2022 ILLINOISouth Visitors Guide

2022

VISITORS GUIDE

Eckerts Country Store & Farms | St. Clair County

In this issue: FAMILY ROAD TRIP

Page 2-4

FANTASTIC FOOD

Page 26-29

AGRITOURISM ADVENTURES

Page 34-36

ADVENTURE AWAITS! WHAT STORY WILL YOU TELL?

Looking for Lincoln? You’ll find him here, where his storied political career began and history abounds. After some adventure? You’ve only to venture toward Vandalia Lake for a host of water and outdoor sports. Whether you’re after browsing boutiques or immersing yourself in culture, you’ll find the right thread to weave your perfect story right here in Vandalia.

VandaliaIllinois.com

M VisitVandalia

CONTENTS Welcome......................................... 1 Family Trip Itinerary..................... 2 Couples Trip Itinerary................... 6 Girl’s Trip Itinerary....................... 10 Guy’s Trip Itinerary...................... 14 Outdoor Adventure.................... 18 Roadside Attractions................. 22 Food............................................... 26 Wine/Beer/Distilleries................ 30 Agritourism.................................. 34 History/Museums........................ 38 Art & Culture................................. 42 Made in ILLINOISouth................46 Shopping......................................48 Seasonal Events.......................... 52 Sports............................................ 58 Meeting/Event Space.................64 Unique Accommodations.........66 Accommodations Listings........68

T

here is no question that traveling is a special thing. When folks take a road trip and spend money in different communities along the way, so many people benefit. Special trips to a destination or an event for several days help in more ways than many of us realize. The power of travel has widereaching effects, and that is why tourism is key in helping our economy recover from the recent pandemic – not just in ILLINOISouth, but throughout the whole country.

Our territory is perfect for any kind of trip, because ILLINOISouth encompasses 21 counties throughout the southern portion of Illinois. Stretching from the Mississippi River bordering Missouri all the way to the Wabash River bordering Indiana, our area offers a little bit of everything. Hiking in caverns, check.

Professional auto racing, check. Abraham Lincoln, check. Those adventures and so many more can be found on our website at illinoisouth.org.

Whether a visit lasts for a day, a weekend, or for several days – every trip is made up of a bunch of stories. Tales about amazing food, or a neat roadside attraction found by accident - they are all reminders about the great memories made during a visit. At ILLINOISouth we love those stories, we embrace those stories, and we want to hear all about them. In the pages to come we have included four travel itineraries that have generated stories for thousands of people already, and we hope your memories are just as fond.

Throughout the rest of our Visitors Guide, we have also included first-hand stories from many different people who have shared their stories about shopping, eating, exploring, and more! Hopefully stories from their adventures will make you want to hop in the car and explore all of ILLINOISouth as well.

Before you travel, we definitely encourage you to do a quick Internet search to get all of the details possible for what you are interested in. Many attractions, communities, and events have done a great job updating their social media accounts during the pandemic – so we urge you to be as informed as possible before traveling to avoid any potential changes in hours, dates, or safety procedures.

From all of us here at ILLINOISouth Tourism, we hope you have a FANTASTIC time exploring our neck of the woods. Take a TON of pictures and share your stories with us on social media – we love to hear about all of the memorable experiences!

•

Background Photo - Salt Lick Point Photo Credit: @chefjess314

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STAFF

BOND COUNTY Jes Adam Dennis Potthast

EDWARDS COUNTY Debbie Fearn Dennis Turpin

MONROE COUNTY Clyde Heller Jim Hill

WASHINGTON COUNTY DARLENE CHAPMAN Dee DeMoss President/Finance Director Marvin Steinkamp dchapman@illinoisouth.org

CLARK COUNTY Nora Swalls Bailey Maulding

FAYETTE COUNTY Mayor Ricky Gottman

PERRY COUNTY Carrie Gilliam Judy Smid

WAYNE COUNTY Gary Sloan

CLAY COUNTY Amy Allen Doug Spitzner CLINTON COUNTY Jim Sullivan Sandy Timmermann CRAWFORD COUNTY Lisa Schaefer Sarah Mehler CUMBERLAND COUNTY Billie Chambers Tania Craig

HAMILTON COUNTY Jerry Prince Monica Tucker JASPER COUNTY Jane Casey Mindy Hartke LAWRENCE COUNTY Paige Harvey Tom Robinson MARION COUNTY Sonya Germann Ben Stratemeyer

RANDOLPH COUNTY Emily Lyons Ronnie White RICHLAND COUNTY Karen Bell Belinda Henton

WHITE COUNTY Cindy Conley Kelly Northcott CITY OF HIGHLAND Mallord Hubbard

ST. CLAIR COUNTY Cathleen Lindauer John West

CHRISTINE ORR Sales & Marketing Director corr@illinoisouth.org ANDY WATERMAN Communications Director awaterman@illinoisouth.org

ROSLYN HAZLITT Office Assistant rhazlitt@illinoisouth.org

Download the ILLINOISOUTH TOURISM APP on Apple or Android to help plan your trip!

ELAINE BYRD Office Manager/Executive Assistant ebyrd@illinoisouth.org KATERINA ENGLE Graphic Designer & Social Media Specialist kengle@illinoisouth.org

WABASH COUNTY Jim Pfeister Brenda Bobbitt

DENA WOODS Web Designer & Content Specialist dwoods@illinoisouth.org

JORDAN JACKOVICH Sales & Marketing Specialist jjackovich@illinoisouth.org

Guide Designed By Jenny Ferguson Specs Creative Agency Printed By Kingery Printing

Cover photo taken by Megan Melville @megan_melville

We make every effort to verify the information contained in the Visitors Guide; however, we suggest that you call to confirm the hours of operation, rates and reservation requirements before visiting. © Copyright 2022 – ILLINOISouth Tourism ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

1

WELCOME

WELCOME TO ILLINOISOUTH!

FAMILY TRIP ITINERARY

A Unique Adventure for Kids and Adults Alike

Family Fun ROAD TRIP DAY 1:

DAY 2:

Start off the trip with a HUGE experience! Located right off of Interstate 70 lies Casey, also known as ‘Big Things in a Small Town.’ Here you can park the car and go on a scavenger hunt for over two-dozen BIG things scattered throughout town. Eleven of these items are Guinness World Record holders, including the World’s Largest Teeter-Totter and the World’s Largest Mailbox.

Begin the day with a great cup of coffee and some breakfast from an Olney staple, Ophelia’s Cup. Take your food out to Miller Grove Park to dine al fresco, while watching the beloved White Squirrels of Olney scamper around!

From Casey, head south to Robinson and make sure to bring a swimsuit! Robinson’s City Park has an AWESOME pool and splash pad area, complete with a pirate ship for the kiddos to play on. Once you are dried off, head to the square in Robinson for a sweet treat and some history. Robinson is the birthplace of the Heath Bar, and the Heath Museum and Confectionery is the best place to learn about this chocolate covered toffee bar while munching on a fresh piece!

Once nightfall is near, head west to Jasper County - home to one of the few remaining drivein movie theaters left in the southern portion of Illinois. Folks drive from counties around to watch a flick at the iconic Drive ‘N Theatre, located not far outside of Newton. Once the movie has finished, head south to Olney for a great night’s sleep.

Hit the road for a short drive west to Flora, where you will find the Little Toot Railroad located at Charley Brown Park. If there are any train lovers in your family, they are definitely going to have fun riding this 1/4 scale railroad around the park! As a note, Little Toot is upgrading parts of their track, so please check their Facebook page for more information.

After the locomotive has come to a stop, head southeast to Wabash County. Just south of Mt. Carmel you will find Beall Woods State Park, a great place for families to take a hike. Beall Woods features a handful of easy and moderate trails, and this park has one of the last remaining tracts of virgin timber east of the Mississippi River. Trees at Beall Woods State Park can be as tall as 12 stories, and 3 feet in diameter!

Wrap up the day with a quick drive south to I-64 KOA in Grayville. They have plenty of camping opportunities, including cabins to rent. This western-themed venue features SO many things the family will love. I-64 KOA has plenty of playground equipment, 27 holes of mini-golf, and an electronic shooting range.

Not to mention, they have great food at the Saloon on-site.

Visit the BIG things in Casey, including eleven Guinness World Record holders Photo Credit: @adventuresofrileymadison

Watch the beloved White Squirrels of Olney scamper around Photo Credit: @llmarshallart

•

Visit the birthplace of the Heath bar at the Heath Museum and Confectionery Photo Credit: Heath Museum And Confectionery

2

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

FAMILY TRIP ITINERARY

Look out from the World’s Largest Mailbox in Casey Photo Credit: @stacilandis

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

3

FAMILY TRIP ITINERARY

Visit the iconic Drive 'N Theatre, located not far outside of Newton Photo Credit: @allie_renee18

Play 27 holes of mini golf at I-64 KOA in Grayville Photo Credit: @ljdimaggio

Play around at the Pelican Cove in Robinson Photo Credit: City of Robinson Parks Department

4

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Visit ILLINOISouth.org/ Road-Trip-Itineraries for more travel ideas!

Crawford County VISIT

Crawford County, Illinois has something for everyone - historical sites, golf courses, camping, recreational lakes & rivers, beautiful parks, unique shops, family-oriented events, museums, fine dining & excellent overnight accommodations.

2022 CRAWFORD COUNTY EVENTS & FESTIVALS FLAT ROCK Jun 11: Flat Rock Pancake Day Aug 13: Flat Rock Homecoming HUTSONVILLE Aug 5-6: Hutsonville River Fest Nov 26: Christmas on the River

PALESTINE May 28: Palestine Lions Club Fish Fry, Cruise-In & Flea Market Sep 2-5: Pioneer City Labor Day Festival & Rodeo Oct 1-2: Wabash Valley Wine & Art Festival Nov 19: Palestine Preservation Projects Society Cookie Walk Nov 25: Leaverton Park Holiday Lighting Festival

ROBINSON Apr 23: Spring Market Jun-Sep: Cross Street Market [Every Saturday] Jun 18, 25 & Jul 9, 23: Concerts at Cross Street Station Jul 4: Robinson 4th of July Celebration Jul 14-16: Sidewalk Sale Days

Aug 5-6: Robinson City-Wide Garage Sales OBLONG Sep 17: Crawford County Fest-of-Ale Jun 25: Summer Hootenanny Sep 24: Farm to Table Dinner Jul 23-30: Crawford County Fair Aug 5-6: Oblong Town-Wide Garage Sales Sep 30 & Oct 1: Heath Toffee Festival & Parade Aug 12-14: Oblong Antique Tractor & Engine Show Nov 18-20: Christmas Magic Weekend Oct 11-15: International Metal Meet Dec 3: Holly Jolly Market Oct 29: Fall Follies Dates are subject to change. Please visit www.cityofrobinson.com for more information.

City of Robinson Tourism | 300 South Lincoln | PO Box 188 | Robinson, IL 62454 618-544-7616 | tourism@cityofrobinson.com | www.cityofrobinson.com/tourism ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

5

COUPLES TRIP ITINERARY

Enjoy a Couples Trip in ILLINOISouth!

Explore WITH A Loved One DAY 1:

DAY 2:

Hit the MetroBikeLink Trail in Belleville for a nice 9-mile bike ride to get the day started off right. This paved trail follows the MetroLink transit system and provides a great ride from the west side of Belleville to the east side of town.

Wake up early for a bike ride on another fantastic trail! The Madison County Transit Goshen Trail has a trailhead in O’Fallon that runs north to Troy.

Make a round trip, and be sure to visit the Vine Street Market at O’Fallon Station. This is one of the premier farmers markets in southern Illinois, attracting folks from miles around each Saturday from May through October!

To quench your thirst after the bike ride, head to The Weingarten in Belleville to have a few drinks outside on their patio area!

A very short drive east from The Weingarten you’ll find Eckert’s Country Store and Farm.

It’s very easy to spend a few hours here picking fresh fruit in the orchard, shopping in their General Store, grabbing a bite to eat at their restaurant, and indulging in some ice cream from their Custard Shop!

One attraction you will not want to miss while in Belleville is the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows. The Shrine provides a great opportunity to walk the grounds and experience several sacred spaces. Lourdes Grotto, Shrine Circle, and the Millennium Spire are a few of the unique, eye-catching attractions that draw folks from all across the country!

When nightfall is near, make the trip to Skyview Drive-In Theater in Belleville. Skyview is one of the few remaining drive-in movie theaters in southern Illinois, and it has been apart of Belleville since 1949! There are currently two screens that show double features each weekend.

After the movies are finished, head to one of O’Fallon’s amazing hotels for a great night’s sleep.

6

From O’Fallon, make your way south to Columbia for a wide variety of drinks at Stumpy’s Spirits Distillery. This farm to table distillery is known for it’s award winning small-batch bourbon, vodka, and more. Definitely be sure to take home a bottle of your favorite Stumpy’s spirits so that you can enjoy it later!

Red Bud is our next stop, which is home to The Pour Vineyard. Situated in the middle of a sixacre vineyard overlooking a large lake and rolling farmland, The Pour is a great spot for couples to relax and sip on some wine. There is indoor seating in the tasting room and outdoor seating near the lake, so there are plenty of options to enjoy yourself.

From Red Bud, head southeast to Prairie du Rocher to experience an interesting piece of history. Be in awe of Fort de Chartres, which is home to the oldest building in the state. While much of this property has been rebuilt over time, the powder magazine is still the original structure built in 1720! Walk around and learn about the 300 year old French fortification and be sure to take lots of pictures. If timed

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

correctly, you will be lucky enough to experience one of the Annual Rendezvous events at Fort de Chartres – where you will witness amazing reenactments and other fun activities!

Finish up the trip with a drive north to Maeystown, another piece of unique history. You’ll be charmed by this little village - which is one of the only communities in the state to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places in its entirety. As soon as you cross the brick bridge into town ▶

COUPLES TRIP ITINERARY

Catch a movie at the Skyview Drive-In

Take some downtime at The Pour Vineyard

Photo Credit: @crazyandmaddi

Photo Credit: The Pour Vineyard

Enjoy a stroll through Maeystown Photo Credit: Kacey Wolters

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

7

COUPLES TRIP ITINERARY

Visit the Millenium Spire at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville Photo Credit: @anthony_huan

Tag us!

We love to see how folks enjoy their adventures in ILLINOISouth! If you experience any of these wonderful attractions and events please tag us in any photos by using the hashtag #ILSouth. You can also email your pictures to info@illinioisouth.org. We would like to use your photos in upcoming publications!

8

DAY 2 Continued: and witness the original architecture - you’ll see why Maeystown is considered a hidden gem in our region. Call it a night at the Corner George Inn Bed and Breakfast to wrap up your couples trip!

•

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Visit ILLINOISouth.org/ Road-Trip-Itineraries for more travel ideas!

Shop, Dine, Stay & Play Experience our Great. Big. Small Town.

Belleville, Illinois is Home to...

• Unique Attractions • Art Galleries & Historic Museums • Dining & Entertainment • Hiking & Biking Trails Running & Walking Events • Golf Courses & 25 Parks with over 250 Acres of Recreational Space • Antique & Boutique Shops For more information about the City of Belleville, Illinois, please contact our Tourism Office at 800-677-9255 or visit our website at belleville.net.

k o t te no

Columbiaillinois.com

MNPV @KnowColumbia

VISIT OUR POP-UP SHOP!

You never know what store will POP-UP next!

Find the POP-UP SHOP Schedule or become a vendor: PopUpShopColumbiaIllinois.com M PopUpShopColumbiaIL ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

ANNUAL EVENTS

Monroe County on Ice February 12

w

G

• Special Events held year-round

City Wide Yard Sale April 22 & 23 Music at Metter June-August 4th of July Celebration & Bike Parade Taste of Columbia August 6 Columbia Days & Parade August 19 & 20 Songs4Soldiers September 9 & 10 FestiFall October 2 Scarecrow Crawl October 6 - 31 Witches Ghoulish Night Out October 13 Bright Night Christmas Parade December 3 9

GRILS TRIP ITINERARY

Experience a Visit Full of Wine, Shopping, and Dessert

PLAN A

Girls Trip!

DAY 1: One of the best ways to start out a ladies trip is to catch up and unwind with a glass of wine...right?

Head to Crooked Creek Winery Downtown in Centralia and get a bottle of anything from traditional white wine to rosé. Of course, make sure to get a bottle or two for the road!

From there, head a few blocks away to the Centralia Carillon, one of the largest bell towers in the world. There are concerts here each weekend complete with food vendors and of course, great music!

After the concert is finished, take a drive west to Carlyle and wrap up the night at your own lakeside cottage. Hazlet Cottages at Carlyle Lake provides amazing views of the largest manmade lake in the state, and they offer many of the same amenities that you would have at home!

DAY 2: Begin the day with a plethora of options at Carlyle Lake! You can take some time out to go to the beach, or gather the ladies and take a beautiful walk around the lake. There are plenty of walking, biking, and hiking trails to explore the outdoors at Carlyle Lake.

10

DAY 3: Once you’ve freshened up, it’s time to hit the Carlyle Lake Wine Trail! Begin at Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery - just a stones throw from the lake. There are nearly 20 wines to choose from, including fruit wines; and if some food is necessary - they have a GREAT menu.

Start the day off with a little shopping in Lebanon! Whether you’re looking for jewelry or antiques, there are several boutiques full of goods to catch your eye.

From there, head northeast to Highland - home of some AMAZING food. Head downtown and check Continuing to our next stop along the wine trail - out Patty Cake’s - a winner of Food Network’s some fantastic vino awaits your palate at Twelve Cupcake Wars. Also downtown you will find The Oaks Winery. Located not far outside of Carlyle, Chocolate Affair, which is full of everything Twelve Oaks boasts award-winning wines that from truffles to hand-dipped chocolate covered took home 13 medals in the 2020 Illinois State Oreos. You can take a seat at the pavilion on the Fair Wine Competition! They were also just one square and enjoy your goodies near Highland’s of nine total Governors Cup winners in the entire beautiful water fountain. state for their Chambourcin Rosé. Definitely plan Travel east on Interstate 70 to Pocahontas (Home to take a bottle (or four) home with you! of country music singer Gretchen Wilson), for For an amazing dinner after the wineries, look no some amazing antique shopping. There are a further than Popeye’s Chop House in St. Rose. handful of antique shops scattered throughout Indulge in everything from skillet mushrooms town, so there’s a high likelihood that you to seafood and prime rib at this hidden gem in won’t leave empty handed! Once you’re all Clinton County. shopped out, head to Copper Dock Winery in Pocahontas for a drink or two on their lovely To wrap up the night, head to Hidden Lake double-decker patio that overlooks a lake.

Winery in Aviston for a wonderful experience in your own cabin! Each cabin comes with A short drive on I-70 from Pocahontas will lead complimentary breakfast, and if you’re not ready you to Greenville, which has several hotels to rest to call it a night quite yet - their tasting room is your head for the night. Enjoy your trip, ladies! open until midnight on the weekends.

