Carbondale's signature restaurants are one of the most memorable parts of the city. Whether you're starting the day off with hearty Biscuits and Gravy, or winding down with locally produced wine and a juicy steak, Carbondale's dining scene will accommodate your desires.
In addition to classic favorites, Carbondale's countless restaurants will satisfy your taste buds. As you browse our cafes, coffee shops, pizza places, and multicultural restaurants, you'll be amazed by the array of options available. Many Carbondale restaurants include vegan and vegetarian options, in addition to gluten-free cuisine.
What do architect Buckminster Fuller, poet Rodney Jones, and singer Shawn Colvin have in common? All three spent formative years in the intellectual, innovative, and creative powerhouse known as Carbondale.
Buzzing with creative energy, Carbondale thrives with lively venues, renovated theaters and a young, eclectic crop of musicians, churning out everything from bluegrass to punkabilly. On any given night visitors can choose between an intimate acoustic set, heavy-based DJ, or a renowned orchestra's interpretation of Bach.
Did we mention that there's often no entry fee? More reason to dive deep into Carbondale history, catch a performance at one of our historic theaters, or view the work of local and national artists.
Beautiful state and national parks form the centerpiece of outdoor recreation opportunities in the Carbondale region, the outdoor playground of the Midwest. Named by Outdoor Magazine as one of the Top 200 towns for sportsmen, visitors enjoy rock climbing, hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, boating, and geo-cacheing, all among the rolling landscape of the Shawnee Hills.
Illinois' largest expanse of wooded land, the Shawnee National Forest, is located in the heart of Southern Illinois. Its 273,000 acres are a major attraction for outdoor lovers, offering wilderness trails, archaeological sites, waterfalls, drives along the National Scenic Byways, swimming, bicycling, and so much more.
Adventure seekers will find rollercoaster-like hiking trails, sky scraper cliffs and stunning natural vistas that will take your breath away. Whether you're into extreme sports or soft adventure, the natural habitats surrounding Carbondale offer endless adventures.