Seasonal Itineraries

Falling for Downstate Illinois

What is better than viewing the brilliant colors of millions of leaves that you don’t have to rake? Mix in pumpkin picking, kayaking, and wine tasting for a fantastic fall adventure.

Day One

Discover fall foliage while hiking through Beall Woods State Park Mount Carmel. This old-growth forest also includes a 15-acre lake with great bass and panfish angling. Get refreshed in West Salem by visiting Homestead Vineyards and sampling some wines including their Flowerpower varietal. If you are wanting a great-tasting burger or seafood, Jovalou Cocktails and Cuisine in Fairfield is MOST DEFINITELY worth a Google search. You’ll find that basically every patron has rave reviews.

Beall Woods State Park

Credit: @phillipsfamilyadventureteam

Jovalou Cocktails and Cuisine

Accommodations

Victorian on Main

This unique lodging option allows you to stay in an 1895 Queen Anne Victorian home in Fairfield. Pick from multiple rooms including the Squirrel’s Nest, the Tower Room, and others!

The beautiful rooms at Victorian on Main, Fairfield.

Day Two

One of the best activities for admiring fall foliage is a nice kayak ride on East Fork Lake in Olney. When you’re finished, head to Possum Patch Farms and shop for home décor in their barn shop followed by some pumpkin picking and other family-fun activities! From there, head east to visit Lasata Winery in Lawrenceville and find some unique pairings including their Raspberry Romance or their Summer Strawberry. End your journey at COCO’s Café and Wine Bar in Lawrenceville. This venue includes indoor and outdoor scenery. Enjoy cocktails, wine, espresso, comfort food and live music on Friday evenings.

Kayaking on East Fork Lake is the best place to admire beautiful fall foliage.

Possum Patch Farms is the place to get your pumpkins!

Credit: Possum Patch Farms

Lasata Winery

COCO's Cafe & Wine Bar has great food and live music.

Credit: Coco's Cafe & Wine Bar