This museum is a great way to engage in culture and support African American organizations. The visitor center has exhibits on local wildlife and habitats. The rustic farm surrounded by so much natural beauty is breathtakingly beautiful and once you add beer to that, it is going to be the star of your trip. The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 45-mile long very popular bicycle trail between Eldorado and Karnak, Illinois. Whether you love beer or not, you have to stop by this place. Image from NPS. We The Medicine - Healing Our Inner Child 2022. There is also Hogg Hollow Winery, the first winery of Pope County which is surrounded by the beautiful Shawnee Forest. The Tunnel Hill State Trail stretches 45 miles (72.42 km) from Harrisburg to Karnak in scenic Southern Illinois. Today at 11:30 PM + 1 more event. 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. It is advisable to have a light for this part of the trail. The museum is open from Thursday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. There are also regular events to display and celebrate history. This makes it the most complex prehistoric site north of Mexico. It is ranked among the best places to drink beer in the world. It is largely seasonal, due to various migration and breeding patterns. These rapids are largely what contributed to the bend, as the bridge was initially intended to be straight. You can also stay at the resort and enjoy barbecue nights and watch outdoor movies. Copyright 2010-2022 Illinois South Tourism. The incredible beauty and the diversity of ecosystems make this park a great hiking spot there is something wonderful to see around every trail bend. Things to Do in Illinois This Weekend | Eventbrite Events this weekend in Illinois, United States ZooLights | $5 General Admission Tickets | Select Dates Listed Below ZooLights | $5 General Admission Tickets | Select Dates Listed Below Sat, Dec 10, 4:30 PM + 1 more event Lincoln Park Zoo Chicago, IL Scottsdale has the makings of a spectacular holiday, with the stunning beauty of its beautiful Sonoran Desert, its fancy hotels, gourmet restaurants, and engaging activities and attractions. 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 boardwalk has many local attractions and consists of several local shops. The museum is also recognized as the best small-town attraction in America. If you visit in September, you can also attend the annual traditional music festival at the Fort. Opening hours are from from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fort Kaskaskia was originally a French settlement built in the 1700s. With a huge range of nature, historical sites, and cuisine, it is a great location for all ages and holiday styles. Various fish are available to catch throughout the year including bluegill, crappie, and bass. There are also lessons and pony rides available for younger and less confident riders. This is a great cause and very important in the modern world. Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge offers an incredible habitat for waterfowls and migratory birds. This is great for a light hike as you can experience many different views of the waterfall along the trail. There are many such places in southern Illinois. All Rights Reserved. All Rights Reserved. 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, [] This collection is considered one of the worlds best collections of Superman memorabilia. You can read our complete privacy policy here. You will also find an artificial lake where migratory water birds rest and feed. Fun for the whole family, the Discovery Center Museum is a top 10 destination when you're traveling with kids in Illinois. With over 90 miles of shoreline, the lake is popular as a spot for all sorts of water activities. It serves American, Southern, Italian and Greek cuisines that will pamper your taste buds. It is located on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail which follows the route of the historic expedition. Guided Meditations. Southern Illinois is an amazing destination for a unique and varied holiday. Dont be surprised if it seems familiar as you visit the Museum since it's featured in numerous TV shows. Visiting Scratch is a great way to experience something new while still relaxing and enjoying a beer. Discovery Center Museum. There are a number of different tours available at the current site, both guided and self-guided are available. To learn more, check the official website. 2018 Southern Illinois Tourism. Scratch Brewing Company is a brewery, farmhouse, and restaurant located about five miles from the Shawnee National Forest in Ava, Illinois. Are you planning a holiday in southern Illinois and looking for things to do while on vacation? The guided trail rides usually take around one hour and trek through private trails of the state park. Cahokia Mounds is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The on-site interpreters explain more of the history. 