Carbondale is a charming city located in the heart of Southern Illinois and is filled with exciting attractions, activities, and events. From outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping to cultural attractions and lively nightlife, there’s plenty to do in Carbondale.
Whether you’re a local looking for something to do or a visitor from out of town, this article will provide you with a comprehensive list of things to do in Carbondale IL. So, let’s get started.
Southern Illinois University
Southern Illinois University is a public research institution located in the heart of Carbondale. It is the home of the Salukis, the official university mascot. The university offers a variety of academic programs, and the campus is located in a picturesque setting with plenty of green space.
The university has a rich history that dates back to 1869, and visitors can explore the campus and learn about its history through the various tours offered. The campus is also home to a variety of museums, libraries, and other cultural attractions. With so much to explore, a tour of Southern Illinois University is sure to be an enjoyable experience.
African American Museum
The African American Museum is a great place to explore the fusion of culture in the state of Illinois. The museum celebrates and educates visitors on the African American experience of the region and its impact on the world today. Visitors can explore the museum’s expansive collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and other items from the African American community of Illinois.
Through interactive exhibits and programs, visitors can learn about the various accomplishments and contributions of African Americans in the state. The museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as art and film screenings, lectures, and performances.
You may find out more about historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and President Barack Obama by studying their depictions in art and other museum objects.
Leather World
Leather World is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate high-quality leather products. This store offers a wide range of leather items, from jackets and bags to wallets and belts. All of the products available at Leather World are made from the finest quality leather and are designed to last for many years.
The store also stocks a selection of vintage leather [1] items, making it the perfect place to find an item with a unique and timeless look. Whether you’re looking for a new leather item or just want to browse the exquisite selection, Leather World is sure to have something to suit your needs.
Autumn Ridge Acres
Autumn Ridge Acres is a sprawling nature preserve located in Southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest. The preserve encompasses large acres of forest and open space, making it the perfect spot to explore the area’s natural beauty. With miles of trails, visitors can explore a variety of habitats and observe wildlife such as deer, wild turkeys, and foxes.
There are also a number of ponds and streams where visitors can observe various waterfowl. The preserve also features a variety of educational programs, including bird watching, wildflower walks, and environmental education. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, Autumn Ridge Acres is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Downtown Carbondale
Downtown Carbondale is a vibrant and bustling area full of exciting shops, restaurants, and attractions. Strolling through the streets of downtown Carbondale is a great way to experience the unique culture and atmosphere of the city. Visitors can explore the various independent stores and galleries, browse the colorful murals, and sample the delicious cuisine of the many eateries.
Whether you’re looking for some unique souvenirs or just want to experience the city’s vibrancy, strolling the streets of downtown Carbondale is sure to be an enjoyable experience.
Yesteryear Tobacconist
Yesteryear Tobacconist is a specialty cigar store located in the heart of Carbondale. This store offers a wide selection of premium cigars, ranging from local and international labels to rare and hard-to-find brands. The knowledgeable staff can help you pick out the perfect cigar for your tastes. They can also provide valuable information about the various types of cigars and how to properly smoke them.
The store also stocks accessories such as cigar cutters, humidors, ashtrays, and lighters. Expert tobacconists are available to guide you through the store’s many options and help you find the cigar that best suits your tastes. You should go there if you’re looking for a souvenir to take home with you.
Carbondale Community Farmers’ Market
The Carbondale Community Farmers’ Market is a great place to pick up some fresh, local produce. They get together on Wednesdays at 4th and Main Street to give fresh fruits and vegetables from the Western Slope, as well as delicious food and handcrafted goods made by local artisans. Here, you can find a variety of fruits and vegetables grown in the area, as well as baked goods, honey, jams, and other items.
You can also find handmade items such as jewelry, crafts, and artwork. The market offers a wonderful opportunity to support local farmers and get some of the freshest produce around. Plus, you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the town square and chat with friendly vendors.
Varsity Theater
The Varsity Theater is a great place to check out live performances. Currently, all three performance venues are in use. The Balcony Stage is the smallest of the three, but it nevertheless has state-of-the-art lighting and sound as well as a listening room with 137 seats.
The theater is located in the heart of downtown, making it the perfect spot to enjoy live entertainment. The Varsity Theater features both local and national acts, with shows ranging from musicals to stand-up comedy. The theater also hosts special events and movie screenings.
R. Buckminster Fuller Dome Home
The R. Buckminster Fuller Dome Home is an iconic structure in Carbondale. Designed by renowned architect and inventor R. Buckminster Fuller, the Dome Home is a unique and modernized take on the traditional domed building. Fuller taught at Southern Illinois University as a professor emeritus of art from 1959 to 1968.
The Dome Home was designed to be a sustainable and energy-efficient structure, and it features a geodesic dome covered in polyurethane foam that helps to keep the home insulated from the elements. The Dome Home is located in the heart of Carbondale and is open for tours.
During these tours, guests will be able to learn about the Dome Home’s unique design and history.
Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra
The Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra based in Carbondale and provides classical music performances year-round. Founded in 1903, the orchestra performs a wide range of classical and contemporary music, from Baroque and Classical to Romantic, Impressionist, and modern pieces.
The orchestra performs for a variety of events and concerts, including special programs for children and adults. The performances are held in various venues throughout Carbondale, from churches and schools to outdoor festivals and gardens. The Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra is a great way to experience the beauty of classical music in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
Science Center
The Science Center of Southern Illinois is an interactive educational facility located in Carbondale. The Center offers a variety of programs for kids of all ages, from preschoolers to high schoolers. With a wide range of interactive exhibits, the Science Center provides an engaging way for kids to learn about a variety of topics in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Kids can explore the galaxy in the planetarium, explore the wonders of the natural world in the animal lab, and build their own robots in the robotics lab. The Science Center also offers a variety of special programs and workshops, ranging from summer camps to after-school programs.
