Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau

05/30/2026

Give a hoot and hit the trails! 🦉 From June 1–14, join Woodsy Owl's Scavenger Hunt in the Shawnee National Forest.

Hike designated trails, complete fun nature-focused challenges, snap photo proof along the way, and earn a prize after finishing all four adventures.

You'll explore spots like Garden of the Gods, Bell Smith Springs, Pomona Natural Bridge, and Tower Rock while learning simple ways to care for the outdoors we all love. Complete every challenge for a chance to earn one FREE night of camping in the Shawnee National Forest! 🌲📸🏕️

Get involved by visiting: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/shawnee/events/woodsy-owls-photo-scavenger-hunt

05/28/2026

Looking for an excuse to eat out tonight? Today is National Hamburger Day! 🍔 Southernmost Illinois has plenty of local spots serving up juicy favorites, loaded classics, and hometown flavor worth the trip.

Here are a few local spots that serve a delicious burger. Share more in the comments!

📍 Murphysboro
Game On Grill and Bar
Southpaw Bar & Grill (pictured)

📍 Carbondale
Buckwater Brew Works and Whiskey House
Mary Lou's Grill
Underground Public House
Flame Grill & Bar
St Nicholas Brewing Company

📍 Vienna
Ned's Shed

📍 Jonesboro
Dixie Barbecue

Now the important question…where are you grabbing a burger today? 👀

05/27/2026

Don’t miss what’s coming next! 🌸☀️🥾
Our seasonal newsletter is your inside look at what’s happening across Southernmost Illinois, from upcoming events and hidden gems to trip ideas you’ll want to bookmark.

The next one hits inboxes in early June, just in time for summer planning!

Sign up for our seasonal newsletter here: https://40ilbh.share-na2.hsforms.com/2QePb-u6uQZOvWoLuBSN0og

05/26/2026

Hikes through Shawnee Forest Country are filled with deep canyons and outcroppings that play host to nature's most spectacular display of power.

With dozens of waterfalls readily accessible, and even more waiting just off the path, what will you explore in Southernmost Illinois?

05/25/2026

🌊 Paddle into adventure at Cedar Lake! 🚣‍♀️☀️

The City of Carbondale continues to partner with Rent.Fun with a self-service kayak & paddle board rental program at the Cedar Lake Boat Ramp!

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning on the water or a full day of outdoor fun, your next adventure is just a scan away.

🛶 Include paddles & life vests
⏰ Open daily
💲 $20/hour | $50/day
📍 Cedar Creek Rd., Carbondale, IL 62901

Grab your friends, enjoy the scenery, and experience Cedar Lake like never before! 🌿

05/24/2026

What’s happening in Southernmost Illinois this week? Here's a little glimpse.

Coffee on the Cache Roundtable Discussion
☕️ https://southernmostillinois.com/event/nature-discussion/

Red Cedar Trail Races at Giant City State Park
👟 https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Makanda/RedCedarTrailHalfMarathon

Leave details about your upcoming event in the comments! For more events, visit: https://southernmostillinois.com/events

05/23/2026

School’s out…now what? We’ve got ideas. 💡

Check out our latest blog, 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹'𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝘁, 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝗱, for ways to make the most of summer in Southernmost Illinois. From immersive school-themed stays to museums, educational centers, and libraries, learn the best ways to keep young minds curious all season!

Read the full blog:

In Southernmost Illinois, summer has a way of turning everyday moments into discovery, where curiosity doesn’t wait for a classroom and exploration happens naturally.

05/22/2026

Roll the windows down, put on your favorite playlist, and hit the road... Celebrate National Road Trip Day with a drive following the Union County 250 Road Trip Map! 🚗💨

From historic markers and murals to forest trails and blooming hydrangeas, this route is packed with places worth pulling over for. Cruise through Union County, take in the beauty of the Shawnee National Forest, and discover stories around every turn.

Access the interactive map by visiting: bit.ly/UnionCounty250Map

05/21/2026

The latest episode of the Enjoy Illinois Let's Go! podcast takes listeners on a journey through Southernmost Illinois with local voices who know the region best. 🥾🍇✨

Host Catie Sheehan chats with Shawn Gossman (Hiking With Shawn) about the trails, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and hidden gems that make hiking in the Shawnee National Forest unforgettable. Then, Brandy Nance with Blue Sky Vineyard shares insider tips for planning the perfect getaway along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.

From Garden of the Gods and Little Grand Canyon to local wineries, small towns, and outdoor adventure, this episode is packed with inspiration for your next trip.

Give it a listen and start planning your Southern Illinois adventure!
🎧

On this episode of the Enjoy Illinois: Let's Go! podcast, host Cati...