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. It has hands-on science activities to amuse everyone from infants to teens. Lake of Egypt is located six miles south of Marion, Illinois, and covers 2,300 acres with 90 miles of shoreline. Camping, fishing, photography and hunting are some of the most popular activities here. It is a classic example of French Creole-style architecture and features antique furnishing. And you thought there are no things to do in Southern Illinois! It crosses various streams, ravines and passes through beautiful forest. For more information on the Rocky Bluff trail, see here. There are also a number of resident animals who have been injured in such a way that they cant return to the wild. Hadestown at Riviera Theatre- IL Thanksgiving Weekend, Dec 09, 2022 (Friday) Theater event in Chicago, IL USA Hadestown December 09, 2022 at Riviera Theatre- IL in Chicago, IL 8:00PM Fort Massac State Park is one of the most southern state parks in Illinois and has many trails with beautiful views over the Ohio River and surrounding forest. The Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary is open by appointment only and usually features more than 30 animals. The Garden of the Gods is also known to be the states most photographed location. The iconic Ariston Cafe came into existence in 1924 and is counted among Americas oldest restaurants. Call each winery before visiting for their operating hours, the pandemic made them pretty unpredictable. The Vault Caf is a caf located in a 100-year-old historic bank building with the vault still intact (hence the name). The Shawnee Wine trails boast eleven wineries that run along 40 miles (64.37 km). The Refuge is also rich in wildlife and it is fairly common to spot white-tailed deer and wild turkey. With amazing nature, charming small towns, artisan wineries, and more, southern Illinois is ideal for all traveler types. 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. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is an interesting part of American history. 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. Southern Illinois is one of the best golf destinations in the US and boasts impeccable golf courses. Whether youre looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, ILLINOISouth has something for everyone. This post may contain affiliate links. The museum celebrates the different eras and portrayals of Superman through the items and materials associated with it. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. It is also very old and has one of the biggest archeological sites in the world. It gives a glimpse of the excellent achievements of African American citizens. There are many on-site winery lodging and dining options throughout the trails. 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 The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don't miss a thing. Believe it or not, theres more than one right answer to this question. Whether you are in Southern Illinois for a family vacation, romantic getaway, or a solo trip, you wont be disappointed. Kaskaskia was the first state capital of Illinois. The trail follows the former bed of one part of the Cairo and Vincennes Railroad. It is a part of the Shawnee National Forest. The best view of the entire refuge is from the Bellrose viewing platform. 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. It probably has the best beaches and waves, hence the nickname Surf City. If you visit Illinois in winter, check out this post in which we share the best things to do and winter hikes in Illinois. Today, it commemorates the once-thriving frontier town of Old Kaskaskia and its role in the American Revolution. Lake has 90 miles of shoreline. Wondering where to stay? Fort Kaskaskia was established by the French and traces its history to the eighteenth century. Located between East St. Louis and Collinsville, the park is spread across 2,200 acres. Their latest additions are Kinetic Jim, a 12-foot tall real-time topographical sandbox, and a kinetic chain sculpture. However, boatmen complained that navigating the rocky area and the bridge piers would be too dangerous. It is the perfect location to end a busy day of exploring southern Illinois. Surrounded by the beautiful nature of southern Illinois, a round of golf is a great way to view nature while taking part in a fun activity. I tried to find out why and got different answers from different sources. There's also pumpkin-picking, apple-picking, and other fall activities to pick from in Illinois. The Museum has been attracting visitors in large numbers since it opened its doors in 1993. Visiting the Fort de Chartres is a great way to learn about the French Colonial aspect of Illinois past. The authentic southern hospitality will further enhance your golf experience at this beautiful trail. A Spanish fort may have been built in the area as early as 1540. Facebook/Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. Chicago Comedy Club at the House of Blues! The vibe is still vintage, the beer is still the focus of Fast Eddies but the bar has just about anything you might want. It has short, steep parts and steps. A canopy generally consists of various zip lines and aerial bridges, connected to create an extended route. The Shawnee Wine trail is about 40 miles long and there are plenty of local hotels, inns, and B&Bs if you want to extend your trip. Exploring historical sites is another great way to experience the area. Hiking in the Garden of the Gods. The camel rock located along the observation trail is the most iconic rock formation here. Explore our Event Calendar to find the perfect entertainment for you and your family during your visit. The guided tours visit the most famous sites and last around one hour. