Carbondale, Illinois is located in Jackson County on U.S. Interstate Highway 64 in the southern part of the state. Carbondale is close to both the Missouri and Kentucky state borders and there are three large parks and two lakes nearby. Best known for being the home of Southern Illinois University, Carbondale and the surrounding area have much to offer out of town vacationers.
Just 11 miles south of Carbondale is Giant City State Park. This scenic 4,000-acre preserve is part of the Shawnee National Forest. Camping, rock climbing, nature walks and horseback riding are among the activities available for visitors to the park. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is just five miles east of Carbondale on State Highway 13, near Marion, Illinois, and offers visitors such activities as hunting, fishing, hiking and camping. West of Carbondale in Murphysboro, Illinois is Lake Murphysboro State Park. This park features over 1,000 acres of scenic landscape and a large lake. A boat ramp, horseback riding, fishing and camping are among the activities available to visitors all year.
Every February, Carbondale is home to the Big Muddy Film Festival, an annual showcase of Southern Illinois University film students' work. The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta and the Southern Illinois Irish Festival are both held every April. The Sunset Concerts feature outdoor live music during the summer, and the Brown Bag Concerts offer shows in the fall.
Vacationers to Carbondale can enjoy golf at the Hickory Ridge Public Golf Center or take a tour of the nearby Rustle Hill Winery. Restaurants such as New Kahala, offering traditional Chinese food, and the Underground Grille & Pub, a Southern Illinois University hangout, give visitors a taste of local cuisine. Hangar 9, a local cocktail lounge, features live music, and just next door is the neighborhood tavern PK's. The University Museum and the Buckminster Fuller House are nearby landmarks that offer free tours.
Those visiting Giant City State Park may consider staying at the Giant City Lodge. Located within the park, the lodge offers one-room, two-room and family-sized cabins. A restaurant and cocktail lounge are located on site. Visitors preferring to stay in town may enjoy the Royal Plaza Inn in downtown Carbondale. The upscale hotel is conveniently located to shopping and restaurants and features a swimming pool, fitness center and allows pets. The Southern Illinois Airport is 10 minutes from Carbondale and offers shuttle services to area hotels. The Williamson County Regional Airport is located eight miles east of Carbondale in nearby Marion, Illinois and offers service for private planes and jets. Carbondale is also accessible by Amtrack trains and Greyhound buses.
