Saturday in Southern Illinois: Day Trip Itinerary
How to Spend One Day in Southern Illinois: Travel Itinerary
I get messages ALL THE TIME about “I have friends coming into town for a weekend what should we do on Saturday or we do not drink where should we go?” Like probably 10 a week and I always of course address what they should do. BUT I figured it was about time I put together a little mini intinerary for traveling to Southern Illinois! Especially if it is late fall/early spring. The temps aren’t quite warm but warm enough type deal! Most wineries are open year round and still have LIVE music even when it is cold out! Always check businesses social media accounts and find out details but don’t forget about these amazing businesses when temperatures drop! If you want more information on the Shawnee Wine Trail you can find that HERE.
Also if you are looking for a weekend TO DO in Southern Illinois I have attached a link HERE to a the perfect weekend getaway right here in southern Illinois!
What to do with one day in Southern Illinois?
One of my all time favorite ways to start my day is with yoga at Aspire Yoga in Marion, Illinois. There is a slow flow class at 8 am but I PREFER the 9 am hot yoga class! The room gets up to 105 degrees somedays. This class is typically not for beginners but it is an amazing class and you will leave feeling insanely ready to conquer the day. The classes are 60 minutes and the teachers are all amazing. Fun fact they also sell Lulu Lemon in the storefront of Aspire so you can stock up on your favorite items!
The best part of completing a yoga class in Marion???? You can follow it up with Crown Brew Coffee. Located just off the square in Marion it is the perfect spot to meet friends for coffee. I like to snag a sugar free white turtle latte and the bacon breakfast burrito and it was amazing! Make sure to grab some beans while you are visiting to take home!
BREAK TIME: shower from yoga and change for the afternoon
For this next part of the adventure make sure you are ready to hik and have your maps app ready to go! You will head to south 127 between carbondale and alto and be on the look out for dutch ridge road and the Dutch Ridge Church because this is where you will turn to get to the Cove hollow trail. As many people know I am not big hiker but this trail was easy and roundtrip made it a little over 2 miles. The great thing about Cove Hollow Trail is you can make it longer or shorter. I wouldnt recomend for my four year old but I think a little bit older would be perfect. As always be aware of your surroundings. For the full information from the Forrest Service click HERE.
Best food on the Shawnee Wine Trail: Southern Illinois
Maybe I am biased but the food at Peach Barn is THE BEST. YOU MUST MUST MUST have lunch at Peach Barn Winery which is located aboout 10-15 minutes south of the hiking trail. No need to worry about changing you will be fine to wear your hiking clothes. Whether you order a glass of wine or a tasting I think you will be impressed with their wine offerings.
Welcome to the top Bourbon Bar in Southern Illinois
IF YOU DO ANYTHING during this afternoon YOU MUST GET drinks at Havisham Bourbon Bar. I was blown away by the experience. Havisham Bourban Bar is located in downtown Alto. I always encourage those traveling to Alto to make sure they stop at the scenic overlook spot and snag a photo! I can’t even remember the drink I order but it was topped with a grapefruit and it was delicious. As always please drink responsibily and find yourself a designated driver. If you are looking for a shuttle service you can try out the Shawnee Shuttle.
