where to stay in Giant City State Park, click here. With such a range of activities available, it can be a suitable destination for all holiday styles from family vacations to romantic getaways or even solo travel. The museum is open from Thursday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. They enhance them by adding innovative local ingredients, including nettle, ginger, elderberry, dandelion, maple, and a variety of other additions. Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen construction in the Americas is the highlight of this place. Maligne Canyon in winter: Visit on your own or join a guided tour? Wine-tasting is another way to relax while still enjoying the local sights and cuisine. Check out our Trip Ideas for itineraries that take in the best Illinois has to offer. Secluded and serene, the privately-owned but public accessible reservoir is popular among locals. The vibe is still vintage, the beer is still the focus of Fast Eddies but the bar has just about anything you might want. In 1803, the Lewis and Clark expedition picked up eleven more men at this location to join them. This isnt an exaggeration as 17th Street BBQ has been named Best Ribs in America by Bon Appetit magazine. The camp is also called The Point of Departure. Events in Southern Illinois Whether you're looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, ILLINOISouth has something for everyone. Opening hours are from from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Annually, Paris, France is the most visited city in the world. Located in Ava, Scratch Brewing Company is a beer lovers paradise. Camping. Garden of the Gods is the name of the wilderness, recreational area, and one of the most popular hikes in Southern Illinois. Fort Kaskaskia was established by the French and traces its history to the eighteenth century. In terms of recreational activities, Crab Orchard has phenomenal opportunities to offer. The trail continues for 2.5 miles from Karnak to Cache River State Natural Area (Henry Barkhausen Wetlands Center) on the former Chicago and Eastern Illinois railroad bed. Take a walk to the Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site, located at the bottom of the bluff. Garden of the Gods Trail will take you by someunique fascinating sandstone rock formations. Outdoor grounds are open daily from dawn until dusk. Image from NPS. With over 33 in southern Illinois, visitors are spoilt for choice. A lot has changed since then, especially since Fast Eddie took over, and the old yellow brick building grew to sit today more than 400 guests. the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, The Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. The Science Center in Carbondale is an absolute must if you are traveling through Southern Illinois with the kids. Justin Meissen/Flickr. There's fun for the entire family wherever you wander in Northern Illinois. If just wildlife watching isnt your thing, the area is also great for hiking, kayaking, and even fishing. Visiting museums is a popular holiday activity and for good reason; being in a new area with new culture, history, cuisine and the like, learning about the history of certain parts of the area is a great way to spend time. The earthen mounds show evidence of a complex and sophisticated society. The refuge is located about 22 miles north of Cairo, Illinois, and was established in 1990 to protect this unique habitat. Indiana bats, Prothonotary Warbler, and a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians are found here. Southern Illinois is also home to some amazing water parks. The five courses are Hickory Ridge, Stone Creek Golf Club, Kokopelli Golf, Crab Orchard Golf Club, and the Gambit Golf Club. This Park has a 16-acre crystal clear lake and a whole range of small and big waterfalls. It offers fabulous opportunities for recreational activities like hunting, fishing, birdwatching, boating and photography. These climbing areas usually have a range of named routes on them, adding up to over 500 routes in total. Rotating displays include Underground Railroad Message Quilts and other local artwork. You can also stay at the resort and enjoy barbecue nights and watch outdoor movies. Whether you love beer or not, you have to stop by this place. It is a part of the Shawnee National Forest and offers breathtaking views. There are many such places in southern Illinois. To see the top State Parks of southern Illinois and get some more information, see our Top 7 list here. They can also visit Garrison Hill Cemetery, which was established in 1891. You are in Plan Your Visit Events Find listings in Illinois Refine Search Listing Type Region Location Explore all listings Show Filters They display exhibits of everything from African American art to slave artifacts. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a 2200-acre pre-Colombian archeological site located between East St. Louis and Collinsville. For example, fall is a great time to spot white-tailed deer on the refuge, while summer is more suited to birdwatching for songbirds, especially bluebirds. This makes it the most complex prehistoric site north of Mexico. Lake of Egypt is located six miles south of Marion, Illinois, and covers 2,300 acres with 90 miles of shoreline. Collinsville Aqua Park and Raging Rivers make a fun day out for the whole family. Scratch Brewing Company is a brewery, farmhouse, and restaurant located about five miles from the Shawnee National Forest in Ava, Illinois. 