Seneca, Illinois: The State’s Shipyard on the Prairie
Roughly an hour away from downtown Chicago, Seneca, Illinois is a village easily accessible via Interstate 39 and 80. It is recognized as one of the towns where the Illinois & Michigan Canal passes. The canal itself attracts numerous hikers, photographers, and nature lovers to the area, but the city’s rich history is also an interesting asset of Seneca.
Best Time to Visit
To celebrate the town’s vibrant history, Seneca, Illinois hosts an annual Seneca Prairie Shipyard Days Festival in June. This held in commemoration of the town’s role in building Landing Ship Tanks during World War II. The summer season is just kicking in by this time of year, but most of Seneca, IL hotels are already jam-packed, if not expensive.
What to Do & Area Attractions
While in Seneca, you can take your family to a fun night out at the Echo Bowling Lanes. This family entertainment center, located within a 20-minute drive from the city, features 20 bowling lanes on top of a laser tag area, a game room, and a snack bar. If you’re the outdoor type, make time to stroll around the Goold Park in Morris, where most of the community events and festivals are held.
Super 8 by Wyndham Morris and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Morris are within walking distance from the Echo Bowling Lanes, with Super 8 being only a 16-minute walk away. Guests can enjoy a free breakfast at both hotels, although the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Morris offers more facilities, such as a business center and a gift shop.