About
The opening of the Illinois & Michigan Canal in 1848 profoundly impacted the growth of Grundy County. Allowing produce, wheat, and farm goods to easily make their way to Chicago and bringing consumer goods, fashion, and lumber in return, Morris quickly became a center of commerce and travel. Grundy County communities prosper from a delightful mix of downtown shopping areas, boundless recreation found in the state parks, and hometown festivals celebrating the people and heritage of the county. Shop Morris’s historic downtown or conquer the fairways at Nettle Creek or Morris County golf clubs. Catch a thrill with Friday night stock car racing at Grundy County Speedway. Travel the Illinois & Michigan Canal for the first time, search for fossils at Mazon Creek or launch your boat at Stratton State Park for a day of fun on the Illinois River. Breathe in the peaceful balance of nature as you explore Gebhard Woods or Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area. Get to know the people and history of Grundy County at any of their hallmark events including Grundy County Corn Festival, Gebhard Woods Dulcimer Festival, Nostalgia Days, Heritage Tractor Adventure, Civil War Reenactments, Dollinger Family Farm Pumpkin Fest, and Gardner Days Festival. Includes Municipalities: Braceville, Carbon Hill, Coal City, Diamond, East Brooklyn, Gardner, Kinsman, Mazon, Minooka, Morris, Verona, & South Wilmington
