Fall In Love With Southern Illinois - What To Do In Our Region This Season
- Nicole Miskelley
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
As the crisp air rolls in and the leaves begin their magnificent transformation, Southern Illinois truly comes alive. Forget the bustling crowds of big cities; down here, autumn is a symphony of vibrant colors, rich flavors, and unforgettable experiences. If you're searching for things to do in Southern Illinois this fall, you've hit the jackpot! Get ready to discover why our corner of Illinois is the perfect destination for your next autumn getaway.
1. Hike Through a Kaleidoscope of Color in the Shawnee National Forest
No fall visit to Southern Illinois is complete without witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the Shawnee National Forest. This vast expanse transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds each autumn, offering countless trails and scenic overlooks that will leave you in awe. If you're searching for the best places to experience fall foliage, the Shawnee National Forest is your ultimate destination.
Garden of the Gods: Perhaps the most famous spot, Garden of the Gods features ancient sandstone rock formations surrounded by d
ense, colorful woodlands. The Observation Trail offers panoramic views, especially stunning with a backdrop of brilliant fall leaves. It’s an iconic Southern Illinois experience.
Giant City State Park: Just south of Carbondale, Giant City is renowned for its "streets" of towering sandstone bluffs. Hiking through these geological wonders in the fall, with dappled sunlight filtering through autumn-hued trees, is a magical experience. Don't miss the scenic drive and the opportunity to climb the Stone Fort Trail.
Ferne Clyffe State Park: A hidden gem offering diverse landscapes, Ferne Clyffe is home to a magnificent rock shelter, beautiful waterfalls (especially after a good rain), and several scenic trails. The fall colors here create a serene and picturesque environment for a leisurely hike.
Little Grand Canyon: For the more adventurous, the Little Grand Canyon offers a rugged, rewarding loop trail. You'll descend into a lush canyon, navigate streams, and then ascend for incredible bluff-top views of the Big Muddy River and the surrounding forest, all ablaze with fall foliage. This is a true immersion into the wild beauty of Southern Illinois in autumn.
There are a lot more locations to discover in the Shawnee National Forest - this is just the tip of the iceberg! Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring your camera – you'll want to capture every stunning vista. If you think one day isn't enough to see the amazing sites, there are several cabins and hideaways in the forest, too, including Timber Ridge Outpost, Shawnee Forest Cabins, Rocky Comfort Cabins, and more.
2. Sip and Savor Along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Southern Illinois is home to the scenic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, a collection of award-winning wineries offering exquisite wines amidst rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Fall is arguably the best time to visit, with harvest season in full swing and outdoor patios providing cozy spots to enjoy a glass of local vintage.
Each winery has its own unique charm, from rustic barns to elegant tasting rooms. Many also offer live music, delicious food pairings, and special events throughout the autumn months. It's the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon or a romantic evening.
3. Embrace the Harvest: Pumpkin Patches & Apple Orchards
What's fall without a visit to a classic pumpkin patch or apple orchard? Southern Illinois boasts several family-friendly farms where you can pick your own pumpkins, navigate corn mazes, enjoy hayrides, and even bite into a fresh, crisp apple straight from the tree.
Places like The Patch in Pittsburg, Bandy's in Johnston City, and Breezy Hill in Benton have special fall festivals with crafts, treats, and plenty of autumnal fun for all ages. Classic farms such as Rendleman Orchards in Alto Pass offer not only their delicious, pre-picked apples, but a variety of house-made apple goods such as cider and breads!
4. Discover Fall Festivals and Local Events
The communities across Southern Illinois truly embrace the autumn season with a calendar packed full of festivals. From craft fairs celebrating local artisans to harvest festivals showcasing regional produce, there's always something happening.
Check local tourism websites (like Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau or VisitSI) as fall approaches for exact dates and details on these and many more exciting events.
5. Explore Unique Towns and Hidden Gems
Beyond the major attractions, Southern Illinois is dotted with charming small towns, each offering its own unique flavor.
Alto Pass: Home to Bald Knob Cross of Peace, offering incredible panoramic views, especially stunning with fall colors.
Cobden: A small town with a strong agricultural heritage, great for finding fresh produce and local crafts.
Anna: Explore its historic downtown and local shops.
Marion: A perfect balance of growing city and classic small town, featuring many great local businesses and artisans in one location
Take a scenic drive, stop at a local diner, and discover the welcoming spirit of our communities.
Ready for Your Southern Illinois Fall Adventure?
Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Southern Illinois in the fall offers an unparalleled experience. From the vibrant hues of our forests to the warm hospitality of our wineries and towns, there's an autumn adventure waiting for everyone.
And as you embark on these fantastic journeys, remember that reliable transportation is key to a stress-free trip. Before you hit the road to explore all the things to do in Southern Illinois, make sure your vehicle is in top shape. A quick check-up at PMR Automotive ensures you can focus on making memories, not worrying about unexpected stops.
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