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Discover the Hidden Gems of South Beloit, IL

A Guide to Exploring the City and Its Surroundings

Nestled on the border of Wisconsin and Illinois, South Beloit is a vibrant destination that boasts many delightful attractions, charming restaurants, and exciting things to do throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or seeking an impromptu adventure, South Beloit has something to offer everyone. From exploring the area’s rich history to indulging in mouth-watering cuisine and thrilling outdoor activities, your visit to South Beloit promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Things To Do in South Beloit

1. Savor Every Sip and Sample Bites at South Beloit Restaurants and DC Estate Winery

South Beloit is home to a variety of restaurants serving delicious food ranging from locally-owned restaurants to bar & grills, breakfast spots, and more. Here are a few favorites of the locals and if you are looking for an ultimate guide to restaurants in South Beloit, you can find a full listing here.

DC Estate Winery | Photo Credit: Peer Canvas

DC Estate Winery

Did you know that there is a winery in South Beloit? DC Estate Winery has a vineyard with over 700 grapevines and produces a variety of wines. You can experience the winery by enjoying a wine flight, glass, wine slushy, or bottle at their tasting room. If you’re feeling snack-ish, they offer a variety of choices, including fruit and cheese boxes, charcuterie boxes, sausage, crackers, and dips and spreads. Occasionally, during the summer, you can find a food truck on-site. DC Estate Winery also serves as an event venue!

Address: 8877 Stateline Rd, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation (Tasting Room):

Artisan Pub

Artisan Pub is a newer addition to South Beloit that offers delicious food and drinks. Recently, they received the Best Taste Award and the Best Beverage Award at the 7th Annual Taste of the Chamber event in 2023. With a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including their brews, Artisan Pub is a must-visit destination on the Craft Beer Trail. Make sure to stop by and check-in to experience their amazing drinks, as well as their food.

Address: 1322 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

The Captain’s Galley

The Captain’s Galley has been a staple in the South Beloit community for over four decades. This quick spot is known for its mouthwatering homemade hot Italian sub sandwiches that are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. In addition to this crowd favorite, they also offer a wide variety of other hot and cold options, so there’s something for everyone on their menu. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic turkey and cheese sub or a hearty meatball sub, The Captain’s Galley has got you covered. And if you’re looking for a deal, be sure to check out their promotions and specials. They also offer convenient curbside pickup and delivery.

Address: 305 Oak Grove Ave, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

Mustang’s Bar & Grill

Mustang’s Bar & Grill is a popular hangout spot for the locals, providing them with a friendly staff and a calendar of events. In the summer, you can enjoy sand volleyball games on the court, and during the winter, you can catch football games and other events on the big TV screens. Mustang’s menu is unique and tasty – their famous 2 lb. giant soft pretzel with cheese is a must-try starter, and you can finish off with their mouth-watering ribeye steak sandwich. Also, don’t forget to check out their rotating beer on tap!

Address: 482 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 am – 2:00 am

Anna Maria’s Italian Restaurant

Anna Maria’s Italian Restaurant is a charming restaurant that has been family-owned and operated for years. The restaurant prepares an impressive selection of delicious and authentic Italian dishes, including a menu full of hot and fresh pizza, pasta, seafood, sandwiches, appetizers, and more. Whether you are craving something hearty or something light, Anna Maria’s has got you covered. Anna Maria’s is carry-out or delivery only. Have your favorite dishes delivered right to your doorstep, piping hot and ready to be enjoyed.

Address: 823 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

2. Splash the day away at Pearl Lake Amongst Other Family-Fun Activities

Photo Credit: Pearl Lake

Pearl Lake

Pearl Lake is a wonderful destination that combines a beach, RV resort, and scuba diving area in one place. This place has plenty of fun activities for the whole family during the summer season. You can enjoy the soft sand that is groomed every morning, crystal clear blue waters with visibility of up to 70 feet, an inflatable water park, and rentable paddle boards and kayaks. You can bring your own food and refreshments or visit the clubhouse area, where you can find alcoholic beverages, snacks, and even eats from local food trucks on select beach days. Passes for the beach are $20 per person for ages 3 and up. For updates on beach days and more, visit their Facebook page.

Address: 1220 Dearborn Ave. Hwy 251, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Viking Lanes

Viking Lanes Bowling Alley is a fantastic place to spend your day, especially during Moonlight Bowling at night! They have lanes equipped with bumpers, making it a fun activity for the whole family. You can also grab a bite to eat or a drink at Shooter’s Stateline, which is conveniently located inside the bowling alley.” For a look at specials and more, visit their website.

