A Day in Genoa

Genoa offers a mix of many great leisure activities for the entire family to enjoy. Take in the beautiful weather, and stunning sights by exploring one of the many wonderful outdoor activities

Shopping

Shoppers find an interesting variety of independently owned small shops in Genoa.  Several shops offer unique home furnishings, with each shop keeper selecting items that fit the personality of their own shop.  Gifts you won’t find elsewhere are here.  Books, herbal remedies and jewelry are available.  A winery and a quilt shop offer options not found in other downtowns.  Shoppers especially enjoy the ease of browsing downtown Genoa, with it’s concentration of businesses in a four block area.

Dining

Genoa offers a number of dining options, including a tea room serving an elegant casual lunch as well as tea, a full service cafe serving a great breakfast and large lunch menu, two Italian restaurants serving great pizza and Italian specialties at lunch and dinner, a traditional tavern serving burgers, sandwiches and sometimes a great prime rib, and quick breakfasts and lunches for eat in or take out at a convenient deli counter.

Golf

Genoa is home to an outstanding golf course.  The 18 hole, par 72 course is open to the public.  With four sets of tee boxes, it offers golfers of all abilities an enjoyable experience.  The course is one of northern Illinois’ prettiest, with mature trees and the Kishwuakee River winding through it.

Russell Woods Forest Preserve

Located just west of downtown, Russell Woods has activities for every season.  Hiking and picnicking are popular in the Spring, Summer and Fall.  Tobogganing and cross country skiing are available in the winter.  A nature center with exhibits and special activities is open year round.

The Kishwaukee River

The winding, wooded Kishwaukee River offers canoeing and fishing.  Canoes can be rented in town or bring your own canoe or kayak.  Fishing can be done from the bank, bridges or wading.  Wildlife is abundant and picnic lunches can be brought in or purchased in town.

Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Museum

This excellant museum is housed in an 1882 railroad depot.  The collection focuses on the daily life of area pioneers.  Call for hours.  815 784-5559.

Special Events

Whether its an Open Air Market, holiday celebration, free outdoor movie or any of the many special events held throughout the year, Genoa can offer you fun in a friendly small town atmosphere.  Check out the calendar page for information on upcoming events.