They have just built a topographic sandbox, a kinetic chain sculpture titled “Kinetic Jim,” and a 130-square-foot enclosure for their male red iguana.
Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake is a beautiful and tranquil lake located in the southern part of Carbondale. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. Surrounding the lake is a lush landscape of tall trees and rolling hills. Visitors will be charmed by the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the lake.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore or take a dip in the refreshing waters, Cedar Lake is the perfect spot to spend a day. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the lake also offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Cedar Lake is the perfect spot for you.
Shawnee National Forest
The Shawnee National Forest is a large and beautiful nature preserve located in the southern part of Illinois and is made up of nearly 280,000 acres of land. It stretches across parts of seven counties and is home to a variety of diverse ecosystems and habitats. The forest is full of majestic trees, rolling hills, and a variety of wildlife.
Visitors can explore the area’s natural beauty through miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and a variety of outdoor activities. The Shawnee National Forest is a great place to experience the beauty and serenity of nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Chambourcin, Chardonel, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc are among the varieties that thrive particularly well in the Shawnee Hills American Viticulture Area, which is almost entirely contained within a national forest.
Giant City State Park
Giant City State Park is a 4,000-acre park located in the south of Carbondale. It is home to a wide variety of outdoor activities and attractions, including hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and wildflowers. Visitors can explore the park’s 12 miles of trails, which pass through a variety of habitats including woodlands, sandstone bluffs, and meadows.
The park also offers a variety of programs and activities, such as guided hikes, nature walks, and educational presentations. Giant City State Park is a great place to get away from it all and experience the beauty of nature.
Evergreen Park
Evergreen Park is a large and beautiful park located on the south side of the SIU campus. The park offers plenty of outdoor activities such as walking trails, basketball courts, and playgrounds. The park also has a variety of attractions such as a Japanese garden, a waterfall, and a pond.
There are also picnic areas, benches, and a pavilion where visitors can take a break and relax in the park’s peaceful atmosphere. Evergreen Park is a great place for families to come and enjoy the outdoors. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including movies in the park, concerts, and art festivals.
Boo Rochman Memorial Park
Boo Rochman Memorial Park is a great place to visit in Carbondale. The park is named after their late mayor, Boo Rochman, and was built in his honor. There are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy in the park, such as walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields. There are also plenty of picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family gathering or cookout.
There are also plenty of trees to provide some shady spots in the park. Boo Rochman Memorial Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends. The park is also home to a number of events throughout the year, such as movie nights and live music.
Super Splash Park
Super Splash Park is a great place to cool off in the summertime. Run by the city’s park district, Super Splash Park combines fun and safety in a one-of-a-kind waterpark. The park features a variety of attractions, such as a lazy river, water slides, and a wave pool. There are also a variety of kiddie pools and play areas, which are perfect for younger kids.
The park is also home to a snack bar, a gift shop, and a variety of games and activities. Super Splash Park is the perfect place for a family outing to enjoy the sun and have some fun.
Monte Alegre Vineyard and Cellars
Monte Alegre Vineyard and Cellars is a family-owned winery located in downtown Carbondale. It specializes in producing small-batch, hand-crafted wines made from carefully selected grapes. Wines made from grapes planted and harvested by hand at Monte Alegre are available for tasting and purchase.
In a bucolic setting, you can choose from a variety of varietal wines and blends, in addition to freshly squeezed grape juice, from July through October. The winery produces a variety of red and white wines, as well as sparkling wines, dessert wines, and specialty wines. Visitors can tour the winery and learn about the winemaking process, as well as sample some of the wines.
Artspace 304
For almost 25 years, Artspace 304 has been fostering Carbondale’s thriving artistic community. It features the work of local artists from all over the country, as well as international artists. The gallery is home to a variety of mediums ranging from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media.
Artspace 304 is a great place to explore art, as visitors can view and purchase original artwork and take part in interactive art experiences. The gallery also hosts several events throughout the year, such as artist talks, film screenings, and art workshops. Whether you’re a local artist looking to display your work or a visitor looking to explore the local art scene, Artspace 304 is a must-visit.
Warehouse the Ultimate Gym
Warehouse the Ultimate Gym is the perfect place for anyone looking for a full-filling workout experience. Warehouse offers a variety of classes and workout programs to meet the needs of all levels of fitness. From cardio and strength training to yoga and martial arts, Warehouse has something for everyone.
The gym also offers private training and nutritional coaching to help you reach your fitness goals. The spacious gym provides a comfortable environment to work out and the friendly staff is always available to answer any questions you may have.
Fernlands Nature Preserve
Fernlands Nature Preserve is home to a variety of fern species, including some rare and endangered species. The preserve offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of ferns and experience their beauty. This is a great spot for nature lovers, as the preserve has plenty of trails and pathways to explore.
Visitors can also observe a variety of wildlife, including wild turkeys, deer, and bald eagles. The preserve also offers educational programs, such as guided tours and workshops, to help visitors learn more about the variety of fern species.
Brush Hill Nature Preserve
The Brush Hill Nature Preserve is a beautiful nature preserve owned by the Green Earth organization that has been in the business of preserving nature. It is home to a variety of plants, animals, and birds and is a great place to hike. The preserve offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy to moderate and difficult.
Hikers can explore the wooded hills, see a variety of wildlife and wildflowers, and take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The preserve also offers educational programs and activities to help visitors learn more about the area’s ecology and conservation efforts. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, the Brush Hill Nature Preserve is sure to have something for you.
Conclusion
Carbondale is a vibrant and diverse city full of things to do and explore. From outdoor activities to cultural attractions and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Carbondale. So, grab your friends and family and get ready to explore everything that Carbondale has to offer.
