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Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor Recreation

Get Outside in Downstate Illinois

There's so much to discover when it comes to the outdoors in Downstate Illinois! From hiking and biking to berry picking and golfing, there's something for everyone. As you’ve probably noticed by now, we cover 22 counties in Downstate Illinois. That makes us the largest tourism bureau in the state, but it also makes us one of the most diverse regions because each community has something unique that they’re known for. Let us shine a spotlight on each county that makes up this wonderful area. 

Charleston Tourism

Charleston, Illinois
Welcome to Charleston, IL ~ Enjoy beautiful natural resources, Lincoln history, and unique shopping!...more!

Douglas-Hart Nature Center

Mattoon, IL
?Trails and outdoor areas are open sunrise to sunset 365 days of the year. Free admission, donations appreciated.&n...more!

Fox Ridge State Park

Charleston, Illinois
Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, ...more!

Lake Charleston

Charleston, Illinois
Lake Charleston is a reservoir in Coles County, Illinois. Served by Illinois Route 130, it is 2 miles southeast of ...more!

Lincoln Prairie Grass Trail

Charleston, IL
Lincoln Prairie Grass Trail is 12 miles of paved trail for bicyclists, joggers, and walkers connecting Charleston a...more!

Linder Sports Complex

Charleston, IL
Charleston's newest sports complex, located on the southeast side of the city, features 13 multipurpose fields,...more!

Rotary Community Aquatic Center

Charleston, Illinois
DAILY ADMISSION:    Ages 18 - 54              $6.00     &...more!

The Whiteside Garden

Charleston, IL
The Whiteside Garden and is a five-acre botanical garden and arboretum in Charleston, IL....more!

Downstate Illinois Events

Downstate Illinois Events

Explore Our Event Calendar
Whether you’re looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, Downstate Illinois has something for everyone. The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don’t miss a thing.
Travel Ideas

Travel Ideas

Check Out Our Blog
From outdoor recreation and adventure to foodies and family fun, we have the trip ideas to plan the perfect vacation.
Road Trip Itineraries

Road Trip Itineraries

22 Counties made for Road Trips
Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 22 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 
Check out our calendar of events!
Hostas on the Bluff 10-Year Anniversary Celebration

Hostas on the Bluff 10-Year Anniversary Celebration

April 15, 2026 - June 15, 2026 @ 4:00 PM - 10:00 AM
HOSTAS ON THE BLUFF | Fairview Heights, IL
Columbia Community Market

Columbia Community Market

May 14, 2026 @ 12:00 PM - 12:00 PM
Columbia American Legion | Columbia, IL
Swansea Farmers Market

Swansea Farmers Market

May 14, 2026 @ 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Rural King Parking Lot | Swansea, IL

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