Find hotels in Southern Illinois, IL from $63

These Southern Illinois insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 23, 2026.

Top reasons to visit Southern Illinois

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Southern Illinois boasts breathtaking landscapes, including the scenic Shawnee Hills and beautiful lakes.
• Outdoor Adventures: The region offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and boating.
• Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to cozy cabins, catering to all travelers.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Explore vibrant fairgrounds and state parks that provide fun for visitors of all ages.
• Romantic Getaways: Southern Illinois is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty.

Find great hotels near Southern Illinois

Experience the charm of Southern Illinois with a range of hotel accommodations tailored to your needs. From luxurious lodgings to family-friendly motels, you'll find pet-friendly options and quality inns perfect for business travelers and vacationers alike. Explore Carbondale hotels and select luxury hotels that cater to every type of guest, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this beautiful region.

• Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon: Drury Plaza Hotel Mt. Vernon is a highly-rated 3-star hotel, boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.6. Situated 6 miles from Southern Illinois, this property is an excellent choice for families, business travelers, and pet owners. Guests appreciate the family-friendly amenities, including free cribs and pet allowances, making it a welcoming environment for all. The hotel features a complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The combination of modern facilities and a warm atmosphere makes Drury Plaza Hotel a top pick for travelers seeking both convenience and comfort.
• Comfort Suites Mount Vernon: Comfort Suites Mount Vernon is a budget-friendly option with a solid guest rating of 9.0, located 5 miles from Southern Illinois. This hotel is perfect for families, business travelers, and pet lovers alike. Offering amenities like free cribs and window guards for children, it ensures a safe and accommodating stay for families. Guests can enjoy spacious suites and a complimentary breakfast, as well as pet-friendly policies that allow for a hassle-free experience. Comfort Suites stands out for its blend of affordability and practicality, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Super 8 by Wyndham Mt. Vernon IL: Super 8 by Wyndham Mt. Vernon IL is a budget-friendly hotel known for its welcoming atmosphere, rated 9.0 by guests. Located 6 miles from Southern Illinois, it caters to families, business travelers, and pet owners. The hotel provides essential amenities such as free cribs, window guards for children, and a first aid kit, ensuring peace of mind for families. With pet-friendly policies and affordable rates, Super 8 offers a convenient stay without compromising on comfort, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for value.

Where to stay near Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois is a hidden gem for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. With its scenic Shawnee Hills and charming lakeside cabins, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Explore family-friendly towns and enjoy the friendly atmosphere while discovering the rural beauty of the region. Just a short drive from St. Louis, Southern Illinois promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning landscapes and welcoming communities.

• Mount Vernon: Nestled a mere 4 miles from Southern Illinois, Mount Vernon is an inviting city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beauty. With a steady flow of visitors year-round, the peak season arrives in April and from June to July. Travelers flock to Mount Vernon for its romantic atmosphere and access to recreational areas, educational venues, and campgrounds. Nearby attractions include picturesque lakes, lush forests, and the stunning national state park, making it an ideal destination for a nature-filled getaway.
• Opdyke: Also located 4 miles from Southern Illinois, Opdyke is a charming city with a welcoming vibe. Visitor numbers remain relatively stable throughout the year, with peaks in January to February and August. Known for its outdoor experiences and romantic settings, Opdyke offers a tranquil escape. The city is home to educational institutions and is surrounded by beautiful lakes and a modern college university, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
• Bonnie: Situated 6 miles from Southern Illinois, Bonnie is a delightful city that attracts seasonal visitors, especially in May and from July to August. Known for its outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, Bonnie offers a romantic getaway for couples and families alike. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, fairgrounds, and trail access, while local landmarks such as beautiful lakes, a national state park, and a visitor center enhance the experience. Bonnie's charm lies in its blend of nature and community activities, making it a great stop on your Southern Illinois journey.

Things to do in Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. With its stunning scenery, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including recreational areas and campgrounds. It's also an ideal location for hosting weddings and parties, making it a versatile choice for both adventure and celebration. Experience the natural beauty and charm that Southern Illinois has to offer.

Shopping

In Southern Illinois, explore the bustling Carbondale Mall for a variety of stores, or visit the charming shops at the historic Murphysboro Market for unique gifts. Don’t miss the local artisan goods at the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, perfect for memorable souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the New Life Wellness Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and holistic therapies. Explore the nearby Shawnee National Forest for hiking, birdwatching, and connecting with nature, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Adventure

In Southern Illinois, explore the breathtaking Giant City State Park with its hiking trails and rock formations. Experience the thrill of zip-lining at Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour, or embark on a kayaking adventure on the beautiful Cache River, immersing yourself in the area's rich natural beauty.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Center in Carbondale, where you can catch live performances and events. For a laid-back vibe, visit The Cellar, a cozy spot for craft beers and cocktails. Don't miss the lively atmosphere at Pinch Penny Pub, known for its fun games and friendly crowd.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Southern Illinois

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Southern Illinois are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and June to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Southern Illinois is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Southern Illinois is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Southern Illinois with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore beautiful lakes, vibrant fairgrounds, and state parks that showcase the region's natural beauty. With a variety of attractions to enjoy, Southern Illinois promises memorable adventures for everyone.

• Rend Lake: Located 13 miles from Southern Illinois, Rend Lake offers a picturesque setting perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy romantic beach vibes, stunning scenery, and a range of activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking along the shore.
• Jefferson County Fairgrounds: Just 3 miles away, the Jefferson County Fairgrounds is a lively destination for families. Experience local events, fairs, and community gatherings in a welcoming outdoor environment that fosters fun and togetherness.
• Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park: Situated 14 miles from Southern Illinois, this national park is an adventurer's paradise. Discover breathtaking views, hiking trails, and various outdoor activities that highlight the natural beauty of the region.

Best time to go to Southern Illinois

The best time to visit Southern Illinois is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	30.9°F (-0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	36.9°F (2.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
May	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	75.9°F (24.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	46.6°F (8.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Southern Illinois

When visiting Southern Illinois, you can fly into several major airports. St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is 88 miles away, with nearby hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis and Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa, both 7 miles from the airport. Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) is 74 miles away, offering hotel options like DoubleTree by Hilton Evansville, 6 miles from the airport, and Holiday Inn Evansville Airport, just 0.8 miles away. Bloomington-Normal Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) is 152 miles from Southern Illinois, with hotels like DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bloomington, 3 miles away, and Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal, 4 miles away.