Looking for something to do outdoors in Southern Illinois? We have no shortage of options! These are just 50 places you can explore throughout the 618.

We were so pleased to be hosted by the Farrs at the Dome at Blueberry Hill in Cobden, Illinois for 618 Day. What better way to celebrate all that makes Southern Illinois so great than a staycation right in the heart of Union County? With amenities like a hot tub, Pac-Man & game barn, loungers, and absolutely gorgeous views, we had a blast during our time here at the Dome.

The Dome has terrific proximity to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, the Iron Whisk, Green Mug, Mother Coffee & Provisions, Cobden Village Shops, and Wine Trail Mercantile. Less than ten minutes down the road are our favorites; StarView Vineyards and Honey Heist Mead.

Less than 15 minutes in the other direction you’ll find yourself in Alto Pass, home of Rendleman Orchards, Von Jakob Vineyard and Distillery, and Alto Vineyards. Further up 127 is Pomona, where you will find hiking trails like the Little Grand Canyon, Pomona Natural Bridge, and more wineries.

We completed our 618 Day itinerary in Union County, Illinois this year; our six stops included many loved spots across this southernmost region of Southern Illinois. Stops included: The Iron Whisk, Rendleman Orchards, The Flying Pig (fka Dutys Country Store), StarView Vineyards, The Giant City Lodge, and Havisham Bourbon Bar. Our accommodations were The Dome at Blueberry Hill, and incredibly glamorous glamping dome located right in the heart of our adventures.

Read about a gal pal weekend at the Shawnee Hills Hideaway, located in Cobden, Illinois. To get to this location, you get to drive through Giant City State Park, and are close to Blue Sky Winery and Vineyards, Wichmann Vineyards, StarView Vineyards, and more. This came in handy as we attended the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Spring event, Cheese — not a Solo Act! We also enjoyed brunch at The Iron Whisk, shopping at Cobden Village Shops, and bringing home food from Feather Hills Vineyards.

Read about our weekday staycation at The Cottage at Rendleman Orchards, a Southern Illinois Vacation Rental property located in Alto Pass, Southern Illinois. Located next to Rendleman Orchards Farmer’s Market and along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, this property is a must-do for small families, couples, girls trips, or even solo travel!

Our adventures in Southeastern Illinois, exploring Garden of the Gods, the Red Onion, and crashing at the incredible stylish Equality Hill House.

Weather keeping you inside? Not a fan of active nature activities, bugs, or sweat in general? I have you covered! Check out these indoor things to do in Southern Illinois. Of course, we always recommend trying our local restaurants too, but there are too many to list! This guide is family-friendly too!

Our weekend at the Shawnee Revival Music and Camping Festival located at the Shawnee Cave Amphitheater in Murphysboro, Illinois. This weekend featured artists like The Red Clay Strays, Brothers Comatose, Samantha Fish, Grace Potter, Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown, The Main Squeeze, and more! This Midwest music festival with camping and glamping packages was SO cool! Here are some tips we learned along the way.

Read about our Saturday stay at the Pale Black Dot, and what two best friends of two decades do when they meet back up!