Makanda IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Makanda, Illinois.
1. Makanda Boardwalk
HISTORIC ARTISTIC HUB
The Makanda Boardwalk dates back to the 1890s and runs in front of a series of historic buildings that now host various galleries and shops. Visitors can explore unique handcrafts from local artisans while experiencing the charm of this former railroad town that has transformed into an artistic haven. The boardwalk serves as the heart of what's been called 'the most hippie town in Illinois,' showcasing the area's creative spirit and rich history.
2. Giant City State Park
SPECTACULAR ROCK FORMATIONS
Giant City State Park offers visitors a picturesque woodland dotted with impressive rock formations and heritage landmarks. Hiking trails wind through the massive sandstone bluffs, giving the park its name as these rock formations resemble the streets and buildings of a giant city. Visitors can climb a historic water tower for panoramic views across the treetops or explore the natural beauty that makes this park a gateway attraction to the Shawnee National Forest.
3. Blue Sky Vineyard
TUSCAN-INSPIRED WINE EXPERIENCE
Blue Sky Vineyard offers a slice of Tuscany in Southern Illinois with its Italian-inspired architecture and rolling vineyard views. Visitors can sample award-winning wines while enjoying the picturesque landscape of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. The vineyard provides a perfect setting for relaxation with its spacious tasting room, outdoor terraces, and regular events that showcase the region's growing reputation for quality winemaking.
4. Feather Hills Vineyard & Winery
BOUTIQUE WINE EXPERIENCE
Feather Hills Vineyard & Winery offers a boutique wine tasting experience in the heart of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted wines in a serene setting surrounded by the natural beauty of Southern Illinois. The winery provides a more intimate alternative to larger vineyards, allowing guests to connect directly with the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the region.
5. Little Grassy Fish Hatchery
AQUATIC CONSERVATION CENTER
The Little Grassy Fish Hatchery serves as an important conservation facility that helps maintain fish populations in Southern Illinois waterways. Visitors can tour the hatchery to learn about fish breeding programs and the ecological importance of these efforts to local ecosystems. The facility offers an educational experience about aquatic conservation while showcasing the region's commitment to preserving its natural resources.
6. Stone Creek Golf Club and Resort
PREMIER GOLFING DESTINATION
Stone Creek Golf Club and Resort features a championship 18-hole golf course set against the backdrop of Southern Illinois' rolling hills. The meticulously maintained course offers challenges for golfers of all skill levels while providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Beyond golf, the resort provides comfortable accommodations and dining options for those looking to extend their visit to the Makanda area.
7. Shawnee National Forest
NATURAL WILDERNESS WONDERLAND
The Shawnee National Forest encompasses nearly 280,000 acres of protected wilderness that surrounds the Makanda area. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems ranging from hardwood forests to rocky bluffs, wetlands, and lakes that are home to abundant wildlife. The forest offers countless recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and bird watching, making it a premier destination for nature enthusiasts visiting Southern Illinois.
8. Visions Art Gallery
LOCAL ARTISTIC SHOWCASE
Visions Art Gallery features an impressive collection of works created by local Southern Illinois artists. The gallery displays various art forms ranging from paintings and stained glass to ceramics, providing a comprehensive look at the region's vibrant artistic community. Located on the historic Makanda Boardwalk, this gallery has become an essential stop for visitors seeking to experience the creative spirit that has revitalized this former railroad town.
9. Makanda Trading Company
GLOBAL TREASURES SHOP
Makanda Trading Company offers an eclectic selection of art and gifts sourced from around the world. Visitors can browse through a vast variety of unique items, ensuring there's something special for everyone who enters this charming establishment. Located on the historic Makanda Boardwalk, this general store contributes to the town's reputation as an artistic haven while providing treasures fit to fill any home.
10. Rainmaker Art Studio
METALWORK MASTERPIECES
Rainmaker Art Studio showcases impressive metalwork crafted by skilled local artisans. Visitors can admire and purchase unique jewelry, sculptures, and fountains that demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision. The studio represents the creative renaissance that has transformed Makanda into 'the valley of the arts,' offering a glimpse into the talented community that has revitalized this historic town.
11. Cache River State Natural Area
ANCIENT CYPRESS WETLANDS
Cache River State Natural Area protects one of the most significant natural wetlands in the Midwest, located near Makanda in Southern Illinois. Visitors can canoe or kayak through ancient cypress-tupelo swamps that contain trees over 1,000 years old, creating an otherworldly experience often compared to Louisiana bayous. The area serves as crucial habitat for over 100 endangered species and offers boardwalks and hiking trails that allow exploration of this unique ecosystem.
12. Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS WINE COUNTRY
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail connects numerous vineyards throughout Southern Illinois, with several located near Makanda. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour to sample distinctive wines produced from locally grown grapes that thrive in the region's unique microclimate. The trail combines beautiful rural landscapes with wine tasting experiences, creating an ideal excursion for those looking to explore the agricultural heritage and growing wine culture of the area.
13. River to River Trail
EPIC CROSS-STATE HIKE
The River to River Trail is an ambitious long-distance hiking path that spans 160 miles across Southern Illinois from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River. Hikers can access sections of the trail near Makanda to experience diverse landscapes including forests, bluffs, and rolling hills that characterize the Shawnee National Forest. The trail offers everything from day hikes to multi-day backpacking adventures, allowing visitors to connect with the natural beauty of Southern Illinois at their own pace.
14. Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour
THRILLING ZIPLINE ADVENTURE
Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour offers an exhilarating way to experience Southern Illinois from above as visitors zip through the forest canopy. The course features multiple ziplines that provide unique perspectives of the Shawnee Hills landscape and its diverse ecosystems. Adventurers can soar between platforms while knowledgeable guides share information about the local ecology and natural history of this remarkable region.
15. Makanda Country Store
GOURMET TREATS SHOP
The Makanda Country Store offers visitors a charming spot to rest and refuel while exploring the historic boardwalk area. Guests can enjoy gourmet coffee, handcrafted sandwiches, and hand-dipped ice cream in a setting that captures the unique character of this artistic community. The store also features an impressive selection of hot sauces and other specialty items that make perfect souvenirs from a visit to Southern Illinois' most distinctive small town.