Southernmost Illinois

Take a driving/walking/sampling tour of the Eastern side of the Shawnee National Forest.

Shawnee  Forest - Eastern Loop Tour

Few natural formations are as awe-inspiring or intriguing as a cave.

Retrace the steps of Davy Crockett, of pirates and even counterfeiters  

You can park high on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River and walk down to the cave, which is a good stone stair workout.  If you want a lower impact way into the cave, park at the first parking area before the park, and take the Riverwalk.  This is a mostly flat walk around the rocks and on the scenic river for any fitness level.  

GPS coordinates - N 37.46394 and W -88.16642

Free Ferry – Enjoy a free car ferry ride across the Ohio River from Cave-In-Rock over to Marion, Kentucky and back.  The Ferry operates 7 days a week from 7AM to 9 PM.   Drive onto the ferry, get out and enjoy the river views on the 10 minute crossing, then pull off and turn around, and enjoy the river ride back across. 

Enjoy a meal, and great river views at the Cave In Rock Lodge.  Indoor and outdoor seating. 

Cave In Rock State Park

Opportunities to picnic, fish, kayak, swim, camp and hike

The area offers swimming, picnicking, fishing, boating and hiking. No public boat ramp is available.  There are several lakeside picnic sites, plus a fishing pier and a large picnic shelter overlooking the beach. 

Pounds Hollow Lake

The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views

Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.  

The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring.

Garden of the Gods

No trip to this side of the forest is complete without a visit to The Chocolate Factory

The park offers 2 hiking trails,  two basketball courts, three horseshoe pits, two volleyball courts and an archery range, as well as a swimming pool for the summer months.  Towering oaks, elms, and birch trees shade the pool. A concession stand near the pool provides a variety of refreshments.

 Enjoy free samples, hand-dipped ice cream, and hand-made chocolates of every kind.  Monday through Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM, 618-949-3829 .  Don’t eat too much chocolate all at once, but definitely buy some to take home and to bring back for your good friends!

Take a left out of The Chocolate Factory parking lot to Route 145.  There is an access road to the left, but at the stop sign you will turn right.  Continue on 145 to the town of Glendale, and look for the blue signs to Hogg Hollow Winery. Call first: 618-695-WINE.  At the far end of Glendale (and it is a very small town), take the last right turn, then again to the right, and look on the left for the vineyard and the Hogg Hollow sign.  If you like sweet wines, try Hog Wild or the new strawberry wine.  If you prefer dry, try Vintner’s Choice, and there is everything in between.  You will enjoy the owners, Steven and Debbie Hogg, who will serve cheese and other snacks with the wine.

Dixon Springs and The Chocolate Factory

Beautiful river view and the E'Town River Restaurant, sometimes called the Catfish Barge

Enjoy a fish dinner right on the Ohio River

At the foot of the hill and on the Ohio River is a great catfish restaurant called the E-Town River Restaurant 618-287-2333.  This place is sometimes called the “catfish barge,” and you will walk a gangplank to enter.  The portions are huge, so if you are not big eaters, share one order.  You may want to go for the all-you-can-eat catfish dinner. 

Elizabethtown and the Catfish Barge

TECUMSEH was the chief of the Shawnee, who traded in salt and hunted these forests.

Glen O. Jones Lake is in Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area, 5 miles southeast of Equality in southeastern Illinois.   Follow smaller signs to see Tecumseh, and enjoy the beauty of this under-appreciated lake and park.

GPS coordinates: N 37° 41.506 W 088° 23.654
16S E 377076 N 4172531


There’s a large camping area for tents and campers and a dump station located onsite. The lake contains a variety of fish, two launching ramps and two docks. The are four designated hiking trails and several miles of horse trails.

TECUMSEH statue at Glen O Jones Lake 

The only remaining iron furnace structure in the state of Illinois.

Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, and on the National Register of Historic Places, step back in time to Civil War days when “pig-iron” was smelted in the first charcoal-fired iron furnace in Illinois.

