Local Attractions

The Shawnee National Forest is highly valued by the residents of Illinois and surrounding states.  Although Illinois is the nation's 4th most populous state, and 24th largest in size, it ranks 48th in the amount of public land set aside.  The unique character of the landscape and abundant natural wonders make the Forest an oasis in the midst of intensive agricultural lands, and a destination vacation point for many city dwellers.

There is something for everyone just moments away from The Goddard Place!  Here are but a few of the many things for you to enjoy....

Southern Most Illinois Tourism Bureau  -  this "go to"site shares information about upcoming events and many other local links.    

www.southernmostillinois.com

Bald Knob Cross of Peace  - is the largest Cross in the Northern Hemisphere. You shouldn't miss this!

www.baldknobcross.com    

Giant City State Park    is 4,000 acres of recreational area featuring massive sandstone structures and trails that never end!   

www.giantcitylodge.com

Shawnee National Forest  -  spans parts of 9 counties that includes Garden of the Gods, the Little Grand Canyon and LaRue Pine Hills among many other attractions.  

https://www.fs.usda.gov/shawnee

Visit the Snake Road -

https://wanderwisdom.com/travel-destinations/Visiting-Snake-Road-in-SW-Illinois

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2JJqfTqHmA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqp3WTYgJqY

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail -   is a collection of 12 wineries with tasting rooms, restaurants and live entertainment.     

www.shawneewinetrail.com

Tunnel Hill Bike Trail - is a 45 mile long bike trail that begins at 370 feet above sea level, rising to 680 feet at Tunnel Hill and then drops to 340 feet at Karnak. The trail crosses 23 trestles ranging from 34 feet long to 450 feet.

www.americantrails.org/nationalrecreationtrails/trailNRT/tunnelhill-IL.html

Cache River National Wildlife Refuge -  is an amazing bottomland hardwood and swamp forest that features 1000 year old Bald Cypress trees.

www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=43514

Shop the Annabelle Market in Anna - https://annabelle-market.business.site/

Shawnee Hills eBike Rentals - rent ebikes to take on a bike ride.

www.shawneehillsebike.com