Address: 210 Oak Grove Ave, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation (Open Bowling):

Hours of Operation (Shooter’s Stateline):

Coral Cove Family Fun Center

Coral Cove Family Fun Center offers an opportunity to enjoy various arcade games, including skeeball, air hockey, and over 70 classic games, as well as children’s inflatable bounce houses. This spot provides the perfect destination to unwind and have a good time with fun and entertainment for all ages. Check their Facebook page or website for deals upcoming events.

Address: 586 Progressive Lane, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

Blackhawk Farms Raceway

Blackhawk Farms Raceway is a spectator-friendly racetrack equipped with camping, food, and souvenir amenities. The raceway is settled on 216 acres with a 1.95-mile, 7-turn circuit track. Throughout summer and into fall, there are various events featuring racing organizations and clubs that are fun to watch! Check their Facebook page or website for details and hours of operation.

Address: 15538 Prairie Road, South Beloit, IL 61080

3. Adventure Awaits at South Beloit City Park

The South Beloit City Park is a perfect destination for families as it provides stunning views and range of activities. Visitors can enjoy a picnic area and shelter, a walking path, the Dorr Road biking path that begins at South Beloit City Park, and a newly built disc golf course located on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Address: 400 Winnebago Ave, South Beloit, IL 61080

Kayaking at Lake Victoria | Photo Credit: Peer Canvas

Kayaking

Looking for an exciting lake adventure with your friends but not into swimming? Enjoy a peaceful afternoon by bringing your own kayak or renting one, and head for the open water at Lake Victoria. If boating and fishing are more your thing, make sure to apply for a boating permit and carry your Illinois fishing license. You never know; you might just get lucky and reel in a bluegill or largemouth bass!

Hours of Operation: April 15th – November 15th from dawn to dusk.

Victoria Lake Disc Golf Course

Why not try out the newly built 18-hole disc golf course at South Beloit City Park? This course is perfect for all ages and skill levels and is a great way to enjoy some friendly competition. To stay up-to-date on upcoming tournaments and other events at the Victoria Lake Disc Golf Course, be sure to follow their dedicated Facebook group.

Hours of Operation: Every day from dawn to 10:00 pm

4. Enjoy Nature at its Finest at Nature at The Confluence

Nature at The Confluence | Photo Credit: Peer Canvas

Spread across 80 acres of land, the Nature at The Confluence campus encompasses the Rock River, Turtle Creek, and Kelly Creek, providing a perfect opportunity for people of all ages and interests to connect with nature. Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, the scenic beauty of the place is sure to catch your eye. The on-campus learning center hosts a variety of weekly events throughout the year.

Address: 306 Dickop St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

5. Uncover Hidden Treasures as you Antique Shop

On Gardner Street, spend an entire day shopping for antiques and collectibles. Truly an antique lover’s paradise, there are three stores located close to each other, each with their unique interpretation of “antiques”. Gardner Street is an antique lover’s paradise, with three stores located within a close radius of each other. With so much variety and character, Gardner Street is the perfect destination for any antique enthusiast looking for a day of shopping and exploration. If you’re in for a full day of shopping, view our antique and vintage trail for more stops!

Helsell’s Antiques and Collectibles | Photo Credit: Visit Beloit

Helsell’s Antiques and Collectibles

Helsell’s Antiques and Collectibles is a bit smaller than other shops, featuring 31 vendors, but it’s packed with a wide variety of antiques and collectibles, including kitchenware, comic books, signs, furniture, and toys. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just looking for something special to add to your home, this shop is definitely worth a visit.

Address: 1302 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

Angela’s Attic

Angela’s Attic specializes in selling collectibles, antiques, memorabilia, and vintage items. It includes over 100 dealers spread across five buildings located in a converted historic factory, occupying a total of 35,000 square feet. The items for sale include signs, toys, and furniture.

Address: 1020 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation:

Best of Beloit Vintage Mall

Best of Beloit Vintage Mall, located just across the street, lets you stroll through the 144 vendors in a 20,000-square-foot space. You can find a variety of vintage items, handmade creations, up-cycled and re-purposed items, and gifts. The mall also organizes vintage events around holidays and in the summertime.

Address: 1019 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080

Hours of Operation: Everyday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

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