Discover LaSalle: Canal, Nature and Local History

LaSalle combines waterways, expansive landscapes, and remarkable local history. At the western end of the I&M Canal, you can enjoy a leisurely mule-drawn boat ride on calm waters. There is also an extensive trail, a wildlife park with a lake, historic sites, and places for a relaxed culinary break. Those looking for a vacation rental in LaSalle can therefore tailor their stay to different interests: with a day on the canal, a hike, cultural discoveries, or a visit to an event.

Exploring the I&M Canal

A special perspective on LaSalle is offered by the boat ride on the I&M Canal. The boat The Volunteer is 76 feet long, has 70 seats, and is moored in downtown LaSalle. The boat is pulled by mules and travels along the canal’s calm waters. This makes the experience one in which the atmosphere of the historic waterway matters more than moving quickly from one place to another.

The I&M Canal Visitor Center is a useful place to get oriented. Visitors will find exhibits on the canal’s history, a map table for planning explorations, brochures, and knowledgeable staff. There is also a stamp for the National Park Passport, as well as information about renting bicycles through the bike-share program. The center can therefore be a useful starting point when comparing different options for your stay.

Trail, Lake, and Landscape

Active days can be planned along the I&M Canal State Trail. The partly paved, level path stretches 61.5 miles from Rockdale to La Salle. The trail is accessible at Lock 14; it is suitable for hikers and cyclists and passes through varied landscapes as well as state parks and historic sites. The length of the entire route makes it clear that you should choose the section you want for your day’s plans, without limiting your stay to just one way of getting around.

Prairie Park offers a different landscape experience. The park includes a 110-acre wildlife park, a 20-acre lake, and hiking trails. This allows you to include a waterside outing, outdoor activity, and nature observation in your travel plans. Those traveling with different age groups can alternate between a more active day on the trail and a quieter stay in the park.

Local History and Special Events

LaSalle also has notable cultural attractions. In 2007, the Hegeler Carus Mansion was designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior because of its significance to La Salle, the state of Illinois, and the United States. It is also considered one of the Midwest’s outstanding examples of Second Empire architecture. The La Salle Historical Tour includes dozens of stops featuring landmarks that have stood for generations and introduces visitors to the city’s history.

One specific event is BBQ-n-Blues, an annual event featuring live music and a competition for barbecue and rib dishes. The 12th edition begins on Saturday, September 19, 2026, on First Street between Marquette and Gooding in historic downtown La Salle. Those traveling for the occasion can pay particular attention to their own stay dates and the preferred location when searching for accommodation, without making the entire vacation revolve around the event program.

LaSalle as a Base for Different Days of Travel

Your choice of vacation rental can be guided by the pace you want. For a trip focused on water and the city, consider planning around the I&M Canal, downtown, and the Visitor Center. Those who prefer physical activity can include the I&M Canal State Trail or the hiking trails in Prairie Park. For culturally focused days, the Hegeler Carus Mansion and the Historical Tour take center stage.

The local character also includes Lock 16 Café in Downtown La Salle. It serves expertly prepared food and drinks. The café adds a culinary stop to a day at the canal or an exploration of the city, without requiring you to limit your stay to a single theme.

Discover More Destinations

If you would like to compare additional destinations besides LaSalle, you will find more ideas here: Grand Ridge, Streator, Peru, Utica, Mendota, Ottawa and Oglesby.

For the higher-level travel overview: Lasalle.