Unwind in the secluded valley where you can picnic, hike and swim in the “ole swimmin’ hole”.

A 1/2 mile trail leading from the back of the picnic area features bottomland habitat and bottomland tree species. The trail winds along Big Creek and offers 2 or 3 deep old-fashioned fishing holes. 

Illinois Iron Furnace 

One of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer.

Moderate to  Difficult hiking - But, oh so worth it!

The trail system consists of eight miles of interconnected trails featuring strange and wonderful rock formations, such as Devil’s Backbone, Boulder Falls and a natural rock bridge. Hiking this system of trails is a favorite activity because of the rock features, scenic overlooks, hidden springs and lush flora and fauna.

This is a Natural Environment, your safety is up to you.  Use cautious when crossing creeks. Due to the remoteness of the canyon precautions should be taken: Carry water, food, first-aid kit, etc. Cell phones do not reach out of the canyon. Poison ivy & venomous snakes are present.

Bell Smith Springs

Things to do in Shawnee Forest Country of Southernmost Illinois

With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to Giant City State Park is sure to delight visitors of all ages. From camping and horseback riding to fishing and rappelling, it's an outdoor lover's paradise. Visitors will marvel at the many hiking trails. Especially popular is the Giant City Nature Trail, home of the "Giant City Streets" - huge bluffs of sandstone formed 12,000 years ago.

Makanda, Gateway to Giant City and Outdoor Adventure

Explore the Shawnee National Forest and enjoy the largest, most diverse natural treasure in Illinois. Major highways head to southern Illinois where you will find some of the most beautiful scenery in the midwest, if you are willing to explore the backroads!  This adventure is just the 'tip of the rock formation' to get you started in Shawnee Forest Country!

Hike Near Harrisburg: Gateway to Shawnee National Forest

Hidden away in Southern Illinois is one of nature's masterpieces. Stroll the boardwalks, hike or take a canoe or kayak through  the mysterious Cache River Wetlands, one of only 15 "Wetlands of International Importance."

The Cache River Wetlands: Illinois' Hidden Bayou

No need to stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to!    These Waterfall sites are best when there has been a lot of rain in the area.  So, don't be afraid of getting a little wet, just be prepared and be careful!

Go Chasing Waterfalls – Shawnee Forest Country

Barbecue aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro, Illinois, is more than worth it. The small town hosts a barbecue cook-off every year and is perhaps the only town in the country with two Barbecue Hall of Famers. In addition to the BBQ history, experience a booming craft beer movement that is vibrant and exciting.

Beer & BBQ: Murphysboro, BBQ Capital of Illinois

The southern tip of Illinois is one of the most established wine regions in the Midwest, featuring award-winning wineries along a 40-mile trail through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is composed of eleven unique wineries, each offering their own individual style and winemaking techniques that make your journey a pleasant adventure through the hills of southern Illinois.

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Well, what to we have beer?  Fancy a pint, a stein or a mug?  Explore your options in craft breweries in Shawnee Forest Country of Southernmost Illinois. Hop to it, and explore the tastes of the region.

Southern Illinois Beer Here!

Take a 188 mile scenic drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway in southern Illinois.  Stop at sites with rich historic heritage and enjoy the spectacular Shawnee National Forest, and the beautiful Ohio River. The scenic drive meanders along the Ohio River in Southernmost Illinois.  The Byway winds from the Wabash Bridge at the Indiana border south along the Ohio River before it reaches the Mississippi River at Cairo.  A unique travel experience awaits you along the byway’s 188 miles.

Ohio River Scenic Byway - Shawnee Forest Country

Stop and smell the roses, or in this case, the zinnias, sunflowers, lavender and peonies and enjoy the summer and fall harvests along the way!

Flowers, Farms and Fun!

Small town fun with some pretty unique finds and great places for #SuperSelfie Stops!

Metropolis, IL - #SuperSelfie places to visit

History buffs will love a visit to Old Shawneetown!

