Things To Do
in Sullivan
Sullivan is a charming small town located in the state of Illinois in the United States. It is known for its friendly community atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. The town features a historic downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses.
Sullivan also offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities, such as parks, trails, and community events throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the nearby Oak Ridge Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. Bring along some breakfast snacks to enjoy at one of the lookout points.
After lunch at a local diner, visit the Sullivan Historical Society to learn about the rich history of the area. Spend some time strolling through downtown and checking out unique shops.
Conclude your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring farm-to-table dishes. Take a leisurely walk to enjoy the sunset at the park.
Begin your morning with a relaxing yoga session at a local studio to energize your day. Follow this with a visit to the Sullivan Farmers Market to grab fresh produce.
Have a healthy lunch at a organic café before taking a leisurely bike ride along the Lake Sullivan Trail. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views.
For dinner, opt for a barbecue joint famous for its smoked meats. Wind down the evening at a local brewery, sampling craft beers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm and community feel
- Low cost of living compared to urban areas
- Access to outdoor recreational activities
- Close-knit community with a family-friendly atmosphere
- Historical sites and local events that promote culture
- Limited job opportunities and economic growth
- Fewer educational and healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Potential for limited entertainment and dining options
- Risk of isolation for those used to urban lifestyles
Best Activities in Sullivan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails and beautiful landscapes at Meramec State Park, perfect for all hiking skill levels.
Enjoy fishing in the Meramec River, known for its diverse fish population and peaceful surroundings.
Experience the great outdoors by camping along the Ozark Trail, with a variety of sites and breathtaking views.
Ride your bike on the nearby Katy Trail, a scenic pathway that runs alongside the Missouri River.
Discover the fascinating formations and history inside the Meramec Caverns, a popular cave system perfect for exploration.
Spend a day observing local wildlife and bird species in the tranquil setting of the Bushy Creek Conservation Area.
Enjoy a day of kayaking on Lake Sullivan, where you can paddle and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Relax and enjoy a picnic with family and friends at Sullivan City Park, featuring playgrounds and open spaces.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sullivan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sullivan
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful drive that offers numerous viewpoints and overlooks of the stunning landscapes of Sullivan County, great for capturing panoramic views.
A large reservoir with picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset, ideal for photography of water reflections and nature.
A scenic lookout point that provides expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for landscape photography.
Featuring multiple trails and viewpoints, this state park offers beautiful natural scenery and opportunities to photograph wildlife and local flora.
An annual event that showcases local artisans, providing colorful and engaging photo opportunities amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.
Famous for its waterfalls, the park offers stunning views and great opportunities for capturing the beauty of cascading water in natural settings.
Historic covered bridges provide unique photographic opportunities against charming rural backdrops, particularly during fall foliage.
Known for its wildlife, particularly eagles; it offers exceptional photographic opportunities with vast landscapes and serene lake views.
Food in Sullivan
Sullivan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Southern dish featuring slow-cooked, tender pulled pork served on a toasted bun with tangy barbecue sauce. A must-try at Sullivan's BBQ joints like Smokehouse BBQ or Big Boar's BBQ.
Must-Try!
Sullivan is renowned for its delicious stuffed pizza, with a thick, doughy crust filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables. Head to Sullivan Pizza for an authentic taste of this local favorite.
For a taste of Southern comfort, try the crispy fried catfish served with hushpuppies and coleslaw. Stop by The Fisherman's Wharf for a delightful serving of this regional specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sullivan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday, local vendors gather to offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Visitors can sample a variety of street foods, from gourmet tacos to organic ice cream, while enjoying the vibrant market atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sullivan, as in many parts of the United States, it's important to respect personal space. People generally prefer a certain distance when conversing, so be mindful not to stand too close unless you have established a close relationship with someone.
Using polite language and manners is highly valued in Sullivan. Simple gestures like saying 'please,' 'thank you,' and 'excuse me' go a long way in fostering respectful interactions.
Sullivan may have a diverse population with various cultural backgrounds. Being open-minded and respectful toward different viewpoints, traditions, and customs is crucial in promoting a harmonious community.
