Spontaneous Weekend Road Trip in Illinois You Can Take Anytime

The 48 hours that make up the weekend can quickly slip by. So, we’ve put together a spontaneous weekend road trip in southern Illinois that is the perfect way to spend your free time. There are many mini adventures to be had in our own backyard that it’s worthwhile to make an itinerary, get in the car, and go out to see some hidden gems. Our road trip itinerary is filled with destinations like museums and outdoor spaces, as well as delicious restaurants. It's an adventure the entire family will enjoy.

Route Overview and Drive Time

This Illinois weekend road trip can be done in one day if you are willing to get an early start in the day, but I recommend setting aside two full days to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy each of these spots. There’s a great camping spot at the halfway point as well. Feel free to use this interactive map to help you customize your trip based on your preferences.

Stop One: Rendleman Orchards - Alto Pass

Rendleman Orchards has been operational since 1873, supplying southern Illinois with some of the freshest peaches, nectarines, and apples available. I am a sucker for fresh apples, so there’s no way this fifth-generation farm wasn’t making the list. Be sure to visit the Farm Market to browse their selection of produce, jams, jellies, country gourmet specialty foods, and gift items. Having some fresh fruit on hand as a healthy snack throughout your road trip will get your journey started on the right foot.

Stop Two: Makanda Boardwalk - Makanda

The Makanda Boardwalk is a can’t-miss shopping experience in southern Illinois. The area is known for its vibrant arts scene, thanks in part to Dave Dardis, who creates metal jewelry, sculptures, and fountains. There is a sculpture garden just outside of his studio where visitors can walk around and get lost in the whimsical atmosphere Dardis has created.

Stop Three: Mandala Gardens - Marion

Stretching over more than seven acres, the Mandala Gardens create an oasis of greenery, flowers, and stunning paths. There is a stone labyrinth in the shape of a traditional mandala, as well as a pond where visitors can fish. Beautiful mosaic patios bring a pop of color. My jaw dropped when I saw the view through the circular stone sculpture.

Stop Four: Morello’s- Harrisburg

Morello’s is known far and wide as a must-visit spot to refuel for hikers after exploring the Shawnee National Forest. Be sure to try their barbecue dishes as Morello’s makes all of their BBQ fresh daily with a special blend of spices. Having been around since 2005, Morello’s has been a go-to spot for locals hosting big parties, but for road trippers, it’s also the ideal place to stop to feel like a part of the greater community.

Stop Five: Franklin County Historic Jail - Benton

The Franklin County Historic Jail Museum was originally built in 1905, but it has since been transformed into an interactive museum. This is a great place to stop and learn more about the history of the area and escape reality for a short time. Make sure to check the museum's current hours to best plan for this road trip stop.

Stop Six: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area - Whittington

This sprawling state park is a great spot to pull out a folding chair, kick up your feet, and breathe in some fresh air. This state park is home to the 19,000-acre Rend Lake Reservoir, a delightful place for fishing, birdwatching, and water activities. Enjoy a picnic on the grassy areas near the water’s shore or even lace up your hiking boots and tackle one of the trails here. This is a great place to spend the night on this last-minute getaway as there are 243 campsites at this park. However, if you tackle this road trip on a holiday weekend, you may have a harder time finding an open spot.

Stop Seven: 17th Street Barbecue - Murphysboro

Maybe you heard about 17th Street Barbecue’s owner and champion pitmaster Mike Mills on Good Morning America, or maybe you heard about this Illinois BBQ joint on the Travel Channel. In any case, you won't want to miss this legendary establishment in Murphysboro. Wooden sculptures of flying pigs will watch over you as you try 17th Street Barbecue’s baby back ribs.

Stop Eight: Von Jakob Winery and Brewery - Alto Pass, IL

The final stop on the road trip brings you back within walking distance of the first stop. To wrap up a long day (or two) of traveling all over southern Illinois, I can’t imagine anything nicer than sitting outside and enjoying a glass of wine. There are 20 acres of apples and 15 acres of grapes growing at the winery to create some of Von Jakob’s beloved beverages. In addition to being a winery and brewery, Von Jakob is also a bed and breakfast, so this could be a great place to start and end your weekend trip.

You don't have to travel far or be gone long to experience an incredible Illinois weekend road trip. If you want even more travel inspiration, make sure to check out some of our favorite road trip ideas in Illinois. Whether you want to experience scenic drives or hidden gems in Illinois, there are plenty of options for your bucket list. All you need is a car full of gas and a sense of adventure.