Coal
Day Plans

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Coal's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1

Explore Coal City

morning

:

Start your day with a visit to Coal City Park. Enjoy a morning stroll or a picnic while soaking in the natural beauty.

afternoon

:

Head to the nearby historical museum for an insightful look into the town's mining heritage. Take the time to engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the local culture.

evening

:

Dine at a local eatery that specializes in regional cuisine. Savor the flavors and meet some of the friendly locals.

day 2

Nature Trails Adventure

morning

:

Begin your day with a hike through the scenic trails at Manteno State Park. The refreshing morning air and beautiful landscapes will energize you.

afternoon

:

Pack a lunch and continue exploring the park, keeping an eye out for local wildlife. This is a perfect time for photography and enjoying nature.

evening

:

Capture the sunset views from one of the park's overlooks. Wind down with a campfire roast at your campsite.

day 3

City Culture and Shopping

morning

:

Visit local boutiques and shops in downtown Coal City. Discover unique treasures and support small businesses.

afternoon

:

Grab lunch at a quaint café and then visit the art gallery to appreciate local artists. Spend some time browsing and maybe even purchasing a new piece.

evening

:

Enjoy a live music event at a local venue. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Coal City.

day 4

Historic Coal Mine Tour

morning

:

Join a guided tour of a historic coal mine in the area. Get an authentic glimpse into the life of miners and the industry’s impact on the town.

afternoon

:

After the tour, explore the visitor center activities and exhibits. Learn about mining technology and the evolution of the industry.

evening

:

Head back to your lodging and relax after a full day. Consider dining at a restaurant that offers classic coal miner fare.

day 5

Fishing at Mazon River

morning

:

Start your fishing adventure early at Mazon River. The cool morning is perfect for catching a variety of fish.

afternoon

:

Enjoy the serene surroundings while you have a riverside lunch. Use the afternoon to try different fishing spots along the river.

evening

:

Wrap up the day with a cookout by the river if you’ve caught some fish. Share stories and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the water.

day 6

Stargazing at Coal City

morning

:

Take the morning to relax and prepare for an exciting night of stargazing. Visit a local coffee shop for a morning pick-me-up.

afternoon

:

Explore nearby parks or historical sights to fill your afternoon. Take breaks to enjoy the outdoors and gather supplies for your evening plans.

evening

:

Set up a spot at a dark area away from city lights for optimal stargazing. Bring blankets and a telescope to enjoy the wonders of the night sky.

day 7

Biking Day in Coal City

morning

:

Rent a bike and hit the local biking trails. The morning is ideal for exploring the scenic routes around the area.

afternoon

:

Refuel with lunch at a scenic stop along the trail. Continue your ride, taking in the diverse landscapes.

evening

:

Wind down with a relaxing bike ride back to town. Unwind with dinner at a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating.

day 8

Family Fun Day

morning

:

Organize a family picnic at one of Coal City’s parks. Bring games and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

afternoon

:

Visit a local playground where kids can play freely. Join in on the fun with outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy.

evening

:

End the day with a family movie night at your lodging. Make it special with popcorn and a selection of favorite films.

day 9

Camping Extravaganza

morning

:

Set up camp at a nearby campground early in the day. Take a short hike to familiarize yourself with the area.

afternoon

:

Spend the afternoon fishing or swimming at a nearby lake. Gather supplies for an evening cookout.

evening

:

Enjoy roasted marshmallows and storytelling around the campfire. The night sky will provide a stunning backdrop.

day 10

Adventure Sports Day

morning

:

Get your adrenaline pumping with rock climbing at a local facility. Morning hours are less crowded, giving you ample time to practice.

afternoon

:

After a morning of climbing, try a zip-line course. Enjoy the thrill and views from above as you zip through the trees.

evening

:

Relax in the evening at a local diner. Celebrate the adventure with hearty meals and share your experiences with others.

Discover Coal

Read more in our Coal 2024 Travel Guide.

Coal Travel Guide