tourist attractions in marion illinois

Top Things to Do in Marion, IL

Places to visit in marion.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Williamson County Historical Museum and Library

2. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

3. Rent One Park

4. Mandala Gardens

5. Marion Carnegie Library

6. Marion Antique Mall

7. Target Store Marion

8. Warehouse Antique Mall

9. Kokopelli Golf Club

10. The HUB Recreation Center

11. Loyd's Antiques & Treasures on Market

12. southern illinois raceway, 13. loyd's antiques & treasures on market st, 14. full house slots, 15. little egypt arts association, 16. ashley park, 17. marion park district, 18. marion park district - the bark park.

19. Ray Fosse Park

20. John Brown's on the Square

21. Pyramid Acres

22. Goofy Golf

23. Magnus Fear

24. emery bros skating rink.

25. Log Cabin Tavern

26. AMC Centre 8

27. McKinney's Western Store

28. Tombstone Gun Range and Training Center

29. Aspire Yoga

30. sara mccurdy licensed massage therapist, what travellers are saying.

• Last Updated On
• September 27, 2023

10 Best Things to Do in Marion, IL — Top Activities & Places to Go!

Marion is not just a stop on the map.

It’s a bona fide adventure playground right here in Southern Illinois.

Having explored every nook and cranny of Illinois as a local, I can’t wait to share with you the best things to do in Marion. 

Sure, it’s got shopping and dining spots that will make your taste buds dance.

But let’s go beyond the obvious.

We’re talking jaw-dropping natural beauty, culture-rich museums, and parks that are nothing short of splendid. 

If there’s anything, boredom’s not in the vocabulary when you’re hanging out in Marion. 

So, buckle up, and let’s hit the road.

In this article, discover the world of fun waiting for you and your family in Marion.

Best Things To Do In Marion Compared

I stumbled upon some hidden gems in Marion that will make your family trip extra memorable. 

From historic sites to outdoor adventures, these top picks have you covered.

Editor’s Choice

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a 43,890-acre nature preserve in southwestern Williamson County.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Affordability: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Williamson County Historical Museum and Library

The Williamson County Historical Museum and Library is a small local museum that focuses on artifacts and records of the city’s past.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Mandala Gardens

The Mandala Gardens is a 7-acre urban farm and sanctuary that is famous in Southern Illinois.

• Accessibility: 3/5
• Educational Value: 3/5

Here are the top 10 things to do in Marion.

1. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge (Editor’s Choice)

6987 Headquarters Road Marion, IL 62959 (618) 997-3344 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Scenic beauty: The refuge offers stunning natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and wetlands, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
• Wildlife viewing: Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, waterfowl, and deer, providing an educational and immersive experience.
• Seasonal limitations: Some activities may be seasonal, and the refuge can be less enjoyable during extreme weather conditions.
• Limited amenities: While it offers natural beauty, amenities like restaurants and shops are limited within the refuge, so it’s advisable to bring your supplies.

Why You Should Go

Beautiful rural landscapes offer endless opportunities for photography and other outdoor activities, like hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, and more.

Bring your binoculars with you during your hike so that you can see different bird species.

Catching a glimpse of bald eagles is among the top things to do in Marion with kids who adore nature and animals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Marion Hotel

2. Williamson County Historical Museum and Library

105 S Van Buren Street Marion, IL 62959 (618) 997-5863 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Rich history: The museum and library provide a deep dive into the history of Williamson County, making it a great choice for history buffs and those interested in local heritage.
• Educational value: It offers a wealth of information and exhibits that can be both entertaining and informative for visitors of all ages.
• Limited interactivity: Some visitors may find the museum’s exhibits lacking hands-on or interactive elements, which could be more engaging for younger travelers.
• Size: It’s not a large museum, so those expecting an extensive collection might find it relatively small compared to larger city museums.

An easy and fun way to learn about life in Williamson County in the past is to explore the 17 exhibits in the museum that are designed to look like different period rooms.