•

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Find a new bauble to take home

Take a swim on Carlyle Lake

See the giant grapes at Copper Dock

Photo Credit: @warriorliife

Photo Credit: @amandajack2003

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Enjoy a glass at Crooked Creek Winery Downtown 11

GIRLS TRIP ITINERARY

Photo Credit: Jordan Jackovich

GRILS TRIP ITINERARY

Enjoy some kayaking on Carlyle Lake Photo Credit: @saageobrien

Tag us!

We love to see how folks enjoy their adventures in ILLINOISouth! If you experience any of these wonderful attractions and events please tag us in any photos by using the hashtag #ILSouth. You can also email your pictures to info@illinioisouth.org. We would like to use your photos in upcoming publications!

12

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Visit ILLINOISouth.org/ Road-Trip-Itineraries for more travel ideas!

Bryan Memorial Park

PLAY IN SALEM

Great Food

DISC GOLF COURSE • aquatic center • inclusive playground 2022 Annual Events: May • Chamber Annual BBQ June - September Concerts in the Park June • Booster Bash Gator Classic/Senior American Legion State Tournament Trenton Chamber Of Commerce Annual Golf Scramble

www.salemil.us 618-548-2222

M City of Salem, Illinois - Municipality

July • State Junior American Legion Baseball Tournament August • Trenton Fest October Harvest Hop/5k Chamber Halloween Trunk or Treat December Santa Parade/ Christmas Light Walk

City of Trenton • trentonil.org • 618-224-7323 M City of Trenton, IL Trenton Chamber of Commerce trenton-ilchamber.com M Trenton IL Chamber of Commerce

Boutiques

Nature Preserve

Visit Carlyle

HOME TO ILLINOIS' LARGEST MAN-MADE LAKE

Fun for the Whole Family!

Stop, Shop, & Eat Local in Carlyle!

Camping � Hiking � Golfing � Bike Trails Fishing � Boating � Sailing � Beaches � Swimming Carlyle Lake Project Office

Home of the General Dean Suspension Bridge City of Carlyle, Illinois 618.594.2468 • admin@carlylelake.com www.carlylelake.com M City of Carlyle, Illinois

618.594.2484 carlylelake@usace.army.mil M Carlyle Lake

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

13

Gather

GUYS TRIP ITINERARY

Travel Ideas for Lovers of Golf, Beer, and More!

THE

Guys

DAY 1: Begin the boys trip by teeing off at Stonewolf Golf Club in Fairview Heights - a Jack Nicklaus Signature Design Course. Stonewolf is one of only four courses throughout Illinois and Missouri designed by the golf legend. The tees and fairways feature Zoysia grass, with bent grass greens - but there are also five sets of tees to play as easy or as difficult as you’d like.

Take a short drive north to Madison, home of World Wide Technology Raceway. When they aren’t hosting NHRA, NASCAR, or INDYCAR events - WWT Raceway is also where you can find the Gateway Kartplex. This go-kart experience

is an 11-turn, half-mile track with karts that can go up to 55 miles an hour!

To celebrate taking the checkered flag, make your way to Peel Wood Fired Pizza and Brewing Company in O’Fallon. Their Blood Orange Wheat is a great summer beer, along with the Double Take Blonde; and if you’re feeling adventurous, Peel has a handful of Beer Cocktails to try. If you’re hungry, be sure to try some of their famous pizza and proscuitto involtini.

For a little post-dinner entertainment - take a short drive south to GCS Credit Union Ballpark

Catch a Gateway Grizzlies game

14

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

in Sauget. Enjoy a Gateway Grizzlies baseball game, and order the ‘Best Burger in Baseball’ - which is a cheeseburger served with a donut as the bun!

Once the game is finished, head south to Columbia to get some shut-eye before another full day of fun!

DAY 2:

DAY 3:

After a great round of golf, it’s time to try some amazing beverages. The Southern Illinois Beer Trail runs through Waterloo, which is home to two craft breweries. Hopskeller Brewing Company and Stubborn German Brewing Company sit about a block away from each other - but they offer different brews that keep people coming back for more.

on the Southern Illinois Beer Trail. The next stop is Lieferbrau Brewery in Red Bud, which is one of the more impressive venues on the route as the building was built in 1888 and has since been beautifully restored and renovated. The outdoor beer garden at Lieferbrau is the perfect place to spend an hour sipping one of their 12 varieties of beer, including their Double Crop Cream Ale – a fan favorite. Not a far drive southeast of Red Bud, you’ll find White Rooster Farmhouse Brewery in Sparta. Here you can enjoy one of several unique brews – some of which are collaborations with other breweries. One of their more unique offerings is a Belgian dark ale brewed with cinnamon and raisin bread! From there, get some rest before the final day of the trip.

Kick off the day with a fun round of trapshooting at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, home to the longest trapshooting line in the world! The WSRC also has Cowboy Action Shooting, Skeet Shooting, and Sporting Clays to experience as well. From there, head east to Tamaroa for a challenging round of golf at Red Hawk Golf Course. This 18-hole par 70 course has plenty of water hazards, including the 18th – which has a pond between the tee box and the green, so good luck out there! Once you’re finished golfing, head south to Du Quoin for a round of drinks and delicious food at St. Nicholas Brewing Company. With an ever-changing lineup of craft beers, St. Nicks has just the drink for any guy on the trip. Have fun out there!

•

To taste a few more different brews, continue working your way south

Burn some rubber at Gateway Kartplex Photo Credit: Gateway Kartplex

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

15

GUYS TRIP ITINERARY

Book an early tee time for one of the best public courses in the entire state. Annbriar Golf Course in Waterloo is consistently ranked as one of the top ten public golf courses in the entire state, matter of fact, it was named the number one public golf course in Illinois for 2020! It is a beautiful, hilly course on 226 acres of land that was once a family farm. While the golf is great, the kindness and courtesy of the course staff is even better. This is definitely one of the highlights of the trip!

Play a round of 18 holes at Annbriar Golf Course

GUYS TRIP ITINERARY

Photo Credit: Annbriar Golf Course

Try your hand at some trap shooting at the WSRC in Sparta

Enjoy a cold one at Lieferbrau Brewery Photo Credit: Lieferbrau Brewery

Visit ILLINOISouth.org/ Road-Trip-Itineraries for more travel ideas!

16

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Activities

at the Complex Trapshooting • Skeet Shooting Sporting Clays Rifle/Pistol Events Youth Pheasant Hunt Shooting Clinics • Field Trials

Photo Credit: Seasons Event Center

ACCOMMODATIONS 1,001 Camping Sites Fishing Lakes Restaurant Dining Banquet Facilities

Conference Rooms Large Event Centers Weddings & More

1 Main Event Lane, Sparta, IL 618-295-2700 Follow us on Facebook!

To make camping reservations online, visit camp.exploremoreil.com

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

17

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Playing Outside Is Always Fun!

THE GREAT S

ince the beginning of 2020, outdoor recreation has skyrocketed in popularity.

We have heard countless stories of folks who have taken the time to experience outdoor adventures in ILLINOISouth. The great news is that our area of the state offers everything from spelunking and horseback riding to kayaking, camping, and so much more!

For one of the most memorable and unique experiences of your life, plan a trip to the Illinois Caverns in Monroe County. This natural beauty is located outside of Waterloo and features about six miles of mapped passages.

After a decade-plus closure due to staffing issues and White-Nose Syndrome in bats, the Illinois Caverns re-opened in 2021. This is a true

spelunking experience where helmets, three sources of light, and a group of at least four are all necessary to make the descent. You will want to wear boots, bring a change of clothes, and bring a camera to take a lot of pictures. There are stalagmites, stalactites, and cave salamanders to experience. There are tight passages and slick surfaces, so be prepared for a true caving experience. Monroe County also boasts a handful of hiking experiences that range from easy trails like Paul Wightman Subterranean Nature Preserve to more difficult treks like White Rock, Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve, and Fults Hill Prairie. The climb up the stairs upon arriving at Fults Hill is bit of a challenge for some, but visitors like Joe Taylor

The spillway at Lake Charleston is the perfect way to unwind with good company

say the views are well worth the effort. “I can sit out here for hours, watch the world go by, and not see another person,” explains Taylor. “Only few know about it, and even fewer know about a side branch path with inspirational overlooks.

Some of the most dramatic views in the Midwest are on top of these bluffs,” added Taylor.

Just south of Monroe County you can find a couple of other fantastic hikes in Randolph County. Piney Creek Ravine is certainly picturesque, featuring bluffs, creeks, waterfalls and more. Aside from those features, Piney Creek Ravine is also home to the largest collection of prehistoric petroglyphs and pictographs in the state. These centuries-old works of art have landed Piney Creek Ravine

The Illinois Caverns reopened in 2021 Photo Credit: Andrea Schmittling

18

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Outdoor Adventure

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

on the National Register of Historic Places.

Randolph County State Recreation area is not far outside of Chester, and is an 1,100acre mecca for hiking, fishing, camping and more. The shortest trail that provides some of the neatest views is located at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Kaskaskia River Project.

The Kaskaskia River Confluence Trail is less than half a mile long one way, but once you get to the end of the trail, you’ll be there a while in amazement. The trail leads right to the Kaskaskia River where you can watch the sun rise from a stone amphitheater and watch large birds like hawks and eagles through a pair of strong binoculars on a stand at the site. You don’t get any closer to a river than this!

For a shorter hike that is fully paved, handicap accessible, and great for families – pay a visit to Silver Creek Preserve near Mascoutah. This one-mile trail has an area specifically for prairie grass and wildflowers, as well as wetlands that cut through the preserve. There is a viewing deck to do some great bird watching across the wetlands as well!

Kayaking is another adventure that produces some amazing stories, because these boats can give you vantage points of different rivers and lakes that many of us never see. There are three rivers that cut through portions of our territory that have several access points, making for great places to exit each river and explore nearby communities. The Kaskaskia River runs from

Carlyle Lake south through parts of Washington, St. Clair, Monroe, and Randolph Counties before converging with the Mississippi. The Kaskaskia has ramps at Fayetteville, New Athens, one near Baldwin, and one more at Evansville. The Wabash River is one of the longer trips for kayakers, providing a half dozen Illinois-based launch points between Crawford, Lawrence, Wabash, and White Counties in the Eastern Region of our territory. The Embarras River is a favorite among explorers, flowing south from Lake Charleston through Cumberland and Jasper Counties. This route features 11 different access points to the Embarras River. A recent visitor known simply as Dale made the 32-mile kayak trip from Lake Charleston down to Greenup. ▶

Photo Credit: @amandajack2003

Pyramid State Recreation Area features over 20 different bodies of water to explore Photo Credit: @theforestchronicles

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

19

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

“I would recommend this trip to anyone,” he everything from water slides to several play starts. “Take a camera because there is a lot of areas, including a lily pad walk and a giant wildlife and some very scenic spots. We saw a bucket that will pour down gallons of water! lot of heron and sandpipers. We came around There are also a handful of parks and recreation a bend and found a very large deer standing areas in ILLINOISouth that have equestrian trails. in the water drinking. The second day we saw Red Hills State Park in Lawrence County is some baby deer that walked right up to our one such location where horses are MORE than kayaks and spent some time standing beside welcome. There are designated horse trailer us, ” Dale adds. There are also some great parking spots, horse camping units, a horse lakes in ILLINOISouth to break out the kayak arena, and five miles worth of trails. Mill Creek and explore. Carlyle Lake is really a boater’s Park and Lake in Clark County is another paradise, not only can you kayak, but there are wonderful spot for those who want to adventure opportunities to paddle-boat and even take out with their horses. The trails here are over 15 a sailboat! East Fork Lake is a 934-acre lake miles in length, making for a long, scenic ride in Olney that boasts some amazing scenery for with your four-legged friends. kayaking enthusiasts, especially during the fall, and remember to keep an eye out for those White Squirrels!

Just south of Pinckneyville you will find Pyramid State Enjoy the waterfalls and scenery at Piney Creek Ravine Recreation Area, which at Photo Credit: Midwest Nomad Family 19,000+ acres, is the largest IDNR managed site in Illinois!

There are at least 20 different bodies of water to explore on this site, many of which are only accessible by foot, so the adventures are aplenty.

•

While enjoying the great outdoors, camping is a great way to really get in touch with nature. There are several accommodations at the Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area, ranging from tent and trailer sites to five different cabins. The cabins are quite popular because they feature full-size beds, bunk beds, and a fire grill outside. The Washington County State Recreation Area is just a few miles south of Nashville, and provides a tranquil setting to camp. There are two cabins at this location, both of which have heat and ceiling fans, and there is a shower building on the site as well.

Swimming is one of the most popular outdoor activities, whether at a lake or at a pool.

If cooling off in a lake is more your style, Vandalia Lake has a large sloping sand beach, with a beach house and showers, and there is no fee to swim. For families looking for a pool, the Salem Family Aquatic Center is one of the best venues in our area. This location has

Load up your gear and your best friend for a kayak trip down the Embarras River for the day Photo Credit: @wagnerct

For more outdoor recreation ideas, visit ILLINOISouth.org/ Play/OutdoorRecreation Salt Lick Point is an amazing hike no matter the time of year, but it’s always a better experience with a group of friends

20

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Photo Credit: Andy Burns

www.marshall-il.com

X\

THRU THE YEARS WITH PRIDE Marshall has something for everyone from local downtown shopping to dinners on the lake! We offer many shopping and dining opportunities, parks, hiking trails, camping, band concerts, bowling, a golf course and beautiful community pool. During our annual Lemonade Contest you get to see creative booths made by the youth and try some awesome lemonade. We have a Marshall Autumn Fall Festival with great food, music, vendors, a car show, a parade, and street dances that attracts locals and many visitors. During Halloween we have a large trunk or treat event and frolic contest. You will want to see our popular murals, the world’s largest gavel, and lion statues located around town that represent our school mascot.

BOATING/CAMPING/FISHING/HUNTING

POPCORN WAGON

Marshall is a great place to live or visit!

CAR SHOW

MA

LO G C A B I N

RSH

N ALL BAN D STA

D

HAR

L AN HALL

LION STATUES

HISTORIC MURALS

WORLD’S LARGEST GAVEL ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

21

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

Roadside oRATTRACTIONS adsidffi ATTRACTIONS 20 Iconic Experiences in ILLINOISouth

T

here is something fun and endearing about roadside attractions, right? We have all seen billboards promoting them, and there are countless photos on social media of folks being silly in front of the World’s Largest Rocking Chair! To celebrate our roadside attractions, we have constructed a map of just a handful of the things you St. Clair can seek out while you’re in our neck of the woods. y

Clinton

Washington

Monroe |

Ph

ot

o

Cr

ed

L

rt ibe

f t h e We s t Bell o

Bond

it:

Ga ry Ad

Randolph

ams

Pho to gra phy

22

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Roadside Attractions

Perry

dB

Cu mbe

ge

rla

nt y Covere

rid

n

ou dC

6 Cr

60

o

to

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

on

Ph

C e n t r al i a

i ll Car

ed

nc i t: @ ca ro li ne d a

ee

r_

Clark Cumberland

S t a t ue

Fayette

Bu

r

es l Iv

Crawford

Jasper

Lawrence

Clay Richland

e

Wabash

st

|

i c a R o c k e t i n Fl o r a

P h ot o C r e d i t

: @o

dy

se

ey

Wayne

l Rep

_w

Edwards

Marion

Hamilton

White

Read more about each location on the next page!

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

23

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

oadside oadsidffi RR ATTRATTRACTIONS ACTIONS

24

The largest roadside attraction on this list is found right next to Interstates 55/70, just a stone’s throw away from the Missouri border. World Wide Technology Raceway is impossible to miss as you drive past, and whether it’s amateur racing, professional racing, or any array of different events – there is ALWAYS something going on at the racetrack!

If you’re traveling the Great River Road, the city of Chester has roadside attractions galore! Chester is the hometown of Popeye the Sailor Man, because Popeye’s creator E.C. Seager is from this Randolph County community. The Popeye Character Trail features nearly 20 statues of different characters scattered throughout Chester to find!

For those who need a place to stop while traveling with kiddos, Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo in Washington County is always a hit. This place features everything from zebras and a macaw to camels and kangaroos!

The tallest water fountain in the entire country can be found in St. Clair County. You can experience the Gateway Geyser during summer months at noon. This awesome attraction is located on the grounds of Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park in St. Clair County. The Geyser can reach up to 630 feet in the air, matching the height of the Gateway Arch right across the river.

Not far from Chester lies Kaskaskia, which is an exclave of Illinois – lying west of the Mississippi River and only accessible from Missouri. Kaskaskia is home to the Liberty Bell of the West, a bell cast in 1741 by King Louis XV of France as a gift to the Catholic Church of the Illinois Country.

Route 50 is a popular byway in our territory, traveled by many who are going to Carlyle Lake – the largest man-made lake in the state! Hundreds of thousands of folks visit the lake each year to hit the beach, fish in tournaments, sail their boats, and more!

Belleville has a unique piece of history located right off Route 159 that attracts hundreds of visitors a year. The September 11 Memorial Walkway of Southern Illinois features a walkway that leads to one of the steel beams from the World Trade Center. There are informational plaques for visitors to read, and benches for folks to sit and reflect.

Illinois Route 127 is an often-used highway that runs through several counties in ILLINOISouth, including Perry County, where you will find a very interesting attraction in Pinckneyville. At The Perry County Jail Museum you can actually go into jail cells and experience much of the art that the inmates created while serving their time!

The community of Breese is home to Excel Bottling Company. Excel is famous for a regional favorite soda pop called Ski! On top of that, they are the only returnable bottling line remaining in Illinois. Grab yourself a whole bunch of that greenbottled goodness!

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

One of the more distinct even iconic roadside attractions in ILLINOISouth can be found in Albion. Their octagonal-shaped pagoda sits right on the town square and over an old mineral well that was used in the late 1800s, which many folks believed had medicinal powers!

Did you know that the Heath Bar was created in Illinois?! The Heath Museum & Confectionery in Robinson is a must visit to learn more about the history of the toffee bar. Oh, and don’t forget to purchase a bag of wrapped or unwrapped Heath Bars for the drive home!

In Marion County there is an attraction in downtown Centralia that is both picturesque and beautiful to listen to!

The Centralia Carillon is a 160-foot-tall bell tower (one of the ten largest in the world) that plays weekly concerts on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday as well as a Summer Series.

In McLeansboro there is a hidden gem of an attraction that is meant totally for children.

Kids Kingdom is a huge park that is a magical recreation of historic McLeansboro, and it was made possible by a large donation from former resident and NBA Hall of Famer Jerry Sloan. Kids Kingdom is so cool it won the Governor’s Cup Award!

Covered bridges have a loyal following, and the Cumberland County Covered Bridge along Route 40 (The National Historic Road) is no different. Located just outside of Greenup, this 200-foot-long covered bridge is the longest in the state!

If you are traveling on Interstate 57 through Marion County, we recommend stopping at Kinmundy Log Cabin Village, especially if you’re a fan of history. This collection of 12 log cabins date from the early to mid-1800s and each is furnished with artifacts of the time to provide a look into the life of pioneers.

Music fans will want to take a drive through Newton where you will find a statue of musician and actor Burl Ives! Located right next to the town square, visitors can take a seat right next to Burl on his bench and pose for a picture.

