Elizabeth, Illinois

The Heart of Jo Daviess County

The recipient of the 2010 Governor’s Home Town award, Elizabeth, Illinois is an exceptional destination for tourism. Rich in history and Midwestern culture, the village of Elizabeth is home to the Apple River Fort State Historical Site, the Chicago Great Western Railway Depot and Museum and the 1876 Banwarth House and Museum. Incorporated in 1868, Elizabeth captures all of the benefits of rural America, in addition to the advantages of being a 21st century Main Street community. Home to more than 700 people, Elizabeth is one of Illinois’ most unique small towns. Make sure to visit Elizabeth for the Ride the Ups and Downs Bicycle Ride in May, Spring Fling weekend in June, Scarecrow Festival in October, or any of our other festival weekends throughout the year. For more information on all of our events, check out the Calendar of Events. Elizabeth’s Main Street has plenty of options for dining and shopping, plus it is a great place to find the comforts of a friendly, small town. Located directly on Ulysses S. Grant U.S. Highway 20, the village of Elizabeth is a convenient spot to begin or end a vacation weekend or holiday. Charming Elizabeth is a destination for any traveler vacationing in impressive Jo Daviess County or for those seeking the peace and quiet of living in a small town.