Southernmost Illinois has rich historic heritage, a spectacular national forest, and two great river
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The quiet hills and river towns that make up the Eastern Region of Southernmost Illinois beckon visitors for a different kind of getaway. Get a sample of all the area has to offer with this full-day adventure itinerary!
Get ready to enjoy natural beauty unequaled anywhere else in the state:
Take a driving/walking/sampling tour of the Eastern side of the Shawnee National Forest.
Here is just a selection of upcoming events in Southernmost Illinois this week.
Check out https://southernmostillinois.com/events/month/2024-09/ to see more and share details for your event in the comments too!
πΆ Harvest Moon Paddle on the Cache
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/harvest-moon-paddle/
π Praise the Lard BBQ Cook-Off
https://17bbq.com/cook-off/
πΆ Breaking Free the Musical
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/anna-arts-center-2/
π¦ Alpaca Farm Days
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/alpaca-farm/
π Frontier Day at Cave-in-Rock
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/frontier-day/
πͺ¨ Rocky Ledges 5k/10k at Touch of Nature
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/rocky-ledges-5k-10k/
What local shops are your favorite to visit? Here are a few stops in Southernmost Illinois to add to your trip next time you're out shopping and having fun!
Anna:
π Kiki's Coffeehouse
π Annabelle Market
π Davis Pastry
Vienna:
π Milkmaid Creations and Antiques
π Holy Grounds Coffee Shop
π Miranda's Delight Bakery
π Art Gallery Off the Square
π Ned's Shed Hamburgers
Metropolis:
π Sissy's Metropolis
π Silver Collections
π Friends & Company
π Cordavino's
Stop and smell the flowers! Take an adventure to local farms and orchards to experience local crops and animals.
For a chance to have your photos featured on our page, be sure to tag us Illinois Tourism Bureau and use !
Get the full itinerary here:
Stop and smell the roses, or in this case, the zinnias, sunflowers, lavender, and peonies and enjoy the summer and fall harvests along the way!
Bell Smith Springs offers a mix of rugged terrain and beautiful natural features, including rock formations, waterfalls, and clear streams.
Explore all that Bell Smith Springs has to offer by visiting: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/shawnee/recarea/?recid=13020
πΈ puremichiganguy (IG)
Ring the bell, alert your neighbors! The Constitution Week Celebration is nearly here! πβ¨
On Saturday, September 14th, Lincoln Memorial Park will be transported back in time to celebrate the signing of the Constitution and the 116th anniversary of the Lincoln Douglas Debates.
This event is free and open to the public!
What are you up to this week? Attending any of these events?
π Murphysboro Apple Festival
https://murphysboroapplefestival.org/
π€ Open Mic at the Anna Art Center
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/anna-arts-center/
π©Ί Women's Health Conference
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/womens-health-conference/
Visit https://southernmostillinois.com/events/month/2024-09/ to see more!
The Shawnee Challenge was recently featured on a segment of Around Town with Studio STL!
Hear from Pat Jones as he shares why the Shawnee Challenge is perfect for new AND experienced outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with the beautiful environment that makes up Southernmost Illinois. β¬οΈ
https://fox2now.com/studiostl/keepin-it-local/like-a-good-outdoor-challenge-try-the-shawnee-national-forest-challenge/
Five new selfie signs have been installed at picture-worthy spots throughout the Shawnee National Forest! These signs have cell phone holders to place your phone inβjust set a timer, set up your phone, and strike a pose! πΈ
The signs were made through a special grant program facilitated by the U of I Extension Service. Be sure to tag your photos with so we can share them on our page!
How many selfie stations can you find this weekend? Here's where they are located, get out and explore!