Walk down the sidewalks and see parts of old foundations of buildings that no longer stand. See the old hitching posts along Main Street that are still waiting for horses to be tied up. You will also see landmarks where General John A Logan was married as well as the first newspaper in the state, also located on Main Street.  Old Shawneetown is no ordinary town, the town is saturated in the history of its flood waters, historic politicians, banking history, and many other stories that have never been told.

Travel down to Old Shawneetown

Explore all of our guides 

Things to do

A must-see location featured on the Illinois quarter.

Garden of the Gods Recreation area

Hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and a life-size bronze statue of the Shawnee Chief Tecumseh

Glen O Jones Lake and Tecumseh Statue

Deep inside the Shawnee National forest, southeast of Harrisburg, you'll come face-to-face with this face

Stone Face Trail

A favorite for photographers, this fall is 35 feet from top to bottom, but in beautiful surroundings.

Burden Falls Wilderness

Explore the wonders of Shawnee Forest Country

The Great Outdoors 

Local craft brew, serving what is made onsite

Molly's Pint Brewpub

Uncork the good life at Von Jakob Winery & Brewery, Southern Illinois' only Winery and Brewery

Von Jakob Winery & Brewery

Big Muddy Brewing

House-brewed beers served with tavern eats & growlers to go at this historic St. Nicholas Hotel spot.

St. Nicholas Brewing Company

Come experience beer in the woods at one of the world’s greatest places to drink beer outside

Scratch Brewing Company

A legend in the barbecue world, pitmaster Mike Mills is in the Barbecue Hall of Fame.

17th Street BBQ

BBQ doesn't get any better than this; you don't want to miss this place!

Pat's BBQ and Catering

A winery and cidery on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Owl Creek Vineyard

Family-owned vineyard and winery offers the unique flavors of Southern Illinois wine

Alto Vineyards

The romance of Italy in the hills of Southern Illinois

Blue Sky Vineyard

Specializing in wine made from locally grown fruits

Pomona Winery

Local culinary gems 

Food & Drink 

U-pick lavender farm offers several varieties from late May to early June.

Shawnee Hills Lavender Farm

Metropolis is nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, a wealth of fun and exciting things to do.

Metropolis: Home of Illinois' first park

13,000 Cherokees crossed the Ohio River at Golconda by ferry as part of the 'Trail of Tears' to Oklahoma

Golconda: River Crossing point-Trail of Tears

Outstanding peony farm grows 10 different varieties on 12 acres.  Blooms and flowers in April to May.

Peony Hill Farm

Open daily, mid June to October 31, family fun activities on the farm, flower fields and fresh produce

Rendleman Orchards

A Fun And Fuzzy Adventure. Get up close and personal with these adorable creatures

Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch

Saddle up for trail rides with experienced wranglers through private trails

Giant City Stables

Come learn about our tupelo-cypress swamps, hardwood forests, limestone glades and sandstone bluff.

The Cache River Wetlands Center

Hike Wildcat Bluff for the soaring views, natural beauty, and up-close-and-personal bird watching.

Wildcat Bluff

Enjoy the breeze zipping through the trees!

Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour

Over the river and through the woods to the cypress swamp we go.

Heron Pond Trail

For more than 100 years, this park has been known as an outstanding natural scenic spot.

Bork’s Waterfall at Ferne Clyffe State Park

An abundance of waterfalls, But this area is rugged and requires very special attention

Bulge Hole Ecological Area

A wilderness with many trails, bluffs and sights worth exploring

Burden Falls

Looking for ATV/OHV trails?  Williams Hill Pass is the place for you!

Williams Hill Pass

Find the best experiences near you

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Plan your spring break family fun in Chicago! Check it out on the Choose Chicago channel on Vamonde.

Choose Chicago

Plan a family getaway the kids won't soon forget!

Spring Break Family Fun

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues."