Safety
Tipping in Sullivan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sullivan, United States, tipping practices are similar to those found across much of the United States. It is customary to tip service workers, such as waitstaff in restaurants, typically between 15% to 20% of the total bill. In bars, patrons generally tip a dollar or more per drink. Tipping is also common for taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff, with amounts varying based on the level of service received. It is important to note that while tipping is appreciated and often expected, it is not legally required.
Payment practices in Sullivan primarily involve cash and credit card transactions. Most establishments accept major credit cards and debit cards, making it convenient for customers. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are also increasingly popular. In restaurants, customers may pay the bill at their table or at the counter after dining. For services like taxis or ride-hailing, payments are often processed through an app. It is common for businesses to display signs indicating accepted forms of payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Sullivan typically sees mild temperatures and blossoming flora. Expect pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local parks. Rainfall is common, so packing a light raincoat is advisable.
Summer brings warm to hot temperatures, often reaching the high 80s to low 90s (°F). This is a popular time for visitors, offering plenty of outdoor festivals, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms, as June and July can be wet months.
Fall offers a stunning display of autumn leaves, making it a picturesque time to visit. Temperatures cool down, ranging from the 50s to 70s (°F), and the season is comfortable for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals. The cool breezes and clear skies are perfect for outdoor exploration.
Winter in Sullivan can be cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. However, this season is quieter, and visitors can enjoy winter activities such as snow sports. Expect some snowfall and the chance to experience a cozy, small-town holiday atmosphere.
Sullivan at Night
Hiking in Sullivan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering various trails suitable for hiking, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Located a few miles from Sullivan, this park features multiple hiking trails around a serene lake, ideal for both beginner and experienced hikers.
A popular hiking destination with extensive trails that traverse rugged terrain, featuring waterfalls, boulders, and the famous Boulder Field.
Known for its stunning waterfalls and lush forests, this park offers a challenging hiking experience with well-maintained trails that lead to beautiful vistas.
This park provides various hiking options along picturesque trails in a peaceful forest setting, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
Aiports
How to reach Sullivan by plane.
Located approximately 125 miles west of Sullivan, STL is the primary airport serving the St. Louis metropolitan area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Situated about 270 miles northeast of Sullivan, MDW serves the Chicago area and is a hub for low-cost carriers, providing various domestic flights and some international services.
Located around 280 miles northeast of Sullivan, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and international flight options.
Approximately 200 miles west of Sullivan, MCI serves the Kansas City area with a range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 130 miles east of Sullivan, IND is the main airport serving Indianapolis and offers a variety of domestic flights along with some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Sullivan, reflecting a predominantly Caucasian population.
A significant minority group, representing a portion of the population in Sullivan.
An ethnically diverse group that includes individuals of various backgrounds, primarily from Latin America.
A smaller demographic group comprising individuals from various Asian countries and cultures.
Individuals identifying as belonging to multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting increasing diversity.
A minority group representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
A very small demographic group, including individuals from Pacific Islander backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport that involves two teams competing to score points by carrying or kicking a ball into the opposing team's end zone.
A sport played between two teams of five players each, where the objective is to shoot a ball through the opponent's hoop to score points.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams of nine players each, where the objective is to score runs by hitting a ball and running around bases.
A team sport where players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net using their feet.
An athletics sport that includes running, jumping, and throwing events, held in a stadium or outdoor setting.
A combat sport involving grappling techniques, with the aim of pinning an opponent to the mat.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sullivan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Sullivan eateries offer an array of vegetarian dishes, from hearty grain bowls to flavorful veggie burgers. Visitors can easily find satisfying meat-free options at restaurants across the city.
Vegan dining in Sullivan is a delight, with several establishments showcasing innovative plant-based creations, such as vegan sushi, dairy-free desserts, and vibrant Buddha bowls.
Those with gluten sensitivities will find numerous gluten-free selections at Sullivan's restaurants, including gluten-free pasta, pizza, and decadent desserts, ensuring a delectable experience for gluten-intolerant diners.