π Lincoln Memorial Park, Jonesboro
π McGee Hill in LaRue Pine Hills
π Trigg Tower
π Dutchman Lake
π Sexton Creek
Celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day with this swashbuckling adventure around Southern Illinois. π΄ββ οΈ
Join the VIP party bus and cruise around in delightful debauchery on Saturday, September 21st for the Pirate Pub Crawl! Or, steer your own course and meet up with us at one or more locations in Muprhysboro, Carbondale and Herrin. Either way you'll get a B***y Bag full of loot, plus games, prizes and shanty sing-a-longs.
Costumes HIGHLY encouraged, but not required. Tickets $5-55. Proceeds benefit The Southern Illinois Performing Arts Incubator.
Get your tickets today: https://www.facebook.com/events/carbondale-il/2024-pirate-pub-crawl/825034999679418/
From breathtaking natural wonders and scenic trails to historic towns and local wineries, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Shawnee Forest Country! All seasons bring a different experience.
Plan your getaway and uncover hidden gems in our vibrant region by visiting southernmostillinois.com. Adventure awaits you!
From breathtaking natural wonders and scenic trails to historic towns and local wineries, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Shawnee Forest Country! ...
It all started in 1984 when Guy Renzaglia established Alto Vineyards by planting 5 acres of then-unheard-of grape varieties that are now widely accepted by Midwestern wine drinkers...
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail was recently featured in the Illinois Partners magazine! Read on to discover how the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail proves fine wines and the great outdoors are the perfect pairing. β€οΈ
In the southernmost stretch of Illinois, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail proves fine wines and the great outdoors are the perfect pairing.
Lots of fun stuff this week in Southernmost Illinois!
π· Annual Heritage Blues & Gospel Festival
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/cairo/
π Harvest Festival and Fireworks at Alto Vineyards
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/alto-vineyards/
Super City Brew Fest
πΊ https://www.metropolistourism.com/supercitybrewfest
Share details of your event in the comments or visit https://southernmostillinois.com/events/month/2024-09/ to see more upcoming gatherings!
Cradled between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, Southernmost Illinois is home to the Shawnee National Forestβa diverse and epic landscape.
Explore miles of trails, flourishing wetlands, lush canyons, and countless natural wonders! What will you explore in Shawnee Forest Country?
Plan your adventure today by visiting: https://southernmostillinois.com/
Looking forward to letting loose this Labor Day weekend? Here's an adventure that might interest you! π»
Our Southern Illinois Beer Here adventure takes you to 5 different breweries in the western region of Southernmost Illinois. Get hoppy!
View the full itinerary:
Well, want to have a beer? Fancy a pint, a stein, or a mug? Explore your options in craft breweries in Shawnee Forest Country of Southernmost Illinois. Hop to it, and explore the tastes of the region.
Now is the time to sign up for the Shawnee Challenge! It's FREE and FUN motivation to get outside and explore as the weather finally begins to cool down.
Download your mobile passport and visit checkpoints at your own pace. Each check-in earns you points to redeem prizes!
Get started today: https://southernmostillinois.com/explore/
Toast to National Red Wine Day! π·π
Need help finding a favorite local winery? Take a trip along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail! Learn about the 12 wineries along the trail by visiting: https://www.shawneewinetrail.com/
See other wineries in the area at: https://southernmostillinois.com/home/things-to-do-2/drink/breweries/
πΈ Southern Illinois Social Media
π¨π£πππ§π: πππ₯πππ‘ π’π π§ππ ππ’ππ¦ ππ¦ π’π£ππ‘π¨βΌοΈ
Just in time for Labor Day weekend, Garden of the Gods roads and parking lots are resurfaced and ready for your outdoor adventure.
Learn more about Garden of the Gods and other hiking opportunities in the Shawnee National Forest by visiting: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/shawnee/recreation/hiking/?recid=10669&actid=50
8/26/2024- Garden of the Gods Recreation Area is open.
It's ! β¨πππβ¨
Good thing Southernmost Illinois is known for its peaches, there are plenty of orchards to visit and get your fix today. π
π Dale Bremer Orchard
π Flamm Orchards
π Mileur Orchard
π Rendleman Orchards
π Lipe Orchards
What other orchards do you like to visit in Southernmost Illinois? Let us know in the comments!
