10 Best Places to Visit in Marion, Illinois

As one of the fastest-growing cities in Southern Illinois, there’s plenty to do in Marion. Whether you want to spend time with the family or enjoy a little solo time, we’ve got you covered. Check out our team’s favorite things to do in Marion.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

IL Bogart Point, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Reconnect with nature at the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, a 44,000-acre natural oasis with forest, brushlands, prairie, and wetland habitats. The refuge is home to many protected animal populations, including wild turkeys, bluebirds, white-tailed deer, and bald eagles. Keep your eyes peeled for these creatures and appreciate the native wildflowers as you hike the trails. Bring your binoculars to see small birds hiding in the trees. Fish for crappie on the banks of the Wolf Creek Causeway or Prairie Creek Recreation Area. You can also pitch a tent at Little Grassy Lake Campground or Blue Heron Campground.

Location: 8588 Route 148
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Cost: $2 for a one-day pass

Marion Carnegie Library

If you can’t remember the last time you visited the library, it’s probably been too long. There’s always something to do at the Marion Carnegie Library, whether you want to find a quiet corner to read or participate in story time, a craft session, or a movie afternoon. The library’s events page can help you keep track of all the activities.

Location: 206 S. Market St.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
Cost: Free

Williamson County Historical Society Museum & Genealogy Library

Don’t mistake the Williamson County Historical Society Museum & Genealogy Library for your standard library. Housed in the old county jail, it now has a diverse selection of artifacts housed over four floors. The displays provide a fascinating look at the history of local Native American tribes, pioneers, and more. The museum has designed its various rooms to replicate an old general store, a schoolhouse, and rooms of family homes. Explore the museum on your own or join a free guided tour. The helpful staff can also help you learn more about your family’s history.

Location: 105 S. Van Buren St.
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday from March 1 through Thanksgiving and 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday from Thanksgiving through February
Cost: Free, but the museum appreciates donations

Warehouse Antique Mall

Discover a treasure from the past at the Warehouse Antique Mall. This vintage heaven features around 60 vendors spread over two floors selling preloved furniture, toys, art, and much more. Make sure you set aside a few hours to pour over the goodies displayed here.

Location: 600 N. Van Buren St.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday
Cost: Free

Mandala Gardens

Find your zen at Mandala Gardens, a 7-acre space for rest and reflection. This beautiful outdoor space features plants and stone sculptures arranged in sacred circles called mandalas. Whether you admire them simply for their beauty or feel a deeper connection, visiting Mandala Gardens is always special.

Location: 1704 N. State St.
Hours: 8 a.m. to dark daily
Cost: $2 admission

Pyramid Park

Pyramid Park is another fabulous green space in Marion. There’s plenty to do in this exciting community park, which features a disc golf course, skate park, softball field, and playground for the kids. Stick around for sunset, as the views are some of the best in the city.

Location: 1421 Pharoah’s Way
Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily
Cost: Free

Rent One Park

Sports fans shouldn’t miss Rent One Park. While it’s searching for a new baseball team since the Southern Illinois Miners folded, the stadium still hosts events like the Nitro Circus Good Bad & Rad show. Buy your tickets early to secure the best seats.

Location: 1000 Miners Drive
Hours: Opens during events
Cost: Prices vary depending on the seat and game

Kokopelli Golf Club

If golf’s your game, you can find a different kind of zen at Kokopelli Golf Club. Celebrated golf architect Steve Smyers designed the 18-hole course, which Travel + Leisure named as one of the 100 best courses costing $100 or less. Upgrade your gear at the pro shop. If your game needs work, spend some time at the 8-acre practice facility or sign up for personal golf lessons. After a long day on the green, you can also enjoy handcrafted cocktails and delicious meals at The Turn Restaurant & Lounge.

Location: 1527 Champions Drive
Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Cost: $29 on weekdays, $33 on weekends

The HUB Recreation Center

Get your heart pumping at The HUB Recreation Center. It features health and wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, basketball courts, and a 25-yard, six-lane swimming pool and indoor water park. Enjoy the facilities independently or join a class in fitness or water aerobics. With childcare on-site, The HUB Recreation Center makes it easy for everyone to get moving.

Location: 917 W. Main St.
Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday
Cost: $10 for resident adults, $8 for resident children 17 and under, and an additional $2 for non-resident adults and children

Marion Goofy Golf

For mini golf and more, head to Marion Goofy Golf. The 18-hole mini golf course is the key attraction here, providing hours of fun with its classic challenges. Complete the course and collect a sucker to celebrate your achievements. The facility also features batting cages with three speed levels and games of cornhole.

Location: 1403 N. Garfield St.
Hours: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday from April to October
Cost: $3 per game

You want a car you can rely on when visiting Marion’s sites. If you’re having car troubles and need someone to check it out, visit our service center. Or, if you can’t remember how long it’s been since your last maintenance appointment, give us a call at Volkswagen of Marion. We’ll look your car over and ensure you can get to the next attraction on your Marion bucket list.