Illinois’ Oldest Bar Dates Back to the 1800’s and Has a Unique Backstory

If you're down for a short road trip how about popping by Illinois' oldest bar? The tavern is just over an hour away from Rockford.

The Origin

The establishment was originally named, "Zimmer Tavern and Wagon Shop" and dates back to 1849. I was hoping for some fascinating stories about this tavern/restaurant.

I did learn the main bar top was recused from "The Great McCormick Place Fire" back in the late 1960s. Based on that fact alone, there must be some stories attached to it, right?

The bar/restaurant is now known as Long Grove Village Tavern, before that it was an ice cream parlor during prohibition. This makes me wonder if there was some speakeasy business happening on the side.

Fast forward in time and the building eventually because of a family-friendly bar and restaurant.

WHAT IT IS TODAY

The food looks delicious and has been dubbed "the best all-you-can-eat" fish fry and would still be happening currently if it weren't for the pandemic but, based on Long Grove Village Tavern's Facebook, they plan to re-open when legally allowed to do so.

But, this shouldn't stop you from learning more about this legendary space. It's also the home of a grandfather clock from the World's Fair back in 1893.

Long Grove Village Tavern is about an hour and 15 minutes from Rockford.

[H/T Only In Your State]