Hotels in Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois: Where Wild Beauty Meets Heartfelt Stories

Southern Illinois is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled between the Shawnee National Forest and the stunning Mississippi River, this off-the-beaten-path destination offers breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Garden of the Gods and the serene Mermet Springs, perfect for diving and fishing. Experience the thrill of the Southern Illinois Eclipse and immerse yourself in local culture at charming towns like Carbondale, rich with history and vibrant arts. Whether hiking trails, exploring wineries, or gazing at celestial wonders, Southern Illinois invites you to discover its unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. For the best hotel rates near Southern Illinois and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay near Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois offers a variety of hotel accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. From cozy motels to comfortable inns, you'll find options in towns like Carbondale and Harrisburg. For those seeking a more luxurious stay, there are upscale lodgings available. Whether you're visiting for the Shawnee Challenge or exploring local attractions, there's a perfect spot for you—whether it’s a country inn or a modern hotel chain. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful region! Here are some of the best hotels near Southern Illinois that our travelers love:

1. Americas Best Value Inn Mount VernonOpens in a new window: Americas Best Value Inn Mount Vernon is a 2.5-star hotel located approximately 5.0 miles away from Southern Illinois. This property caters to business travelers and pet owners, offering essential business amenities like a Business Center and meeting rooms. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, allowing certain pets on-site, and includes features like a waived fee for service animals, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with pets.
2. Comfort Suites Mount VernonOpens in a new window: Comfort Suites Mount Vernon is also a 2.5-star hotel, situated around 5.0 miles from Southern Illinois. It is ideal for business, family, and pet-themed vacations. With amenities such as a Business Center and meeting rooms, it is well-suited for business travelers. Families will appreciate features like free cribs and window guards for children, alongside a pet-friendly policy that permits certain pets and waives fees for service animals.
3. Super 8 by Wyndham Mt. Vernon ILOpens in a new window: Super 8 by Wyndham Mt. Vernon IL, another 2.5-star hotel, is located approximately 6.0 miles from Southern Illinois. This hotel is a great option for business, family, and pet travelers. It offers business facilities and amenities for children, including free cribs and window guards. The property allows pets, specifically dogs and cats, and has a service animal fee waiver, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.

Things to do near Southern Illinois for first time

Three days in Southern Illinois is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Enjoy scenic hiking trails, unwind at charming wineries along the wine trail, and dive into crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss the chance to experience vibrant live music and entertainment as well! Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Southern Illinois:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, a vibrant spot that often hosts local events and fairs, providing a taste of the community spirit. After soaking in the local culture, head to Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park, where you can enjoy the great outdoors with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Take in the beautiful views of Rend Lake, which is nearby, and consider renting a boat for some time on the water or simply relax along the shore to enjoy the stunning sunset over the lake.
• Day 2: Immerse yourself in creativity at the Southern Illinois Art and Artisans Center, showcasing local artists and their work. Next, take a leisurely stroll through Benton City Park, where you can unwind and perhaps have a picnic amidst the scenic landscapes. Conclude your day at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, where you might catch an exciting local event or fair, making for a fun and lively evening experience.
• Day 3: Start your day at Raccoon Lake Park, where you can enjoy a morning walk or perhaps engage in some fishing. Then, visit the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds, which is known for its various events and fairs throughout the year, offering a glimpse into local traditions. Wrap up your trip at the Salem Fairgrounds, where you can reflect on your journey while enjoying the local atmosphere and possibly catching a local event, making for a memorable conclusion to your Southern Illinois adventure.

5 tips to find a great Southern Illinois hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Southern Illinois is from October to December, when hotel rates drop significantly. To truly enjoy the area's highlights, it's best to plan for at least 1-2 days. Key attractions in Southern Illinois include beautiful lakes, national parks, and scenic forests, all offering great value for money for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Southern Illinois, there are great savings to be found. Simply head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, ensuring you’re more likely to snag the best offers available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses near Southern Illinois.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther out, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay near Southern Illinois. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat near Southern Illinois

Here are a few popular dining spots near Southern Illinois, Illinois, United States of America:

• Casey's General Store: This beloved establishment offers a unique twist on classic American fare, featuring locally sourced ingredients in their pizzas and sandwiches. Known for their friendly service and community vibe, Casey's is a great spot to grab a quick bite while experiencing the local culture.
• Texas Roadhouse: A popular chain that brings the flavors of the Southwest to Southern Illinois, Texas Roadhouse is famous for its hand-cut steaks and freshly baked bread. Their lively atmosphere and commitment to quality ensure a memorable dining experience that celebrates the spirit of American cuisine.
• Yen Ching Mandarin Restaurant: This restaurant showcases the creativity of Chinese cuisine, offering a diverse menu that highlights traditional dishes with a modern twist. Yen Ching emphasizes fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a must-visit for those looking to explore global tastes in a local setting.

Best time to go to Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 30.9°F (-0.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.8°F (26.0°C). April tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Southern Illinois are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.