Top 5 Attractions To Explore in Marion This Summer

Image by Aaron Burden is licensed with Unsplash License

Summer is the season of vacations, sunshine, and outdoor activities. Known as the Hub City of the Universe, Marion, Illinois, may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of a vacation. But this historic city has something for everyone and may compel you to put it on your travel bucket list for this summer.

Whether you desire to unwind in nature, reel in a catch, or drive that golf ball down the fairway, this charming town has you covered. Here is VW of Marion’s list of the top five attractions to explore in Marion, Illinois, this summer.

Reconnect With Nature at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

Just a few miles south of Marion, the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is an adventure ground for nature lovers. Spanning 44,000 acres of flora and fauna, visiting this serene refuge is the ultimate opportunity to reconnect with nature and disconnect from the business of daily life. You can spot glorious wildlife creatures, including white-tailed deer, six pairs of bald eagles, wild turkeys, indigo buntings, and bluebirds.

One of the best ways to explore the refuge is by taking a scenic drive through some of the most picturesque wetlands and scenic overlook areas. An auto tour is the perfect adventure for photography buffs, so bring your DSLR and zoom lens for the best pictures. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy recreational activities, such as boating, birding, biking, camping, fishing, and hiking. The Rocky Bluff Trail is a popular 1.9-mile loop hike that takes you through rocky bluffs, sparkling waterfalls, and whimsical wildflowers. If you love bird watching, you may bring your binoculars and languish at the refuge’s observation platform.

• Location: 8588 Route 148, Marion.
• Hours: 24 hours daily.

Walk the Labyrinth at Mandala Gardens

Minutes from downtown Marion, Illinois, is a 7-acre holistic sanctuary called Mandala Gardens. Inspired by traditional Tibetan and Indian art, a mandala garden is a circular or square garden divided into sections with concentric circles or narrow paths. Each section represents a different herb or flower, which you can access on the constructed pathways.

Enchanting features at Mandala Gardens in Marion include stone sculptures, delightful pathways, beautiful flowers, and aromatic herb gardens. Romantic walks through the labyrinth and serene sitting spots are the perfect backdrops for an idyllic afternoon with your special someone. You can also reserve this charming venue for private events to celebrate memorable milestones. Meander through the garden and along the lake, and soak up the serenity of this tranquil spot.

• Location: 1704 N. State St., Marion.
• Hours: 8 a.m. to dark Monday through Friday.

Rip It Off the Tee at Kokopelli Golf Club

According to Golf Week magazine, Kokopelli Golf Club in Marion, Illinois, is one of America’s best places to play. This Midwest golfing destination is in the heart of the majestic Shawnee National Forest and boasts spectacular views. One of the best ways to enjoy the summer at Kokopelli is by playing golf on its 18-hole course. It features five tee boxes for all skill levels, undulating fairways, and impeccable service.

Each hole offers a unique challenge, and if you need to improve your score, you can sign up for a lesson with one of the team’s professionals. Kokopelli’s friendly and experienced golf instructors can help you improve your swing and your putting so that you can master your game inside the 100 yards. You can also practice your swing and work on your game at the driving range. After golf, you can unwind and enjoy a delicious meal, signature cocktails, and breathtaking views at The Turn restaurant on the Kokopelli grounds.

• Location: 1527 Champions Drive, Marion.
• Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Wield an Axe at Backwoods Axe Throwing

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure? Get your adrenaline pumping, and unleash your inner lumberjack with the thrill of axe throwing. If you’re seeking a new fun activity in Marion, visit Backwoods Axe Throwing and wield an axe in one of the nine axe-tossing lanes. This indoor axe-throwing facility provides everything that you need to throw axes at wooden targets, similar to throwing darts at a dartboard.

You can enjoy an exciting activity with friends, join a league, and even celebrate a special occasion or team-building event. The leagues run for eight weeks. Backwoods Axe Throwing tallies and submits your scores weekly for ranking in the World Axe Throwing League.

• Location: 1535 Sioux Drive, Marion.
• Hours: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, noon to midnight on Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Explore the Outdoors at Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park, nestled in the splendid Shawnee National Forest, boasts mesmerizing natural beauty. Known for large rock formations and massive sandstone structures that are over 12,000 years old, the park showcases lush ferns, 75 varieties of tall trees, and plenty of wildflower species.

Nature lovers can explore outdoor recreational activities, including camping under the stars, hiking through boulders, rock climbing, bank-fishing, and horseback riding on a 12-mile equestrian trail. Giant City State Park also features primitive and modern campsites. The park equips the sites with fire pits and picnic tables. So if you’re looking for a new adventure, pack your bags and head to Giant City State Park for a memorable experience.

• Location: 235 Giant City Road, Makanda.
• Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

And there you have it, the top five attractions to explore in Marion, Illinois, according to the team at VW of Marion. Make the most of your summer by visiting all five attractions. What are your favorite summer spots around Marion? Drop us a line, and let us know, and we may add your suggestion to our list of recommendations.

Add excitement to your summer outings by viewing VW of Marion’s new vehicle inventory or certified pre-owned vehicles. Our team is ready to help you arrive at your next summer outing prepared for action.