Livingston County: Nature, Route 66 and History

A trip to Livingston County can focus on different things: nature along the Vermilion River, historic Route 66 near Dwight, or the buildings and museums in Pontiac. If you’re looking for a hotel, it helps to first decide which of these themes you want to shape your stay.

Nature along the Vermilion River

Humiston Woods is located along the Vermilion River in Livingston County and comprises 336 acres of hardwood forest and 8 acres of restored prairie. The hardwood forest covers considerably more land; the smaller prairie nevertheless forms a distinct landscape type within the area. If you’re looking for more than one uniform woodland setting, you’ll find both here in one place. Humiston Woods is open daily year-round from 8 a.m. until dusk. Check the opening hours before your arrival.

Route 66 and Getting There

Historic Route 66 passes through Livingston County near Dwight; most of Dwight lies within the county. Ambler's Texaco Station, built in 1933 and later renovated, is in Dwight. Today it serves as a visitor and information center.

Pontiac has an Amtrak stop on the Lincoln Service and Texas Eagle routes. Daily services run to Chicago, Joliet, Bloomington-Normal, Springfield and St. Louis. If you’re traveling by train, check the schedule for your travel date.

The Pontiac Jolly Trolley is a hop-on, hop-off service between Pontiac’s main historic and tourist attractions. It operates most Saturdays in spring, summer and fall. If you want to include it in your plans, check the operating days for your specific travel date. The Amtrak stop and the trolley serve different purposes: the train connects Pontiac with the cities listed above, while the trolley runs between attractions within Pontiac.

Historic Buildings and Museums in Pontiac

Pontiac has three pedestrian suspension bridges over the Vermilion River; their iron structures are original. The oldest was built in July 1898, spans the river and leads from Riverside Drive to Play Park. It is 190 feet long.

The houses also have distinct features: the Yost House was built in 1898 and retains an almost unchanged interior. The Jones House is the oldest surviving brick house in Pontiac and has been restored. The Yost House is notable for its interior, while the Jones House stands out for its brick construction and preservation. The Museum of the Gilding Arts shifts the focus from individual buildings to craftsmanship: it presents the history and craft, as well as the use of gold and silver leaf in architecture and decoration.

The Livingston County War Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.; admission is free.

Discover more destinations: Dwight, Dupage, Adams, Henry County, Boone County, Woodford County, Stephenson, Gallatin.

For the main travel overview: Illinois.