Several highways lead to Marshall in Clark County, home to the World’s Largest Gavel. Located on the steps of the Clark County Courthouse, this beautiful Red Oak gavel is over 16 feet long!

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

The epitome of roadside attractions sits right along Interstate 70 in Vandalia and is featured on many different roadside attractions lists and websites. The Kaskaskia Dragon is a 35-foot-long metal monster that breathes fire! Just visit the nearby hardware store or liquor store to purchase tokens to make the dragon blow its flames.

Photo Credit: @5amirgulati

One of the most unlikely places to find a rocket (not an actual rocket) is in Flora! This tall replica sits at the entrance of the always beautiful Charley Brown Park and has made more than one appearance on Instagram.

In Lawrence County right next to the Indiana border stands the Lincoln Trail State Memorial, which marks the location where Abraham Lincoln first entered Illinois with his family in 1830.

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

For more attractions, visit ILLINOISouth.org 25

F die Fun

Big Eats For some folks, the bigger the food is, the better the experience is! We have a handful of eating establishments in ILLINOISouth that offer eating challenges, which draw professional eaters and

26

Burger Joints There are several eateries in ILLINOISouth that pride themselves on their delicious burgers. Did you know that Americans consume 50 billion hamburgers a year? That averages out to 154 burgers per person annually…

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

z

Another food monster resides in Iuka at Smoked to the Bone BBQ. There is a five-pound behemoth called the Philabuster which includes three hamburgers, sausage, brisket, pulled pork, turkey, three different cheeses, and fries on a FULL loaf of French bread. Challengers get 30 minutes to finish the sandwich, if they fail then the bill is $40. Professional eater Brandon ‘Da Garbage Disposal’ Clark drove up from Memphis to take on the Philabuster and finished in just under 20 minutes. Aside from him, MANY other challengers have failed. Do you have what it takes to beat the Philabuster?

Piz

Arguably the most interesting new food experience just opened in Swansea in 2021.

Soulcial Kitchen coins itself as the world’s first mobile cloud kitchen with a mission. They offer a variety of distinctive food offerings through delivery, catering, pickup, and food trucks. Soulcial Kitchen is always teaming up with folks to bring customers amazing eats, and they have also implemented a couple of different programs. The Currency of Caring program aims at reducing the level of food insecurity throughout St. Clair County, so tokens can be bought at a fixed cost and given to those experiencing hunger, homelessness, or other difficult situations to ‘pay it forward.’ In just a few short months, the mission and the experience at Soulcial Kitchen have folks like Matthew Fritz raving about their visit. “Great food, awesome atmosphere, and a mission that inspires. These, plus humble hosts with hearts of gold, are what brings me back to Soulcial Kitchen with my family,” Fritz explains. “The Michel’s share a great environment with their customers that invites you to their table and links a delicious meal to the community mission of service.”

crazy right? One of the most fabled burger joints in our region is the Moonshine Store in rural Clark County. They have been featured in Midwest Living Magazine, CBS Sunday Morning, and covered by countless other media outlets. While their half-pound burgers are amazing, the drive to this extremely rural destination and the experience of the old building is what draws folks like Eric Clark to southeastern Illinois just to try it! “The freshest hamburger you will ever have,” Clark admits. “If you remember how good grandpa’s cookouts tasted, this will bring it all back. The most country atmosphere you will ever find.

The country store is loaded with antiques that will bring back great memories. Warning to get there early as they close the grill at 12:30. For such a small place there will be plenty of ▶

rd

New Eats & Experiences

other folks into our region to see if they can take down a ton of food in a short amount of time.

Mimmo’s Italian Restaurant in Norris City is home of the 20” pizza challenge, where folks get one hour to finish a three-topping monster.

Professional eater Randy Santel accomplished the feat in 2021, but he went above and beyond with his pizza selection. “I didn’t want to end the last stop on my Midwest USA Tour on a lighter note, so I really challenged myself by ordering their 10-topping “Super Deluxe” pizza,” Santel explains. “Everything should have banana peppers so I added those too as the 11th topping. Four pieces in I did regret it, but thankfully my body let me inhale it all and I finished in 46 minutes and 27 seconds. BIG thanks to everyone who came to watch and meet me, it was a great night,” adds Santel.

Ha

W

e all eat, right? Many of us enjoy eating and love to try interesting foods from new places. In fact, food tourism is a thing – it’s also known as culinary tourism. People will travel for miles, hours even, to dine somewhere that they have heard amazing things about!

Pie

FOOD

Eat Your Way Through ILLINOISouth!

er

i

n ai

W

r ate

loo

FOOD

Sink your teeth into a famous burger at the Moonshine Store

A giant pizza awaits you at Mimmo’s Italian Restaurant in Norris City Photo Credit: Randy Santel

Variety is the spice of life at Revival City Doughnuts in Charleston ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Photo Credit: Revival City Doughnuts

27

FOOD

Grab a tasty and creative beverage from Rail Coffee Room in Centralia

There are so many ice cream flavors to try at Sling ‘N Scoops in Red Bud

Photo Credit: Rail Coffee Room

Photo Credit: @married2road

people from all over the USA coming to find this treasure to get a down home style hamburger,” Clark adds.

If you’re anywhere near Breese, it is guaranteed that many of the Clinton County locals will point you in the direction of Wally’s for a phenomenal burger. Wally’s has been a staple in this tightknit community since 1951 when the former gas station was turned into a now legendary restaurant by Wally Knue. Their Wally Burgers are cooked about 50 to 60 at a time on their standard flat-top grill.

Salem is the home of another very well-known burger spot simply called Chuck’s Place. This Salem staple has been family owned for over 35 years, and the burgers have been made the same way for over half a century! These old-fashioned burgers receive nothing but rave reviews online, and for good reason. A couple of their offerings include burgers named the Wimpy, and another named the Brutus which weighs in at over a pound!

In the community of Carmi, there is a burger joint that comes complete with carhop service.

Yesterday’s Drive-In is the perfect trip back in time to enjoy an old-style cheeseburger and onion rings. For those short on cash, five dollars will buy you five burgers.

Pizza Places Pizza is another food that is beloved by millions and millions of folks, and there are so many kinds to try. Americans spend $38 billion each year on pizza alone! If you find yourself traveling along Interstate 64 and need some pizza in your life, we highly recommend a stop at Girolamo’s in Nashville. They have a relatively simple pizza 28

Fill your belly on all-you-can-eat crab at Kretzer's in Hoyleton

menu with 15 toppings to choose from, with original crust, hand-tossed, deep pan, and gluten free crust options as well. From first-hand experience we can tell you the Chicken Bacon Ranch pizza is the way to go!

There are a few communities in ILLINOISouth that are stacked when it comes to great options for pizza. Waterloo is one of them, and each of their pizza joints offers something a little different. Pie Hard Pizzera is known for its wood-fired quirky named pizzas. They also do different pop-up menus, so the selection is everchanging! Hopskeller Brewing Company also features some interesting wood-fired pizzas, 17 to be exact. They use everything from brisket and prosciutto to caramelized pineapples. Papa Vito’s has been a favorite in Waterloo since 1991 and there’s a reason why! They have a huge array of foods, and if you are a fan of salad – their house dressing is PHENOMENAL. While their pizzas are always great, we recommend their pizza rolls, and believe us, they are NOT what you have seen in the frozen foods section. These appetizers are so good, you can make a whole meal out of them!

Sit & Enjoy If sitting down to a nice meal in a restaurant is more your style, ILLINOISouth has plenty of those types of establishments as well. Kretzer’s Grill & Bar in Hoyleton is the perfect example of culinary tourism because they bring in

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

hundreds of folks to this small village of 500 people that otherwise likely wouldn’t make the visit. There are not many places that offer all you can eat seafood, but Kretzer’s marks the spot!

People have been known to drive two hours or more to Hoyleton just for their All-U-Can-Eat Snow Crab Legs.

There is a dinner-only establishment in Du Quoin that specializes in homemade pasta and steaks. The W Restaurant is a great place to go for fine

the charming small town of Lawrenceville home.

Coco’s Café and Wine Bar is really a treat for your senses. They have everything from comfort food and beer to espresso, hand-crafted cocktails, and wine! There is live music every Friday evening, and beautiful patio dining during the warmer months.

For a real taste of Italy, Joe’s Italian Foods & Pizza in Newton should certainly be on your list. Owners Gaspare and Jill Cucinella have been in the restaurant business for decades – especially Gaspare, who began making pizza at the age of 14 and learned English as a second language from local patrons. “Gaspare’s fiery personality and outgoing spirit is equally matched by the sweet, calming side of Jill,” says long time customer Ross Rowling who makes the drive from Terre Haute, Indiana to eat at Joe’s. “If you stop at this Jasper County jewel once, you’ll be sure to put it on the agenda for future trips to the area. The food gets you in the door, but the ambiance, experience, and unmatched hospitality will keep you coming back,” Rowling adds.

Another highly rated restaurant by customers can be found in Fairfield. Jovalou offers over a half dozen appetizers, and 17 different burger and sandwich options. But their pièce de résistance is the cocktail menu. There are well over THIRTY different cocktails available!

Pies are the name of the game for Urban Farmhouse Eatery & Pie Company in Highland. While their food is delicious, their dessert is front and center in a display case as soon as you walk in the door. Every pie is homemade and fresh, and they go fast. Order a piece when you walk in, otherwise you could regret it. Oh, and make sure to ask about their Snickers Pie – the Grandaddy of all the pies they have!

Sweet Eats

Coffee Creations

Now that we’ve talked about main entrees, we can’t forget about sweet treats! There is a place in Charleston that has turned the doughnut game on its head. Revival City Doughnuts does offer traditional doughnuts, but they serve up SO much more than that. We’re talking seasonal treats that are out of the box, as well as gourmet and specialty creations that you have never heard of before. There is even a doughnut with banana pudding inside and topped with vanilla wafers!

There is nothing like a delicious coffee drink to start your day, or to keep you going in the afternoon if you are running short on energy!

If you are exploring all the BIG things in Casey and need a pick-me-up, stop by Casey Coffee Company. Located right next to the huge pencil, this establishment is always trying new and creative things. From coffee flights to tea and lotus drinks, there is certainly something here to quench your thirst!

There is a restaurant in Lawrence County that feels like it should be in a big city, but it calls

you’re going to or from St. Louis on I-64, make a pit stop at Berkemann’s for a baked good – you won’t be sad about it!

FOOD

dining, and they also host private events such as wedding receptions and birthday parties.

The outdoor dining area really sets this venue apart, not only are there fire pits and heaters for your comfort, but the outdoor dining area is also attached to a horse arena where you may witness kids learning to ride!

There are ice cream options galore throughout our 21-county territory, but one of the newest shops can be found in Red Bud. Sling N’ Scoops serves up a rotating menu of over 50 flavors of artisan ice cream! One of the coolest things they do is an ice cream flight, so that you can have several kinds of dairy treats in the same visit!

Press Coffee and Tea in downtown Trenton offers up nine different specialty lattes and frappes for those who need more than a regular cup of joe. They also recently started tea flights, so that you can taste more than one option.

Press also does some very creative drinks based on the season including Pumpkin Pie Chai and Vampire Lattes in the fall.

For a plethora of treats ranging from donuts and cookies to pies and cakes, check out Berkemann’s Baker’s Dozen in New Baden. They made and sold a thousand pies for the Holiday season in 2021 and earned a lot of praise from local media outlets for their donuts. If

Rail Coffee Room in Centralia is one of the more well-known coffee joints in our area. They constantly have new flavors and interesting takes on coffee drinks, and their staff is ALWAYS more than happy to tell you what their favorites are. Rail also hosts a Monster Crawl during Halloween-time each year, and it REALLY brings the crowds to downtown Centralia!

•

Snickers Pie from Urban Farmhouse in Highland Photo Credit: Urban Farmhouse

For more food ideas visit ILLINOISouth.org/Dine ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

29

WINE/BEER/DISTILLERIES

Sip& Sa

Wineries & Breweries Aplenty!

CUMBER

FAYETTE

28 16

27

13

CI TY O F HI G HL AN D

19

12

21 15 MONROE

22

3

17 10

CLAY

2

1

18 20

BOND

CLINTON

4

MARION

ST. CLAIR WASHINGT

23

ON

WAYNE

11 24

RANDOLPH

PERRY

25 26

HAMILTON

WHITE

Check out the full list of wineries, breweries, and distilleries with their locations on t 30

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Tw

CLARK

14

RLAND

elv

e Oa

ks Vi

n e y a r d 's a w a r d

ng winni

win

WINE/BEER/DISTILLERIES

avor

es

Map Out Your Next Tasty Adventure!

8

JASPER

T

CRAWFORD

6 RICHLAND

EDWARDS

7

5

LAWRENCE

WABASH

9

here are over two dozen different places scattered throughout ILLINOISouth to enjoy a freshly made pint of beer, bottle of wine, or glass of whiskey. There are two different wine trails, one is aptly named the Carlyle Lake Wine Trail because of the close proximity of all four of its members to Carlyle Lake. The Wabash Valley Wine Trail consists of five different wineries from the Eastern Region of our territory and can be easily enjoyed in a weekend. There are seven other wineries in ILLINOISouth that are not affiliated with a wine trail but pour out some tasty varieties all the same!

The Southern Illinois Beer Trail spans from Madison County all the way down to Union County and includes 10 different stops in ILLINOISouth. One of those stops is Stumpy’s Spirits in Columbia, which is a distillery and not a brewery, but a good whiskey or vodka is always worth a taste! There is one other distillery in ILLINOISouth that isn’t affiliated with a trail, and that is Witness Distillery in Vandalia. They’re open for tours as well as drinks at their Whiskey Underground, whether you’re wanting to try whisky, vodka, or rum – it’s all good! ▶

Enjoy some wine from Cameo Vineyards in Greenup Photo Credit: Cameo Vineyards

the next page ▶ ▶ ▶ ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

31

WINE/BEER/DISTILLERIES

Have a glass at St. Nicholas Brewery in DuQuoin

Hopskeller Brewing Company has several tasty brews on tap!

Photo Credit: Elaine Byrd

Photo Credit: Elaine Byrd

CARLYLE LAKE WINE TRAIL

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS BEER TRAIL

1. Hidden Lake Winery, Aviston

17. Excel Brewing, Breese

2. Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery, Carlyle

18. Peel Brewing Company, O’Fallon

3. Twelve Oaks Vineyard, Carlyle

19. Millpond Brewing and Incubator, Millstadt

4. Crooked Creek Winery, Centralia

20. Stumpy’s Spirits, Columbia (Distillery)

WABASH VALLEY WINE TRAIL

21. Stubborn German Brewing Company, Waterloo

5. Berryville Vineyards, Claremont

22. Hopskeller Brewing Company, Waterloo

6. Fox Creek Vineyards, Olney

23. Lieferbrau Brewery, Red Bud

7. Homestead Vineyards, West Salem

24. White Rooster Farmhouse Brewery, Sparta

8. Irene’s Vineyard, Oblong

25. St. Nicholas Brewing Company, Du Quoin

9. Lasata Wines, Lawrenceville

26. St. Nichoals Landmark , Chester

STANDALONE WINERIES 10. Jo-Al Winery, Mascoutah

27. ***Schlafly, Highland 28.

11. The Pour Vineyard, Red Bud

***

Witness Distillery, Vandalia

For more information on Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries, visit ILLINOISouth.org

12. The Weingarten, Belleville 13. Copper Dock , Pocahontas 14. Cameo Vineyards, Greenup 15. Schorr Lake Vineyards, Waterloo 16. The Family Vine, Greenville 32

***Not affiliated with a trail ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Come for a visit and enjoy...

Monthly

Shopping

Municipal Summer Band Concerts Every Tuesday (June - August)

Downtown Concert Series

Every Second Sunday (June - August)

May • Beer-B-Que

Dining

June

• Porta Westfalica Fest • Optimist Club Car Show

July • Monroe County Fair

August • Waterloo Homecoming

Recreation

September

• Blue Army Bullriding Bash • Night at the Museums

October

• Haunted Trail • PumpkinFest • Witches Night Out

Annual Events

Explore Waterloo Merchant Events

November

Lodging

• Christmas Walk • GLOW Lighted Holiday Parade Events subject to COVID restrictions, please check the Community Calendar on the City of Waterloo website for updates and details.

Contact us for your Welcome Guide!

618-939-8600 • www.Waterloo.il.us ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Follow Us On

MPV 33

AGRITOURISM

Make Memories at a Local Farm

Agritourism ADVENTURES! I

t has now been twenty years since the term ‘agritourism’ was coined, and it has grown in popularity ever since. If you have ever been to a local petting zoo, farmers market, or pick-your-own orchard, that is considered agritourism! The great news is that ILLINOISouth is FULL of farms and agritourism adventure.

Each year really starts out in April with ‘Baby Bonanza’ at Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo in Washington County. This is your shot to bottle feed baby cows, goats, and sheep! From children to adults, everyone has a blast with it. “I have been to other petting zoos, and they don’t feel like this, this feels like home,” explains Megan Gibson, who visited in 2020. “You are visiting the animals in their home, lots of different animals. I had just as much fun as my three-year-old!”

For a one-of-a-kind trip to a dairy farm, you will definitely want to visit Marcoot Jersey Creamery in Greenville. Marcoot is a seventhgeneration family-owned dairy farm that offers self-guided tours. If you catch them at the right time, you can watch the process of how different cheeses are made, then head out to the barn and pet some calves and top it all off with a trip to their shop to buy a wide array of their amazing products! Marcoot also does group tours for parties of ten or more.

Once the calendar flips to May, many farms that specialize in produce really start to draw the crowds who want to pick their own fruits and vegetables. Eckert’s Country Store and Farms in Belleville is one of the first to get busy in May, as folks come out to roam the strawberry fields, the first of the fruits in season for the year. From 34

that point on Eckert’s stays busy throughout the year, offering everything from a sunflower trail in the summer to apple and pumpkin picking in the fall, and cut-your-own Christmas trees around the holidays!

There are several other farms that pride themselves on produce as well. Bigard’s Strawberry Patch and Peach Orchard in Jasper County is home to another great pick-yourown strawberry patch (and some of their peaches are as big as your head). Stoecklin’s Orchard in Bond County specializes in blueberries, and they also have become EXTREMELY popular for their Hummingbird Festival. Dozens of folks flock to this event each year to witness the banding of hummingbirds – something you don’t see every day! If already prepared baked goods and apple cider is more your speed, then Schwartz Orchard in Centralia is the spot to check out.

Their apple cider donuts and different fruit cobblers are worth the drive alone but add in their state and national award-winning cider, and you’ll understand why this place is so popular.

There is another farm in Belleville that allows folks to pick everything from peaches and apples to pumpkins. Braeutigam Orchards has been a family-run farm since 1831, and it has become a tradition for many folks to visit each year.

“Braeutigam Orchards is a family tradition for us,” admits Michelle Clark. “We look forward to coming to the farm and seeing the animals and the kids love playing in the playground area. They never disappoint with quality and selection along with great prices per pound compared to other orchards! Thank you to the entire Breautigam family and employees for bringing us a wonderful place to make fall memories,” Clark adds.

