Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Southern Illinois, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Southern Illinois
- Important essentials for Southern Illinois
- Activities for Southern Illinois
- Southern Illinois in January: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in February: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in March: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in April: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in May: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in June: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in July: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in August: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in September: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in October: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in November: weather and what to pack
- Southern Illinois in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Southern Illinois, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America by month
January
If you go to Southern Illinois in January, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Sweaters
Gloves
Warm pants or jeans
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
February in Southern Illinois is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Gloves
Heavy jacket
Sweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisWarm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
March
March in Southern Illinois is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
April
April in Southern Illinois is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May in Southern Illinois is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
June
June can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
July in Southern Illinois is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters harmful contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
August
If you vacation in Southern Illinois during August, you will probably notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
September
Traveling to Southern Illinois in September, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
October
If you visit Southern Illinois during October, you might notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
November
If you vacation in Southern Illinois during November, you may notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
December
If you are traveling to Southern Illinois in December, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southern Illinois. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to do in Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America
Southern Illinois is a hidden gem in the state of Illinois, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and unique cultural experiences. From the Shawnee National Forest to the quaint small towns, Southern Illinois is a destination that deserves to be explored. Here are the top tourist attractions in Southern Illinois:
1. Shawnee National Forest
Covering over 280,000 acres, the Shawnee National Forest is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding. The forest is also home to the Garden of the Gods, a stunning rock formation with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Giant City State Park
Located in the Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park is a unique outdoor attraction. The park is known for its massive sandstone bluffs and hiking trails that wind through the forest. Visitors can also explore the park's lodge, cabins, and camping sites.
3. Cahokia Mounds
Cahokia Mounds is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in North America. The mounds were built by a pre-Columbian civilization, known as the Mississippian culture. Visitors to the site can explore the preserved ruins, learn about the culture and history of the area, and take part in interpretive programs.
4. Southern Illinois Wine Trail
The Southern Illinois Wine Trail is a must-see attraction for wine lovers. The trail features over a dozen wineries, each offering unique varietals and experiences. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.
5. Carbondale
Carbondale is a charming college town located in Southern Illinois. The town is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, and there are plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby Shawnee National Forest.
6. Devils Kitchen Lake
Devils Kitchen Lake is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and boating. The lake is surrounded by rocky cliffs and wooded hillsides, making it a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
7. Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake is another must-see attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, and the surrounding trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
8. Superman Square
Superman Square is located in the town of Metropolis and is a tribute to the iconic comic book hero Superman. Visitors can snap photos with a 15-foot-tall statue of the Man of Steel, explore the Superman Museum, and shop for Superman memorabilia at the local shops.
In conclusion, Southern Illinois is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. The Shawnee National Forest, Cahokia Mounds, and the Southern Illinois Wine Trail are just a few of the top attractions in the area that should not be missed. So, pack your bags and head south for a truly unforgettable experience.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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