Location: Sterling
Top Things to do in Sterling
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10 Things to do in Sterling That You Shouldn't Miss
Sterling is a city in Whiteside County, Illinois, United States. The population was 15,370 at the 2010 census, down from 15,451 in 2000. Formerly nicknamed "Hardware Capital of the World", Sterling has long been associated with manufacturing and the steel industry.
Restaurants in Sterling
1. Johnny's Bar and Grill
2. Midway Drive In Theatre
3. Dillon Home Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
The home was built in 1858 for Brigadier General Edward Kirk. The home is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Dillon’s bought the home in 1882. Washington Dillon had the Northwest Barb Wire Co., which was wildly successful. His son, P.W. Dillon, eventually took over the mill and it became Northwestern Steel and Wire Company. P.W. was born in the house, and he died in the house in 1980 at the age of 96. The cities of Sterling and Rock Falls were built up around the mill because of the job opportunities. The 1929 Baldwin Locomotive that sits in the rear grounds was the last working steam engine in the United States to be used in an industrial application. Mrs. Dillon traveled extensively and the home is filled with treasures from around the country, and the world. It is untouched from the day Mr. Dillon passed in 1980, and very impressive. The furnishings date from the late 1800’s to the mid-1900’s, and are all original. Haunted Train Walk in Oct. Christmas Walk in Dec.
Reviewed By cbalsano - Downers Grove, United States
Had some time to kill in Sterling and found this tour. What a great way to spend an hour learning about the community! Our guide was personable and had insight and first hand knowledge of the family. The house has original furnishings and shows how a wealthy family lived from the 30s to the 80s. Definitely worth a stop!
4. Sinnissippi Park
5. Martin's Landing & Sinnissippi Dam Walkway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
6. Crow Valley Campground
7. Showplace Antiques & Treasures
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
8. The Little Chocolatier
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
9. The Precinct
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
10. North End Liquor & The Boxcar Grill
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