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

If you're spending some time in Eastport, Gateway Conference Center and Splash City Family Waterpark are top sights worth seeing.

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

While Historic Downtown Collinsville isn't home to many top sights, World's Largest Catsup Bottle and Gateway Conference Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Historic Downtown Collinsville
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Mulberry Hills

While Mulberry Hills isn't home to many top sights, World's Largest Catsup Bottle and Gateway Conference Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

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 P3,881 per night from Aug 18 to Aug 19
P3,881
P4,394 total
Aug 18 - Aug 19
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! (491 reviews)
"This property was more than I expected for the price I paid. The room was very clean and showers were hot the way I like them. The air conditioner worked well enough to keep the room cool. The main hallways can use come carpet care and air freshener but for the price its a minor detail. I would recommend ..."

Reviewed on Aug 14, 2025

Red Lion Inn & Suites Pontoon Beach
Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon

Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon

3 out of 5
145 North 44th Street , Mount Vernon, IL
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P5,365 per night from Aug 31 to Sep 1
P5,365
P6,068 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
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 ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,420 reviews)
"Great place, clean, been here a couple of times. Our go to stop when we travel to the midwest."

Reviewed on Aug 15, 2025

Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon
Drury Inn & Suites Marion

Drury Inn & Suites Marion

3 out of 5
2706 W DeYoung St, Marion, IL
The price is P3,709 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
P3,709
P4,451 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Marion. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,006 reviews)
"We had an excellent stay."

Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025

Drury Inn & Suites Marion
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.
Sentral Michigan Avenue

Sentral Michigan Avenue

4 out of 5
808 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVENUE, Chicago, IL
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Chicago. Enjoy a fitness center, valet parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (879 reviews)
"Excellent location and spacious unit with friendly staff. Highly recommend!"

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

Sentral Michigan Avenue
Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Market Hall Apartments West Loop

Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Market Hall Apartments West Loop

3.5 out of 5
1436 West Randolph Street, Chicago, IL
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Chicago. Enjoy a nightclub, a fitness center, and concierge services. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (342 reviews)
"Great stay!"

Reviewed on Aug 14, 2025

Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Market Hall Apartments West Loop
Level Chicago – Old Town

Level Chicago – Old Town

4 out of 5
1140 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly aparthotel in Chicago. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (338 reviews)
"Great property. Outstanding all the way around."

Reviewed on Aug 13, 2025

Level Chicago – Old Town
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.

Popular places to visit