Vergennes IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Vergennes, Illinois.
1. Scratch Brewing
CRAFT BEER AND NATURE
Scratch Brewing is a popular craft brewery located in the scenic countryside of Vergennes. Visitors can enjoy unique farm-to-glass beers crafted with locally foraged ingredients while relaxing in the rustic outdoor setting. The brewery offers a truly immersive experience with brewery tours, tasting flights, and occasional special events that showcase the best of Southern Illinois brewing traditions.
2. Big Muddy Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Big Muddy Brewing offers beer enthusiasts a chance to sample distinctive Southern Illinois craft brews in a welcoming atmosphere. Their taproom features a rotating selection of handcrafted beers that highlight the flavors and spirit of the region. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the brewing process while appreciating the local craftsmanship that goes into each batch.
3. Lake Murphysboro State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Murphysboro State Park is a 1,022-acre natural retreat offering excellent fishing, boating, and camping opportunities near Vergennes. The park features a scenic 145-acre lake surrounded by forested hills, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking facilities, boat rentals, and well-maintained campgrounds that make it perfect for day trips or extended outdoor adventures.
4. Molly's Pint Brewpub
COZY CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Molly's Pint Brewpub serves as a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors near Vergennes seeking quality craft beer in a friendly environment. The brewpub offers a rotating selection of house-brewed beers alongside a menu of comfort food favorites that pair perfectly with their drinks. Its welcoming atmosphere and regular events make it a cultural hub for the community and a must-visit for craft beer lovers exploring Southern Illinois.
5. Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette
SPIRITUAL RETREAT DESTINATION
The Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette offers visitors a peaceful spiritual sanctuary in the heart of Southern Illinois. This religious site features beautiful grounds, contemplative walking paths, and religious artifacts that attract both pilgrims and tourists. The shrine provides a tranquil environment for prayer, reflection, and learning about the apparitions of La Salette.
6. Sri Lakshmi Temple
HINDU CULTURAL CENTER
Sri Lakshmi Temple stands as an important cultural and religious landmark for the Hindu community in Southern Illinois. The temple's architecture combines traditional Indian design elements with modern features, creating a visually striking presence in the area. Visitors can learn about Hindu traditions, observe ceremonies, and appreciate the cultural diversity that the temple brings to the region.
7. Shawnee National Forest
NATURAL WONDER WILDERNESS
Shawnee National Forest encompasses over 280,000 acres of spectacular natural beauty within a short drive from Vergennes. This vast wilderness area features dramatic rock formations, hidden waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems that change with the seasons. Visitors can enjoy camping, rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing in this remarkable natural treasure of Southern Illinois.
8. Giant City State Park
MAGNIFICENT SANDSTONE FORMATIONS
Giant City State Park draws nature lovers with its incredible ancient sandstone formations and lush forests just a short drive from Vergennes. The park's signature feature is the Giant City Streets, massive bluffs of sandstone that create corridor-like paths between towering rock walls formed millions of years ago. Visitors can explore over 12 miles of hiking trails, enjoy rock climbing opportunities, observe abundant wildlife, and stay at the historic lodge that offers rustic accommodations and dining.
9. Bald Knob Cross
ICONIC RELIGIOUS MONUMENT
Bald Knob Cross stands as an impressive 111-foot tall white cross perched atop one of the highest points in Southern Illinois, visible for miles around. This religious monument attracts thousands of visitors annually who come to admire its imposing presence and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Shawnee National Forest. The welcome center provides historical information about the cross's construction and significance, making it both a spiritual destination and scenic viewpoint not far from Vergennes.
10. Kinkaid Lake
SCENIC RECREATIONAL WATERWAY
Kinkaid Lake offers 2,750 acres of sparkling waters surrounded by forested shores, providing excellent fishing, boating, and water recreation opportunities near Vergennes. Anglers flock to the lake for its abundant populations of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and other game fish that thrive in its waters. The lake's numerous coves, marina facilities, and shoreline picnic areas make it a perfect destination for family outings, water sports enthusiasts, and nature photographers throughout the year.
11. Pomona Natural Bridge
HIDDEN GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Pomona Natural Bridge is a stunning geological formation where nature has carved a 90-foot sandstone arch spanning a narrow ravine in the Shawnee National Forest near Vergennes. This natural wonder was formed over millennia as water eroded the softer sandstone underneath, leaving the more resistant top layer intact to create this impressive natural bridge. Visitors can access this hidden gem via a short, scenic hiking trail that winds through lush forest before revealing the breathtaking structure in a peaceful, moss-covered setting.
12. Carbondale Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Carbondale Farmers Market brings together local producers, artisans, and food vendors in a vibrant community gathering space not far from Vergennes. Visitors can browse through stalls offering fresh seasonal produce, handcrafted goods, baked treats, and specialty food items produced in Southern Illinois. The market's friendly atmosphere, live music, and special events make it not just a shopping destination but a cultural experience that showcases the region's agricultural heritage and creative talent.
13. Little Grand Canyon
DRAMATIC WILDERNESS HIKE
Little Grand Canyon offers hikers a challenging but rewarding trek through one of Southern Illinois' most dramatic landscapes within a short drive from Vergennes. This natural area features towering sandstone bluffs, lush ravines, and a 365-foot deep canyon carved by ancient geological processes and flowing water. Visitors who navigate the 3.6-mile loop trail are treated to breathtaking vistas, diverse ecosystems that support rare plant species, and possible glimpses of native wildlife in this pristine wilderness setting.
14. Walker's Bluff Winery
PREMIER WINE DESTINATION
Walker's Bluff Winery stands as Southern Illinois' premier wine destination, offering an upscale tasting experience in a picturesque setting near Vergennes. The estate features a sophisticated tasting room, restaurant, and event venues nestled among rolling vineyards that produce distinctive regional wines. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings, seasonal cuisine paired with estate wines, live entertainment, and special events that showcase the growing reputation of Illinois wine country.
15. Southern Illinois University Campus
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL HUB
The Southern Illinois University campus serves as an educational and cultural center with beautiful grounds, notable architecture, and public attractions accessible to visitors from nearby communities like Vergennes. Campus highlights include the University Museum with its diverse art and historical collections, the impressive Morris Library, and the lush Campus Lake area perfect for strolling. Throughout the year, the university hosts concerts, theatrical performances, sporting events, and lectures that provide enriching experiences for both students and the broader community.