Iola IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Iola, Illinois.
1. Stephen A Forbes State Park
SERENE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Stephen A Forbes State Park offers visitors a tranquil natural retreat with various outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas nestled within this beautiful Illinois state park. The park provides a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts looking to experience the peaceful beauty of southern Illinois.
2. Kinmundy Log Cabin Village
HISTORIC PIONEER SETTLEMENT
Kinmundy Log Cabin Village offers a fascinating glimpse into the pioneer history of Illinois through preserved historic structures. Visitors can explore authentic log cabins and learn about early settler life through educational displays and guided tours. This living history site provides an immersive experience into the region's cultural heritage and early American frontier life.
3. B&B Country Cafe
LOCAL CULINARY DELIGHT
B&B Country Cafe serves as a beloved local eatery offering authentic homestyle cooking in the heart of Iola. Visitors can enjoy classic American comfort food in a warm, friendly atmosphere that reflects the small-town charm of rural Illinois. The cafe provides a genuine taste of local cuisine and culture, making it a perfect stop for travelers exploring the area.
4. Garden of the Gods
DRAMATIC ROCK FORMATIONS
Garden of the Gods features spectacular rock formations perched atop rolling hills with breathtaking panoramic views of Shawnee National Forest. Visitors can hike through these dramatic natural wonders that were formed millions of years ago, offering unmatched photography opportunities and scenic vistas. This unique Midwest treasure showcases some of Illinois' most impressive geological features, making it an essential destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Starved Rock State Park
MAJESTIC CANYONS AND WATERFALLS
Starved Rock State Park, located just 1.5 hours from Chicago, offers visitors stunning hiking trails through towering trees, scenic overlooks, and beautiful rock formations. Adventure seekers can explore 18 canyons carved through sandstone bluffs, many featuring seasonal waterfalls that create magical environments throughout the park. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing, paddle-boating, and even cross-country skiing during winter months, making it a year-round destination.
6. Pere Marquette State Park
MISSISSIPPI RIVER ADVENTURE HAVEN
Pere Marquette State Park, the largest state park in Illinois, is situated on the majestic Mississippi River offering diverse outdoor experiences. Visitors can hike miles of scenic trails, cycle along dramatic river bluffs, or enjoy fishing in this southern Illinois natural paradise. The park also provides opportunities for horseback riding through lush forests, creating a complete outdoor adventure destination.
7. The Morton Arboretum
TREE-FILLED NATURAL SANCTUARY
The Morton Arboretum encompasses 1,700 acres of beautiful tree-filled landscapes perfect for exploration in any season. This living museum serves as a vibrant hub for nature education with themed gardens, walking paths, and seasonal exhibits that showcase the diversity of tree species. As a world-renowned center for scientific research, the arboretum combines educational value with natural beauty, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
8. Shawnee National Forest
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS WILDERNESS PARADISE
Shawnee National Forest spans across southern Illinois, offering breathtaking scenery and vistas across its diverse ecosystem. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy ziplining, hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and kayaking throughout this expansive natural area. The forest's unique geological features and abundant wildlife provide countless opportunities for exploration and adventure in one of Illinois' most precious natural resources.
9. Great River Road
SCENIC MISSISSIPPI RIVER DRIVE
The Great River Road follows the mighty Mississippi River along the entire western border of Illinois, framed by gorgeous limestone river bluffs. Travelers can experience charming riverside towns, historical sites, and spectacular views while driving this iconic scenic byway. This picturesque route offers access to outdoor adventures, great food, and fascinating history, making it perfect for road trip enthusiasts.
10. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum brings to life the legacy of America's 16th president through immersive exhibits and priceless artifacts. Visitors can experience historically accurate recreations of pivotal moments in Lincoln's life, from his humble beginnings to his presidency and the Civil War era. This world-class museum combines traditional displays with cutting-edge technology to create an unforgettable educational experience about one of America's most revered leaders.
11. Chicago Riverwalk
URBAN WATERFRONT PROMENADE
The Chicago Riverwalk is a continuous pedestrian walkway along the south bank of the Chicago River, offering spectacular views of the city's iconic architecture. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, boat tours, kayaking, and public art installations in this vibrant urban space. The Riverwalk serves as both a transportation corridor and recreational destination, perfectly showcasing Chicago's harmonious relationship with its historic river.
12. Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum
HISTORIC HIGHWAY NOSTALGIA
The Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates the iconic Mother Road that once served as America's main thoroughfare connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. Visitors can explore extensive memorabilia, vintage signs, classic cars, and photographs documenting the heyday of this historic highway through Illinois. The museum captures the spirit of American roadside nostalgia and the cultural significance of Route 66 in shaping mid-20th century travel and commerce.
13. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN CITY
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site preserves the remnants of the largest pre-Columbian Native American city north of Mexico, which flourished around 1050-1350 CE. Visitors can climb Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ancient urban landscape. The interpretive center provides fascinating insights into the sophisticated Mississippian culture that built this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which once housed up to 20,000 people.
14. Anderson Japanese Gardens
TRANQUIL ASIAN-INSPIRED LANDSCAPE
Anderson Japanese Gardens offers a meticulously designed 12-acre landscape featuring authentic Japanese garden elements including waterfalls, koi-filled ponds, and traditional structures. Visitors can experience a profound sense of tranquility while strolling along winding paths through carefully manicured plants, ornamental trees, and rock arrangements. The garden serves as a cultural bridge, providing educational opportunities about Japanese aesthetics and philosophies while creating a peaceful retreat for contemplation and renewal.
15. Wildlife Prairie Park
NATIVE ILLINOIS SPECIES SANCTUARY
Wildlife Prairie Park spans over 2,000 acres dedicated to preserving and showcasing animals native to Illinois in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can observe bison, wolves, black bears, elk, cougars, and many other species that once roamed freely across the Prairie State. Beyond wildlife viewing, the park offers hiking trails, fishing lakes, overnight lodging in unique accommodations, and educational programs that connect people with Illinois' natural heritage.