Enjoy Illinois: Illinois Bureau of Tourism

SOUTHWEST
With so many outdoor activities, cabin fever rarely takes hold in Southwest Illinois. Topping the list is eagle watching from December through February that is celebrated with outdoor weekend festivals. Thanks to the mild winters here, outdoor enthusiasts can hike through Illinois’ largest state park or ride horseback year-round along the Illinois River.

Hotels From

^$55

Frosty Fun
Southwest (Alton, Grafton, Hartford, Hardin, Belleville, Carlyle Lake), Family/Explore

Head to the Southwest part of the state for family good times. Take an eagle-watching tour and spy majestic flocks of the wintering birds that nest in area cliffs. Play explorer at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center. Learn how to steer a barge at the National Great Rivers Museum.