Southern Illinois

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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Eastport

While visiting Eastport, you might make a stop by sights like Gateway Conference Center and Splash City Family Waterpark.

Eastport
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Uptown

If you're spending some time in Uptown, World's Largest Catsup Bottle and Kruta Bakery are top sights worth seeing.

Uptown
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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 Frank Holten State Recreation Area or Arsenal BG Ballpark.

Alorton
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Historic Downtown Collinsville

Though Historic Downtown Collinsville may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like World's Largest Catsup Bottle and Gateway Conference Center.

Historic Downtown Collinsville
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Mulberry Hills

Though Mulberry Hills may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like World's Largest Catsup Bottle and Gateway Conference Center.

Mulberry Hills
Red Lion Inn & Suites Pontoon Beach

Red Lion Inn & Suites Pontoon Beach

2.5 out of 5
1240 E Chain Of Rocks Rd, Granite City, IL
The price is €67 per night from 2 Sept to 3 Sept
€67
2 Sept - 3 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Granite City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
7.8/10 Good! (497 reviews)
"Everything"

Reviewed on 22 Aug 2025

Red Lion Inn & Suites Pontoon Beach
Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Fairview Heights

Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Fairview Heights

3 out of 5
12 Ludwig Dr, Fairview Heights, IL
The price is €91 per night from 10 Sept to 11 Sept
€91
10 Sept - 11 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Fairview Heights. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Fairview Heights
Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon

Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon

3 out of 5
145 North 44th Street , Mount Vernon, IL
The price is €92 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
€92
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Mount Vernon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon
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.
The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.

The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.

Effingham
Book a stay at this family-friendly cottage in Effingham. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Cardinal Golf Course and Effingham ...
The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.
ALL SEASONS Retreat! Memories*Family*Friends*Fire Pit*Fish*Deep Water*Kayaks

ALL SEASONS Retreat! Memories*Family*Friends*Fire Pit*Fish*Deep Water*Kayaks

Goreville
Stay at this cabin in Goreville. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Lake of Egypt and Goreville City Park are located ...
ALL SEASONS Retreat! Memories*Family*Friends*Fire Pit*Fish*Deep Water*Kayaks
Lifetime memories, WIFI, Hot tub, Fire Pit, Gas Grill, High Chair, Bird Watching

Lifetime memories, WIFI, Hot tub, Fire Pit, Gas Grill, High Chair, Bird Watching

Buncombe
Stay at this cabin in Buncombe. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a garden. Popular attractions Ferne Clyffe State Park and Round Bluff Nature Preserve are ...
Lifetime memories, WIFI, Hot tub, Fire Pit, Gas Grill, High Chair, Bird Watching
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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