I can tell you that there are a lot of good riding road to the west of that area. A good place to start if you don't already have them is to get maps from here:
http://www.dot.state.il.us/bikemap/bikehome.htm
You can order a set of paper maps for free (Your tax dollars at work!) or struggle with the fairly poor on line version. They have coded each section of road for suitability for bicycle riding. The only issue I've had is when expansion joints (a personal annoyance) or other surface considerations ruin the road.

I'd be happy to help in any way I can. I had a great time and look forward to seeing all of you again.