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, the golf courses here are sure to amaze you. Cahokia Mounds is the largest American archaeological site located north of Mexico. This includes boating, as well as waterskiing, jet skis, and of course, swimming. Cache River Basin Vineyard and Winery is also popular for both its beautiful location and delicious wines. The caf holds a place in the National Register of Historical Places by the State of Illinois. The best time to come to the park is in fall when the trees put on a spectacular colorful display. Golf is a popular hobby for many and theres no reason you should have to give that up while on holiday. Whatever your interests are, you will find things to do in Southern Illinois. The trail is well-maintained and is suitable for mountain bikes and road bikes due to the crushed limestone. the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, The Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. Here are some of the best historical sites to enjoy: Fort de Chartres is a remnant of the 18th Century French colonization of the area of Illinois. For a superhero fan, a visit to Southern Illinois is incomplete without a visit to the Superman Museum. Here is a look at the 15 best things to do in Southern Illinois! For biking enthusiasts, exploring a bike trail in a new area is a great way to explore. The fort is home to a range of clubs and organizations dedicated to preserving and celebrating its unique history. Sun, Dec 4, 2022 1:00 PM EST (-05:00) We The Medicine - Healing Our Inner Child 2022. Wildlife viewing is an outstanding experience that visitors enjoy here. For a more extensive breakdown, see our list of best hiking trails in Illinois here. These 8 tips will help you travel independently through China, A wonderful Kanazawa itinerary for 2 days, 10 Cheap Warm Places to Visit in December in USA. 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. The Marys River Covered Bridge is a wonderful surviving part of Illinois history. The museum host events and programs that showcase African American culture and history. With a mix of metropolitan and regional areas, Northern Illinois has found the perfect balancing point. History buffs and museum goers will enjoy the various historical sites, world-class museums and other attractions scattered throughout the state. The courteous hospitality ensures that you have a delightful dining experience. Shawnee Hills Wine trail of Southern Illinois is the oldest Illinois wine trail established in 1995. It leaves visitors in awe by giving a glimpse of its rich history through the iconic Forts and ancient rock formations. Many of these are artisan shops and even galleries. Take a walk to the Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site, located at the bottom of the bluff. Roof-raising live music, craft food festivals, high-flying air shows, and more - we've got something for everyone, and everyone's welcome. Cave in Rock State Park is considered one of the best spots for picnics with a picnic site located right on the riverfront. Cypress Creek Wildlife Refuge is an honest-to-god bayou in the heart of Illinois. Loving Illinois? Jackson County has many great restaurants, tap rooms, theaters, and is home to the nationally known 17th Street Bar & Grill. Here are seven fun things to do in this lovely region. While you are here, do not miss having the brewerys special farmhouse ale. These are all great options for relaxing holiday fishing. This forested area is between the Ohio and Mississippi river and has lakes, hills, and woodlands to explore. Ziplining is a unique and interesting way to experience picturesque natural surroundings while doing a fun and exciting activity. The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. Some of these include the ever-popular Giant City State Park, Dixon Spring State Park, and Cave in Rock State Park. From cocktails, cold beer, juices to amazing wine selection, there is a lot to choose from at the bar at Ariston caf. This 15,000-acre refuge is home to huge cypress swamps and wetlands and some of the oldest trees found east of the Mississippi River. At times, they might even encounter local wildlife. Adventure seekers can also indulge in kayaking, tubing and jet skiing. Here you can find all our other Illinois posts. Here we have some of the best things to do in Northern Illinois. Fast Eddies Bon Air is the place to visit to get the feel of Southern Illinois local dives, learn about their history and taste some good beer. There are 60 different climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and boulders, each with varying levels of difficulty. This Park has a 16-acre crystal clear lake and a whole range of small and big waterfalls. 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. Tourists enjoy the view of the Mississippi River and can explore the earthwork sites of Fort Kaskaskia. Read on to discover the most fun things to do in southern Illinois. They display exhibits of everything from African American art to slave artifacts. For one, its history goes back several centuries. As you go out and visit these amazing sites you no doubt will discover many other places worth visiting in this overlooked but fascinating part of the big old America. Check the events below for what's happening in SoIN. For more information, check their Website and Facebook. Fishing is another great outdoor activity to take part in while visiting southern Illinois. 