318 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Illinois - Atlas Obscura Unusual Attractions in Chicago Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Illinois The subtle science of a master molecular gastronomist. Fishermen come for Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, and Crappie. There are a number of different tours available at the current site, both guided and self-guided are available. The museums temporary exhibits showcase the outstanding achievements of African American artists. Garden of the Gods is the name of the wilderness, recreational area, and one of the most popular hikes in Southern Illinois. The most popular activities are hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, wildlife watching, and photography. Deam Lake State Recreation Area A 194-acre lake and seasonably-open with two campgrounds, Forest Education Center, horse and hiking rentals, mountain biking, and boat rental. It did not stop me from embarking on exploring this often overlooked part of Illinois. The Tunnel Hill trail connects with many other official trails that run through Illinois. However, it has now experienced a revival as a bike and pedestrian bridge. Another interesting option is the Vault Caf in Marion, Illinois. There are also a number of resident animals who have been injured in such a way that they cant return to the wild. Perfect one hour show for all ages. Built by Anheuser-Busch in 1921, originally as a brewery. Things to Do in Chicago on a Budget Find family- and wallet-friendly activities in Chicago, from free museums to affordable hotels. The Cypress Creek refuge was set up to protect and restore the wetlands and native wildlife which rely on the wetlands. The dark tunnels, streams and wooded bluffs let bikers can enjoy an experience like never. There are 700 species of plants, dense shady mysterious woods full of ferns, and unique geological formations that make this park a great destination for a weekend outing or a longer vacation. However, the site of the original town is no longer there, due to the floods and changing course of the Mississippi River. Lake of Egypt is one of Illinois best-kept secrets. Known as the City of Lights, it has a magic all its own thatRead More Best Time To Visit Paris Your Complete Guide, Cancun, Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches with crystal blue water and sparkling white sand. The museum host events and programs that showcase African American culture and history. Dixon Springs State Park is also known for its waterfalls, although in this case, it is a series of waterfall cascades stretching along the trail. The area was later ceded to Great Britain. While you are here, do not miss having the brewerys special farmhouse ale. Find out more about Travel Lens and read our editorial guidelines, If you're looking for the perfect vacation destination, Scottsdale in Maricopa County, Arizona, is the place for you! For more information, check their Website and Facebook. Expanding further on the theme of exploring nature, hiking is a great activity to enjoy in southern Illinois. Here we have some of the best things to do in Northern Illinois. It leaves visitors in awe by giving a glimpse of its rich history through the iconic Forts and ancient rock formations. Tourists enjoy the view of the Mississippi River and can explore the earthwork sites of Fort Kaskaskia. With over 90 miles of shoreline, the lake is popular as a spot for all sorts of water activities. Cycling the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail is a unique way to explore southern Illinois, for both experienced cyclists and beginners. Even for casual golfers or beginners, playing a round on southern Illinois best courses is a great experience. Several vineyards and orchards are in the area, with Alto Vineyards among the most popular. There are also lessons and pony rides available for younger and less confident riders. If the idea of camping at the lake fascinates you, then the Lake of Egypt is an exceptional choice. A canopy generally consists of various zip lines and aerial bridges, connected to create an extended route. You can read our complete privacy policy here. The lake is owned by the Southern Illinois Power Cooperative which created the reservoir from the Saline River in order to provide cooling water for the electric power plant. Indiana's oldest state forest with fishing, camping, hiking, and bridle trails, it is the southern end of the 58-mile Knobstone Trail, the state's longest hiking trail. With a huge range of nature, historical sites, and cuisine, it is a great location for all ages and holiday styles. The states original five wineries have blossomed to nearly ten times that number, with nearly fifty wineries producing their own special craft. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is spread across 44,000 acres of land and water. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is established on 44,000 acres near Marion in Southwestern Williamson County in order to protect the local diverse flora and fauna, especially migratory birds. Guided Meditations. The Interpretative Center has an exhibit area with galleries that tell the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition and about its significance for todays America. Here you can find more info about this scenic route in Illinois. This collection is considered one of the worlds best collections of Superman memorabilia. The Shawnee Wine trails boast eleven wineries that run along 40 miles (64.37 km). You will also find an artificial lake where migratory water birds rest and feed. Self-guided tours consist of various trails around the area, often exploring some of the more remote mounds. they are located at 1530 E 4th St, Alton, IL 62002, United States, and their phone number is +1 618-462-5532. Events in Illinois Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sport and more. Here we will explore some of the best places to go and things to do while in southern Illinois. Senn High School | 5900 N Glenwood Ave Free, fun holiday-themed show features GUS Company dancers & Senn High School dancers. They also have programs like Grown Ups Night Out, birthday parties, field trips, camps, and more. The local ingredients and innovative styles make every drink on the menu a masterpiece. Of course, while traveling it is necessary to eat as well. The Park also has a 16-acre lake and intermittent waterfalls that add to its mesmerizing beauty. Some of these include the Ariston Caf, one of the oldest American cafes on the famous Route 66. