Brave the Outdoors - Southern

Southern Illinois is where you can hike through a giant state park, climb big bluffs and boulders, race your bike on an old railroad route through a forest, scuba dive in a spring-fed quarry and even meet Superman along the way.

Day One

Rent a boat and cruise the waters of Rend Lake or dive in and do some swimming. Drop in on a kids' art workshop at the Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, located right at Rend Lake. You may feel quite small as you hike the trails of Giant City State Park, named for its soaring sandstone cliffs that create the look of huge city streets fit for a giant. You can also ride horses with Giant City Stables, but be sure to fuel up for your ride with a healthy breakfast at Longbranch Coffeehouse. Devour your hamburger or chicken fingers at Windows Restaurant while looking out at beautiful Rend Lake.

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Day Two

See if you can squeeze through Fat Man's Misery, a narrow passage wedged between massive cliffs and boulders in the Garden of the Gods, known for its cool rock formations. Climb through a cave that once sheltered river pirates at Cave-in-Rock State Park. Strap on your helmet and bike through the Shawnee National Forest on the Tunnel Hill State Trail, where you'll ride through a super-dark train tunnel. Reward your hard work with an ice cream cone or sweets from The Chocolate Factory. Dig into fresh-caught catfish at the E'Town River Restaurant, which actually floats on the Ohio River.

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Day Three

Start your day with scuba diving at Mermet Springs, where you'll discover amazing underwater sights, including a cement petting zoo, a real airplane and a school bus. Move on to Metropolis, where you can pose with Superman Statue in the town square and see special Superman props in the Super Museum. Compete for the best Superman costume during the Superman Celebration, held June 12-15. Nearby you can become a real soldier at Fort Massac State Park, home to a replica fort from the days of the French and Indian War. Try the shrimp dishes at Willy Jak's or the pizza buffet at Cubby Bear's Pizza.

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