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Farmers Markets are another popular form of agritourism, and Illinois has the THIRD most farmers markets of any state in the country.

There are nearly 20 markets in our region alone, all of which offer their own unique offerings.

There are several markets that normally operate the length of the summer, from the Wabash County Farmers Market in Mt. Carmel to the Sainte Marie Farmers Market in Jasper County. Other markets such as the Vandalia Farmers Market operate on the first Saturday of each month (the Old State Capitol provides an awesome backdrop for the Vandalia market as well). Many of these events like Cross Street Market in Robinson and Vine Street Market in O’Fallon have boomed in popularity because they offer more than just food. There are pottery vendors and wineries that participate as well!

Towards the end of the year, there are two niche forms of agritourism that really draw the crowds – pumpkin patches and tree farms. Many of these farms are only open for the fall or holiday season, but they provide a TON of memories, nonetheless. There are over a dozen different pumpkin patches, so it’s tough to mention them all but there are several like Happy Hollow Family Farm in St. Elmo, Strief’s Country Market in Flora, and Shreve’s Pumpkin Patch in Barnhill that offer corn mazes, straw mazes, and hayrides on top of picking pumpkins. Country Kids Pumpkin Patch in Hoyleton really takes the cake for activities, making it a must visit if you have children. We’re talking everything from barnyard basketball to pedal go-karts and lifesize Candy Land games! ▶

Puzzle through the maze at Shreve's Pumpkin Patch Photo Credit: Shreve's Pumpkin Patch

Chose your own Christmas tree at Eckert’s Country Store and Farms AGRITOURISM

Photo Credit: @margaretmayhelfrich

Pick peaches at Eckert’s to take home Photo Credit: @jaredtheandre

Feed the camels at Rainbow Ranch Photo Credit: @jamiethomas_1_

Pick out your own pumpkins at Braeutigam Orchards

For more information on agritourism opportunities in our region, visit ILLINOISouth.org Come the holiday season, there are plenty of folks who pack up the car and drive an hour or more to different farms in our region to pick out the perfect tree. Bond County is home to two such establishments, Randy’s Country Barn and Daniken Tree Farm provide shopping opportunities on top of choosing the perfect tree. Daniken also hosts Santa Claus the first three Saturdays of December at their farm!

Another staple in the southern Illinois Christmas tree scene is Affeldt’s Tree Farm & Nursery in ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Washington County. Alfeldt’s has been growing trees since 1964 - and has about 40 acres worth of trees to choose from, ranging in height from 10 feet tall on and smaller. Dahnke’s Pine Patch near Martinsville brings in people from several counties around. This place is an absolute blast, not only do they offer patch pick trees, but they also have a picture patch, reindeer tours and a flight school, barn ball, a snowball arena and more!

•

35

Mt. Carmel Join Us

Wabash County Chamber Of Commerce

j The Place to Be

JASPER COUNTY Great Outdoor Sports Excellent Accommodations Fine Selection of Restaurants Several Specialty Shops

EMBARRAS RIVER TOURISM COUNCIL FOLLOW US ON M

www.visitjaspercountyil.org • www.visitnewtonil.org 36

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

See Centralia

Your New Your New Hometown Hometown is is

EXCITING EVENTS EXCITING EVENTS

Each summer and fall, our streets are filled with celebrations! Classic Each fall, our streets are filled celebrations!

Classic carsummer shows &and cruise-ins, Bond County Fair,with FourthFest, ArtWalk &

Annual Events

car shows & cruise-ins, Bond County Fair, FourthFest, & Harvest Festival, Farm Heritage Days, Paws In The Park,ArtWalk Hill's Fort Harvest Festival, Farm Heritage Days, Paws In The Park, Hill's Fort Rendezvous, Come Home for Christmas, and so much more!

Rendezvous, Come Home for Christmas, and so much more!

FASCINATING ATTRACTIONS FASCINATING ATTRACTIONS

• Locust Street Historic Festival • Balloon Fest • Fourth of July Parade • Celebrate Centralia • Halloween Parade & Fall Festival • Monster Crawl • Christmas Stroll

Greenville is home to many fine museums, interesting businesses, thrilling adventures, uniquefine shopping, andinteresting more! Thebusinesses, DeMoulin Greenville is home to many museums, Museum, Richard W. Bock Sculpture Museum, American Heritage thrilling adventures, unique shopping, and more!

TheFarm DeMoulin Museum,Richard Piety'sW. Gallery, Creamery, Evergreen Plant Museum, Bock Marcoot SculptureJersey Museum, American Farm Heritage Company, The Milk House, many more Museum, Piety's Gallery, Marcoot Jerseyand Creamery, Evergreen Plant Company, The Milk House, and many more

MADE IN GREENVILLE MADE IN GREENVILLE

• Powerboat Races and many more...

Photo Compliments of Trisha Mifflin

Greenville is home to many creative and enthusiastic entrepreneurs.

From cheese to rubber roofing, many products entrepreneurs. are created in Greenville is home to many creative andfine enthusiastic Greenville everyday!

Visit roofing, some ofmany our local like From cheese to rubber fine agri-tourism products arehotspots created in Marcoot Jersey Creamery or Rolling THE MILK HOUSE. Greenville everyday!

Visit some of ourLawn localFarm's agri-tourism hotspots like See the creations of local or artists andLawn makers at Piety's Art Gallery.

Marcoot Jersey Creamery Rolling Farm's THE MILK HOUSE. See the creations of local artists and makers at Piety's Art Gallery.

PRESERVATION & REMEMBRANCE PRESERVATION & REMEMBRANCE

Recreation Complex • Historical Society Museum Carillon • Veterans & Miners Memorials Railroad Village at Fairview Park • Dining Lodging • Parks & Lakes • Bike & Walking Trails Disc Golf • Antique Stores Aircraft Displays Scan Me! SeeCentralia.com 618.533.7623 X SeeCentralia [ SeeCentralia

Greenville has connections all over the world and far into the past. From famoushas visitors like Presidents Reagan, to the Greenville connections all overObama, the world and farand intoLincoln the past.

From fascinating historical of Greenville University and Hill's to Fort, famous visitors likeworlds Presidents Obama, Reagan, and Lincoln thewe cherish our historical history and support many museums and sites dedicated to fascinating worlds of Greenville University and Hill's Fort, we honoring andand educating future.

See history for yourself atto The cherishour ourpast history supportour many museums and sites dedicated DeMoulinour Museum, American Farm Museum, Hill's Fort, andatmore honoring past and educating ourHeritage future. See history for yourself The DeMoulin Museum, American Farm Heritage Museum, Hill's Fort, and more For more information: For more information:

G RE E NV IL LE I LLI NO IS .C O M G RE E NV LE64I LLI16 NO 61IL8-6 44IS .C O M 61 8-6 64- 16 44

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

37

HISTORY/MUSEUMS

The Vandalia State House is one of the most iconic pieces of history in ILLINOISouth!

38

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Explore Dozens of Historical Gems

T

here is so much rich history throughout ILLINOISouth it’s kind of insane. We have ties to famous politicians as well as actors and musicians. There are forts, depots, and museums galore ready to tell you the tales of each community and their past.

One of the most popular historical draws is of course, the 16th President of our great nation.

There are several indicators of Honest Abe scattered throughout ILLINOISouth. Vandalia is one such community where Abe is ever-present.

The Vandalia State House is where Lincoln got his start in politics, serving in the House of Representatives in the 1830s. Visitors are offered guided tours of the State House, or can view the historically furnished rooms on their own. Right across the street from the State House there is an amazing life-sized statue of Abe at Lincoln Park, so visitors can sit next to him on the bench and snap a few photos!

Charleston is another place where folks go looking for Lincoln, and for good reason. The Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site isn’t far south of Charleston and features an indoor Visitors Center as well as pieces of history located outdoors. Lincoln visited this area several times during the 1840s when his father Thomas and Sarah Bush Lincoln lived on this property. An accurate reproduction of the Lincoln’s two room cabin is on the site, and a working, living history farm has been developed around the cabin as well. Visitor Kathy Hertz stopped to check out the Lincoln Log Cabin on her way back home to Indiana, and she admits it was better than she expected. “Walking the grounds in the cool air with no crowds was heavenly,” Hertz says. “At the gift shop I bought

a little sheep made from the wool of the sheep on the grounds. So cute, and a very nice and inexpensive souvenir.” Charleston is also home to the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum, which is a great stop for Lincoln history as well! History buffs can also find traces of Abe in White County. The Ratcliff Inn in Carmi is a stagecoach inn built in 1828, which has a room dedicated to Honest Abe, who stayed at the inn in 1840.

Another influential past politician has deep roots in Marion County. Salem native William Jennings Bryan was a dominant force in the Democratic party in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He was a Presidential candidate three times and was eventually named Secretary of State under President Woodrow Wilson. There is a large Bryan statue in Salem with a park that is beautifully maintained, and the newly opened Salem Historical Museum has a collection based solely around Bryan. A stop in Salem will certainly pique the interest of political historians!

From famous politicians to famous actors and musicians, ILLINOISouth is home to several different talented folks including Burl Ives. Many of you may remember Ives as an actor in ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,’ but the Jasper County native was also a musician and an author. If you make a trip to Newton, you can find a whole collection on Ives at the Jasper County Museum inside the library!

Another famous person from our area is wellknown for the popular phrase ‘Hi-Yo Silver Away!’ We are talking about The Lone Ranger of course, and Mt. Carmel native Brace Beemer was the radio voice of the Lone Ranger for thirteen years, spanning from 1941-1954. The Wabash County Museum in Mt. Carmel has a Lone ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Ranger exhibit featuring over 1,500 artifacts which are rotated out so that more of the collection can be shown.

For those who have an interest in early 1800s history, there is a cluster of cabins in rural Crawford County that predate the Civil War era.

The Hutson Cabins can be found in Hutsonville, and feature a church, barn, home, museum, inn, and weaver’s cabin. The Hutson Memorial Village honors the areas first settlers and is open to visitors every Sunday from 2-4pm, every June through October. An equally impressive piece of history can be found in Clinton County, and the story behind it is phenomenal. Eversgerd’s Civil War Fort outside of Germantown is an exact replica of a Civil War fort built by Bob Eversgerd, who started the project in 1984 and constructed everything with his own hands.

That fact alone makes the Fort a must-visit! It features a jail, a one-room home, a livery, log cabins, and an impressive 10-foot wall around the perimeter of the property.

There is undoubtedly quite a bit of railroad history throughout ILLINOISouth, and there are a couple of awesome depots turned into museums that tell some great railway stories of the past. In Clay County the Flora Depot was built by the B&O Railroad in 1917 and was a travel hub for years. It’s now used as a museum housing different artifacts from Flora’s past, and it’s also home to a phenomenal 23-foot-long model train display that depicts the community of Flora! An hour northeast from Flora there is another awesome depot museum in Cumberland County. The Historic Greenup Depot served four different railroad lines in its heyday and currently features the original waiting room ▶ 39

HISTORY/MUSEUMS

Stories OF THE Past

Check out over 17,000 square feet of agricultural history at the Illinois Rural Heritage Museum in Pinckneyville

HISTORY/MUSEUMS

Photo Credit: Illinois Rural Heritage Museum

Behold an amazing model train set at the Historic Greenup Depot

For many more ideas on museums and historical places in our territory, visit ILLINOISouth.org/Play/History-and-Culture and ticket counter. There is also an amazing model railroad running throughout the building.

This depot is also one of very few that were constructed with second story living quarters which are on display as well. “This is a hidden gem if you are in the Greenup area,” admits traveler Robyn Ebert. “If you love trains, history, covered bridges, Americana and really cool railroad memorabilia, stop in and support this gem,” Ebert adds.

of the quirkiest museums you have ever seen, filled with a ton of FUN lodge-initiation devices used in the early 1900s. We’re talking everything from bucking goats to spanking machines! The American Farm Heritage Museum is full of agriculture themed history as well as a large fort to explore. This museum is also home to the American Heritage Railroad – a scaled down version of a train that families love to ride around the property.

There are a few communities that have a cluster of museums that you can take a day to enjoy.

Okawville is home to the Heritage House Museum, a collection of three museums wrapped into one experience. Here you can experience Dr. Poos Home & Medical Museum, and the Frank Schlosser home which is a turn of the century house with a barn, harness shop, and commercial laundry. The Joseph Schlosser home is also a part of the experience. Greenville boasts several awesome museums as well, including the DeMoulin Museum which is one

Arguably one of the largest museums in ILLINOISouth can be found in Pinckneyville. The Illinois Rural Heritage Museum is laid out on four acres with over 17,000 square feet of exhibit space. This museum does a fantastic job of educating younger generations of how life used to be on farms and in smaller towns. From antique dental equipment to tractors and more, the Illinois Rural Heritage Museum has a TON of items to keep your interest for most of the day.

40

For a history-based road trip throughout several ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

counties, the Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail is just the thing for you. The Cahokia Courthouse in St. Clair County was built in 1740 and is known as the oldest courthouse in Illinois, and is the only one remaining from the state’s territorial period.

In Waterloo, the History Museum of Monroe County is home to several different amazing artifacts, including one of the most unique exhibits in the state – the Allscheid Rock Shelter Exhibit. This exhibit showcases things that have been found during digs at a nearby location which date back to hunter-gathers 8,000 years ago! Maeystown is another intriguing stop along the KC Trail due to its amazing architecture and historical feel. As soon as you cross the onelane brick bridge into town, it’s like you have been transported back in time. The whole village in its entirety has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

•

VISIT

Fort de Chartres

Prairie du Rocher CEL EBR AT ING 3 0 0 YE A R S

300 th Birthday Celebration at the Historic Brickey Lot in downtown Prairie du Rocher, Illinois!

Kelly Adams Photography LLC

July 9 & 10, 2022 Live Music Featuring:

Backwoods, Dennis Stroughmatt, Mandy Heinemann & more!

Food Court - Kid’s Area - Vendor Expo - Historic Demonstrations & Re-enactments

For more details on this event and others, follow our Facebook page!

M Prairie du Rocher Chamber of Commerce M Community Foundation of Prairie du Rocher

1ST WEEKEND IN APRIL Colonial Trade Faire and Musket & Rifle Frolic

1ST WEEKEND IN NOVEMBER Winter Rendezvous & Woodswalk

1ST WEEKEND IN JUNE The Annual Fort de Chartres Rendezvous

DECEMBER 31ST La Guiannee at Fort de Chartres

1350 State Route 155, Prairie du Rocher, IL 62277 www.fortdechartres.us

Explore Chester, Il The Pierre Menard Home • The Popeye Character Trail The Popeye Museum • The Mary’s River Covered Bridge The Randolph County Museum • The Stone Cottage The Bond Monument • The Cohen Home

S

ave the Date!

Friday

Aug. 26, 2022 6pm - 10pm

HOME OF POPEYE

34th Anniversary

Saturday

Aug. 27, 2022 10am - 8pm

Midwest Salute to the Arts is on for 2022! Be sure to come out August 26, 27 and 28 to enjoy the art festival we all love so much!

Visit www.chesterill.com to plan your trip!

618-826-2326 •

Sunday

Aug. 28, 2022 11am - 5pm

www.midwestsalute.com | M P Midwest Salute to the Arts

M City of Chester, Illinois Mayor’s Office

Amazing artists | Great Entertainment | Delicious Food | Family Fun

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

41

Embrace

ART/CULTURE

THE

Arts

Murals, Galleries, and Art Shows Galore!

W

hile the 21-county area of ILLINOISouth is quite expansive, and many communities have their own unique qualities – there is one thing that much of our territory has in common. Art is everywhere. We’re talking all kinds of art. There is public art, galleries of art, art shows, performing arts – the arts are very popular in our neck of the woods.

Murals are one form of art that really help liven up a community. Some towns like Trenton have recently started adding murals, while other communities like Belleville, Olney, Marshall, and Albion have several colorful works of art scattered throughout their towns. The great thing is that each of these murals serves a different purpose.

In Albion, their murals of balloons, a parrot and a frog reading a book are strategically placed for epic photo opportunities. The purpose of many of the murals recently painted in Olney are to celebrate the history of several things associated with the community. A vast majority of the murals that can be found in Olney were recently completed by a group called The Walldogs during a months-long event, where the group completed a few murals at a time over a span of a couple of days. Folks from all over the state and beyond made the trip to Olney to witness the art taking place. “So glad we made the trip from Streator to check out the last phase of the Olney murals,” explains Mary Volkman. “It was great to chat with several of the artists who also created wonderful murals in my hometown!”

ILLINOISouth is also home to quite a few art shows throughout the year. Art on the Square in Belleville is usually the first of the Art shows to take place each year. Normally scheduled for May, Art on the Square is a juried show with just over a hundred artists. It attracts tens of thousands of folks annually and is consistently 42

one of the top-rated shows in the country each year. With its phenomenal location, it is easy to wander around downtown Belleville and support amazing local businesses after you’re finished admiring the art. Another show that has become a staple in our region is Midwest Salute to the Arts in Fairview Heights.

Over the last 30 years Midwest Salute to the Arts has grown into one of the more popular art shows in the Midwest. The show boasts a wide array of artists, live music, food trucks, and a children’s tent where kiddos can create their own art! John Locus of St. Louis has been attending this show for years and has no intentions of stopping. “We LOVE this show,” Locus admits. “The music is always perfect, the food is awesome, the selection of incredible art is second to none. Don’t ever miss this show if you can help it.”

There is yet another great show in Highland each fall called Art in the Park. They also have plenty of food, live entertainment, and of course plenty of art on display. One of the neat things about this event is that they have a section solely meant for children to buy art. Many artists in the show donate pieces that kids can buy for a set price of $5. It’s extremely popular, and helps youngsters develop a love for art early on! For a different atmosphere outside of an art show, there is an amazing event in Wayne County that is a must visit. The Fairfield PaintOut is a Plein Air event where artists come from out of town and stay for a few days, all while painting local subjects and landscapes. Spectators can watch the artists in action and purchase their work when it is finished. 2021 was a record year for the Fairfield PaintOut with more visitors and sales than ever ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

before in its ten-year existence, so it’s a great event to mark on your calendar!

While the previously mentioned art shows are juried shows where awards are given out, there is one event in Palestine that is different. The Wabash Valley Wine & Art Festival is exactly how it sounds – you can walk around downtown Palestine trying several different wines, all while purchasing an array of arts and crafts. This event has grown steadily since it started in 2002 and is full of stories from visitors that travel from nearby states!

For fans of live productions, there are several venues worth checking out in our territory! The Looking Glass Playhouse in Lebanon is now in their 48th season, hosting a handful of shows each year for several days at a time. This current season wraps up in May with ‘Oliver,’ before starting up their 49th season in the fall. Another

Visit the Richard W. Bock Sculpture Museum in Greenville

Mural painters working at night

Photo Credit: Jordan Jackovich

Photo Credit: Olney Mad Dog 2020

community that really rallies behind a live production is Breese, home of the Clinton County Showcase. There are multiple shows held each year at the historic Avon Theater, which has now been serving up laughs and entertainment in Clinton County for more than 30 years! The Salem Community Theatre and Cultural Center is yet another venue to catch a local performance. They provide visitors the chance to see live performances, music, movies, and more in an iconic art deco style venue full of Egyptian architectural details.

