What to Do in Southern Illinois When It Rains

You planned a getaway to Southern Illinois. You were ready for hiking, scenic overlooks, and a day exploring the Shawnee National Forest. Then you checked the forecast.

Rain.

Don't cancel your trip just yet. A rainy day in Southern Illinois can actually be one of the coziest parts of your getaway. It's the perfect excuse to slow down, discover a few local places you may have otherwise missed, take a scenic drive, or simply enjoy the place you booked to stay. Here are a few ideas for making the most of a rainy day during your Southern Illinois getaway.

Start With Coffee & a Slow Morning

Vacation doesn't have to mean waking up early and immediately heading out the door. When the rain starts falling, embrace it. Sleep in a little. Make some coffee. Sit by the window or on a covered porch and watch the weather roll across the Ohio River. Sometimes the best vacation mornings are the ones where you don't have anywhere you have to be.

Stop by Riverside Mercantile

If you're staying near Elizabethtown, make a stop at Riverside Mercantile. Grab a coffee, Lotus Energy drink, sweet treat, or hand-dipped ice cream and spend a little time browsing the unique items inside. It's an easy way to get out of the house without committing to an entire day outside—and you might find something to take home that reminds you of your Southern Illinois trip.

Browse Local Shops & Small Towns

Rainy days are perfect for discovering the small businesses scattered throughout Southern Illinois. Browse antiques, locally made goods, boutiques, gift shops, and little stores you might normally drive past on your way to a trailhead. One of the best parts about visiting this area is that you never quite know what you'll find. Give yourself permission to wander.

Take a Scenic Rainy-Day Drive

You don't necessarily have to stay inside just because it's raining. Southern Illinois is beautiful from the car, too. Take a drive through the Shawnee National Forest region, follow the winding roads through the hills, explore the Ohio River Scenic Byway, and stop in some of the area's small communities along the way. Fog settling between the hills and rain falling through the forest can give the Shawnee an entirely different look than you'll see on a sunny afternoon. Just remember to take your time and use extra caution when roads are wet.

Discover Some Local History

Southern Illinois has plenty of history tucked between its forests and river towns. A rainy afternoon is a great opportunity to learn more about the communities you're visiting, browse a local museum, or explore historical attractions when conditions allow. Even your accommodations can be part of the story. The Historic Rose Hotel in Elizabethtown dates back to 1812 and offers guests the opportunity to stay in a piece of Southern Illinois history while overlooking the Ohio River.

Make It a Game Day

Traveling with the family or a group of friends? Rain gives everyone an excuse for a little friendly competition. Guests staying at The Martin House can spend some downtime playing pool or foosball, hanging out together in the spacious living areas, or simply enjoying an afternoon without an itinerary. Pack a deck of cards or your favorite board game, pick up some snacks, and make a day of it. You might be surprised by how much everyone enjoys an afternoon spent together doing absolutely nothing "touristy."

Cook Something Together

Instead of worrying about where you're going next, head back to your stay, put on some music, and make dinner together. Several Shawnee Stays properties include fully equipped kitchens, making a rainy evening the perfect opportunity to pick up some local ingredients, snacks, or treats and enjoy dinner without going anywhere. And if you're staying somewhere with a river view? Even better.

Have a Movie Night

After days of hiking and sightseeing, your feet might actually appreciate the break.
Change into something comfortable, grab your favorite snacks, turn on a movie, and settle in.
All Shawnee Stays properties offer Wi-Fi, so a rainy night can easily turn into the cozy vacation evening you didn't know you needed.

Watch the Rain Over the Ohio River

There is something peaceful about watching a storm move across the river.
Several Shawnee Stays properties offer beautiful Ohio River views, giving you the chance to experience Southern Illinois from a completely different perspective.
Pour another cup of coffee.
Sit for a while.
Talk.
Read a book.
Take a nap.
Vacations are supposed to give you time to slow down, too.

Save the Trails for Tomorrow

The Shawnee National Forest isn't going anywhere.
If weather conditions aren't right for hiking, save the adventure for another day. Trails, creek crossings, rocks, and overlooks can become slippery during and after heavy rain, so always put safety ahead of your itinerary.And sometimes the rain comes with a bonus: Southern Illinois' seasonal waterfalls can be especially beautiful after wet weather.Check current conditions before heading out, wear appropriate footwear, and never enter flooded areas or attempt unsafe creek crossings.

Rain Doesn't Have to Ruin Your Southern Illinois Getaway
You may come to Southern Illinois for Garden of the Gods, Cave-in-Rock, hiking trails, waterfalls, and outdoor adventures.

But the slower moments can become some of your favorite memories.
A cup of coffee while the rain hits the window.
An afternoon exploring a small town.
A family game that gets way too competitive.
Watching the Ohio River from somewhere warm and cozy.
That's part of the Shawnee experience, too.
So if you see rain in the forecast, pack a rain jacket—but don't cancel the trip.

Come experience Southern Illinois in every kind of weather.

Find your perfect home base with Shawnee Stays and book your next getaway directly at stayshawnee.com.