Murphysboro IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Murphysboro, Illinois.
1. Big Muddy Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Big Muddy Brewing is one of the top attractions in Murphysboro where visitors can enjoy locally crafted beers. Guests can tour the brewery facilities and learn about the brewing process while sampling a variety of unique flavors. The taproom provides a relaxed atmosphere for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
2. Lake Murphysboro State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Murphysboro State Park offers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The 145-acre lake is stocked with a variety of fish species making it a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can also observe local wildlife, camp overnight, or simply enjoy the scenic views of this peaceful park.
3. General John A. Logan Museum
CIVIL WAR HISTORICAL LANDMARK
The General John A. Logan Museum preserves the legacy of one of Illinois' most famous Civil War generals and political figures. Housed in a historic neighborhood that features multiple restored buildings, the museum offers detailed exhibits about Logan's life and his contributions to American history. The museum is the centerpiece of a cultural revitalization effort in Murphysboro that includes multiple historic homes converted into galleries and exhibit spaces.
4. Molly's Pint Brewpub
COZY CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Molly's Pint Brewpub welcomes visitors to experience a friendly, small-town brewery atmosphere in Murphysboro. Their handcrafted beers are brewed on-site, offering a rotating selection of unique flavors to sample. The welcoming environment makes it a perfect stop for both locals and tourists exploring the town's attractions.
5. Murphysboro Apple Festival
CELEBRATED ANNUAL HARVEST EVENT
The Murphysboro Apple Festival is a beloved annual event that draws visitors from across the region to celebrate the apple harvest season. Festival-goers can enjoy parades, live entertainment, carnival rides, contests, and a wide variety of apple-themed foods and products. This community tradition showcases local culture and small-town charm at its finest.
6. Riverside Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Riverside Park serves as a central recreational area featuring a historic band shell that exemplifies the architectural legacy of the Works Progress Administration. Visitors can attend concerts, community events, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings for a picnic or leisurely stroll. The park represents an important piece of Murphysboro's ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural and historical landmarks.
7. Shawnee National Forest
VAST NATURAL WILDERNESS
Shawnee National Forest offers over 280,000 acres of spectacular natural beauty just a short drive from Murphysboro. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous hiking trails, stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems throughout this expansive wilderness. The forest provides year-round recreational opportunities including camping, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing in a pristine Illinois landscape.
8. Kinkaid Lake
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Kinkaid Lake is a stunning 2,750-acre reservoir known for its excellent fishing opportunities and scenic beauty near Murphysboro. Anglers flock to these waters for largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, while boaters enjoy exploring the lake's many coves and inlets. The surrounding recreation area offers camping, picnicking, and hiking trails that showcase the natural splendor of southern Illinois.
9. Pomona Natural Bridge
ANCIENT GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Pomona Natural Bridge is a remarkable natural limestone formation spanning 90 feet across a ravine in the Shawnee National Forest. This ancient geological feature was created over thousands of years by water erosion, creating a stunning archway surrounded by lush forest. Visitors can access this natural wonder via a short, family-friendly hiking trail that offers an enchanting glimpse into Illinois' prehistoric landscape.
10. Little Grand Canyon
DRAMATIC SANDSTONE FORMATIONS
Little Grand Canyon features breathtaking 300-foot sandstone walls and rugged terrain that lives up to its impressive name. Hikers can explore a challenging 3.6-mile loop trail that descends into the canyon, revealing stunning vistas, diverse plant life, and seasonal waterfalls. The dramatic landscape offers photographers and nature lovers an unforgettable wilderness experience just a short drive from Murphysboro.
11. Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
AWARD-WINNING WINE REGION
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail showcases a collection of award-winning wineries nestled among the rolling hills of Southern Illinois near Murphysboro. Visitors can tour vineyards, sample distinctive wines crafted from locally grown grapes, and enjoy beautiful rural landscapes along this picturesque route. Many wineries feature outdoor seating areas, live music, and dining options that perfectly complement their unique wine selections.
12. Liberty Theater
RESTORED HISTORIC CINEMA
The Liberty Theater stands as a beautifully restored piece of Murphysboro's cultural heritage, transformed from a former $1-movie house into a vibrant entertainment venue. Today, this historic cinema hosts regional film festivals, nostalgia nights, concerts, and community events throughout the year. The theater represents a successful example of the town's ongoing revitalization efforts, preserving an architectural gem while providing contemporary entertainment options.
13. Robert W. Hamilton House
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Robert W. Hamilton House presents visitors with a remarkably intact example of 19th-century Carpenter Gothic architecture in downtown Murphysboro. This historic home showcases the ornate woodwork, distinctive decorative elements, and period details that exemplify this unique architectural style. As part of the town's preservation efforts, the house stands as a testament to Murphysboro's rich historical heritage and commitment to maintaining its architectural treasures.
14. Logan Museum Neighborhood
HISTORICAL CULTURAL DISTRICT
The Logan Museum Neighborhood encompasses several historic homes converted into museums, galleries, and cultural spaces in the heart of Murphysboro. Visitors can explore the Shayley House with its exhibits on town history, view local art displays at the Hughes House gallery, and discover the main exhibits at the Bular House. This cultural district represents a successful community-driven effort to preserve Murphysboro's heritage while creating spaces for contemporary artistic expression.
15. Local Golf Courses
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCES
Jackson County offers several picturesque golf courses where visitors can enjoy a round amid the rolling terrain of Southern Illinois. These well-maintained courses feature challenging holes, beautiful landscaping, and peaceful natural settings away from urban distractions. Golfers of all skill levels can appreciate the affordable green fees, friendly atmosphere, and stunning views that characterize the golfing experience in this region.