If music is more your speed, the Philharmonic Society of Belleville is highly recommended.

Believe it or not, the Philharmonic Society of Belleville is the nation’s second oldest continually operating philharmonic orchestra! It has been in existence since 1866 and hosts several performances every year.

Our region is also home to several unique art galleries that showcase one-of-a-kind items that cannot be found anywhere else. The Richard W. Bock Sculpture Museum, tucked in the heart of Greenville, is one such place. There are hundreds of sculptures done by Richard W. Bock who was very well known for his architectural sculptures in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He worked closely with Frank Lloyd Wright – so closely that there is a whole room at the Sculpture Museum in Greenville dedicated to their partnership.

In Shiloh, there is a new piece of art that has drawn a lot of attention in a few short months.

The Freedom Rock is one of many across the country, but the FIRST in Illinois. Artist Ray Sorensen II paints murals on these large rocks to honor Veterans, and in the process – these works of art draw a lot of tourists to see them, because no two painted rocks are the same.

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

For fans of drawing, especially those who are into cartoonists – a trip to the Misselhorn Art Gallery in Sparta is in order. Roscoe Misslehorn was a renowned Illinois cartoonist who is known as the Norman Rockwell of the Midwest to some. The gallery has over 2,000 genuine works on display – many of which are historical sketches of different locations throughout Missouri and Illinois.

The Tarble Arts Center on the campus of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston is a major cultural arts source for the region. The facility has a permanent collection of over one-thousand objects, it also features rotating exhibitions and other programs. The Tarble Arts Center is 1 of only 32 museums in Illinois accredited by the American Alliance of Museums – a very prestigious group!

For a chance to purchase art from a gallery, take a trip to the Gaslight Art Colony in Marshall. ▶ 43

ART/CULTURE

Check out Art on the Square in Belleville

ART/CULTURE

Explore the murals in Albion

Catch a production at the Looking Glass Playhouse Photo Credit: Looking Glass Playhouse

At this gallery there is usually member artwork for sale, as well as featured artists who have their work on display. For hands on opportunities at the Gaslight Art Colony, there are also classes and events you can enjoy regularly. Get out there and embrace the arts!

•

An artist painting at the Fairfield PaintOut Photo Credit: Fairfield PaintOut

44

For more information on arts and culture in our region, visit ILLINOISouth.org/Art-and-Theater ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Discover

Museums & Historic Sites • Parks & Lakes Restaurants & Shopping • Downtown Square

2022 Annual Events

Congratulations

to Vine Street Market at O’Fallon Station for winning the Silver Linings Story Award: Most Engaged Community Partner! This is a peer-recognized award that the Illinois Office of Tourism implemented to honor those who have gone above and beyond during the pandemic.

Peanut Butter & Jam Festival Schweizerfest Fireworks Madison County Fair Kirchenfest

Flügel Fest Homestead Harvest Days Street Art Festival Art in the Park Trick or Treat Trail Lighted Christmas Parade

Vine Street Market opens May 14, 2022!

M Vine Street Market at O’Fallon Station Visit us online at ofallonstation.com/vine-street-market

highlandil.gov | 618-654-9891 | !

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

45

MADE IN ILLINOISOUTH

Celebrating Locally Made Products!

O

ne of the high points of visiting an area is experiencing local goods and products.

People love to support small businesses and tell stories of how they tried new and different things. Some of these stories may be one-time experiences, while other products could become staples in a person’s everyday life. At ILLINOISouth Tourism, we take great pride in knowing that our territory is teeming with extremely talented and dedicated business owners that offer up phenomenal products every single day.

For those interested in extremely unique art, a trip to S.D. Meadows Folk Art Gallery in Palestine is right up your alley. Owner and artist Steve Meadows uses just about anything to create his work, we’re talking everything from forks to wagon wheels. The creations are phenomenal, anything from faces to fish, and so many other things in between. “We don’t throw anything away at any of our houses,” admits Meadow’s daughter Farrah. “Our dad will make something out of anything, and his junk art is my favorite.” Steve also loves passing his passion for art to others. Farrah Meadows loves telling the story of a nine-year-old that came to the Gallery for an art class with her father. “This kid loves art and can already see things out of junk.

Thank you to his mom who drove an hour and a half one way so he could work with dad,” Farrah says. “As they were leaving, I asked him how it was. With the biggest smile on his face, he said he loved it.”

Positioned perfectly across from the iconic Old State Capitol in Vandalia, there sits a building full of stories and spirits. Witness Distillery offers up some amazing whiskey, rum, and vodka – but the story of how they got 46

their start and why they bought this building is just as equally amazing. “What many people don’t know is that when this building was built in the 1860’s, the state of Illinois was the largest producer of whiskey in the country – and Vandalia had two distilleries at the time,” explains Rick Radliff, who owns Witness Distillery with his wife Cindy. While this building was not originally a distillery, it still has a lot of history that attracted the Radliffs. It has the oldest working elevator in the state, along with another very cool feature. “Downstairs there is what used to be an entrance where merchants could walk underground to the bank and make a deposit at night and be safe. We wanted to make sure that people could see that,” Radliff says. In terms of the product – Witness locally sources everything from the water to the corn for their spirits, which shines through when you taste the finished product. Combine that with the history behind the location, and travelers rave about their experience. “When passing through Vandalia on a cross country road trip, we were searching for a restaurant and found so, so much more,” says Meredith Cope. “Fantastic bourbon, fantastic gifts, fantastic people, and oh goodness, the Peach Vodka! If you are even remotely close to Vandalia, Illinois – you must stop here. It’s even worth making a special trip,” Cope adds. Yet another story that illustrates how one visit can create lasting memories.

In Hamilton County, there is an extremely talented artist that specializes in making a wide array of things that folks use at their homes.

Nicholas Burke has been creating art with his hands ever since he was a child, learning from his father in the family shop. Burke has since started his own business called Carbon Forge Design, and he uses everything from steel to ▶ ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Made in ILLINOISouth

Steve Meadows makes art from found and saved objects, and has his own gallery Photo Credit: S.D. Meadows Folk Art Gallery

Enjoy a bottle of milk straight from a local dairy farm in Greenville

MADE IN ILLINOISOUTH

Carbon Forge Design specializes in metal and woodworking, showcasing a variety of custom designs Photo Credit: Carbon Forge Design

Have a glass of whiskey, rum, or vodka made at Witness Distillery in Vandalia

wood to make custom fire pits, wooden serving trays, and a whole lot more. The neat thing is that he has a unique approach when it comes to creating certain projects. “Whenever I start something truly custom, I don’t know how it’s going to turn out,” Burke admits. “A lot of these items are handmade where I start with one single spot, and I don’t draw anything out before hand.” Burke also travels to different art shows to showcase his work, including the Cedarhurst Art & Craft Fair in Mt. Vernon, where he won Best of Show in 2021. We highly recommend that you follow Carbon Forge Design on social media to check out what Burke is working on next – and hopefully it will entice you to purchase a Made in ILLINOISouth product!

A local dairy farm that has been in the business of making milk for over a hundred years is a

must try if you’re in the area. Rolling Lawns Farm out of Greenville has made quite the name for themselves, based solely on the quality of their product alone. From Springfield to St. Louis, down to Carbondale and beyond – Rolling Lawns has gained loyal customer after loyal customer. This farm of registered Holstein cows produces your typical dairy products, from half-and-half to heavy whipping cream, and whole milk to 2%. However, their flavored milk is quite popular. Chocolate is the best seller at Rolling Lawns Farm, while unique flavors such as cappuccino and orange cream have developed a cult-like following! Rolling Lawns Farm products can be found in several different markets and retail locations in the state, but they also have their own retail location in Greenville called The Milk House. Here you can pick up each one of their products, including a delicious eggnog ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

when it’s in season! They have recently started making their own ice cream which is worth the trip by itself. We aren’t joking when we say Rolling Lawns Farm has developed a loyal following, as some folks plan their day around a trip. “I drive about an hour each way to get Rolling Lawns milk,” explains Cecil Uphold. “The chocolate tastes a lot like Farm Fresh milk, the orange is great – my wife gets it, and we also buy a gallon of whole milk each time!”

For in-depth feature stories on many local artisans, head to ILLINOISouth’s YouTube page and look for the Made in ILLINOISouth playlist on our channel! We are always looking to feature the next great maker in our region of the state, so stay tuned to YouTube and our social media channels for new stories!

•

47

h p sho y h p sho y h p sho y p o p o p o o h p sh p sh p sho nsh ho ns s p ‘til o o o sShop o o o h h h h h h s y s y s p p p o o o op op op Antiques, Boutiques, and Souvenirs Aplenty

Drop

SHOPPING

you h h h h h h s s s s s p op op op op op s o h h h h s s s O s p op hon op onshop sho h h h s op y o p s p y p s h p y h p o o o o h h s op s p sh onsh p sh onsh p h p shop yhp shop yhp sho y p o o o h p s h p s h ps h o s h o s h o s o ho ho hop hop hop h s s s s s s n p n p n o h o ho h o hop h o h p y p s py p s p y p s ne of the top activities for tourists when visiting a new area is shopping. Folks love to find something new and unusual and tell the stories that come along with their purchases.

Sitting alongside Interstate 70 in Fayette County is one of the coolest shops you will ever find.

Driftstone Pueblo has an 8,400 square-foot showroom full of jewelry, moccasins, and other Native American products that have been purchased directly from local Native American Reservations. There are hundreds of positive reviews of Driftstone Pueblo, from locals and travelers alike. “It’s road trip worthy,” says Chanse Lyons. “One of my favorite places in all of the world. It’s the mecca of cool gift shops.

It’s like all the tourism areas visitor centers from across the country all combined. You will want to bring back all of your friends and family!”

Fans of Popeye the Sailor Man will certainly want to pop into Spinach Can Collectibles in Chester, the only Popeye Shop and Museum in the entire world! They carry a little bit of everything for folks of all ages – t-shirts, neckties, comic books, and toys for the kiddos as well. It’s a great place to grab a souvenir after checking out the Popeye character statues throughout town!

Another shop for unique souvenirs can be found in Olney. For folks coming to town to witness the beloved White Squirrels, you can top your trip off with a visit to the White Squirrel Shop located in Wildwoods Framing and Gallery.

There are white squirrel posters, coffee mugs, apparel, wine toppers, and even White Squirrel stuffed animals for the little ones. There are several other shopping opportunities in Olney’s 48

downtown area, but in terms of souvenirs – the White Squirrel Shop is a must.

There are quite a few antiquaries out there that like to plan road trips based around antique shopping, and Pocahontas is just the place for that. There are a handful of little stores in this little community of 800 people, all of which draw hundreds of antique shoppers a year. Pocahontas Antiques, Village Square Antiques, Wagon Wheel Antiques, and the Pocahontas Mercantile and Sweet Shoppe each have so much to offer that you can spend half a day in Pocahontas hunting for bargains, antiques, and other handmade items! If you’re looking for a pro-tip, the Mercantile has a bunch of nostalgic candies and glass bottle soda pops – so if you’re in need of a pick-me-up while shopping, that’s the place to go.

The twelve counties that make up the Eastern Region of our territory are ripe for an antique road trip as well, so here’s a quick itinerary for you! The first stop is at Burnt Prairie Grand Antiques & Collectibles right off I-64 in White County, where you will find everything from wood carved animals to cast iron cookware in this 6,000 square foot space made up of 30 vendors. A short jog northeast will lead you to Prairie Albion Antique Mall. This shop garners a perfect five-star review on social media for its often changing inventory and helpful service! Directly east from Albion on Route 15 sits Mt. Carmel, home to two different shops.

Just Around The Corner is home to around 40 different booths for antiques, artisans, crafters and collectibles. Their second floor features ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

comic book central, The Great Wall of China, and more! Backyard Markets is the other shop in Mt. Carmel that also features booths for different vendors including antiques of course, along with gourmet foods, handbags and a ton more. Head north on Route 1 and make a stop at The Rusty Bucket in Bridgeport where there is so much, you can’t see it all! “My daughter, grandson, and I spent four hours browsing,” admits visitor Alisa Bilskie. “The grandson learned so much about antiques and had a wonderful time. He bought a Tonka Road Grader from the 70s for each he and his brother. We will be back,” Bilskie adds.

Head northwest to Oblong for our next to last stop at Vault Antiques, which is located inside the former Oil Belt National Bank Building. There is always new inventory, and there are a couple other shops in town to peruse while you’re here! We’ll finish up just outside of Marshall at Whippoorwill Antique Mall, and this one is a doozy! You could leave from here with almost anything as there are over a hundred dealers with thousands of items for sale in this 12,000 square foot mall.

There are also communities who pride themselves on having a plethora of different shopping options from antiques to boutiques and more, so that folks spend as much time as possible in each town.

Salem is one such community offering antiques at the Purple Elephant, and a huge selection of items at places like Country Creek Treasures and the Rusty Nail. Casey is another great place to shop while you’re out and about looking at all the LARGE things. Model Tees has a great clothing selection including some Casey souvenir shirts, and Wildflour Bakery and Candy Company is a ▶

p p o o o h h h s s p p o p h sho sho shop p p o h ho sho ho op shop shop shop p hop op op s p sh sh p o o h s p h o p sh p o o o h h s s p sh o h o h s p p p o h sho sho p p p o h sho sho p o h o shop fantastic place to pick up some sweet treats while you’re exploring! If you find yourself in downtown Charleston there are several great places to explore and shop around the courthouse. There are two different book stores, a jeweler, great clothing at Plush Boutique, and some fantastic food finds at The Butcher Shop. Pinckneyville is another community that has embraced a cluster of shops for folks to spend some time and money. L3 Boutique as well as Peace, Love, and Junk are a couple of highlights for ladies that are looking for a new wardrobe. We’ll finish off the list with all of the shops on Brick Street in Lebanon. Minerva Boutique has A TON of stylish women’s apparel and accessories, and make sure to ask about their ‘magic pants.’ The Tiadaghton House is very cool because on top of crafts and antiques, there are also three resident artists on-site with galleries!

Pocahontas Mercantile Candy Counter

Shop at Spinach Can Collectibles

Photo Credit: Pocahontas Mercantile

•

Visit many shops on Brick Street in Lebanon SHOPPING

Photo Credit: Jordan Jackovich

For more information on where to shop, visit illinoisouth.org\shop 49

Discover Olney, IL HOME OF THE WHITE SQUIRRELS 2022 Annual Events Elks Easter Egg Hunt April 16 • Olney City Park Sounds of Summer Concert Series Thursday evenings in June & July Bower Park Fireworks Spectacular July 4 • Richland County Fairgrounds/ Olney City Park Richland County Fair July 22-30 • Richland County Fairgrounds RCRC White Squirrel Triathlon August 6 • Olney WSCCC Car Show • August 21 OAC Fall Festival September 24 • Olney City Park Annual Squirrel Count October 1, 8 & 15 • Olney TrustBank Halloween Parade October 28 • Downtown Olney Olney Christmas Parade November 26 • Downtown Olney

www.cityofolney.com 50

| 618-395-7302 |

M City of Olney, Illinois ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Christmas Light Display Nov. 24-Dec. 31 • Olney City Park

MASCOUTAH I L L I N O I S Located just off Interstate 64 (exit 23), adjacent to Scott AFB, home to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport, 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis.

Parks • Dining • Lodging Heritage Museum • Historic Downtown Antique & Specialty Shopping

Homecoming One of the Largest Festivals in Southwestern, IL

EVENTS Springfest - May

July 4th Celebration Homecoming - August Fall Fest, Chili Cook Off, & Car Show - October Lighted Christmas Parade - December

City of Mascoutah

www.mascoutah.org • 618-566-2964

M City of Mascoutah, Illinois

Mascoutah Chamber of Commerce

www.mascoutahchamber.com • 618-566-7355

M Mascoutah Chamber of Commerce

Just 5 minutes from Scott Air Force Base Less than 30 minutes from Downtown St. Louis | I-64 Exit 23 ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

51

SEASONAL EVENTS

The Annual Rendezvous at Fort de Chartres is always a crowd pleaser!

Photo Credit: Zac Votrain

52

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Exceptional

EVENTS

Seasonal Gatherings Draw Visitors for Miles!

SPRING & SUMMER

There is a huge milestone in our region in 2022 that will feature a handful of special events in Randolph County throughout the year. Prairie du Rocher is celebrating 300 years of existence with an assortment of activities including Gala Balls, celebrity musical guests and more! Very few communities in the country have reached the age of 300 continuous years, and efforts are currently underway to recognize Prairie du Rocher and the French Colonial Historic District by elevating the area to National Park status.

When the calendar flips to June, it marks the beginning of LGBT Pride Month. The largest pride gathering in southwest Illinois can be found in Belleville in the middle of June. Metro East Pride Fest is one of the most fun and unique events in ILLINOISouth! This rain or shine celebration features everything from live music to high heel drag races, so be sure to follow their social channels for more information on the 2022 event.

Running and cycling events are popular throughout the summer, but one of the more

Re-live the old days of farming with the American Thresherman Association

creative competitions pairs working out with food trucks! The Fit Foodie Tri and 5K in Marshall welcomes folks to town the first week of June and starts off with a triathlon as well as a 5K for anyone not interested in competing in the big race. After burning off all those calories, head to the Courthouse lawn to pig out on amazing eats from a plethora of food trucks.

Run, bike, swim, and EAT! The summer is also prime time for barbecue, right? Wabash Roots ‘n’ Que in Mt. Carmel is the perfect event for those who like to mix a good old fashioned barbecue competition with A TON of great live concerts. There are also craft vendors, food trucks, and an emergent talent competition, so keep an eye out for Wabash Roots ‘n’ Que which is usually held in mid-June.

There is a time-honored tradition held each June in Okawville that really gives visitors a true ‘Americana’ type of feel. Heritage Days celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2022, featuring everything from flea markets and farmers markets to vendor and craft shows. Folks also love the ever-popular Okawville Soda Festival during Heritage Days, which allows folks to try new varieties of old-fashioned glass bottle sodas made with real cane sugar.

Towards the end of July, you should plan a trip to Lawrence County for their Uncorked Festival at Red Hills State Park. With paid admission adults get a festival wine glass and a handful of tasting tickets to sample several different varieties from local wineries. Add in a whole bunch of food trucks and live music, and this event is full of stories that you’ll tell for years to come.

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

When August rolls around that means it is time for one of the largest festivals in southwest Illinois. Mascoutah Homecoming Und Augustfest celebrates its 96th year in 2022, and it is certainly an event that folks circle on their calendars. Experience everything from tractor pulls and car shows to live music and carnival rides. Keep an eye on the Homecoming’s social channel and website for everything you need to know about 2022’s celebration.

Near the end of August, the American Thresherman Association will be hosting its 63rd Annual Steam, Gas, and Threshing Show which attracts THOUSANDS of folks to Pinckneyville each year. If you’re a fan of agriculture, this is the event for you! They have everything from blacksmiths and rope making to steam powered tractor pulls and threshing shows. It’s planned for August 17th-21st, 2022and it is a perfect event to reflect on how rural folks went about life several decades ago!

