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from the local experts at Carbondale Tourism

Carbondale is the perfect destination for couples to enjoy a weekend getaway. Dine in one of our local restaurants that utilize fresh, regional produce. You can also explore our international culinary scene, bursting with many cultural influences. Our accommodations range from modern hotels to cozy inns, or cabins in the woods. You are sure to feel right at home. Your adventure starts here.

Make sure to check with attractions ahead of time for up-to-date operating hours, travel policies and health and safety information.

  • Carbondale

Explore the Highlights

  • Day 1

Underground Public House

Hanger 9 Interior Bar

Once you arrive in Carbondale, check into The Pool House, which sits on fenced grounds with spacious gardens and is located in the historic Arbor District. Only a few minutes walk from downtown, The Pool House is a 900-square- foot cottage that can sleep at least four and is furnished with mid-century modern furniture by Danish designers. It has a gourmet kitchen, and every guest has access to the pool as well as the new Finnish sauna and Japanese Ofuro
soaking tub for two.

While in the neighborhood, take a stroll through the historic district and head over to the Buckminster Fuller Dome, commonly referred to as “The Bucky Dome” by locals. This geodesic dome is Buckminster Fuller’s most enduring legacy. Buckminster Fuller is considered by many to be the father of the modern sustainability movement. The geodesic dome, based on a natural pattern of interlocking triangles, is a structure that is considered one of the strongest and most efficient known to humankind. The dome was used as a prototype for all other dome homes that followed and is open for tours.

Wind down the evening with dinner at Underground Public House, a cozy pub focused on eclectic world beer cuisine and culture, featuring seasonal farm-to-table menus. Aside from lunch and dinner, there are more than 20 rotational craft beers on tap, and premium spirits and wines. After dinner, enjoy the Carbondale Strip’s vibrant nightlife scene. Along Illinois Avenue you will find lively crowds enjoying live local music, foosball and pool, gaming machines, and great drink specials! Hangar 9, The Cellar, PK’s, and Tres Hombres all offer fun, eclectic atmospheres.

  • Day 2

StarView Vineyards

William Marberry Arboretum

Enjoy a morning of hiking at the William Marberry Arboretum, which offers 24 acres to roam and is home to more than 100 genera, 600 species and 20,000 plants. Besides the beautiful trees, you can also enjoy pond fishing and a picnic. Did we mention the bamboo forest? The trail is located on Pleasant Hill Road at the south edge of Carbondale and allows walkers to escape the hustle and bustle without leaving town. The trail is easy to walk with slight changes in elevation. It meanders through a mature forest, and parts of the trail are adjacent to a private pasture.

Hit the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in the afternoon and sample award-winning wines, food and live music while soaking in all the beauty the rolling hills of Southern Illinois have to offer. Blue Sky Vineyard, Owl Creek, and StarView Vineyards are just a few possible stops!

Spend the evening at Flame Grill and Bar, offering innovative menu choices and finely crafted cocktails in a romantic atmosphere. With bold décor, generous portions, and an outdoor patio, it’s the perfect foundation for a captivating dining experience.

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