πΈ Savanna Kathleen Photography
Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour was selected to be featured on an upcoming episode of World's Greatest!... on Bloomberg TV!
The television show spotlights the best in business, products, and adventureβit's no surprise Southernmost Illinois' very own Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour was chosen to be featured!
The upcoming episode will broadcast on Bloomberg TV on August 31st and September 7th at 1:00 pm CST.
πΊ For cable, check your local listings
πΊ Dish Network channel 353
πΊ DirecTV channel 203
Photo credit: Ed Baumgarten Photography
Yum! We're πππͺππ¬π¦ craving a pink cookie from Davis Pastry! π€€
πΈ DirtRoads HighHeels
Embark on the 2024 Southern Illinois Coffee Trail! π
Get ready for an adventure through Southern Illinoisβ rich coffee culture! The 2024 Coffee Trail is here, featuring 55 unique coffee shops. Explore the region from September 1st to December 31st, enjoy exclusive deals at each stop, and check in with the Coffee Trail mobile app.
Visit 8 or more stops to earn an exclusive prize!
Ready to sip your way through Southern Illinois?
Download the app now - the Southern Illinois Coffee Trail will be found in "Tours" starting August 30th!
iOS users: https://ow.ly/qIbr50T3r2v
Android users: https://ow.ly/nFtH50T3r2s
A canoe or kayak trip through the Cache River Wetlands leads you on a serene journey among diverse wildlife. πΆπ
Share your summer adventures with us by tagging Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau and !
πΈ Cache Bayou Outfitters
Check out these fun events this weekend in Southernmost Illinois. β¬οΈ
π Shawnee Hills Trail Races
http://www.shawneehills100.com/
πΆ Off the Rails Concert in Carbondale
https://www.explorecarbondale.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2762
π¨ Paint and Sip at Blue Sky Vineyard
https://www.blueskyvineyard.com/paint-sip/
See more events at https://southernmostillinois.com/events/ or drop details about your event in the comments!
Need a good adrenaline rush before the school year starts? Try ziplining through the Shawnee National Forest with the Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour! π§ββοΈπΏ
Tours consist of 8 zip lines, three aerial bridges, and two short ground hikesβperfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Share photos of your summer fun with !
Learn more here: https://shawneezip.com/
We scream, you scream, all of Southernmost Illinois screams for πππ ππ₯πππ ! Take this Shawnee Forest Country Ice Cream Road Trip with us π¦π³
π First stop: Cool Spoons Frozen Yogurt and Treats
π Second Stop: Small Town Scoop
π Third Stop: Flamm Orchards
π Fourth Stop: Chocolate Factory Inc
π Fifth Stop: Garden of the God's Outpost
Where is your favorite place to get ice cream in Southernmost Illinois? π
southernmostillinois.com
β¨βοΈβοΈβοΈβ¨
β The 2024 Southern Illinois Coffee Trail Begins September 1st! βοΈ
Coffee lovers, get ready for another captivating journey through the rich coffee culture of Southern Illinois! This yearβs Coffee Trail features 55 coffee shops, each offering a unique experience and showcasing the diverse flavors that make our region a coffee connoisseurβs paradise.
π Unlock Exclusive Deals:
With your Coffee Trail passport or the Downstate IL app, unlock exclusive deals and discounts at every stop. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckons, inviting you to discover the true essence of Southern Illinois, one sip at a time.
π
Trail Dates: September 1st β December 31st
Collect your stamps by visiting 8 or more stops and be rewarded with an exclusive prize! Show the barista your passport or app to get your stamp and qualify for the deal or discount (limit 1 per customer).
Passports will be available at all participating coffee shops on September 1st.