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE. Along the trail, you can see several small towns and ghost towns. These are all activities to partake in while looking out for the native wildlife. Every September there is a traditional music festival at the Fort. There is also an interesting and somewhat spooky 543-foot rail tunnel to pass through. The Garden of the Gods is also known to be the states most photographed location. There are also many important trees in the area, including giant cane the only bamboo native to North America, and bottomland hardwoods one of the wettest types of hardwood forest. Park rangers offer environmental educational programs, guided canoe tours, and many special events. In fact, it was named one of the top four breweries for foraged beers by Outside Magazine. the African American Museum of southern Illinois. It has three marinas and offers a plethora of water activities for visitors to enjoy. There are also regular events to display and celebrate history. This allows the bridge to be both useful and convey a sense of history. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. The refuge is located between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers and is at the intersection of four physiographic regions, making the biodiversity of the wetlands unique and very important to maintain. Today, the Shawnee trail includes 11 wineries and they expect the number to grow. This is great for a light hike as you can experience many different views of the waterfall along the trail. The African American Museum, established in 1977, is located in University Mall in Carbondale. The trail is well-maintained and is suitable for mountain bikes and road bikes due to the crushed limestone. The home features original antique furnishing. 1. This also allows you to access the private trails of the stables and see parts of the park that might not be accessible otherwise. It was an important center for Mississippians and guided tours are arranged here to explore more. These are great as you can take the route at your own pace, and even take detours to other sightseeing areas along the way. Most of the hiking trails in the state park pass by at least one waterfall, with the 100ft Fern Clyffe Waterfall as the main feature. Discovery Center Museum. In addition to hiking, it also offers exciting experiences like horseback riding. Downtown Springfield 4 /5 Very Good! A picturesque lake in the south of Marion, Lake of Egypt features 90 miles (144.84 km) of shoreline. At times, they might even encounter local wildlife. Located just south of Marion, Lake of Egypt is a picturesque reservoir created in 1962 after the south fork of the Saline River was dammed. The museum is open Monday to Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm and on Saturday when available. Go paddling on Cedar Lake, enjoy the diverse vegetation at Shawnee National Forest, or discover the Cache River System. If you are a cycling enthusiast, you can complete the entire ride in a day. Cypress Creek Wildlife Refuge is an honest-to-god bayou in the heart of Illinois. The eclectic shop is decorated with taxidermy and Midwestern novelties, with a cigar store Indian out front. The brewery focuses on farmhouse beers and uses a range of farm-grown, home-grown, and foraged ingredients. A post shared by C A R O L I N E (@adventureswithcaroline). Spot bald eagles. Each of the wineries has its own character and techniques that delight the visitors. Exploring historical sites is another great way to experience the area. Calendar of Events. From toys, movie props, comics to costumes, you can find everything related to Superman here. If you are planning a romantic getaway in Illinois, check out this list of most romantic cabins in Illinois. There are picnic tables and a covered pavilion at the Mississippi River overlook. Check theirWebsite for more information. For some more insight into Southern Illinois best waterfalls, check out our Top 16 here. Shopping along Makanda Boardwalk is a great way to see a range of local art and support local designers and shops. Some campgrounds offer showers only seasonally. Things To Do in Salida Co Great Fun All Year Round. This includes 50-foot technical climbs, along with standard sport routes and some traditional routes. Cave in Rock State Park is considered one of the best spots for picnics with a picnic site located right on the riverfront. Chicago Comedy Club at the House of Blues! You can often spot them as they fly above or drop down to hunt for fish or small rodents. There are 60 different climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and boulders, each with varying levels of difficulty. If you are here for a celebration, you can rent the vibrant serpent room adorned with art and sculptures. Other features like the Woodhenge and copper workshop makes it more interesting. If you visit Illinois in winter, check out this post in which we share the best things to do and winter hikes in Illinois. A Root Beer Saloon serves cold, draft root beer. There are many vineyards in the region that can offer an amazing experience and great-tasting wines. It is the perfect location to end a busy day of exploring southern Illinois. Giant City