Chicago History Museum

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues." Southern black migrants brought the blues to Chicago, where the music helped them forge connections and transform an unfamiliar, often inhospitable city into a new home. The music was also transformed—electrified and amplified to compete with urban noise. The photography of Raeburn Flerlage captures the streets, clubs, homes, and studios where a community of musicians defined the Chicago blues sound.

AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues

From a 20th century resurgence that rivaled the Harlem Renaissance, to spectacular displays of Victorian Era architecture, this South Side neighborhood is responsible for tremendous cultural and social advances that are not to be missed.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. Discover why Bronzeville is more than just an artsy pocket on the South Side.

Bronzeville and Beyond

"How can I possibly be expected to handle school on a day like this?" We've all been there, even if we're not Ferris Bueller. After your mornings stretch, you look outside at the shining sun, soft breeze, and then wonder, "How can anyone expect me to handle work on a day like this?" So take the day off! While you're at it, follow in Ferris Bueller's footsteps too as Choose Chicago takes you through the film locations that made Ferris Bueller's Day Off such a wonderful adventure (but make sure Ed Rooney isn't on your tail).

It’s Ferris Bueller's Day Off! Take a day to explore the city, but don't get caught by the incredulous Principal Rooney! Kick it like a couple of wise-cracking high school kids at The Art Institute of Chicago and peer down from over 100 stories in the air with the Skydeck at Willis Tower. (Cover photo from @thiswashollywood via Instagram)

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Chicago’s legendary Second City comedy troupe and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Join us as we explore the historic neighborhood and discover its many claims to fame.

As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Discover why this neighborhood has been home to immigrant families, gays, hippies and young professionals alike over the years.

Quintessential Old Town

The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company team up with Choose Chicago to how you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. Join us as we show you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

Hyde Park: Obama's Neighborhood

The Budget Savvy Travelers

Temperatures are rising and the days are getting longer. This is a sure sign that schools will soon be out for summer vacation. Families looking for fun, affordable ways to keep kids busy during hot days will appreciate this guide that shares some great ways to cool off around Chicago—most are even free.

Best Places to Cool Off in Chicago

Craving a getaway, but short on vacation time or extra travel funds? Why not consider embarking on a culinary adventure? Chicago is a great city to experience the world through food! There are over 100 different neighborhoods in the city, each with its own unique flavors and traditions to share. Chicago has always celebrated a diverse array of people, cultures, and cuisines. Therefore, it's not surprising that Chicago consistently ranks high in top foodie destinations in the United States. For those of us that can’t book a plane ticket to satisfy our travel “craving,” taking a culinary adventure is truly the next best thing. Chicago offers a great opportunity to be carried away to a dreamy, distant place–if only through our palates alone.

Traveling the World Through Food | Chicago

Haley Guidry

Only have a short time to visit Chicago? No problem! With this guide, you can fit it all in - in just a weekend!

Spending a Weekend in Chicago

Looking for some free activities to explore in Chicago? You'll be surprised to learn that there are many things to do around the city that are absolutely free of charge!

6 Chicago Hidden Gems to Explore For Free

Wrigley Field holds the very identity of the Chicago Cubs. But Wrigley isn’t the only spot that embodies the spirit of the Cubbies. Lakeview is home to so many rich businesses that are full of North side pride!

Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce

Wrigleyville isn’t the only haven for fans of the Chicago Cubs. Take an adventure “Beyond Wrigley” into West Lakeview to explore some of the neighborhood icons and local businesses that are full of Cubbies pride!

Beyond Wrigley

Glessner House

Glessner House -

An architectural treasure in Chicago

Glessner House - An architectural treasure in Chicago

Welcome to the Chicago Cultural Center, a landmark home of the arts.

The People's Palace

Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

An Adventure through all the Best Spots in the City

Must Visit Attractions in Chicago

Chicago has one of the most iconic skylines in the world. This insider guide shows you the best vantage points to capture a memorable photo of the skyline of Chicago. Best of all? These are all places that you can visit that are all free of charge.

