Take a Southern Illinois Staycation

By Cassie Johnson

It’s time to plan for spring break and summer vacations. With prices of gas, hotels, and other expenses through the roof, planning an elaborate vacation may not be in your budget this year. We can help you plan an affordable staycation without forfeiting your family's fun.

Think about the stress factors alone in vacation planning. Driving for thirteen hours with cranky kiddos and stopping at every other exit because “I gotta go!” isn’t exactly relaxing. Not to mention the dreaded time change vs. toddler nap time battle. It’s hard to unwind if you’re worried about the airline losing your luggage or spending the equivalent of a mortgage payment for five days of airport parking.

Traveling close to home has never sounded so good!

Southern Illinois is just across the Ohio River, a short 10-minute drive from Paducah’s mall area. Explore the restaurants, shops, and pictureperfect views of the hidden local gems. You’re guaranteed to fall in love with the Land of Lincoln.

Shawnee Forest Country

Southern Illinois is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The Shawnee National Forest is a true treasure that covers much of southernmost Illinois between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

“You could hike for a week and still have more to see! Enjoy a frontrow seat to 3,300 acres of natural beauty,” Carol Hoffman with the Shawnee Forest Country Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau told me.

Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, fishing, and bird and nature watching. Wear sturdy, enclosed shoes, and don’t forget the bug spray! Take the free Shawnee Challenge to earn points towards redeeming prizes.

Garden of The Gods is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in southernmost Illinois. The Observation Trail is a .25-mile stone path crossing along the top of a cliff. You’ll find some of the most wellknown and unusual formations such as Camel Rock and Devil’s Smokestack. Hoffman encourages you to allow yourself plenty of time to watch a sunset here, as the views are breathtaking.

Rim Rock/Pounds Hollow recreational area is not as well known, but it offers two scenic trails that will leave you in awe. The less strenuous upper paved trail is better for young children and stroller accessibility. The lower dirt trail will give you the full wilderness experience. It leads past remnants built by prehistoric Native Americans, an observation platform with steps descending through massive rock formations, and narrow rock passageways via stone steps to the floor below. At the bottom, you will find an enormous rock overhang called Ox Lot Cave where 19th-century loggers kept their oxen and horses. Keep hiking to the beautiful 28-acre lake known as Pounds Hollow Lake or through massive sandstone canyons back to the top of the ridge.

Check out southernmostillinois.com or call 800.C.IT.HERE for your complete guide.

Cozy Cabins

Nothing says vacation like a cozy cabin or cottage. The Southern Illinois Cabins Association has your needs covered whether it’s for a house full of family or a small getaway. All independently and locally owned, each cabin is near the orchards, wineries, lakes, and hiking areas. The amenities vary for each cabin, but every cabin has its very own private hot tub!

“The owners of Southern Illinois Cabins Association take pride in their cabin retreats,” Jill Fager with Southern Illinois Cabins told me. “We offer clean and comfortable lodging near many fun and relaxing places to visit. Each owner has something unique to offer and you’re sure to find a cabin that’s perfect for you.”

Cabin on the Hill has a hobby farm and a 40-acre forest with a beautiful hiking trail. Woodland Cabins is beautifully set near a small lake with cabins situated around it. Oak Grove and Devil's Kitchen Cabins are both in private, wooded areas. Cypress Grove Lodge is a larger unit that accommodates up to eight people. Cabin at Mt. Glenn is set on woods and pasture lands. Cabin on the Hill and Oak Grove both have a cabin that is pet friendly. You can find a link to each of the cabin’s websites at southernillinoiscabins.com.

Small Town Flavor

Small towns offer big fun and big flavors. Stop by hometown restaurants such as Sissy’s - A Sweet Shoppe in Metropolis. Enjoy a hearty breakfast sandwich or lunch paired with homemade cookies, pastries, and other specialty baked goods. The baristas have delicious coffee or tea for everyone in the family. Cool off anytime with homemade artisan ice cream.

“Food is one of the best parts about going out of town!” Josh Jones, co-owner of Sissy’s - A Sweet Shoppe told me. ”Try the locally owned restaurants where you visit. Each one has its style and flavors. A lot of them may use local produce, meat, and other products. Specialty menu items might have a neat backstory as to how it was named. Ask the employees what their favorites are and try something you may not find at another restaurant.”

Fantastic Finds Close to Home

Traveling close to home contributes to the local economy. Since the pandemic, the strain on small locally-owned businesses continues to grow. With all the money you’ve saved on travel expenses, you can get your retail therapy fix and still have money left over.

“You can find so many new, vintage, and even one-of-a-kind items in our local stores,” Emily Kerley, owner of Milkmaid Creations &

Antiques told me. “Our store names are unique to each one of us. A sign may mention words like vintage or antique, but don’t drive past us because antiques may not be your interest. Don’t judge a store by its name, because each one has so much to offer. Our name is a reflection of our passion and history, but you can find different items that you never thought you would find. You can establish relationships with local store owners and they can help you find that special piece you’re looking for.”

In Southern Illinois your adventure awaits! Our area is fortunate to have such a variety of local tourism opportunities. Enjoy the area’s hidden treasures without breaking the bank and remember to RELAX. 