Trail sponsors include: Enjoy Illinois, Discover Downstate Illinois, Visit Effingham, Rend Lake Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau, and Visitsi
Have you taken a tour of Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch? π¦β€οΈ
Rolling Oak offers self-guided and group tours around the ranch where you can meet the fuzzy animals that call it home. Armed with a bucket of feed, you'll meet goats and 3 herds of alpacas waiting to meet you and get some treats.
While you're there, you can explore locally produced products made from luxurious alpaca fiber. A perfect way to spend a summer day! βοΈ
πΈ Debbra Dunning Brouillette
Looking for a unique stay full of fun photo ops? Check out our Honk Honk, Next Stop, Vienna adventure!
You'll love staying in a school bus turned luxury Airbnb, just a short drive from town and the interstate, but secluded enough for total privacy. Enjoy meals at Vienna Diner and have fun at Vienna City Park too!
Click here for the full itinerary β¬οΈ
You'll love staying in this school bus turned luxury AirBNB! A short drive from town and the interstate, but secluded enough for total privacy. You'll want all three meals at Vienna Diner, a spot loved by locals with reasonable prices and portions. You'll be surprised by the size of the Vienna City....
Here is a selection of events happening this week in our corner of the world. Don't miss these opportunities to get out and enjoy Southernmost Illinois!
ποΈ Union County Fair Anna IL
https://www.unioncountyfair.net/
π» St. Nicholas Brewing Company 10th Anniversary
https://southernmostillinois.com/event/st-nicholas-brewing-companys-10th-anniversary-party/
πΏ Mounted Masterpieces Workshop at StarView Vineyards
https://www.facebook.com/events/505270228729245
Leave details about your upcoming event in the comments or visit https://southernmostillinois.com/events/month/2024-08/ to see more!
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Step into your imagination... π²π¦π§β¨ Boo Castle Park has over 30 sculptures that will transport you to a land of magic. Make lasting memories as you explore the large castle and surrounding area with an elaborate jungle gym of tunnels, stairs, bridges, and paths. Learn more about the park and plan your visit at https://boocastlepark.com/
What local shops are your favorite to visit? Here are a few stops in Southernmost Illinois to add to your trip next time you're out shopping and having fun! Anna: π Kiki's Coffeehouse π Annabelle Market π Davis Pastry Vienna: π Milkmaid Creations and Antiques π Holy Grounds Coffee Shop π Miranda's Delight Bakery π Art Gallery Off the Square π Ned's Shed Hamburgers Metropolis: π Sissy's Metropolis π Silver Collections π Friends & Company π Cordavino's
The Shawnee Challenge was recently featured on a segment of Around Town with Studio STL! Hear from Pat Jones as he shares why the Shawnee Challenge is perfect for new AND experienced outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with the beautiful environment that makes up Southernmost Illinois. β¬οΈ https://fox2now.com/studiostl/keepin-it-local/like-a-good-outdoor-challenge-try-the-shawnee-national-forest-challenge/
Cradled between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, Southernmost Illinois is home to the Shawnee National Forestβa diverse and epic landscape. Explore miles of trails, flourishing wetlands, lush canyons, and countless natural wonders! What will you explore in Shawnee Forest Country? Plan your adventure today by visiting: https://southernmostillinois.com/
Now is the time to sign up for the Shawnee Challenge! It's FREE and FUN motivation to get outside and explore as the weather finally begins to cool down. Download your mobile passport and visit checkpoints at your own pace. Each check-in earns you points to redeem prizes! Get started today: https://southernmostillinois.com/explore/
Dive into farm living! Rendleman Orchards is a fun retreat from the noise of town during Summer and Fall months. Make a trip down to Alto Pass to visit them soon. πΈπβ€οΈ
In a community brimming with liveliness, tradition, and connections to nature, you're sure to find unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit and see why Carbondale is at the heart of Southern Illinois! Learn more by visiting: southernmostillinois.com
Cycle past incredible sights on the Tunnel Hill State Trail! Enjoy the ride! π΄ββοΈ π₯ Hiking With Shawn