1. Southern Illinois is also home to some amazing water parks. Garden of the Gods is the most touristy hot spot in the Shawnee National Forest. Great Rivers Country Peoria Blues and Heritage Festival The rangers often arrange interpretive programs, family outdoor programs, and environmental education programs. The town also provided support during the American Revolution. They host an annual Superman Celebration every year which is a fun family event. It commemorates Camp Dubois, the winter camp where Lewis and Clark prepared for their expedition to the Pacific. There is even seating for four available inside the original vault. Some campgrounds offer showers only seasonally. If you are here for a celebration, you can rent the vibrant serpent room adorned with art and sculptures. A picturesque lake in the south of Marion, Lake of Egypt features 90 miles (144.84 km) of shoreline. Part of Suffolk County, New York, Fire Island comprises several villages and communities that make it a bustling tourist attraction. Wisconsin Events Equal parts fun and spirit with a dash of quirkiness, events in Wisconsin are memories in the making. Sat, Dec 10, 2022 12:00 PM CST (-06:00) + 32 more events. 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. 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. Southern Illinois has beautiful natural features, unique historical and cultural sites, and a great variety of local food and drink. Things to Do in Conroe Tx A Great Weekend Away, Most Interesting Things To Do In Franklin Kentucky, Things To Do In Florence SC For A Great Weekend Away. Facebook; Twitter; YouTube; Pinterest; Instagram; Email Laugh Factory Chicago, IL. Jackson County is the the proud home of a local distillery and a number of fine craft breweries. These are all activities to partake in while looking out for the native wildlife. There are picnic tables and a covered pavilion at the Mississippi River overlook. Illinois is a wonderful location for nature lovers with hundreds of state parks in the state. However, it has now experienced a revival as a bike and pedestrian bridge. Justin Meissen/Flickr. Western Region (Red) Close to St. Louis, MO, Central Region (Blue) Close to Springfield, IL, Eastern Region (Yellow) Close to Terre Haute, IN. Check out these amazing cabins near the southern Illinois wine trail. Environmental educational programs, special events, guided canoe tours are also arranged to raise awareness and appreciation of wetlands. With the many state parks and abundant rock bluffs in the area, it is no surprise that southern Illinois can offer great rock-climbing experiences. 38. The restaurant is committed to traditional family-style ribs and sauces. There is so much to do and so much to see. Southern Illinois has more than 50 wineries and you can visit them by following one of the two official trails. For the average traveler, swimming is perhaps the best choice to enjoy the serenity of the Lake of Egypt without needing any equipment or additional costs. The campground is open year-round. Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. You can often spot them as they fly above or drop down to hunt for fish or small rodents. The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 45mile former rail line. The lake is a popular destination for all-size boat motors as well as waterskiing and jet skiing. Garden of the Gods is the name of the wilderness, recreational area, and one of the most popular hikes in Southern Illinois. Kids are sure to have a great time playing the piano in the musical area and watching the puppet show. It has three marinas. There are 8 zip lines, 3 aerial bridges, and 3 small ground hikes. It takes great pride in being a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also many different bass varieties available. It was established in 1990 and has been a popular attraction among tourists ever since. Aeries resort in Grafton combines wine tasting with a zipline and a skytour. The Treehouse Wildlife Center near Grafton Ilinois is a non-profit organization that takes on sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife in order to help them recover and return to the wild. 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. Here you can find more info about this scenic route in Illinois. the African American Museum of southern Illinois. It was a toll road and played a key part in the economic success of the late 1800s. In fact, it was named one of the top four breweries for foraged beers by Outside Magazine. Fishing, boating, swimming and watching the serene sunsets are the activities that shouldnt be missed here. The Park is home to more than 700 species of plants that display spectacular spring and fall colors. Southern Illinois is a great region with a huge range of things to do and explore. From toys, movie props, comics to costumes, you can find everything related to Superman here. What are you waiting for? Learn more about the trail and the wilderness from the official website. There are a number of wine trail maps available which provide a recommended wine-tasting route. Constructed in 1854 from native white oak timber, the bridge provided an essential link in the transport of agricultural products, especially to the nearby port town of Chester. With over 33 in southern Illinois, visitors are spoilt for choice. The restaurant is located in Alton Illinois and is one of the most historic restaurants to visit. It amuses visitors with sights of the outstanding rock formations and serene woodlands. First, it is very beautiful, with huge forests, large rivers, waterfalls and nature reserves. Now, it is home to Illinois oldest building the powder magazine of the fort as well as many reconstructions of the original buildings and some exposed foundations of the original structure. Discovery Center Museum. 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. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a 2200-acre pre-Colombian archeological site located between East St. Louis and Collinsville. Much different wildlife can be seen at the refuge. 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. Senn High School | 5900 N Glenwood Ave Free, fun holiday-themed show features GUS Company dancers & Senn High School dancers. 