One of the most visually appealing celebrations can be found in Centralia, and it is usually held the third weekend of August. For over 30 years Centralia Balloon Fest has done nothing but grow in popularity. It is now a three-day event with a wide array of activities. Over 30,000 visitors come to Centralia each year to witness morning and evening balloon flights, balloon glows, craft booths, live entertainment, a car show, and more. If this is one you’ve been wanting to experience, go ahead and plan a visit – you WILL NOT be disappointed! ▶

53

SEASONAL EVENTS

T

he ILLINOISouth events calendar really starts to liven up in the springtime, and one of the first events of the year is always Fruehlingsfest in Maeystown. This timehonored tradition is like clockwork, happening each year on the first Sunday in May. This antique and garden show features unique antiques from some of the finest dealers in the Midwest.

Carmi Corn Day is a tradition passed down to generations!

SEASONAL EVENTS

Photo Credit: Carmi Chamber of Commerce

FALL

L

abor Day Weekend ushers in fall events aplenty, including the Du Quoin State Fair.

The Fair is in it’s 99th year in 2022, after being started in 1923 by a group of successful and ambitious Du Quoin business leaders.

This 11-day long event is slated for August 26th through September 5th and provides all kinds of entertainment for fair-goers. There is harness racing as well as motorsports, a wide variety of agricultural competitive events, a ton of amazing food, and some GREAT live entertainment. Superstars from Johnny Cash to Willie Nelson have graced the main stage at the Du Quoin State Fair!

In early September the small village of Palestine nearly quadruples in size when they host the always popular Pioneer City Rodeo. It is a three-day long Championship Pro Rodeo event that has categories for both cowboys and cowgirls including barrel racing, calf scrambles, and of course bull riding. This is another event that has become a staple in southeastern Illinois and draws several thousand visitors from other states.

The McLeansboro Fall Festival is centered around providing world-class musical entertainment, free of charge to Festival goers.

Usually held in mid-September, this Hamilton County gathering has featured famous musicians from Sawyer Brown to Ricky Skaggs! A Downhill Derby is a beloved feature of the McLeansboro Fall Festival as well.

54

Another mid-September gathering features the boom of cannons, the smell of campfires, and a parade of colorful uniforms. The Annual Rendezvous at Fort de Chartres near Prairie du Rocher spotlights the 1700s when this portion of Illinois was controlled by France. Visitors can test their hand at throwing a tomahawk, partake in period music and dancing and so much more.

This one-of-a-kind event is perfect for families and history buffs, and admission is free.

One of the most unique events in our territory is also considered to be a ‘voluntourism’ activity.

The first three Saturdays of each October the City of Olney hosts its Annual White Squirrel Count. Folks come from all over to volunteer a couple of hours to walk around a certain portion of town and count white squirrels, gray squirrels, fox squirrels and cats. This information helps the City keep track of their unusually large white squirrel population!

For AMAZING musical entertainment that helps support a fantastic cause, mark your calendars for September 9-10 this year. Songs4Soldiers in Columbia annually features a ton of big-name acts, from Diamond Rio and Granger Smith to Night Ranger! The concerts are paid for by local sponsors, meanwhile ticket sales and other donations are given to combat veterans and their families. Songs4Soldiers has helped nearly 600 veterans to date, so keep your eyes peeled to their social channels for more information on this year’s event.

There are two events in southeastern Illinois that are ALWAYS held on the second weekend of October, so they’re easy to remember.

Carmi Corn Day incorporates everything you can imagine a traditional fall festival would have, but they’re always adding more. Visitors can enjoy a farm to table social hour and dinner, a pageant, lots of live entertainment, a competitive cornhole tournament, a pet parade, and many other activities. If you’re attending Carmi Corn Day that Saturday, make sure to make the half an hour drive to Edwards County for Albion Chowder. This event is truly unique as giant kettles are moved to the town square and filled with gallons and gallons of ingredients that are cooked down for hours into a legendary chowder. Volunteers man the kettles with giant paddles to stir the chowder, so it’s definitely a sight to behold. People flock to Albion on the second Saturday of each October for it, and it always sells out. Make sure to be there well before 11am to get in line if you’d like a gallon to take home! ▶

A fun fact that we always like to inform folks is that the Heath Bar was created here in ILLINOISouth! Yes, that delicious toffee and chocolate bar originated right here in Robinson.

The Heath Harvest Fest is held towards the end of September and early October each year to celebrate and honor the history of the candy bar and its lasting effect on Robinson. There are toffee demonstrations to go along with shopping, food, and so much else!

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

The Christmas lights at Carlyle City Park are a sight to behold!

Photo Credit: Midwest Nomad Family

T

he Holiday season kicks off in Vandalia with Olde Tyme Christmas, which is usually slated for the second week of November. The festivities open up with a tree lighting ceremony, and from there you can get in the Christmas spirit by visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, take a Statehouse Tour, go shopping on Fashionista Avenue, take a horse and carriage ride – there is a ton of Holiday cheer to go around!

Another event that hearkens back to Holiday celebrations from centuries ago is the Lebanon Victorian Holiday. This celebration is unlike any other event in our region solely because of the Lamplighter who goes around to different business fronts on Brick Street and lights up their stores for the Holidays.

There is also caroling, shopping opportunities, and photos with Father Christmas! Lebanon Victorian Holiday usually happens the third weekend in November.

After Thanksgiving, the holidays really step into high gear with multiple events each weekend leading up to Christmas. Jasper County Christmas is great because their celebrations are spread out to enjoy over a couple of different weekends. The last weekend of November the little village of Sainte Marie turns into ‘Whoville’ and offers pictures with the Grinch, ice skating and wagon rides around the village. The next weekend is the Jasper County Christmas on the Square in Newton, where folks can experience

a parade, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and partake in a cookie stroll!

The City of Chester is frequently named one of the best Holiday River Towns by River Travel Magazine, and their annual Christmas on the River event is a big reason why! Now 33 years in the making, this event offers up some fun community-wide games like Frosty’s Follies and Reindeer Games. Their lighted parade is always a big hit because that is when Santa himself arrives in Chester on a fire truck!

SEASONAL EVENTS

HOLIDAY display. The other display that grows each year is the Coulterville Holiday Light Display in Randolph County. This event draws in so many out-of-town guests during the weekends that the population temporarily quintuples!

This display features a half-mile walk through display featuring a million lights, as well as a 15-block drive through portion with over 650 figurines to admire! There are over 3 MILLION lights throughout this display, as well as free refreshments and activities every weekend in December.

•

While all the Big Things in Casey are a great everyday reason to visit, Candy Canes on Main is the PERFECT reason to visit during the holiday season. You can do starlit shopping at night, experience a live reindeer, enjoy live music, and after Santa arrives during the lighted parade – he goes onto a second story balcony above the crowd and reads a bedtime story to everyone in attendance. How cute is that!? This year’s event is slated for December 2-3.

It wouldn’t be the season without light displays, and while we have close to a dozen throughout our region – there are a couple we absolutely MUST mention. Christmas in Carlyle is one of the most popular displays in ILLINOISouth, because this drive through experience features over a hundred thousand strands of lights spread throughout the Carlyle City Park. It’s totally free to experience, and they even have FIREWORKS on the opening night of the ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Take a carriage ride during Lebanon’s Victorian Holiday Photo Credit: Lebanon Victorian Holiday

For information on every event in ILLINOISouth throughout the year, visit ILLINOISouth.org/Events 55

Visit Carmi this year!

Your guide to Carmi, available for your phone!

The City of Carmi app for Android and iPhone is now available for download, and is completely free. It’s loaded with tons of information like places to visit, places to eat, businesses and services.

The Parks

Visit Burrell Park, one of southern Illiniois most popular camping and picnic destinations. Or have fun at one of our other parks around town!

Celebrate Corn Days with us!

Every year Carmi comes home for our weekend autumn celebration, with parades, vendors, big name entertainment and more. Don’t miss it - October 7-8, 2021!

Drag Racing Summers!

Share in the excitement as we turn the airport into a drag strip!

May 14th and 21st June 11th and 25th July 9th and 23rd Aug 6th and 20th Sept 10th and 24th Oct 8th

Celebrate the holidays!

Take a trip through Christmas Light of Hope, watch our night time Christmas parade of do a bit of shopping!

www.cityofcarmi.com 56

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Randolph County, IL Where Illinois Bean Honoring 319 years of Ancestors by Preserving these Treasures

Fort de Chartres Prairie du Rocher 1718-1765

Red Bud Museum 1860

George Rogers Clark Historic Marker 1778

Popeye Character Trail Chester

Mary’s River Covered Bridge, Near Chester 1874

Roscoe Misselhorn Gallery, Sparta - 1907

Pierre Menard Home Near Ellis Grove 1802

Mississippi & Kaskaskia Rivers Lock & Dam Heritage Confluence Park

Governor Bond’s Memorial, Chester

8-Sided Charter Oak School Schuline - 1873

Kaskaskia Immaculate Conception Church 1675

RCHS Creole House Prairie du Rocher ca 1800

Prairie du Rocher is celebrating 300 years in 2022!

For an Interactive Map: Visit us online at tourism.randolphco.org

For Travel Packets:

elyons@powrup.net 618-826-5000 ext. 138

Find us online!

X[\

Liberty Bell of the West Kaskaskia Island 1741

These landmarks are on the National Register of Historical Places.

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

57

Watch, Play, and Cheer in ILLINOISouth

SPORTS

Galore!

T

he amount of sporting opportunities that ILLINOISouth offers is quite astounding.

For folks who want to work up a sweat and compete with their peers, there are several venues and sports to choose from. We’re talking everything from hockey and baseball to pickleball and disc golf. If you’re more of a spectator and just enjoy watching the action – there are many places to do that too!

We’ll start off with a venue where you can be both a spectator and a competitor. World Wide Technology Raceway is arguably the most popular sporting facility in southern Illinois, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and racers a year. The track plays host to INDYCAR, NHRA, NASCAR Truck Series, and new in 2022 - the NASCAR Cup Series! The cup race is slated for June 5th, and believe us when we tell you, the place will be ELECTRIC! If smaller, hometown racing on a dirt track is more your speed (pun intended), look up Wayne County Speedway.

The 1/8th mile clay oval provides for fast-paced action and receives high praise from both drivers and fans.

In St. Clair County there are three facilities in short proximity to one another that really cater to families who love to be involved in sports.

The O’Fallon Family Sports Park is a premier facility that has a little bit of everything. The lighted baseball, softball, and soccer fields are all top-notch and host tournaments for the majority of the year, depending on the season.

58

Families come from all over the Midwest so their children can compete in a variety of tournaments. The O’Fallon Family Sports Park also features a running path and a free splash pad for families to enjoy. For folks who are more into hockey and swimming, the McKendree Metro Rec Plex in O’Fallon is worth a visit. This facility has an amazing ten-lane competition pool and two NHL sized hockey rinks that can be used for free skates, hockey games, and more.

Another indoor facility right down the road in Fairview Heights has enough activities to keep you entertained for the whole day! The Rec has a room right off of their aquatic center built specifically for families hosting birthday parties.

Speaking of the aquatic center, it features a lazy river – which is obviously a fan favorite! Another unique feature of the Rec is their Clip ‘n Climb equipment which is an instant memory maker for children and adults alike. “We brought our three oldest grandkids here to have fun, it was our first visit,” explains Michelle Verity. “The three young men working at the Clip ‘n Climb were extremely kind, courteous, and patient.

They interacted and encouraged the kids to keep climbing and told them they were doing great.

They were so nice to the kids and even called them by their names. The kids thought that was pretty cool,” Verity adds.

If baseball and softball pique your interest, there is an 18,000 square foot venue in Centralia that attracts thousands of folks a year. The Gaetti ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Sports

Sports Academy is named for Centralia native and former MLB player Gary Gaetti and offers a wide variety of services. There are constantly different camps and clinics at the indoor facility, which boasts HitTrax technology – a system that uses analytics to help athletes refine their game.

This awesome space can also be rented out for birthday parties, private events, and for team building opportunities!

When it comes to golf there is no shortage in our 21-county territory. There are so many places to tee off, it’s impossible to mention them all! One course that is noteworthy because of its option to play at night is Yorktown Golf Course in Shiloh. The 18-hole par three course is completely lighted, so you can keep playing when the sun goes down! For folks who are closer to our Eastern Region, the Quail Creek Country Club in Robinson has an amazing 18hole PGA Championship course and a 34-room resort complete with room service, a restaurant, a swimming pool and more! For some of the most reasonable rates you’ll find anywhere, head to the Carmi Country Club. The 9-hole course plays pretty tight with a total par of 35 and the best part is, a non-member with a cart will only pay eight bucks!

There are also a handful of non-traditional sports that have really grown in popularity in our area as well. Disc golf is one of those sports, with new courses and tournaments popping up seemingly all the time! Many disc golf ▶

Xtreme Paintball Park has 25 acres worth activities including paintball, airsoft, and laser tag Photo Credit: Xtreme Paintball Park

SPORTS

The NubAbility All Sports Camp gives limbdifferent children the opportunity to try a wide array of activities ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

59

SPORTS

Mark skydiving off your bucket list at Gateway Skydiving Center in Greenville

The Clip ‘n Climb at The Rec in Fairview Heights is a huge hit with kiddos

Photo Credit: Gateway Skydiving Center

Photo Credit: The Rec

players have no problem hitting the road to drive for hours to play in tournaments. There are upwards of 20 different courses to play in ILLINOISouth, from Sheve Park Disc Golf Course in Mascoutah all the way to Wabash Run in Grayville. Much like traditional golf, all of these courses are different and provide their own challenges!

Staying on the theme of sports that are picking up a lot of momentum, we have to mention pickleball, right? There are over a dozen communities in ILLINOISouth that have pickleball leagues, and now dedicated pickleball courts are popping up. Mt. Carmel recently opened a brand new pickleball facility which features six lighted courts to play at day and night.

Thrill seekers might want to pay attention to these next two sports. If you have ever wanted to jump out of a plane, the Gateway Skydiving Center in Greenville is the place to do it!

This is a second-generation family-operated skydiving center with over 60 years of skydiving 60

experience. Jumps are made from up to 10,500 above Carlyle Lake. If skydiving is something you have had on your bucket list for a while, now is your chance to do it! Another thrilling adventure can be found in Millstadt, but this one doesn’t require a free fall. Xtreme Paintball Park has no shortage of options for folks that need a little heart-pumping fun! Choose from paintball, airsoft, and laser tag for all ages and abilities.

This 25-acre facility features 11 different playing fields to choose from and hosts everything from youth groups to bachelorette parties.

There is a sporting event in Du Quoin each July that attracts folks from across the entire country. Families with limb-different children mark their calendars each year for the NubAbility All Sports Camp. This camp gives children who are missing a limb from either birth or an accident a chance to spend quality time with other limb-different children who are exactly like them! Over a five day span these kids can participate in anything from archery and tennis to golf and baseball at the NubAbility ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

All Sports Camp. “We always tell people that NubAbility is our weekend of normal,” explains Trey Senney, who makes the trek to Du Quoin from Cleveland, Ohio each year for his limbdifferent son. “It’s almost like going to a family reunion every year where you relax, hang out, and have a good time with people who are in the same situation as you.”

•

For more information on sporting events, activities, and sporting venues visit ILLINOISouth.org.

IT’S HAPPENING HERE

Du Quoin ILLINOIS

DU QUOIN FAIRGROUNDS

Visit our picturesque, 1,600 acre Fairgrounds featuring hiking, fishing, picnicking and more than 1,500 camping hook-ups. Home of the Southern Illinois Center.

EVENTS AT KEYES PARK

Don’t miss the Summer Concert Series and the Fall Festival located in Keyes Park.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS FAIR

Southern Illinois’ Largest Winter Wonderland with over One Million Twinkling Lights!

Thanksgiving Night through December 30.

FAIRGROUNDS ANNUAL EVENTS Memorial Day Weekend Events

National Federation of Professional Bull Riders

A.M.A. Motocross Racing

Flea Market • 1ST Sunday of Each Month

Street Machine Nationals Nubability Athletics Foundation Camp

Fireworks on July 3 RV Convention Special Olympic Events

Visit Du Quoin

Du Quoin Tourism Commission 618.542.8338 • duquointourism.org M Du Quoin Tourism ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

61

YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO FAR FOR BREATHTAKING VIEWS Experience St. Louis from

630 feet above

in our urban National Park.

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE TOP AT

GATEWAYARCH.COM

Much to see.

More to discover.

Convenient parking is available nearby at the Stadium East Garage.

DESTIN / FT WALTON BEACH, FL (VPS)

JACKSONVILLE, FL (JAX)

FT MYERS / PUNTA GORDA, FL (PGD)

CHARLESTON, SC (CHS)

SARASOTA / BRADENTON, FL (SRQ)

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (MYR)

ORLANDO / SANFORD, FL (SFB)

PHOENIX / MESA, AZ (AZA)

FT LAUDERDALE, FL (FLL)

SAVANNAH, GA (SAV)

TAMPA / ST. PETE, FL (PIE)

at FlyMidAmerica.com 62

PLAN YOUR VISIT

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

LAS VEGAS, NV (LAS)

COVID-19 action plan accessible online at www.FlyMidAmerica.com

Traveling to our region?

WATCH BEFORE YOU WANDER When it comes to planning a trip, it is second nature to do a quick internet search and watch a few videos of the place you plan to visit. Travelers love to have an idea of what to expect when arriving to their destination and at ILLINOISouth we couldn’t agree more.

Check out our YouTube Channel!

ANNUAL EVENTS

E L L I V W A K O WE LCOME

TO

ILLINOIS

New Years Day Dance Okawville Easter Bunny Lunch Saturday Two Weeks before Easter

We take videos of all of our travels and have posted over 160 videos to our YouTube channel! So if you’re curious about what food to eat, where to shop, and things to see while in our neck of the woods – just search ILLINOISouth Tourism on YouTube or check out our video library at ILLINOISouth.org/ Video-Library.

Pinckneyville just for the fun of it!

Come see what “The Friendly Little City” has in store for you!

Heritage Days Weekend before Father’s Day July Fourth Dance

Take a stroll down our streets to visit our locally owned retail shops and restaurants.

Okawville Fair and Wheat Festival Second Weekend after Labor Day

Grab your picnic basket and spend the afternoon at our gorgeous City Park grounds, or at our scenic City Lake and catch some fresh fish.

Chili Cook Off Second Saturday in October

Visit our local attractions!

• Heritage House Museum • Okawville Parks • The Original Springs Indoor Pool & Spa • Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo • Roland Barkau Memorial Golf Course • Simonton Orchard

Cheer for your favorite colorful costumes, floats and marching bands in our annual “Mardi Gras” Halloween night time parade.

Okawville Christmas Stroll First Weekend in December Village of Okawville myokawville.com 618-243-5972 M Village of Okawville Village Hall

Step into the boots of a farmer at one of the Thresherman’s biannual shows or at our history museums.

