About Us

Explore the perfect blend of outdoor recreation, arts and culture, retail, dining, events, and smalltown charm, which creates an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors.

The natural beauty of the great outdoors beckons you to explore the hiking trails and playgrounds, promising a variety of fun-filled activities. Local artists showcase their talents at various galleries and events held throughout the area. Indulge in a diverse range of live performances, including music and theater.

Retail shops offer a wide range of products, from handmade crafts to boutique clothing, ensuring that everyone can find something they love. Throughout the year, the different towns host a variety of events that bring the community together. From festivals and parades to concerts and farmer’s markets, there’s always something happening.

But what truly sets this area apart is its small-town charm. The friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make everyone feel right at home. Exploring the back roads and hidden gems of the county allows you to connect with the community and discover all that Henry County has to offer.

Vision

The vision is to elevate Henry County as a wholesome destination where one can immerse themselves in the community and see what it means to be from Henry County.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the communities of Henry County to inspire visitors to come eat, play, and stay, which in turn, benefits the local residents within Henry County.

Core Values

  • Agriculture
  • Sustainability
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Community
  • Family Friendly
  • History
  • Inclusion
  • Culture/Arts

History:

After the previous Henry County Tourism Bureau became inactive in 2021, Henry County received a RISE grant award in 2022 to develop a plan for future tourism. The county worked with stakeholders and local government officials to form a new Henry County Tourism Board. The goal was to reintroduce a new Henry County Tourism Bureau that provides a stronger engagement of all tourism related stakeholders in the county. The plan not only aims to take advantage of the existing resources and attractions, but to also explore new opportunities for growth and to attract a larger number of visitors.

Kewanee is a city with a lot to offer! It boasts a diverse selection of parks with top-notch playgrounds, exercise equipment, a golf course, a public pool, a skate park, and various sports courts. If you prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of local boutiques and shopping outlets available. Make sure to visit Francis Park and explore the impressive home of Frederick Francis, built in 1890. The park provides camping grounds, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a baseball field. Additionally, you can dine at numerous restaurants, and catch a movie at the two-screen cinema, Wanee Theater. There’s no shortage of things to do in Kewanee.

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Geneseo is conveniently located just off Interstate 80 and minutes from I74 and I88. The town is known for its beautifully restored Victorian homes along tree-lined streets that evoke a Norman Rockwell painting. The downtown area is vibrant with a thriving retail business, colorful festivals, parades, local theater, and ice cream socials, offering a picture-perfect representation of life in Geneseo. Additionally, downtown Geneseo boasts a variety of unique shops featuring gifts, clothing, home furnishings, furniture, restaurants, and antiques. Free parking is available throughout the city, making it even more convenient for visitors to shop and dine in Geneseo.

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Galva is a charming small town known for its vibrant music scene and entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout the summer and fall, the town comes alive with events such as the Levitt AMP Music Series and the Backroads Music Festival. A Hallmark worthy attraction is the Farmgate Market with its pumpkin patch in the fall and tree farm in the winter. Additionally, Uncle Nolan’s Diner and Special Kneads Bakery are spots you don’t want to miss. The Galva Arts Council has a longstanding commitment to uniting people and fostering artistic expression within the community through a network of dedicated volunteers.

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Colona is home to Scott Family Park, providing a variety of outdoor experiences. Visitors can stay in one of the six cabins, camp in a tent or RV, fish and kayak in the pond, or enjoy swimming in the pool. The Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, running through Colona, is open daily for activities such as fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, and kayaking. Additionally, the Green Rock Memorial Bike Path runs along the Hennepin Canal. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, Lavender Crest Winery offers an impressive selection of award-winning wines, a delightful lunch menu, informative wine tours, and tastings, all delivered with a touch of hometown hospitality.

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Head down interstate 80 and take Exit 33 to reach the Village of Annawan, situated at the intersection of Historic State Highway Route 6 and Illinois Highway 78. Annawan Main Street boasts a lively downtown business community with a charming vintage ambiance and welcoming locals. Be sure to visit Paxton’s Corner Coop, a beloved spot for ice cream, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, and more, perfect for families. Another must-visit is the Purple Onion, a long-standing establishment where you can savor a delicious home-cooked meal infused with small-town charm.

If you’re in search of excitement and adventure, Atkinson Motorsports Park, also known as Gob Hill, is the place to be. With 216 acres of the old Peabody coal processing facility, now reclaimed by nature, it offers some of the best riding grounds around. And to experience true midwestern hospitality, be sure to stop by Lisa’s Place for a delicious home-cooked meal or freshly baked homemade treats. If you’re in need of a banquet hall for your next event, the Outer Edge has got you covered. There is a lot of small town charm packed into the Village of Atkinson and it would be a shame to miss it.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Cambridge or a resident, the village offers plenty of opportunities to keep you entertained and active. Cambridge is home to a variety of annual events and unique stand alone experiences. You can explore one of the three beautiful parks, indulge in activities like fishing or golf, and take part in the year-round music and art series. Additionally, there are diverse attractions such as a bakery, a toy museum, coffee shops, and pizzerias, ensuring there’s something for everyone in Cambridge.

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Orion is a town brimming with community dedication and pride. Whether it’s working to maintain a lively downtown area or supporting the local high school sports teams, the community always comes together. This strong community spirit is evident in the picturesque city park nestled in the town center, offering fantastic playground equipment, a pavilion, and live music year-round. Moreover, the town boasts a diverse range of local shops, including cozy coffee shops, welcoming bar & grills, and charming quilt shops. Exploring Orion definitely evokes a delightful small-town atmosphere.

Woodhull is a charming place with a lovely community park where people gather to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are several restaurants in town that offer outdoor seating, providing a great opportunity to dine al fresco and soak up the local ambiance. The town also hosts community events, fostering a strong sense of togetherness among the residents. Located near the interstate, the town is easily accessible for visitors, making it a convenient stop for travelers. The small town hospitality and charm truly make this place a special and welcoming community.

You’re invited to immerse yourself in the authentic enchantment of Bishop Hill, a living tradition that has been preserved for 178 years. This fully functional village is a registered historic landmark, and its residents continue to farm the surrounding countryside, cut firewood, and carry out traditional crafts and trades, just as their Swedish ancestors did. Bishop Hill hosts unique craft and antique shops, restaurants and events.  Come and experience a unique living piece of history at Bishop Hill. 

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Andover is a charming hidden gem that hosts enjoyable activities in a delightful small-town setting. The town seamlessly combines old historic buildings with new homes nestled around the picturesque 10-acre Andover Lake Park. Don’t miss out and bring your little ones to explore the toddler friendly playground, an ideal spot for a family picnic in the park.