The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Illinois That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure
By Daisy Dow|Published June 26, 2024
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Daisy Dow
Author
Daisy is a Chicago-based freelance writer and tour guide. Originally from Georgia, she attended Kenyon College before calling Illinois home. She has been a writer for the last four years, sharing stories about small businesses all over the country. You can usually spot Daisy in the window of a neighborhood café, as her hunt for the world’s best cup of coffee continues.
The 48 hours that make up the weekend can slip by quickly. There are so many mini adventures to be had in our own backyard that it’s worthwhile to make an itinerary, get in the car and go out to see some hidden gems. We’ve put together a spontaneous road trip through southern Illinois that is the perfect way to spend a weekend. It can be done in one day if you are willing to get started early in the day, but I recommend setting aside two full days to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy each of these spots. There’s a great camping spot at the halfway point as well!
Rendleman Orchard has been operational since 1873, supplying southern Illinois with some of the freshest nectarines and apples available. I am a sucker for fresh apples so there’s no way this fifth-generation farm wasn’t making the list. Be sure to visit the Farm Market to browse their selection of produce, jams, jellies, country gourmet specialty foods and gift items. Having some fresh fruit on-hand as a healthy snack throughout your road trip will get your journey started on the right foot.
The Makanda Boardwalk is a can’t-miss shopping experience in southern Illinois. The area is known for its vibrant arts scene, thanks in part to Dave Dardis who creates metal jewelry, sculptures and fountains. There is a sculpture garden just outside of his studio where visitors can walk around and get lost in the whimsical atmosphere Dardis has created.
Stretching over more than seven acres, the Mandala Gardens create an oasis of greenery, flowers and stunning paths. There is a stone labyrinth in the shape of a traditional mandala as well as a pond where visitors can fish. Beautiful mosaic patios bring a pop of color. My jaw dropped when I saw the view through the circular stone sculpture.
Having been around since 2005, Morello’s has been a go-to spot for locals hosting big parties; but for road trippers, it’s also the ideal place to stop to feel like a part of the greater community.
The Franklin County Historic Jail Museum was originally built in 1905, but it has since been transformed into an interactive museum. There is a wooden structure outside of the jail that replicated the staging where people were executed by hanging less than 100 years ago.
Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area - Whittington
This sprawling state park is a great spot to pull out a folding chair, kick up your feet and get some fresh air. If you are camping along your road trip, be sure to reserve your campsite a few days before arriving.
Maybe you heard about 17th Street Barbecue’s owner and champion pitmaster Mike Mills on Good Morning America, or maybe you heard about the BBQ joint on the Travel Channel.
In any case, you won't want to miss this legendary establishment in Murphysboro.
The final stop on the road trip brings you back within walking distance of the first stop. To wrap up a long day (or two) of traveling all over southern Illinois, I can’t imagine anything nicer than sitting outside and enjoying a glass of wine. There are 20 acres of apples and 15 acres of grapes growing at the winery to create some of Von Jakob’s beloved beverages. In addition to being a winery and brewery, Von Jakob is also a bed & breakfast, so this could be a great place to start and end your weekend trip.
If you are interested in a longer trip that stops off in some of the most charming small towns in Illinois, consider following this route instead. As you plan out your snack game plan for the road, check out this passenger seat caddy to keep your car organized.
Have you been to any of these road trip destinations? Let us know if there are any nearby spots you’d add to this list!
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