For more information on our local activities or annual events call us at 618-357-8775 or visit us on the web at http://ci.pinckneyville.il.us

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Thrill the kiddies with an all you can bounce pass at our County Fair.

Come see for yourself why so many people choose to visit Pinckneyville - just for the fun of it!

63

Hosts Most THE

WITH THE

MEETING/EVENT SPACE

Meeting and Special Event Venues

Here in ILLINOISouth we love a good party!

Whether it’s a small gathering of folks for a birthday or a large event like a wedding, there are a ton of different venues ready to play host.

The Olde Wicks Factory hosts many gatherings from weddings to family reunions Photo Credit: The Olde Wicks Factory

64

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

O

Reception & Conference Center is the other venue in Columbia that is fantastic for weddings. True to its name, The Falls features a 25-foot waterfall which is the perfect background for the perfect day. There are also several areas to choose from when hosting a reception after the ceremony!

The City of Belleville has a plethora of options for event space to fit any number of needs. The BelleClair Fairgrounds & Expo Center specializes in large events like train shows, RV and Camper shows, flea markets and more. Elsewhere in Belleville, the St. Clair County Event Center boasts over 28,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space and has played host to everything from swap meets to concerts and performances. For smaller gatherings like business events and fundraisers, Bellecourt Place and Bellecourt Manor are great. Bellecourt Place seats 25-150 guests and is in a historic church!

Bellecourt Manor seats up to 300 which features an adjoining bar, lobby, and library that can be used in a variety of ways.

If you have an interest in hosting an event in a barn, there are actually a few of facilities in ILLINOISouth that can take care of that for you! The Barn at New Leaf in Lawrenceville is a rustic yet elegant escape from other event venues. It features hardwood beams and wine bottle chandeliers with enough seating inside to accommodate 150 people, but there is also a wonderful outdoor area as well. The Big Red Barn is the other venue that offers up a lovely country atmosphere and rustic charm, which is perfect for reunions, weddings, banquets, and other events. The facility is in McLeansboro and features a covered bridge, which is a very popular spot for pictures. Another popular barn venue can be found in Monroe County! Sugar Spring Ranch has TWO locations, a barn that they’re rebuilding near Columbia, and Sugar Springs South in Waterloo.

Each can accommodate 300 guests and provides a farminspired dream wedding experience.

Aside from the always reliable conference centers, there are also several other venues spread throughout ILLINOISouth that provide their own unique flavor. Some of these event spaces specialize in weddings, and book months or even years in advance! There is a one-stop shop for a wedding venue, and reception hall all in one can be found at the Olde Wicks Factory in Highland. This is a huge facility that can host outdoor weddings, as well as indoor ceremonies. Olde Wicks used to be Wicks Pipe Organ Company where you guessed it, pipe organs were produced. Now the building features three different halls, an awesome cocktail area, suites for the bride and groom, a huge patio – and an overall AMAZING experience.

The City of Columbia has become a beacon for wedding parties as well because it is home to two great venues. Main Street Abbey in Columbia is truly a sight to behold. “Main Street Abbey is an absolutely gorgeous space,” admits Ian Dahlstrom. “The high vaulted ceiling and arches, the magnificent stone structure, and the splendid terrace are all picture-perfect locations. We booked Main Street Abbey as our reception venue as soon as we saw it without visiting any other venues. Our photographers also loved every angle of it and the pictures we got were beautiful. The venue seriously speaks for itself,” Dahlstrom adds. The Falls

One of the newest venues of the group can be found in Centralia, and it is unique in so many ways. First, Castle Ridge is exactly how the name sounds - the façade is the shape of a castle. This facility hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions on the same site! Second, Castle Ridge is more than just a wedding space. Not only do they have accommodations for corporate meetings and events, but they also pride themselves on food.

Castle Ridge boasts three different restaurants, all with different offerings. So even if you’re not attending an event, you can still head to Castle Ridge for an amazing meal – including one at their rooftop restaurant.

In Wayne County there is another event venue that has become very well known for beautiful weddings.

Willow Creek Venue sits south of Fairfield on Route 45, and although they host an array of events, weddings are their specialty. This newly renovated facility sits on 50 acres, with 15 acres open to the venue. There are inside and outside areas available for wedding ceremonies and receptions but let us not forget about the Bridal Suite and the Grooms Room – two awesome areas for people to get ready for the big day!

Celebrate your big day by sharing your nuptials in front of a 25-foot waterfall Photo Credit: The Falls Reception and Conference Center

MEETING/EVENT SPACE

ne of the largest spaces in ILLINOISouth can be found at the Regency Conference Center in O’Fallon. The 20,000 square foot convention center can be used as a whole or broken down into smaller spaces to meet specific needs. The Regency has catering on-site and of the many stories that guests have shared about the venue, the one constant is the quality of the staff. “We attended a banquet at the Regency for my father-in-law’s U.S. Navy reunion,” explains visitor Jason Sargent. “One person of the wait staff was so friendly that we squeezed him into a couple of family pictures! Great guy. The bunch of rowdy Navy guys was treated with respect, thank you,” Sargent adds. Another popular event space in St. Clair County can be found at the Four Points by Sheraton in Fairview Heights. This facility boasts 10,000 square feet worth of flexible space at the Fountains Conference Center, which is attached to the hotel.

Willow Creek is one of the newest event venues in ILLINOISouth and features 15 acres worth of space to use Photo Credit: Willow Creek Venue

From high-vaulted ceilings and arches to a magnificent stone structure, Main Street Abbey is a sight to behold Photo Credit: Main Street Abbey

The oldest and most historic venue of this group resides in Palestine. The Fife Opera House is an authentically restored theatre that was in operation until 1912 and has since been renovated and is now used for everything from birthday parties to tiny tea parties. There is no question that if there is a wedding, a party, a reunion, or any other type of gathering – ILLINOISouth has the venue for you!

•

For more information on many other venues, visit ILLINOISouth.org/Meet/Meetingand-Banquet-Facilities ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Fife Opera House in Palestine is the most historic venue in ILLINOISouth, and it hosts everything from birthdays to bridal parties 65

Amazing ACCO T

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS

hroughout this publication we have heard a lot of stories and personal accounts from folks that have experienced many of these attractions and events first-hand. When it comes to overnight stays, there are just as many fond memories. There are several hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and more venues that know how to take care of visitors. To that point, there are also a few that provide some REALLY unique experiences.

There is a boutique hotel in Casey that has been attracting Harry Potter fans from all over the country. Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover boasts a Gryffindor themed room, complete with everything from a wand and a Golden Snitch to a spiral staircase and Hedwig’s cage! Cortney Fries and her daughter drove 400 miles to experience this unique accommodation. “Half of the reason my daughter and I chose to spend a girls weekend in Casey is because she is a huge Harry Potter fan,” explains Fries. “From the Gryffindor

themed rug that greets you upon entry to the 9-3/4 sign, Hogwarts pennant, themed pillows and blankets, this room is decked out for all those who adore Harry Potter. My daughter loved her own private sleeping quarters up the spiral staircase, while I enjoyed the king bed,” Fries adds.

For those who are travelling on Interstate 70 through our neck of the woods, there is an awesome place that gets rave reviews. The Cumberland Road Guesthouse is not only one of the cleanest places you’ll find, it’s also one of the coolest. This Airbnb is a vintage 1930 LINCO Filling Station completely renovated and nicely decorated with several pieces of memorabilia.

This accommodation is also handicap accessible, which is another key factor in traveling for folks.

There is enough room at the Cumberland Road Guesthouse to accommodate a family, thanks to three beds as well as a couch. There is also WiFi access and charging ports everywhere. This place is one you may want to book even without having a trip to go on!

Tucked away in rural Jasper County there is a place where hundreds of people flock to every year. Newton Lake is a fishing hotspot that is known among anglers for having some of the largest bass in the state. To give these traveling fishermen and women a place to stay, Tab and Vicki Walker built the Outdoor Sportsman’s Lodge in 2004. The 12-acre complex has six private guest log cabins that come with many comforts of home. The facility can host up to 24 people at one time and receives nothing but high praise from travelers. “The accommodations were impeccable, however, the people who own the Lodge were even better,” admits Paul Schultz, a fisherman who traveled several hours for the experience. “It’s amazing how a nice place is defined more by the customer service than the place itself,” Schultz adds. The story that Schultz has is a memory that he will never forget. After a slow day on the lake, he called it quits early. When he returned to the Outdoor Sportsman’s Lodge, he explained his slow day to Vicki. A few minutes later Schultz had a knock on his door from Tab Walker who told him to grab two rods – they were going back out. “How often do you get the pleasure to jump in the

Cumberland Road Guesthouse

Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover

Outdoor Sportsman's Lodge

Photo Credit: Courtney Fries

66

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Unique Accommodations

Unique Venues to Spend the Night!

OMMODATIONS boat with the owner of the resort, fishing guide of one of the best fisheries in America, a guy whose been fishing the lake for 41 years, just because he wants your experience to be better than it was,” recalls Schultz. “I was very grateful for that. I’ve been to a lot of places over my time and nothing like that has ever happened.

It was a trip I’ll never forget and will forever be grateful for,” Schultz adds. Who wouldn’t want to spend some time at the Outdoor Sportman’s Lodge after a story like that?

to make adjustments to accommodate my keto diet,” Orozco adds. “I enjoyed my mornings out on the front porch drinking coffee and catching up on news. I also cannot stress enough how clean and safe the bed and breakfast is. I was never in doubt of the cleanliness and upkeep they have provided to keep me safe. I would highly recommend visiting.”

•

For more information and detailed listings on many more places to stay in ILLINOISouth, visit ILLINOISouth.org/Stay

Original Springs Hotel

The Victorian on Main Photo Credit: Victorian on Main

Background Image Photo Credit: @joanieandjennib

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

67

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS

Another unique accommodation that is also on the National Register of Historic Places can be found in Okawville. The current location of the Original Springs Hotel has been open since 1893! This venue is well-known for its mineral spa because of the high mineral content in the water that the hotel has direct access to. Folks can take a mineral bath, then treat themselves to a massage, and wrap it all up with a dip in the heated indoor pool! The Original Springs also has an on-site restaurant, meeting facilities and more. If you’re into history, but also would like to be pampered at the same time – The Original Springs is right up your alley.

There is no question that there are several fantastic bed and breakfast establishments throughout ILLINOISouth. There is one that has racked up flawless reviews on travel platforms such as TripAdvisor, and it isn’t exactly easy to carry a five out of five stars for an extended period. The Victorian on Main in Fairfield is an 1895 home that features five guestrooms, and a wonderful homemade breakfast each morning. The owners have done an amazing job renovating this home and adding to it with wonderful decorations and accoutrements. If you make a trip during the fall months or Holiday season, you will be greeted by wonderfully decorated trees that are strategically placed throughout the home and decorated for that particular season.

Between the presentation and the hospitality, the Victorian on Main receives high marks from each of its guests. “What a gem we found in the Victorian on Main,” admits Sherri Orozco, a guest that stayed at the Victorian in the summer of 2021. “Each morning we awoke to a home cooked meal, and they even managed

BED & BREAKFAST BELLEVILLE Garfield Inn 620 Garfield St 1 Room.............................. 314.550.5940

Dog Friendly Silverstein Suite 208 E. Main St 1 Room...............................618.910.8622 LEBANON Dr. Jazz Luxury Suite 230 W. St. Louis St. 1 Room...............................618.537.2200 Memory Make Inn 424 W. St. Louis St. 4 Rooms............................. 618.972.0405 MAESYTOWN Corner George Inn 1101 Main St. 5 Rooms............................. 618.580.5875

ACCOMMODATIONS

Peter Ray House 1119 Main St. 3 Rooms..............................618.910.9775 MITCHELL Along the Way Bed & Breakfast 152 Central Avenue 2 Rooms.............................. 618.931.1537 PRAIRIE DU ROCHER The Conner House Bed and Breakfast 315 Main St. 4 Rooms............................. 618.284.8752

No Children WATERLOO Senator Rickert Residence Bed & Breakfast 216 E. 3rd St. 3 Rooms.............................. 618.939.8242 The SeeMore Inn 4505 HH Road 4 Rooms..............................618.939.6650

CABINS, LODGES, & CAMPGROUNDS ALAHAMBRA Burr Oaks Campground 10303 Oaks Road 70 Sites...............................618.488.7927 BALDWIN K-River Motel Campground 7797 IL Route 154 10 Rooms & 32 Sites........... 618.785.2564

68

Western Region Accomodations CAHOKIA HEIGHTS Cahokia RV Parque 4060 Mississippi Avenue 116 Sites.............................618.332.7700 CHESTER Randolph County State Recreation Area 4301 S Lake Dr. 45 Sites.............................. 618.826.2706 EAST ST. LOUIS Casino Queen RV Park 200 S. Front St. 144 Sites............................ 800.777.0777 ELLIS GROVE Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site 4372 Park Road 50 Sites............................... 618.859.3741 FAIRMONT CITY Safari RV Park 5110 Collinsville Road 45 Sites...............................618.271.0955 FREEBURG American Legion Post 58 Freedom Farm 6355 Hilgard Memorial Drive 40 Sites..............................618.539.6095

Waterloo Sportsman's Club 4903 Sportsman's Road ..........................................618.458.9927

HOTELS & MOTELS BELLEVILLE Belleville Inn & Suites 931 South Belt West 16 Rooms............................618.233.4551 Best Royal Inn 1438 Centreville Avenue 16 Rooms............................ 618.233.7410 Sleepy Hollow Motel 601 S. Belt West 25 Rooms..........................618.233.8680 Shrine Guesthouse 451 S. De Mazenod Drive 39 Rooms............................ 618.397.1162 Super 8 by Wyndham - Belleville 600 E. Main Street 40 Rooms........................... 618.234.9670 Terrace Motel 747 S. Belt West 28 Rooms............................618.234.1505

EAST ST. LOUIS Casino Queen Hotel 200 S. Front Street 150 Rooms..........................855.516.1090 FAIRMONT CITY First Western Inn-Fairmont City 1941 Collinsville Road 32 Rooms........................... 618.482.3088 FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS Comfort Suites - Fairview Heights 137 Ludwig Drive 71 Rooms............................618.394.0202 Country Inn Suites by Radisson Fairview Heights 140 Ludwig Drive 62 Rooms............................618.213.8540 Drury Inn & Suites - Fairview Heights 12 Ludwig Drive 136 Rooms......................... 618.398.8530 Econo Lodge Inn & Suites - Fairview Heights 305 Salem Place 52 Rooms............................618.624.3636 Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Fountains Conference Center 319 Fountains Parkway 120 Room.......................... 618.622.9500

MILLSTADT Lodge at Pine Lake 5953 Roachtown Road 1 House..............................618.580.0303

CAHOKIA HEIGHTS Quality Inn and Suites - Cahokia 1607 Pontiac Drive 70 Rooms........................... 618.332.2000

Hampton Inn - Fairview Heights 150 Ludwig Drive 61 Rooms............................ 618.397.9705

MODOC Kaskaskia River Project 4800 Lock and Dam Road 15 Sites.............................. 618.284.7160

CASEYVILLE Days Inn - Caseyville 2423 Old Country Inn Drive 82 Rooms........................... 618-397-3300

Holiday Inn - St. Louis/Fairview Heights 313 Salem Place 88 Rooms............................ 618.212.1300

PERCY Lake Camp-A-Lot 13520 Community Lake Road 90 Sites............................... 618.497.2942

FairBridge Inn 8950 Tucker Drive 54 Rooms............................ 618.397.4200

Super 8 Wyndham - Fairview Heights 45 Ludwig Drive 81 Rooms............................618.398.8338

First Western Inn - Caseyville 8787 Sasak Place 32 Rooms........................... 618.398.5484

MASCOUTAH Best Western Plus MidAmerica Hotel - Mascoutah 9730 Hayden Drive 85 Rooms........................... 618.808.0280

The Hunt Club 6004 Myers Lane 3 Rooms.............................. 618.497.2526 SPARTA County Line Cabins 8636 County Line Road 32 Cabins & 3 Cabins.......... 618.443.4009 World Shooting & Recreational Complex One Main Event Lane 1,000 Sites......................... 618.295.2000 WATERLOO Freedom Lake RV Park 5329 Sportsman Road ..........................................618.458.6628 Timberwolf Cabin 603 N. Market Street ..........................................814.221.0755

Motel 6 - Caseyville 2431 Old Country Inn Drive 120 Rooms..........................618.397.8867 Quality Inn & Suites - Caseyville 2180 Patricia Court 61 Rooms........................... 618.826.3034 CHESTER Best Western - Chester 2150 State Street (150 E) 77 Rooms........................... 618.826.3034 COLUMBIA Hampton Inn by Hilton - Columbia 165 Admiral Trost Drive 77 Rooms........................... 618.281.9000

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Accommodations Listings

O'FALLON Baymont Inn & Suites - O'Fallon 1320 Park Plaza Drive 60 Rooms............................618.628.9700 Candlewood Suites 1332 Park Plaza Drive 79 Rooms............................618.622.9555 Regency Inn & Suites 116 Regency Park Drive 66 Rooms........................... 618.622.8600 Drury Inn & Suites - O'Fallon 1118 Central Park Drive 180 Rooms..........................618.624.2211

Central Region Accomodations

Extended Stay America 154 Regency Park Drive 89 Rooms............................ 618.624.1757

BED & BREAKFAST

McNair Group Campground 13160 McNair Campground Road 32 Sites.............................. 618.594.2484

Fairfield Inn & Suites 1180 Central Park Drive 106 Rooms......................... 618.206.8869

AVISTON Timmermann House & Bed Breakfast 6130 Old US Highway 50 2 Rooms..............................618.267.4402

Permission Lodge 15334 Lake Road 4 Rooms..............................618.795.9788

BROWNSTOWN Brazle Haus Bed and Breakfast 2311 N. 1450th St 2 Rooms..............................618.347.2207

DU BOIS Du Bois Center 2651 Quarry Road 4 Cottages, 8 Cabins, & 1 Lodge (11 Rooms)................................................... ..........................................618.787.2202

Hampton Inn by Hilton 430 Regency Park 100 Rooms......................... 618.589.9006 Hilton Garden Inn & The Regency Conference Center 360 Regency Park 128 Rooms..........................618.624.4499 La Quinta Inn & Suites 136 Regency Park 63 Rooms............................618.726.2323 Quality Inn O'Fallon I-64 1409 W. Highway 50 72 Rooms........................... 618.628.8895 Sleep Inn 140 Venita Drive 71 Rooms........................... 618.589.3999 Super 8 by Wyndham - O'Fallon 1100 Eastgate Drive 96 Rooms........................... 618.624.6060

Welcome Suites 148 Regency Park Drive 89 Rooms............................618.589.3696 RED BUD Red Bud Country Inn 1617 S. Main Street 30 Rooms........................... 618.282.4444 SHILOH Holiday Inn Express & Suites O'Fallon/Shiloh, an IHG Hotel 3396 Green Mount Crossing Drive 80 Rooms........................... 618.589.9848 SPARTA Briarwood Inn of Sparta 1755 N. Market Street 28 Rooms............................618.443.4526 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sparta 1301 N. Market Street 74 Rooms............................618.443.6020 WATERLOO Sunset Motel 206 S. Market Street 11 Rooms............................ 618.939.7503 Super 8 by Wyndham - Waterloo 112 Warren Drive 44 Rooms............................618.939.2020