State Park offers a variety of activities, including rock climbing and horse-riding. It has five courses offering a chance to play golf all-round the year for all skill levels. Facebook; Twitter; YouTube; Pinterest; Instagram; Email There is even seating for four available inside the original vault. If you are worried about finding enough exciting things to do in Southern Illinois, stop worrying. Every season in Lake County creates long-lasting memories. Larkdale While Larkdale isn't home to many top sights, Hickory Point Mall and Scovill Zoo are some notable places to visit nearby. With campsites, hiking trails, serene resorts to bustling nightlife, it caters to every vacation need. It also has a monument that commemorates the early settlers of Kaskaskia. There is also bar grub and regular live music. The fort is home to a range of clubs and organizations dedicated to preserving and celebrating its unique history. The Rocky Bluff trail is especially good for hiking with beautiful waterfall views. This post may contain affiliate links. You might also come across ghost towns and reclaimed strip mines on your journey. The restaurant is committed to traditional family-style ribs and sauces. A more serious museum to visit is the African American Museum of southern Illinois. This can be done by visiting the microbrewery, Scratch, located near the Shawnee National Forest. They started with just three wineries that wanted to share their wonderful wines with the visitors. The Refuge is also rich in wildlife and it is fairly common to spot white-tailed deer and wild turkey. This means necessary measures for preservation have taken effect for many decades to keep it in the best condition possible. The Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge is also part of the National Wildlife Refuge system and so its goals are in line with those of other refuges. Lake has 90 miles of shoreline. The Du Quoin State Fair is one of the nation's best agricultural events, offering races, competitive events, livestock shows and agricultural exhibits. Kellers Crossing is popular with its range of package options. A Spanish fort may have been built in the area as early as 1540. Whether it be with a family, as a couple, or even on a solo trip, southern Illinois has a perfect weekend getaway to offer you. Laugh Factory Chicago, IL. It serves American, Southern, Italian and Greek cuisines that will pamper your taste buds. Discover History Dining & Entertainment Jackson County has many great restaurants, tap rooms, theaters, and is home to the nationally known 17th Street Bar & Grill. Explore the vast history of Southern Illinois with tours of historic homes and museums. The campground is open year-round. Southern Illinois is a unique and charming area that offers plenty of opportunities for fun and excitement. It is also recommended relishing the delicious pizza made from locally sourced fresh ingredients. You can find various picnic areas with tables, cooking grills, parking and even shelters. Environmental educational programs, special events, guided canoe tours are also arranged to raise awareness and appreciation of wetlands. We're a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program. So make sure to carry your camera and click pictures that will bring back treasured memories. Dixon Springs State Park can be quite unique with a mix of historical sites and modern activities such as geocaching available. Chicago Comedy Club at the House of Blues! It is a fun, hands-on childrens museum with plenty for the kids to do and many exhibits to explore. It was established in 1990 and has been a popular attraction among tourists ever since. The name came from a series of rocky rapids in that area of the Mississippi which are notoriously difficult to navigate. Wondering where to stay in Giant City State Park, click here. The sight and sound of the migratory birds, shorebirds and waterfowls are sure to melt away your stress. Here is a look at the 15 best things to do in Southern Illinois! (301 area reviews) See American history come to life at attractions dedicated to Abraham Lincoln, hop between varied bars and restaurants and celebrate the nostalgia of Route 66. The Park is home to more than 700 species of plants that display spectacular spring and fall colors. Edit Close. Here is a look at the 15 best things to do in Southern Illinois! It allows camping at the Buck Ridge Campground where you can wake up to the soothing sounds of nature. While you are visiting, check the local bakeries, gift shops, antique stores, and jewelry shops. It's going to be a great night of music and a great family show. Illinois is a wonderful location for nature lovers with hundreds of state parks in the state. Southern Illinois is a quaint destination that attracts visitors with its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. A post shared by Hiking with Shawn (@hikingwithshawn). It would make the perfect gift and would also be the best way to relive the southern Illinois memories. There are 8 zip lines, 3 aerial bridges, and 3 small ground hikes. Welcome to your guide to Chicago attractions, outdoor adventures, arts, history, road trips, tours, sports and shopping. Southern Illinois is home to some amazing rivers and lakes that are perfect for kayaking. People gravitate to this tropical paradise to soak upRead More Best time to Visit Cancun Your Complete Guide, When is the best time to visit Puerto Rico? See the web story that accompanies this post. Highlights: The majestic American Bald Eagles are often spotted soaring over the Grafton, Illinois area during their journey south for the winter. With amazing nature, charming small towns, artisan wineries, and more, southern Illinois is ideal for all traveler types. The Garden of the Gods is ranked among the most popular hikes in Southern Illinois. To learn more about the history of Cahokia and its inhabitants, visit the museum and interpretive center open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Cahokia Mounds is open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Marys River Covered Bridge is the last remaining covered bridge in southern Illinois and so is an important part of state history. Theshort quarter-mile trail is built of natural sandstone. What are you waiting for? Sun, Dec 4, 2022 1:00 PM EST (-05:00) We The Medicine - Healing Our Inner Child 2022. Today at 11:30 PM + 1 more event. From this camp Corps of Discovery, members went on their trip to the Pacific Ocean. Shawnee Hills Wine trail of Southern Illinois is the oldest Illinois wine trail established in 1995. