Things To Do
in Carbondale
Carbondale is a charming city located in southern Illinois, known for its vibrant community and rich history. The city is home to Southern Illinois University, a major educational institution in the region. Visitors can explore the Shawnee National Forest, which offers stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Carbondale also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its cultural diversity and welcoming atmosphere.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hike at the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, soaking in the serene landscapes and diverse wildlife. Don't forget your camera to capture the morning dew and vibrant flora.
After lunch, visit the Southern Illinois University Museum to learn about local history and art. Spend time exploring the exhibits that showcase the rich culture of the region.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local diner, enjoying some classic comfort food. Take a stroll downtown to admire local art installations illuminated at night.
Start your morning at the Cedar Lake with a peaceful fishing session. Enjoy the calmness of the water while trying to catch some local fish.
After fishing, picnic by the lake's shore, relishing your packed lunch with beautiful lake views. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the water.
In the evening, dine at a lakeside restaurant for fresh seafood and a sunset view. Take the time to unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Access to outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and camping in nearby parks
- Community-oriented atmosphere with a vibrant local culture
- Home to Southern Illinois University, providing educational opportunities and events
- Diverse dining and entertainment options within the area
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields outside of education and healthcare
- Potential for extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger urban areas
- Higher crime rates in some neighborhoods
- Less access to advanced healthcare facilities compared to metropolitan areas
Best Activities in Carbondale
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails in the nearby Shawnee National Forest or Giant City State Park for a beautiful outdoor experience.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the area by camping at one of the picturesque campgrounds in Shawnee National Forest or Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.
Carbondale offers excellent fishing opportunities at nearby lakes and rivers, including Cedar Lake and Little Grassy Lake.
Paddle along the serene waters of Southern Illinois rivers and lakes, such as the Cache River and Kinkaid Lake, for a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of Carbondale with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Carbondale
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views and photo opportunities with the lake and surrounding nature
Scenic location with various hiking trails and lookout points for photography
Famous rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography
Food in Carbondale
Carbondale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local specialty, Murphysboro Barbecue features slow-smoked meats with a tangy, tomato-based sauce. Notable spots to enjoy this delicacy include 17th Street BBQ and Pat's BBQ.
Must-Try!
Indulge in a Southern favorite with creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp and flavorful gravy. The Newell House and Global Gourmet are known for their delectable Shrimp and Grits.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Carbondale better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Carbondale Farmers Market for an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and locally prepared street food. This is the perfect spot to sample seasonal treats and support local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Carbondale, it is important to respect personal space and avoid getting too close to others, especially when interacting with strangers or in public settings.
Carbondale is known for its diverse community, so it's important to be mindful of different cultural backgrounds and to show respect and inclusivity towards all individuals.
Politeness is valued in Carbondale, so using courteous language and manners, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you', is considered respectful behavior.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Carbondale with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Carbondale
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a customary practice in Carbondale, United States. It is common to tip 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and haircuts.
Payment in Carbondale, United States is primarily made using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and digital payment options are also gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Carbondale.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Carbondale, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a popular time for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
Summer in Carbondale brings warm weather, perfect for exploring the many nearby national parks and enjoying outdoor festivals and events.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Carbondale, as the surrounding landscapes transform into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It's also a great time for fall foliage tours and apple picking.
Winter in Carbondale offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in the nearby mountains. The town also hosts festive holiday events and markets.
Carbondale at Night
Hiking in Carbondale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, featuring scenic vistas and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
A breathtaking area known for its iconic peaks and stunning alpine lakes, perfect for hiking and photography with several trails to choose from.
A challenging hike leading to a stunning, turquoise lake and impressive waterfall, this trail is a must-see for nature lovers.
This trail follows the beautiful Castle Creek with various access points, offering both easy and moderate hiking options.
A paved path that provides a flat and easy hiking experience right next to the Colorado River, with access to several scenic viewpoints.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Carbondale through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Carbondale by plane.
Located approximately 100 miles northwest of Carbondale, STL is the primary airport serving the Greater St. Louis area and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
About 300 miles southwest of Carbondale, MEM is a significant hub primarily for freight but also serves passenger flights domestically and to various international destinations.
Roughly 340 miles southeast of Carbondale, BNA provides a range of domestic services and some international flights, serving the Nashville region.
Located about 300 miles north of Carbondale, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and international flight options.
Approximately 200 miles northeast of Carbondale, IND serves a wide variety of domestic and some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Carbondale, representing a significant portion of the population.
A substantial demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Carbondale.
An important and growing demographic group in the area, adding to the cultural fabric of the community.
A smaller demographic group, comprising various nationalities and ethnic backgrounds.
This group represents individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds.
A small demographic group that represents the indigenous population of the region.
A very small demographic group in Carbondale, contributing to the multicultural environment.
The Soul of Carbondale
Discover the essence of Carbondale through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Carbondale, often featured in local schools and community leagues.
Popular at both high school and college levels, with local teams drawing significant community support.
Growing in popularity among youth and adult leagues, with various clubs and recreational opportunities.
A traditional sport in Carbondale, with local teams and youth leagues fostering community engagement.
A popular fitness activity, with residents participating in local races and marathons.
Played recreationally and competitively, with local parks and facilities available for use.
A favored recreational activity, especially with scenic routes available for both road and mountain biking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Carbondale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Carbondale caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus and creative meat-free alternatives.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various eateries, including gluten-free menus and knowledgeable staff who can assist with special dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Carbondale with these cultural adventures.