PICKNEYVILLE Oxbow Bed & Breakfast 3967 State Route 13/127 5 Rooms.............................. 618.357.9839

CABINS, LODGES & CAMPGROUNDS AVISTON Hidden Lake Winery 10580 County Road 400 E 10 Cabins............................ 618.228.9111 BROWNSTOWN Okaw Valley Kampground 1341 E. 1650 Avenue 54 Sites.............................. 888.470.3968 CARLYLE Boulder Recreation Area 25501 Boulder Access Road 82 Sites.............................. 618.226.3586 Coles Creek 16265 Coles Creek Road 119 Sites.............................618.226.3211 Carlyle Dam East Spillway Campground 13160 McNair Campground Road 15 Sites.............................. 618.594.2484

DU QUOIN Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 655 Executive Drive 1000 Sites........................... 618.542.1515 30 West Lodging 30 W. Main Street 2 Rooms..............................618.790.7134 KEYESPORT Green Acres Camping 512 Washington 50 Rooms................618.749.5626 or 5359 Hide A-Way Campground 42 Hummingbird Lane 95 Sites............................... 618.749.5369

Vandalia Lake County Road 1875 N. IL 185 24 Sites...............................618.283.4770

HOTELS & MOTELS BREESE Knotty Pine Motel 215 N. 4th Street 10 Rooms............................618.526.4556 CARLYLE Centerstone Inn & Suites 1371 William Road 42 Rooms........................... 618.594.8888 Mariner's Village at Carlyle Lake 1 Resort Drive 68 Cabins & 5 Rooms...........618.594.7666

Keyesport Cabins 203 Whig Street 6 Cabins.............................. 618.749.5413

CENTRALIA Best Western Plus - Centralia 8145 Joliff Bridge Road 61 Rooms............................618.918.2559

MULBERRY GROVE Cedarbrook RV Park & Campground 1109 Mulberry Grove Road 15 Sites.............................. 618.326.8865

DU QUOIN Budget Inn 1266 S. Washington Street 24 Rooms............................618.542.5014

Bear Grove Cabins 25 E. 1675 Avenue 1 House..............................618.267.9006

Fairgrounds Inn 1520 S Washington Street 59 Rooms........................... 618.542.5000

NASHVILLE Washington County State Recreation Area 18500 Conservation Drive 50 Sites............................... 618.327.3137

Super 8 by Wyndham - Du Quoin 1010 S. Jefferson Avenue 37 Rooms............................618.542.4335

Carlyle Lake Dam West Campground 14440 Lake Road 113 Sites............................ 618.594.2484

PICKNEYVILLE Northtown RV Park 5481 IL-127 31 Sites............................... 618.977.0324

Eldon Hazlet State Park 20100 Hazlet Park Road 328 Sites.............................618.594.3015

Pyramid State Park 1562 Pyramid Park Road 48 Sites.............................. 618.357.2574

Hazlet Cottages on Caryle Lake 20750 Hazlet Park Road 20 Cabins............................618.594.8702

POCAHONTAS Tomahawk Campground 119 Tomahawk Drive 142 Sites.............................618.669.2781

Hickory Shores Resort LLC 21925 Dove Lane 7 Cabins..............................318.749.5288

VANDALIA Kaskaskia Dragon RV Park 1325 N. Rock Island 12 Sites...............................618.283.9700

RAMSEY Ramsey Lake State Park 671 E. 2900 Ave. 160 Sites.............................618.423.2215

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

GREENVILLE Comfort Inn & Suites 2265 Illinois Route 127 66 Rooms........................... 618.664.9700 Super 8 by Wyndham - Greenville 1700 South State Road 127 43 Rooms........................... 618.664.0800 SureStay Hotel by Best Western Greenville 1731 S. State Route 127 77 Rooms........................... 618.664.3030 NASHVILLE Best Western/ U.S. Inn - Nashville I-64 & State Route 127 48 Rooms............................618.478.5341

69

ACCOMMODATIONS

TownePlace Suites by Marriott 445 Regency Park 89 Rooms............................618.624.4900

DU QUOIN Francie's Inn Bed and Breakfast 104 S. Line Street 5 Rooms............................. 618.542.6686

SALEM Marion County Fairgrounds 1800 Fairgrounds Road 40 Sites..............................618.548.1251

Eastern Region Accomodations

OKAWVILLE Original Springs Hotel & Bath House 506 N. Hanover Street 37 Rooms............................618.243.5458

MARSHALL Buck Valley Wildlife Preserve 7211 1540th Street 3 Cabins, 1 Farmhouse........ 217.251.5916

Lakeside RV Park & Campground 5238 N. Silver Road 60 Sites............................... 618.393.4351

Super 8 by Wyndham - Okawville 812 Hen House Road 39 Rooms........................... 618.243.3046

CARMI The Social House 311 West Main Street 10 Rooms........................... 812.250.3851

PICKNEYVILLE Americas Best Value Inn 5700 State Route 154 47 Rooms............................618.357.5600

FAIRFIELD The Victorian on Main Bed & Breakfast 209 West Main Street 5 Rooms, 1 Suite................. 618.919.0208

Mill Creek Lake & Park 20482 N. Park Entrance Road 8 Cabins.............................. 217.889.3901

POCAHONTAS Powhatan Motel 4051 State Street 12 Rooms............................618.669.2233

LAWRENCEVILLE Cloud Nine Bed & Breakfast 1207 12th Street 3 Rooms............................. 618.943.5900

MARTINSVILLE 21 Guns Campground 13699 North 550th Street 85 Sites.............................. 812.264.2549 No overnight camping

SALEM Continental Motel 1600 E. Main Street 25 Rooms........................... 618.548.3090

ROBINSON The Cobalt House 402 South Cross Street 5 Rooms.............................. 618.469.1053

MOUNT CARMEL Beall Woods State Park 9285 Beall Woods 16 Sites.............................. 618.298.2442

CABINS, LODGING & CAMPGROUNDS

Mount Carmerriel RV Park 224 Golden Acres Way 8 Sites................................618.263.2517

SUMNER Red Hills State Park 3571 Ranger Lane 105 Sites.............................618.936.2469

Swift Sanctuary 226 E. 5th Street 2 Houses.............................618.262.5797

HOTELS & MOTELS

NEOGA Lake Mattoon Campgrounds (East & West) & Marina 1290 County Road 50 Sites.............................. 217.254.6680

CASEY Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham - Casey 933 North State Hwy 49 52 Rooms............................ 217.932.2212

Days Inn 1812 W. Main Street 93 Rooms............................618.548.4212 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Salem 102 Holiday Lane 86 Rooms............................618.740.0913 ACCOMMODATIONS

BED & BREAKFAST

Quality Inn & Suites - Salem 1800 W. Main Street 65 Rooms........................... 618.548.2177 Super 8 By Wyndham - Salem 118 Woods Lane 58 Rooms........................... 618.548.5882 VANDALIA Economy Inn 1500 N. 6th Street 44 Rooms........................... 618.283.2363 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Vandalia 21 Mattes Avenue 70 Rooms............................618.283.0010 Quality Inn & Suites - Vandalia 1920 N. Kennedy Boulevard 79 Rooms........................... 618.283.4400 Ramada Inn - Vandalia 2707 Veterans Avenue 60 Rooms............................618.283.1400

CARMI Burrell Park & Campgrounds 965 County Rd., 1500 N. 30 Sites...............................618.382.2693 CASEY Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover 14 S. Central Avenue 12 Studios........................... 217.323.2959

Shady Timbers Lodge 4560 E. Miller Grove Lane 1 Cabin.............................. 618.392.2800 Taylor Lake Campground 6152 IL-130 10 Sites.............................. 618.392.2800 ROBINSON Whispering Oaks Campground 7556 E. 1415th Avenue 49 sites.............................. 618.569.3600 ST. FRANCISVILLE St. Francisville Riverside Park & Campground 1st in Main 5 Sites............................... 618.948.2335

FAIRFIELD Briarwood Inn of Fairfield 116 Market Avenue 27 Rooms........................... 618.842.3667

Fairview Park Campground 598 SE 6th Street 60 Sites............................... 217.932.2700

NEWTON Illinois Wildlife Connections 13998 N 1425th Street 7 Rooms............................. 618.562.2770

KOA Campground Casey 1248 E 1250th Road 78 Sites............................... 217.932.5319

Sam Parr State Fish & Wildlife Area 13225 IL-33 33 Sites...............................618.783.2661

FLORA Best Western Lorson Inn 201 Hagen Drive 41 Rooms........................... 618.662.3054

ENFIELD Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area (Dolan Lake) R.R. 4 Box 242 5 Cabins & 70 Sites..............618.773.4340

Sparks Lazy Acres Campground 5641 E. 400th Street 30 Sites...............................618.783.2638

Flora Motel 8290 Old Hwy 50 19 Rooms............................618.662.2153

Outdoor Sportsman's Lodge 2635 N. 250th Street 6 Cabins..............................217.821.9964

Roadway Inn 900 N. Olive Street 44 Rooms............................618.662.2181

NOBLE Buckhorn Wildlife Preserve & Lodge 2939 E Otterbein Lane 2 Lodges.............................618.723.2361

GRAYVILLE Quality Inn 2200 S. Court Street 60 Rooms........................... 618.609.2034

OBLONG The Village Stitchery Quilt Shop and Retreat Center 108 E. Main Street 4 Rooms.............................. 618.592.4134

Super 8 by Wyndham 2060 County Rd 2450 N 55 Rooms............................618.375.7288

GRAYVILLE Hilltop Campgrounds 100 Memorial Drive 15 Sites...............................618.375.3671 Westwood Recreation Inc. 200 Koehler Street 6 Tent Sites, 50 RV Sites, & 10 Cabins.......

618.375.0310 INGRAHAM Kuhl's Kozy Kampground 1023 N. 500th Street 100 Sites.............................618.752.5473 LAWRENCEVILLE Lawrenceville River Park 301 State Street 10+ Sites............................ 618.943.2116

70

Lincoln Trail State Park 16985 E. 1350th Road 204 Sites.............................217.826.2222

OLNEY Hahn's Lake Reteat 3324 N. Van Road 9 Rooms..............................618.395.7146

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

GREENUP Budget Host Inn 716 E. Elizabeth Street 28 Room............................. 217.923.3176 Greenup Inn 400 S. Haughton Highway 30 Rooms............................ 217.923.5512

LAWRENCEVILLE Gas Lite Motel 8927 State Route 1 20 Rooms............................618.943.2374 MARSHALL Lincoln Suites 105 West Trefz Drive 34 Rooms............................ 217.826.6535 Relax Inn 107 E. Trefz Drive 40 Rooms............................ 217.826.3031 Super 8 by Wydham - Marshall 106 E. Trefz Drive 39 Rooms............................217.826.8043 MOUNT CARMEL Shamrock Motel 1303 N. Cherry Street 15 Rooms............................618.262.4169

INDEX BOND

Olney............................................... 2-4, 18-20, 30-32, 42-43, 48-49, 52-55

CLARK

Belleville...............................6-8, 22-25, 30-32, 34-35, 42-43, 52-55, 64-65 Cahokia................................................................................................38-40 County................................................................................................. 22-25 Fairview Heights...............................................14-16, 42-43, 58-60, 64-65 Lebanon.............................................................10-12, 42-43, 48-49, 52-55 Mascoutah......................................................... 18-20, 30-32, 52-55, 58-60 Millstadt.................................................................................. 30-32, 58-60 O’Fallon.......................................... 6-8, 14-16, 30-32, 34-35, 58-60, 64-65 Sauget................................................................................................. 14-16 Shiloh.......................................................................................42-43, 58-60 Swansea.............................................................................................. 26-29 WWTR...................................................................................... 14-16, 22-25

Casey..........................................................2-4, 26-29, 48-49, 52-55, 66-67 Marshall..................................................18-20, 22-25, 42-43, 48-49, 52-55 Martinsville............................................................................. 26-29, 34-35

CLAY

Flora...................................................................... 2-4, 22-25, 34-35, 38-40

CLINTON

Aviston..................................................................................... 10-12, 30-32 Breese.................................................................22-25, 26-29, 30-32, 42-43 Carlyle....................................................... 1-12, 18-20, 22-25, 30-32, 52-55 Germantown.......................................................................................38-40 New Baden.......................................................................................... 26-29 St. Rose................................................................................................ 10-12 Trenton................................................................................................ 26-29

CRAWFORD

Super 8 by Wyndham - Mount Carmel 937 Enterprise Lane 42 Rooms .......................... 618.262.4800

Hutsonville..........................................................................................38-40 Oblong......................................................................................30-32, 48-49 Palestine........................................................... 42-43, 46-47, 52-55, 64-65 Robinson.................................................... 2-4, 22-25, 34-35, 52-55, 58-60 Wabash River....................................................................................... 18-20

NEWTON Cobblestone Hotel & Suites 100 S. Gregory Drive 37 Rooms............................618.783.5550

Embarras River.................................................................................... 18-20 Greenup.............................................................22-25, 30-32, 38-40, 66-67

OLNEY Best Western Plus Parkside Inn & Suites - Olney 367 N. West Street 60 Room.............................618.429.9360 Super 8 by Wyndham - Olney 425 S. West Street 40 Rooms............................618.392.7888 The Holiday Motel and Resturant 1300 S. West Street 50 Rooms............................618.395.2121 Travelers Inn Motel 1801 East Main Street 16 Rooms............................618.393.2186

CUMBERLAND EDWARDS

Albion.................................................................22-25, 42-43, 48-49, 52-55 West Salem.........................................................................................30-32

FAYETTE

St. Elmo....................................................................................34-35, 48-49 Vandalia...........................18-20, 22-25, 30-32, 34-35, 38-40, 46-47, 52-55

HAMILTON

Dolan Lake........................................................................................... 18-20 McLeansboro..................................................... 22-25, 46-47, 52-55, 64-65

JASPER

ST. CLAIR

WABASH

Mt. Carmel...................................... 2-4, 34-35, 38-40, 48-49, 52-55, 58-60 Wabash River....................................................................................... 18-20

WASHINGTON

Hoyleton...................................................................................26-29, 34-35 Nashville.............................................................22-25, 34-35, 18-20, 26-29 Okawville..................................................................... 38-40, 52-55, 66-67 Oakdale...............................................................................................34-35

WAYNE

Barnhill................................................................................................34-35 Fairfield.............................................................26-29, 42-43, 64-65, 66-67 Wayne City..........................................................................................58-60

WHITE

Carmi................................................................. 26-29, 38-40, 52-55, 58-60 Grayville...................................................................................... 2-4, 58-60 Wabash River....................................................................................... 18-20 Norris City............................................................................................ 26-29 Burnt Prairie........................................................................................48-49

SINGLE MEMBER COMMUNITIES

Charleston..............................................18-20, 26-29, 38-40, 42-43, 48-49 Highland................................................. 10-12, 26-29, 30-32, 42-43, 64-65

Embarras River.................................................................................... 18-20 Newton.................................2-4, 22-25, 26-29, 34-35, 38-40, 52-55, 66-67

LAWRENCE

Bridgeport...........................................................................................48-49 Lawrenceville......................................... 22-25, 26-29, 30-32, 52-55, 64-65 Sumner................................................................................................ 18-20

MARION

Centralia................10-12, 22-25, 26-29, 30-32, 34-35, 52-55, 58-60, 64-65 Iuka...................................................................................................... 26-29 Salem.....................................................18-20, 26-29, 38-40, 42-43, 48-49 Kinmundy............................................................................................ 22-25

MONROE

ROBINSON Baymont by Wyndham - Robinson 1500 W. Main Street 65 Rooms.......................... 618.544.8448

Columbia...............................................................6-8, 30-32, 52-55, 64-64 Fults..................................................................................................... 18-20 Maeystown....................................................................... 6-8, 38-40, 52-55 Waterloo.................................................14-16, 26-29, 30-32, 38-40, 64-65

Country View Inn & Suites 100 Abraham Lincoln D Street 65 Rooms........................... 618.544.4222

Du Quoin..................................................14-16, 26-29, 30-32, 52-55, 58-60 Pinckneyville.......................................... 18-20, 22-25, 38-40, 48-49, 52-55 Tamaroa.............................................................................................. 14-16

PERRY

RANDOLPH

= BED & BREAKFAST

Chester...............................................................22-25, 30-32, 48-49, 52-55 Coulterville.......................................................................................... 52-55 Kaskaskia............................................................................................. 22-25 Modoc.................................................................................................. 18-20 Prairie du Rocher..........................................................................6-8, 52-55 Red Bud................................................................. 6-8, 14-16, 30-32, 26-29 Sparta ............................................................... 14-16, 42-43, 64-65, 30-32

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

= HOTELS & MOTELS = CABINS, LODGING, & CAMPGROUNDS

71

ACCOMMODATIONS

River Park Motel 10024 N. State Hwy 130 16 Rooms............................ 618.204.1151

RICHLAND

Greenville................................... 30-32, 34-35, 38-40, 42-43, 46-47, 58-60 Pocahontas........................................................ 10-12, 30-32, 34-35, 48-49

72

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

Visit Illinois’ First Freedom Rock in Shiloh Ill lliinois

,

Shiloh, Illinois welcomes a stop on the 50 State Freedom Rock Tour at 121 Shiloh Station Road.

Created by artist Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II, the Freedom Rock provides a unique mural thanking veterans who have served our country.

The flag displayed at the top of the rock represents all who have served.

The aircraft and blimp tell the story of Scott Air Force Base's aviation role in World War I. Corporal Frank S. Scott, the first aviation casualty and the base's namesake, is the only military base named after an enlisted man.

The USS Shiloh (CG-67), also located on the front, is a guided missile cruiser of the US Navy, named in remembrance of the Civil War Battle of Shiloh. When christening the ship in 1992, the Navy invited all communities with the name of Shiloh to attend the ceremony.

!

Also on this side is Lt. Colonel Adolf Engelmann. He was a Shiloh resident who fought in many battles of the War, including the Battle of Shiloh.

Finally, the last figure on the rock is Medal of Honor Recipient Wilbur F. Moore (He captured the Confederate battery's flag far before the Union lines).

The rock also has a hidden picture of the Marines raising the flag at Iwo Jima.

To learn more about the Shiloh Freedom Rock, the 50 State Freedom Rock Tour, and other murals nearby, visit www.threfreedomrock. com/50statefreedomrocktour.

The other side of the rock shows local Civil War history. In 1862, General Ulysses S. Grant recruited volunteers in the Shiloh Methodist Church (painted on the rock).

The Village of Shiloh • 618-632-1022 • shilohil.org • Find us on Facebook! M Shiloh, Illinois ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022

III

4387 N. Illinois St. Ste. 200 Swansea, IL 62226

(80M, 2/22)

IV

ILLINOISouth Visitor’s Guide 2022