We scream, you scream, all of Southernmost Illinois screams for πππ ππ₯πππ ! Take this Shawnee Forest Country Ice Cream Road Trip with us π¦π³ π First stop: Cool Spoons Frozen Yogurt and Treats π Second Stop: Small Town Scoop π Third Stop: Flamm Orchards π Fourth Stop: Chocolate Factory Inc π Fifth Stop: Garden of the God's Outpost Where is your favorite place to get ice cream in Southernmost Illinois? π southernmostillinois.com
It's HOT π₯ Let's cool off with some water fun! There are so many great spots to enjoy the water in Southernmost Illinois! Where is your favorite place to cool off? π Little Grassy Lake Campground & Marina π Poplar Camp Beach at Cedar Lake Explore all that Southernmost Illinois has to offer! Visit http://southernmostillinois.com/ to plan your next trip
Everyone knows Carbondale is the home of the SIU Salukis, but you might not know it's home to so much more! In a community brimming with liveliness, tradition, and connections to nature, you're sure to find unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit and see why Carbondale is at the heart of Southern Illinois! Discover all Carbondale has to offer by visiting: https://www.explorecarbondale.com/ Explore more adventures in Southernmost Illinois at: https://southernmostillinois.com/
Explore the Devil's Standtable! This well-defined path within Giant City State Park takes you through an oak forest and intersects with towering sandstone bluffs and a huge natural shelter. Find your next adventure at southernmostillinois.com
From breathtaking natural wonders and scenic trails to historic towns and local wineries, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Southernmost Illinois! Plan your getaway and uncover hidden gems in our vibrant region by visiting southernmostillinois.com. Adventure awaits you!
The Devil's Standtable Trail is a beautiful, 1/3-mile hike through an oak forest and towering sandstone bluffs, leading you directly to the foot of the Devil's Standtable rock formation. Plan your next adventure at: southernmostillinois.com
Discover the wonders of the Cache River State Natural Area! πΏ Immerse yourself in the beauty of ancient cypress swamps, serene wetlands, and lush forests. Whether you're hiking, bird-watching, or paddling through tranquil waters, this natural haven offers unforgettable experiences for all nature lovers.
The Devil's Standtable Trail is a beautiful, 1/3-mile hike in Giant City State Park that leads you to the foot of the Devil's Standtable rock formation. This well-defined path takes you through an oak forest and intersects with towering sandstone bluffs and a huge natural shelter. Learn more about the park and other recreational activities at: https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park.giantcity.html
Endless adventures are waiting for you in Southernmost Illinois! π From gorgeous hikes and scenic drives to charming small towns and vibrant local culture, there's a little (or a lot of) something for everyone. Get inspired to explore the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that make Shawnee Forest Country and surrounding areas a must-visit destination! Start planning your next big adventure today by visiting: https://southernmostillinois.com/
Visit Metropolis for some SUPER fun! Metropolis isn't just the hometown of Superman, it's home to a variety of unique shops, restaurants, trails, outdoor activities, and more. Get in the car and take a road trip this weekend! ππ¨
Find peak inspiration at Giant City State Park! Spring is the perfect time to explore the Trillium Trail, known for its gorgeous wildflowers, lush greenery, and unique bluffs. What will you find on your hike? πΈ
Experience the beauty of Southernmost Illinois by exploring these must-see spots. π₯Ύβ€οΈ Learn more at southernmostillinois.com
Spring has sprung and there are plenty of things to see and down in Shawnee Forest Country. You can explore areas like Cave-in-Rock, Garden of the Gods and Giant City State Park. There are trails to hike, hills to climb and waterfalls to splash in.
Donβt forget chances for zip lining, kayaking, bike riding, fishing and much more. These opportunities are just a click away here.
At the end of the day, raise a glass at your favorite winery or brewery. Shawnee Forest Country is the proud home of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. What are you waiting for? Come see us soon!
Magical Vacation Planner by Marci Malnar
White Pine Lane
