Southern Illinois, IL

Travel Guide
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Discover the culture and history of this region shaped by indigenous and pioneering communities and spend time in its peaceful, picturesque landscapes.

Southern Illinois is often missed by travelers heading straight to Chicago in the north. Yet the lower region is full of charm and character, offering historic towns, pop-culture attractions and scenic escapes. Soak up the atmosphere of its old-world settlements before heading out to roam along the rivers and through the woods of this quiet and welcoming region.

The Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site provides insight into the ancient history of Illinois. Read about the first humans that lived in the region over 1,000 years ago. Other attractions scattered throughout the area, such as Saline Creek Pioneer Village and Museum and the Illinois Rural Heritage Museum, trace the story of the European settlers who forged a life here in the early 1800s.

Wander around the center of Historic Maeystown, which transports visitors back to the 19th-century. Explore the German-style buildings that host traditional candy and antique stores with period storefront designs.

Meet superheroes in the city of Metropolis, the official home of Superman. Stand beneath a 15-foot (4.6-meter) statue of the Man of Steel and visit a museum dedicated to the celebrated comic-book character.

Southern Illinois today makes the most of its fertile landscape and the region produces several popular wines and beers. Travel along the Heartland Rivers Wine Trail and stop by multiple vineyards to sample their delicious products.

Take a break from city life to the tranquility of Shawnee National Forest, where you can follow several walking trails that wind through hills and woods. Make your way to Garden of the Gods Wilderness, a section of the forest with stunning rock formations and panoramic views of the landscape.

The woods in Southern Illinois come with the promise of adventure. Clamber up rock faces and zip line through canopies for a day of dizzying thrills.

Fly into St. Louis, in neighboring Missouri, then drive to your destination in Southern Illinois. Seasons in Illinois move between extremes. Prepare for hot weather if you are visiting in summer and pack warm clothing for a winter trip to this beautiful part of the state.

Where to stay in Southern Illinois

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Alorton

Alorton is well-liked for its restaurants. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater East St. Louis area, you might plan a trip to Gateway Arch or Busch Stadium.

Alorton
Drury Inn & Suites Mt. Vernon
Drury Inn & Suites Mt. Vernon
3 out of 5
145 North 44th Street , Mount Vernon, IL
The price is ¥17,341 per night from Dec 8 to Dec 9
¥17,341
¥19,553 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 8 - Dec 9
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Mount Vernon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,182 reviews)
"We have stayed at this Drury Inn a few times and always have a great stay. We love that it is pet friendly."

Reviewed on Nov 16, 2024

Drury Inn & Suites Mt. Vernon
Walker's Bluff Casino Resort
Walker's Bluff Casino Resort
4.5 out of 5
777 Walkers Bluff Way, Carterville, IL
The price is ¥18,300 per night from Nov 26 to Nov 27
¥18,300
¥20,310 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 26 - Nov 27
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Carterville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (242 reviews)
"Excellent facility. Would definitely go back."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2024

Walker's Bluff Casino Resort
Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis O'Fallon, IL
Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis O'Fallon, IL
3 out of 5
1118 Central Park Drive, O'Fallon, IL
The price is ¥17,341 per night from Dec 3 to Dec 4
¥17,341
¥20,111 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 3 - Dec 4
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in O'Fallon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,000 reviews)
"Everything was great from front desk to the people with the kickback food area. So nice and friendly."

Reviewed on Nov 18, 2024

Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis O'Fallon, IL
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
New cabin in the woods with private hot tub
New cabin in the woods with private hot tub
Cobden
Stay at this cabin in Anna. Enjoy patios, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions StarView Vineyards and King Neptune Memorial are ...
10/10 Exceptional! (94 reviews)
Great retreat
"Quiet cabin location and great location."

Reviewed on Nov 4, 2024

New cabin in the woods with private hot tub
Rest, Relax and Renew. Our log cabin experience awaits your arrival.
Rest, Relax and Renew. Our log cabin experience awaits your arrival.
Anna
Stay at this cabin in Anna. Enjoy a garden, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (364 reviews)
Country Cabin
"Clean and cozy with a beautiful view. The whole process was very simple. Location is great, just a short drive to some great wineries and small towns."

Reviewed on Nov 19, 2024

Rest, Relax and Renew. Our log cabin experience awaits your arrival.
Brand new cabin in the woods with hot tub  1/2 mile from Starview Winery
Brand new cabin in the woods with hot tub 1/2 mile from Starview Winery
Cobden
Stay at this cabin in Anna. Enjoy patios, an in-room coffeemaker, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions StarView Vineyards and King Neptune Memorial are ...
Nice relaxing weekend
"Had a 3 day a weekend away, this cabin was the answer, very clean, peaceful, hot tub was perfect. Winery a quick drive up the road. Will be coming back soon."

Reviewed on Nov 4, 2024

Brand new cabin in the woods with hot tub 1/2 mile from Starview Winery
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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