Carbondale Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Carbondale, located in the southern region of Illinois in the United States, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant community life. Situated at the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, Carbondale is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions in Carbondale is the Shawnee National Forest, a sprawling wilderness area that covers over 280,000 acres. Visitors can explore its countless hiking trails, go camping in picturesque spots, or simply enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by lush greenery. The Garden of the Gods, a unique rock formation within the forest, offers breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you in awe.

Carbondale also boasts several beautiful lakes, such as Cedar Lake and Little Grassy Lake, which are perfect for water sports and fishing. Whether you prefer kayaking, boating, or simply relaxing on the shore, these lakes provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In addition to its natural wonders, Carbondale is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to Southern Illinois University, which brings a youthful and vibrant energy to the community. The university also hosts various cultural events, including art exhibitions, music concerts, and theater performances, showcasing the diverse talents of its students and faculty.

For history enthusiasts, the African American Museum of Southern Illinois is a must-visit. It provides a fascinating insight into the contributions and struggles of African Americans in the region, offering a deeper understanding of the area's past.

Carbondale is also a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every palate. From trendy cafes to traditional diners, the city offers a diverse culinary scene that showcases both local and international flavors.

Alternative names: Founded: 1852 (172 years ago)Population: 26.4 thous.Area: 17.68 mi²Elevation: 410 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°43'23"N, 89°12'57"W

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IllinoisUnited States

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Carbondale Top Attractions

Carbondale Attractions - What to See and Explore

Carbondale offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Shryock Auditorium, University Museum, Morris Library, SIU Campus. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

37°42'57"N • 89°13'5"W
Shryock Auditorium
Shryock Auditorium located at 1050 S Normal Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901 on the campus of Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Museum
University Museum
The University Museum at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is part of the College of Liberal Arts, and is housed in Faner Hall on the SIUC campus.
Cafe • Auditorium • Library
Morris Library
Morris Library is the main academic library on the campus of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, in Carbondale, Illinois. Named for Delyte W. Morris who served as President of Southern Illinois University from 1948 to 1970.

Universities and schools
SIU Campus
Southern Illinois University is a public research university in Carbondale, Illinois. Founded in 1869, SIU is the oldest and flagship campus of the Southern Illinois University system.
Cemetery
Woodlawn Cemetery
Woodlawn Cemetery is a cemetery located at 405 E. Main Street in Carbondale, which is known for hosting one of the first Memorial Day celebrations in the United States.
Modernist architecture
Faner Hall
Faner Hall located at 1000 Faner Drive, Carbondale, Illinois, named after Robert D. Faner, former English professor who died in the 1960s, is in the central part of the Southern Illinois University Carbondale campus, and houses the College of Liberal Arts, which includes...
37°43'31"N • 89°13'23"W
R. Buckminster Fuller and Anne Hewlett Dome Home
The R. Buckminster Fuller and Anne Hewlett Dome Home, located at 407 S. Forest Ave. in Carbondale, Illinois, is a geodesic dome house which was the residence of Buckminster Fuller from 1960 to 1971.
37°43'23"N • 89°13'17"W
Reef House
The Reef House is a historic house located at 411 S. Poplar St. in Carbondale, Illinois. William A. Reef built the house for his family circa 1892. The Queen Anne-style cottage may have been designed by local carpenter A. M. Etherton, though records of its designer do not exist.
Interesting neighbourhood
West Walnut Street Historic District
The West Walnut Street Historic District is a residential historic district centered on part of West Walnut Street in Carbondale, Illinois.

Day trips

Carbondale – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Carbondale, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Louis Bolduc House (Ste. Genevieve), Amoureux House (Ste. Genevieve), Magnolia Manor (Cairo).

48 milesW
History museum, Museum, Historical place
Louis Bolduc House, Ste. Genevieve
The Louis Bolduc House, also known as Maison Bolduc, is a historic house museum at 123 South Main Street in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri.
48 milesW
History museum, Museum, Historical place
Amoureux House, Ste. Genevieve
The Amoureux House, sometimes called the Beauvais–Amoureux House, is in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri. It was built in 1792 by Jean-Baptiste St. Gemme Beauvais II who moved from Kaskaskia, Illinois. In 1852, it was purchased by Benjamin C. Amoureux, who immigrated to the United States from France.
49 milesS
Historical place, Architecture, History museum
Magnolia Manor, Cairo
Magnolia Manor is a postbellum manor located in Cairo, Illinois, located in Alexander County. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since December 17, 1969.
34 milesSW
Church, Sacred and religious sites, Greek Revival architecture
St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, Cape Girardeau
The St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church in Cape Girardeau, Missouri is a historic church at 131 South Main Street. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
50 milesS
Architecture, Historical place, History museum
Old Custom House, Cairo
The Old Custom House is a historic government building in downtown Cairo, Illinois. Built from 1869 to 1872, the building served as a customs house, post office, and courthouse. Alfred B. Mullett, the U.S.

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Best Time To Visit Carbondale

Learn when is the best time to travel to Carbondale weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May, June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in April.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January, February, September and October. Most of it rains in March, April and May.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Carbondale?

The top attractions to visit in Carbondale are:

What is the best time to visit Carbondale?

May, June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in April. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.