2026 Trolley Tour
Sunday, June 14, 2026
09:00 AM - 02:45 PM
Colonel Palmer House
660 E Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, IL, USA
The Historic Preservation Commission and the Crystal Lake Historical Society are joining forces this year to co-host the 26th annual—and much-loved—Crystal Lake Heritage Trolley Tour.
The tour will begin and end at the historic Colonel Palmer House, where ticket holders can enjoy food trucks, live music, and additional educational displays inside the home before and after their tour.
2026 marks a major milestone in our nation’s story—America’s 250th birthday. Just 85 years after our founding, the country faced its greatest internal test during the Civil War. In the spirit of reflecting on where we came from and how we arrived here, this year’s tour theme is “Homes of Our Civil War Veterans.” The tour will highlight residences connected to local veterans, bringing personal stories of service, sacrifice, and community to life through Crystal Lake’s historic homes.
Tickets are $25 and include the trolley tour, a commemorative booklet, and an interior tour of the Colonel Palmer House. Tickets are time-specific and must be purchased for your selected tour departure. Please arrive on time to ensure your spot on the trolley.
Tickets may be purchased online or in person at Heisler’s Bootery, 50 N. Williams Street (cash or check only) starting May 1st.
Proceeds from this community event are reinvested directly into preserving Crystal Lake’s historic homes and buildings. Property owners whose homes are officially landmarked may also qualify for Historic Preservation Commission grants, which can be used to support eligible exterior and façade improvement projects.
The Commission is also actively seeking event sponsors and new commissioners. Local businesses interested in supporting the Trolley Tour while advertising to the community, residents who want to get involved, and property owners curious about landmarking are encouraged to reach out with questions.
For sponsorship opportunities, commission involvement, or landmarking inquiries, please contact Elizabeth Maxwell, Crystal Lake City Planner, at 815-356-3738.
We look forward to celebrating Crystal Lake’s history with you on June 14th!
Tickets
Select a ticket and proceed to registration details