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. Maligne Canyon in winter: Visit on your own or join a guided tour? Fern Clyffe State Park is known as one of the best spots for waterfall chasing as it is sometimes called. Ron Cogswell/Flickr. The remnants consist of the earthworks of the fort, the cemetery, and the Menard house. The site covers 2,200 acres, or around 9km2, and contains around 80 manmade mounds, although the original city was much larger. Perfect one hour show for all ages. 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 example, did you know that Southern Illinois is known as Little Egypt? They are open Friday and Saturday from 1 pm to 8 pm and on Sunday from 1 pm to 6 pm. Through the mid-20th Century, the bridge fell into disrepair and was almost demolished many times. Many of the state parks previously mentioned have extensive hiking trails and are full of picturesque scenery. It serves as a resting place for many migratory birds and is an excellent spot to reconnect with nature. Take an adventure through nature at one of the Lake County Forest Preserves or our state natural areas like Illinois Beach State Park, Chain O'Lakes State Park or Volo Bog State Natural Area.Dine on the delectable bites by eating alfresco or devour world-class cuisine in the . It is located on the legendary highway Route 66 in Litchfield. Visitors enjoy hunting, fishing, boating, bird watching, and photography. Whether you are an experienced climber or new to the activity, rock climbing is interesting to explore and experience a new area. These range from hiking to horse-riding to picnicking. Southern Illinois can be a beautiful spot for a unique and interesting vacation. It also has a visitor center at 8588 Route 148 in Marion open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. From outdoor activities to historical attractions, there is something for everyone in Southern Illinois. There are many things to do here, especially if youre interested in the beach and. The museums temporary exhibits showcase the outstanding achievements of African American artists. Fishermen come for Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, and Crappie. For more information, check their official website. Along the trail, you can see several small towns and ghost towns. You can witness majestic rock formations and scenic views as you walk the trails. The most popular activities are hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, wildlife watching, and photography. Tue, Dec 13, 7:00 PM + 2 more events. Giant City State Park has a number of designated climbing areas and is very popular. This one-of-a-kind destination is adored equally by everyone from nature lovers, art enthusiasts, to adventure seekers. It was an important center for Mississippians and guided tours are arranged here to explore more. Collinsville Aqua Park and Raging Rivers make a fun day out for the whole family. The eclectic shop is decorated with taxidermy and Midwestern novelties, with a cigar store Indian out front. It is creatively designed to give wings to a childs curiosity with interactive exhibits. The refuge is also popular with sport fishermen, they come year-round. Along this picturesque trail, bikers can enjoy dark tunnels, fast streams, and verdant wooded bluffs. The specialty stores like the local bakery, gift shops, jewellery shops and antique stores will help you collect the best souvenirs. The museum, which has been open since 1993, has Supermen-everything: toys, movie props, comics, costumes, and much more. Its unique appearance signifies the innovation present in early 20th Century construction. Powered by. The most interesting formation is called the Camel Rock. It is open every day from 8 am to 7 pm. 10 Fun Things To Do in Lenox MA For A Great Weekend Away! They also organize summer camps, science shows and field trips to keep the little guests entertained. For more details and operating hours, check their official website. The Garden of the Gods is ranked among the most popular hikes in Southern Illinois. The museum is listed as one of the best small-town attractions in America. Alto Pass, Illinois is a small town with just under 1,000 residents. The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you dont miss a thing. What is left of the once-thriving ancient city are only 80 earthen mounds, covered in grass and wildflowers. The earthen mounds show evidence of a complex and sophisticated society. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site consists of a 14,000-square-foot Interpretive Center, reconstructed original Settlers Cabin, and faithfully reconstructed Camp River Dubois. It has three marinas and offers a plethora of water activities for visitors to enjoy. Explore the vast history of Southern Illinois with tours of historic homes and museums. Giant City State Park offers a variety of activities, including rock climbing and horse-riding. Having opened in 1924, the Ariston Caf is nearing 100 years of continually being open. This post may contain affiliate links. Camping. Deciding where to go and what to do while in a new place can be a daunting task, so we have brought together this compilation of the best places to go and things to do while visiting southern Illinois. Wining and driving do not go together. Guided Meditations. The Rocky Bluff trail is especially good for hiking with beautiful waterfall views. The exhibits are regularly updated and encourage inquiry-based exploration. If you are worried about finding enough exciting things to do in Southern Illinois, stop worrying. Marys River Covered Bridge is the last remaining covered bridge in southern Illinois and so is an important part of state history. You can also get exciting deals when you book packages for stay and play. Next Weekend is just around the corner! You may also ask to arrange a private wine tasting with the winemaker to get a deeper understanding of the wines. Our state parks, especially in Southern Illinois, are among the best in the country. The beauty of the surrounding destinations is a bonus while playing golf here. Theshort quarter-mile trail is built of natural sandstone. 