Tired of the city? Explore some of the nearby suburbs! We’ve toured Aurora, Naperville, and many other areas in the past. Now, we set foot onto Oak Grove, a quaint town tucked off the Mississippi river. Oak Grove is a village in Rock Island County, Illinois. Right next to many scenic parks, there are tons of things to do in Oak Grove whether you prefer to explore the beautiful winery in-town or take a short hike around.
Old Oaks Winery
10814 1st St W, Milan, IL 61264
Nothing beats a wide range of wines and crafted cheese boards. No matter what time of year it is, you are guaranteed a great time at the Old Oaks Winery. Whether you choose to walk in during their weekend hours or pre-plan your next event, you will not be disappointed. What’s better than delicious wine at $6 a glass or $24 a bottle?
The ambiance is warm, inviting, and cozy. The perfect setting for your choice of red, white, or rose and a tasty charcuterie box on the side. As the weather warms up, their spacious patio will open back up, live music will bring an added bit of life to the place, and they even set up bags. It is also the ideal place to have a beautiful wedding at a cozy winery closer to home.
Knoxville Tap
8716 Knoxville Rd, Milan, IL 61264
Located on the outskirts of Oak Grove is Knoxville Tap. It is a beloved town favorite. One of the best low-key spots in the area for a few drinks and classic bar games for a night to unwind. Knoxville has games like slots, pool, darts, and more that make for a chill date night or a more quiet night with friends. It is even the perfect place to drink alone given the inviting service and regulars that populate the place every weekend.
For an added bonus (giving Knoxville its traditional dive bar feel), they serve peanuts and fresh bagged popcorn. The perfect combination with any drink.
Black Hawk State Historic Site
4801 11th St, Rock Island, IL 61201
Black Hawk State Historic Site is full of natural, ecological, historical, and archaeological features that make for an afternoon of exploration. For history buffs and those who enjoy learning about a unique cultural history, the Hauberg Museum and Refectory are great visits. They even offer field trips for an educational experience perfect for kids.
If you can bear the cold, there is also a beautiful park with a playground and several walking trails. It is a picturesque place to hike and isn’t too difficult of a trek, so feel free to make it an outing for the whole family.
Cristaudo’s
209 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901
Everything you’d expect from a family-owned bakery and more. Upon entrance, guests can feel the love and care put into this place. Cristaudo’s offers delectable pastries daily and have a full café menu with breakfast and lunch items. They also have a wonderful espresso menu with organic, fair-trade coffee. This is the perfect place to catch up with an old friend or bring your laptop to enjoy their beloved treats and free wifi.
They also serve local wine, beer, and spirits. So, it makes the ideal spot for a quiet girl’s night or a cozy first date. There is something here for everyone to enjoy on any occasion.
Backyard Bowl and Abides Bar and Grill
2020 1st St W, Milan, IL 61264
The Backyard Bowl and Abides Bar and Grill is a great spot for family fun, a night out with the friends, a date night, or to book an event. It’s entertainment and activity for any audience. They have several lanes accompanied by large screens above to enjoy the day’s important sports games. There are also tons of arcade games on the second level that will keep the kid’s busy all night long. It is an affordable place to eat, drink, bowl and play. It is your one-stop spot for a fun night out.
If you have a birthday in need of celebrating, sports team season coming to a triumphant end, or any large celebration in need of a large space with lots to do, Backyard Bowl is the place to book. They also have a banquet room that seats 80-100 people.
Big Muddy Brewing
1430 N 7th St, Murphysboro, IL 62966
Hospitality, lots of beer, and great company are all you really need. They have an expansive range of brews for beer lovers of all kinds. From a light-bodied ale to a traditional milk stout, their offerings are must try. If you can’t choose just one, they offer flights to get a little taste of everything. The brewery is a spacious local establishment that makes enjoying a good beer and company easy. If you find that the evening here has left you a bit famished, there are a ton of great restaurants nearby that are just a phone call away.
Featured Image: Old Oaks Winery