John Deere Historic Site, Corn Belt Travel Guide
Discover the roots of John Deere's legacy at his original homestead and blacksmith shop in Grand Detour, Illinois.
Visit the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour, Illinois, to experience the birthplace of the first commercially successful steel plow and learn about the origins of the John Deere company. Tour John Deere's original 1836 home, witness blacksmith demonstrations, and explore the archaeological site of his first workshop.
A brief summary to John Deere Historic Site
- 8334 S Clinton St, Dixon, Illinois, 61021, US
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- Tuesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring John Deere Historic Site.
- The site is open seasonally, from April to October, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Admission is free, making it an affordable and enriching experience for all.
- Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on hours, events, and blacksmith demonstration schedules.
- Consider participating in the John Deere Passport Program to collect stamps and earn gifts.
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Getting There
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Car
If driving, take Interstate 88 and exit onto IL-26 S toward Dixon. Continue on IL-26 S for approximately 20 miles. Turn left onto W 1st St, then right onto S Clinton St. The John Deere Historic Site will be on your left. Parking is available on-site and is free.
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Public Transport
To reach the John Deere Historic Site via public transportation, take a Greyhound bus to the Dixon bus station. From there, take a local taxi or rideshare service (Uber or Lyft) to the site, which is about 4 miles away. A taxi fare could range from $10 to $15.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can ride along the local roads from downtown Dixon to the John Deere Historic Site. Take S Galena Ave south out of town and turn onto W 1st St and then onto S Clinton St. The total distance is about 4 miles. Ensure you wear a helmet and follow local traffic regulations.
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