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. If the idea of camping at the lake fascinates you, then the Lake of Egypt is an exceptional choice. Out of the 120 earthen mounds in the ancient city, 80 are still present on this site today. Located in the home of Superman, Metropolis, the Super Museum is perfectly placed to house the enormous collection of Superman toys, media, promotional materials, costumes, and more. These include owls, coyotes, bobcats, and groundhogs, along with a variety of turtles and snakes. With over 33 in southern Illinois, visitors are spoilt for choice. Here we will explore some of the best places to go and things to do while in southern Illinois. The home features original antique furnishing. Scratch Brewing Company makes farmhouse beers and other beers brewed with homegrown, locally farmed, and locally foraged ingredients. There are also many guides on-site to provide further information on the expedition, the preparation, and the historical significance of the expedition. It is a part of the Shawnee National Forest and offers breathtaking views. They can also visit Garrison Hill Cemetery, which was established in 1891. Southern Illinois premier music variety show. Self-guided tours consist of various trails around the area, often exploring some of the more remote mounds. The bridge spans the Mississippi River and features an almost 30-degree bend halfway across. Local cemeteries are also listed here. Spread across 2430 acres in Johnson Country, Ferne Clyffe State Park lets you take a step closer to nature. The large space features interactive exhibits, film, and educational displays. The dark tunnels, streams and wooded bluffs let bikers can enjoy an experience like never. Interpretive Center is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Learn more about the park from the official website. Expanding further on the theme of exploring nature, hiking is a great activity to enjoy in southern Illinois. Find wineries throughout Southern Illinois and two different wine trails. Solving the corn maze is just one of many annual fall traditions. Cycling the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail is a unique way to explore southern Illinois, for both experienced cyclists and beginners. Plan Your Visit Things to Do. There is a range of golf courses available, including Crab Orchard Golf Course a semi-private course with lush fairways and beautiful oak trees, Gambit Golf Club with 6546 yards of golf, and more. In Shawnee National Forest there is a fully natural entirely tree-based, with no manmade poles or structures canopy tour. They enhance them by adding innovative local ingredients, including nettle, ginger, elderberry, dandelion, maple, and a variety of other additions. It would make the perfect gift and would also be the best way to relive the southern Illinois memories. In terms of recreational activities, Crab Orchard has phenomenal opportunities to offer. Bottomland hardwood forests, canebrakes and Bald Cypress Water Tupelo Swamp are also part of the refuge. It allows camping at the Buck Ridge Campground where you can wake up to the soothing sounds of nature. See the web story that accompanies this post. Here, you can see dozens of historic rails and structures, like the Schroeder Mercantile Store and 1851 East Union Depot. It is built on top of a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Southern Illinois is a unique and charming area that offers plenty of opportunities for fun and excitement. Park rangers offer environmental educational programs, guided canoe tours, and many special events. Services are inconsistent, so it is best to stock up on water, etc when it is available. Here you can find more info about Aeries and other wineries in Grafton. Once you complete the maze, or you get tired of trekking through cornstalks, you can also go on a hayride, have a campfire, or even ride a 100-foot slide. For more information, check the official website. The Cypress Creek refuge was set up to protect and restore the wetlands and native wildlife which rely on the wetlands. Fort Kaskaskia is part of the French Colonial Historical Area and is considered a key part of the French Colonial history of Illinois. This includes 50-foot technical climbs, along with standard sport routes and some traditional routes. 11 epic weekend getaways in southern Illinois. The area was later ceded to Great Britain. Despite calling itself a museum, it's a far cry from the dull, stuffy mausoleums where your little ones are forced to tiptoe around. Another interesting option is the Vault Caf in Marion, Illinois. However, the lake has become much more than that. If you hadn't noticed yet, Illinois has many kid-friendly attractions for animals lovers. Some other interesting activities for kids are exploring 3-D maps, dome climbing, tower building, and excavation. The bridge was in use until 1930 and taken into government ownership in 1936 in order to preserve it. 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