Marion Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural scenery, and outdoor adventures of Marion, Illinois, with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Marion

Marion, located in Southern Illinois, is known for its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. This small city has something for everyone - from outdoor adventures and scenic views to culturally important attractions and mouth-watering cuisine. Marion is also home to a friendly community that welcomes visitors with open arms. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, the food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Marion

Marion offers a diverse range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Williamson County Historical Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It features exhibits on the region’s coal mining past and the history of the Underground Railroad.
  • The Marion Carnegie Library is a beautiful building that has stunning architecture. Make sure to check out their annual book sale, and browse the shelves for unique books.
  • Tower Square Plaza is the heart of downtown Marion. It’s home to the Marion Cultural and Civic Center, a beautiful venue that hosts concerts, plays, and other events.

Natural Attractions of Marion: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a 44,000-acre natural oasis that features hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and stunning wildlife views.
  • The Shawnee National Forest is a vast forest that spans across southern Illinois. It’s a great place for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marion

Marion offers some of the best trails for hiking and biking. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • The Marion-Herrin bike trail is a 20-mile trail that connects the cities of Marion and Herrin. It’s a beautiful ride that passes through pristine forests and historic downtowns.
  • The Crab Orchard Refuge offers a variety of hiking trails. The Crab Orchard Lake Loop Trail is a 5-mile trail that takes you around the picturesque lake and offers stunning views of the wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Marion: Activities and Tours

  • The Tower Square Plaza holds the Marion Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning. It’s a great place to buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and meet locals.
  • The Marion City Park is a hidden gem that has playgrounds, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and hiking trails.
  • For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the 140-year-old Kokopelli Golf Club and marvel at the stunning landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marion

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Marion:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Williamson County Historical Museum and the Marion Carnegie Library
Day 2 Rent a bike and ride the Marion-Herrin bike trail
Day 3 Take a guided tour of the Kokopelli Golf Club, have lunch in Tower Square, and attend a cultural event at the Marion Cultural and Civic Center
Day 4 Explore the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge’s hiking trails and wildlife viewing towers
Day 5 Drive to the Shawnee National Forest for a scenic drive and lunch at an off-the-beaten-path eatery
Day 6 Buy fresh produce from the Marion Farmer’s Market and have a picnic in the Marion City Park
Day 7 Wrap up the trip with a relaxing spa treatment at Balance Mind Body Therapy.

Food and Drink Scene of Marion

The food scene in Marion is characterized by locally sourced produce, meats, and dairy products. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Italian Beef Sandwich at 17th Street Barbecue is a local favorite.
  • The Marion Ale House’s Pizza Flight offers a selection of unique pizza flavors.
  • The Thai Chicken Salad at Buffalo Wild Wings is a healthy and flavorful option.

Local Beverages

  • The Marion Ale House offers a wide selection of local beers, such as Scratch Brewing Company’s Black Trumpet and 4204 Main Street Brewing Company’s White Chocolate Moose.
  • The French Roast Coffee at Heartland Coffee and Nosh is a must-try for coffee lovers.
  • The Daily Juicery has a great selection of locally sourced smoothies and juices, such as the Green Machine and the Turmeric Tonic.

Where to Stay in Marion: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Marion offers a range of accommodation options to fit every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Drury Inn & Suites Marion is a popular choice for families and groups. They offer spacious rooms, a complimentary hot breakfast, and a 5:30 pm kickback, which includes drinks and appetizers.
  • The Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Marion is a great budget-friendly option. They offer comfortable rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a location close to restaurants and attractions.
  • The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is a great option for those looking for a touch of luxury. They offer spacious rooms, a heated indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Marion: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Marion has unique gift shops and local artisan shops. Here are some great souvenirs and local products to bring back with you:

  • The Miss K’s Unique Boutique offers a great selection of unique home decor, clothing, and accessories.
  • The Yellow Paisley Boutique offers local handcrafted and vintage items. Their unique finds include hand-painted wooden signs, handmade jewelry, and vintage clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Marion

Marion is a friendly and welcoming community. It’s important to be respectful of the local customs, such as saying “hello” and “thank you”. Marion’s residents take pride in their history, so engaging in conversations about the region’s mining past or Underground Railroad history can lead to great conversations.

Best Time to Visit Marion

Marion is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during spring and fall. The temperatures are milder during these seasons, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, plan your trip during weekdays, as weekends are typically busier.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marion

Do:

  • Do visit the local attractions, and engage with locals.
  • Do explore the outdoors, and embrace the local scenery.
  • Do try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Don’t forget to tip for good service.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marion

Marion is generally a safe city. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, and to take necessary safety precautions like locking your car and not leaving your belongings unattended.

Health in Marion

Marion has a great healthcare system. If you have any health concerns during your visit, check out the local healthcare facilities. Lying on the border of Missouri, it is recommended that visitors obtain travel insurance and arrange for their own medical coverage before arriving in Illinois.

Getting to Marion: Transportation Options and Logistics

Marion is accessible by several modes of transportation.

Airports Near Marion

  • Southern Illinois Airport (located in Carbondale, IL)
  • Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (located in St. Louis, MO, approximately 120 miles northwest of Marion)

Bus Stations Near Marion

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Carbondale, IL

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the city.

How to Get Around in Marion

The best way to get around in Marion is by car. There are several rental car options at the airports and around town. Biking around the city is also a great option since Marion offers safe bike lanes and trails. In addition, local taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available.

Where to Go Next from Marion: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Marion is the perfect spot for exploring southern Illinois. Here are some great nearby destinations and excursions to explore:

  • Carbondale, IL, home of the Southern Illinois University
  • The famous Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, featuring wineries and vineyards in southern Illinois.
  • Murphysboro, IL, home of the Apple Festival, which takes place annually in September.

Conclusion

Marion is a hidden gem located in Southern Illinois. From its unique blend of culture and history to its stunning natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Marion won’t disappoint. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan your trip to Marion and that you enjoy the countless attractions and activities that this city offers.