good. While Jeri was learning how to operate her new Bernina sewing machine, I went across the street to the Mexican supermarket. Boy, some of the food items I had never heard of or seen before. Afterwards, I walked down First street to the end of the business section. There are several vacant stores. Many are closed on Monday and Tuesday. I went into the LaSalle State Bank building. It is neoclassical on the exterior but very modern on the inside. A Hungarian immigrant painter painted about a dozen scenes of LaSalle which are wonderful. I asked if I could take pictures of them, but the CEO said no. I hope to find pictures of them somewhere...

I've lived around here my whole life, walked the towpath plenty of times, but I finally decided to visit the heritage center to get some breakfast. It was delicious! The English muffin had a good crunch, the eggs were cooked perfectly, and my hibiscus tea was so nice. The gentleman who served us was very kind. My girlfriend got the four cheese quiche and an iced white mocha. The espresso is roasty/robust. The prices are comparable to other...

I absolutely love the cafe inside of the Visitor Center. I got the half sandwich and the cup of white chili. I had a turkey with some cranberry chutney sandwich on marble rye. Both the chili and the sandwich were delicious!!! I purchased a quart of white chili and a quart of the minestrone soup to bring home. The soups and baked goods are made in house. This is a fantastic place to refuel. Adorable gift items in...