Where to Find Chicago's Best Skyline Views for Free

Start on Chicago's South Side and travel back in time as you explore visit the homes of some of the most influential LGBTQ+ people in the city's vibrant history. Make your way through Washington Park and Woodlawn moving north towards Rogers Park.

Learn about Chicago's vibrant LGBTQ+ history on this cultural excursion through various parts of the City. This tour covers the historic markers and residences of some of Chicago's top LGBTQ+ luminaries. Find out how they left their marks from Washington Park and Woodlawn all the way up north to Rogers Park.

Explore Gay Chicago History: LGBTQ+ Landmarks Tour

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago.

The Magnificent Mile

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago. Unexpected turn-of-the-century ballrooms, lavish chandeliers, stained glass fit for royalty, atlases of the Renaissance, former mansions of America's elite, eclectic bars, iconic burger joints, classic cocktails, and unbeatable views make up our guide to the top hidden gems around the district.

The Magnificent Mile's Hidden Gems

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture.

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture. Hop on the Red Line, a bus, or even a water taxi and discover one of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods.

Chicago's Chinatown

This adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929–1968," invites you to explore some of the locations Dr. King frequented in Chicago.

A Baptist minister and champion of nonviolent activism, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential figures of the civil rights movement. He spent considerable time in Chicago protesting racial discrimination, particularly in housing and education.
This VAMONDE adventure is based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929-1968," and invites you to explore in person some of the locations King frequented in the city and to consider how Dr. King’s work remains relevant today, 50 years after his assassination.

Martin Luther King Jr. in Chicago

Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian, on a journey through Humboldt Park to learn more about the role the 150-year-old park served as key experimental grounds for Jens Jensen's Prairie style of landscape architecture.

Julia Bachrach

Established 150 years ago, Humboldt Park can be thought of as a living landmark with layers of history that reflect contributions by important landscape designers, architects, and artists. The most noteworthy, Danish immigrant Jens Jensen (1860 – 1951), revered the indigenous scenery of the Midwest and created the Prairie style of landscape architecture. Humboldt Park provided important grounds for his process of experimentation. Jensen went on to design estates for prominent businessmen such as Julius Rosenwald, Harold Florsheim, and Henry Ford. Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian and author of "The City in a Garden: A History of Chicago’s Parks," on a journey to learn more about how Humboldt Park served as Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds.

Humboldt Park: Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds

The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. Get inspired by these galleries and their collections

Chicago Scene

Chicago is home to countless world renowned cultural institutions. The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. There’s something for everyone at these galleries, whether you’re simply an appreciator of art or a seasoned collector.

Art Galleries: Beyond The Museum Campus

Not your everyday Chicago adventure, these unique outings go inside, behind-the-scenes, and even underground to show off a different side of the city.

VAMONDE

From the lair of a notorious Chicago gangster to the infectious groove of a legendary blues club, this adventure will have you socializing, singing, and exploring the city all day (and night!) long. Personally curated by the Vamonde team (a group of foodies, architecture buffs, music fanatics and bar-hopping explorers) this adventure will provide you with the incredible stories and secrets behind some of Chicago’s notorious and renowned spots. Did we mention gingerbread cookies at the Waldorf Astoria?

A Chicago Insider’s Adventure

Choose Chicago® is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, Illinois. When you’re in Chicago, you’re home. With the countless experiences there are to have here, you're absolutely welcome to do any and all of them.

Shawnee Forest - Eastern Loop Tour

Cave In Rock State Park

Cave In Rock State Park

Pounds Hollow Lake

Pounds Hollow Lake

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods

Dixon Springs and The Chocolate Factory

Dixon Springs and The Chocolate Factory

Elizabethtown and the Catfish Barge

Elizabethtown and the Catfish Barge

TECUMSEH statue at Glen O Jones Lake

TECUMSEH statue at Glen O Jones Lake

Illinois Iron Furnace

Illinois Iron Furnace

Bell Smith Springs

Bell Smith Springs

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