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. Their address is 264 Thompson Rd, Ava, IL 62907, and their phone number 618-426-1415. Find wineries throughout Southern Illinois and two different wine trails. The Icefields Parkway in winter: Must-see stops, driving tips, and more, Globetrotters in heart and soul. The most popular trails here are the big rocky hollow trail, happy hollow trails, cedar bluff trail and Borks waterfall. The lake offers a great opportunity for bird watching and photography so if that is what you like to do, time your visit to come with the birds. Especially if you are driving. There is a range of other artisan shops also, including Rain Maker Studio, with unique metalwork in the form of jewelry, sculptures, and fountains, and Allan Stuck Studio, a world-renowned sculptor and jewelry designer. The fort was occupied for much of the 18th Century, first by France and later by Great Britain, but fell into disrepair after flooding in 1772. These events range from the world-renowned Kentucky Derby and the spectacular Thunder Over Louisville fireworks displays to large concerts like Abbey Road on the River and Harvest Homecoming, one of Indiana's largest events. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Makanda Boardwalk is the ideal place for this. And learn. Admission is free. Giant City State Park has a number of designated climbing areas and is very popular. The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a unique site of great archaeological interest. What is left of the once-thriving ancient city are only 80 earthen mounds, covered in grass and wildflowers. Ziplining is a unique and interesting way to experience picturesque natural surroundings while doing a fun and exciting activity. Get to know us better on our about us page. Wondering where to stay? The best time to come is during their annual Superman Celebration when they have special events and exhibits. They are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife while promoting environmental awareness through education. Garden of the Gods' Trail will take you by some unique fascinating sandstone rock formations. The museum is listed as one of the best small-town attractions in America. It is located on the legendary highway Route 66 in Litchfield. It is located on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail which follows the route of the historic expedition. Here is a list of more amazing museums in Illinois. Here are some family friendly experiences you can do together that are sure to make your escape unforgettable: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago Admission Ticket Kimono wearing experience in kyoto Japanese Flower Arrangement at Zen Temple, Daitokuji Temple Kids are sure to have a great time playing the piano in the musical area and watching the puppet show. Having opened in 1924, the Ariston Caf is nearing 100 years of continually being open. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is an interesting part of American history. Its a popular picnic spot that offers splendid opportunities for activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. Spread across 2430 acres in Johnson Country, Ferne Clyffe State Park lets you take a step closer to nature. Roof-raising live music, craft food festivals, high-flying air shows, and more - we've got something for everyone, and everyone's welcome. There is a delightful park and picnic area located near the bridge, making it a suitable visit for the whole family. Kaskaskia was the first state capital of Illinois. The Refuge has man-made reservoirs where you can spot large flocks of waterfowl and warm-water sport fish. For example, did you know that Southern Illinois is known as Little Egypt? Check the events below for what's happening in SoIN. They also have a new 130-square foot enclosure for their resident red iguana Reptar. With a mix of metropolitan and regional areas, Northern Illinois has found the perfect balancing point. Facebook/Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. It is built on top of a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Military inspection at Fort Massac State Park. This time the Shawnee Hills offer is giving back to Union County by donating 100% of it's profits to Performing Arts Scholarships to the 4 high schools in Union County, [] Away your stress 11:00 am to 5:00 pm red iguana Reptar Ridge where... Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen construction in the region that can offer an amazing experience and great-tasting things to do in southern illinois this weekend small! Drink on the riverfront Medicine - Healing our Inner Child 2022 Orchard wildlife. It also has a number of resident animals who have been injured in a... See parts of the wilderness, recreational area, and was established in 1995 you. For some more information, see our top 16 here L I N E @... 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