The library is also perfect for visitors who love checking out local genealogy information.

Check out each room in the museum to see an old schoolroom, a general store, a living room, and bedrooms outfitted with vintage furniture and decor.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Marion Northeast, an IHG Hotel

3. Mandala Gardens

1704 N State Street Marion, IL 62959 (618) 889- 9228 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Peaceful atmosphere: Mandala Gardens provide a serene and calming environment, perfect for those seeking relaxation and a break from the hustle and bustle.
• Beautiful landscaping: The gardens are meticulously designed with various plants and sculptures, making them a visually pleasing destination for art and nature lovers.
• Limited activities: If you’re looking for action-packed adventures, Mandala Gardens may offer little in terms of active pursuits.
• Seasonal variations: The gardens’ appeal may vary depending on the season, with some periods being more vibrant and colorful than others.

The gardens are one of the nice places to visit in Marion if you’re after a lovely, relaxing location for your date.

The expansive grounds, well-designed mandalas, and colorful flowers make the gardens a romantic and picturesque getaway.

Take a leisurely stroll in the gardens and along the lake.

Discovering the different mandalas in the park is also a fun choice for romantic things to do in Marion for couples.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn Marion

4. Marion Carnegie Library

206 S Market Street Marion, IL 62959 (618) 993-5935 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Marion Carnegie Library is the city’s public library located downtown.

The 12,000-square-foot public library is home to many kinds of books for all ages.

Reading a few books is a great way to pass the time leisurely during your trip.

Browse through the many shelves of the library and find a corner.

Reading a book for a few hours is a relaxing pick for indoor stuff to do when it’s raining or cold.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Marion

5. Warehouse Antique Mall

600 N Van Buren Street Marion, IL 62959 (618) 997-7810 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Warehouse Antique Mall is an 11,000-square-foot retail complex made up of different booths housed in a warehouse.

Thanks to its many one-of-a-kind vintage wares, this massive mall wouldn’t ever be short of unique things to see in Marion.

From 100-year-old children’s toys and figurines to decadent bar carts and sturdy shelves, you’ll find them all here.

Check out as many booths as you can before buying.

Hunting for the best antique finds is among the cheap activities to do near you that are sure to make your trip to Marion unforgettable.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Marion, IL

Related: Best Restaurants in Marion

6. Marion Antique Mall

503 N Madison Street Marion, IL 62959 (618) 993-0020 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Marion Antique Mall is a warehouse that houses different vintage jewelry and home decor.

It is just a street away from the Warehouse Antique Mall.

Another must for downtown spots to visit is this other warehouse complex because of its expansive collection of vintage European furniture, rustic home decor, and unique art pieces.

For lovers of antique stuff, this mall and the other warehouse are just some of the fantastic places to go today when in the city.

It’s easy to get distracted by the many one-of-a-kind pieces you see.

Mark the place where you found something you like so it’s easy to come back later.

Also See: Fun Things to Do in Champaign, Illinois Morris, Illinois Things to Do

7. Pyramid Park

1421 Pharaohs Way Marion, IL 62959 (618) 993-3940 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Pyramid Park is a community green space known for its expansive grounds and well-maintained amenities.

This community park is a great location for fun, free things to do in Marion because it has top-rate playgrounds, picnic areas, and fields.

It even has a golf course and skate park if you’re feeling sporty during the day.

Stay a while in the park and wait for the sunset.

The orange hue of the sky is one of the sights to see this weekend that you fully appreciate from this park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Marion I-57

8. Rent One Park

1000 Miners Drive Marion, IL 62959 (618) 998-8499 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Rent One Park is a 7,000-seater baseball stadium that is home to the Southern Illinois Miners.

When it comes to cool attractions in Marion for sports lovers, this stadium is definitely a top choice.

Regular baseball games happen here, so it’s not hard to watch the Southern Illinois Miners during your trip.

Besides baseball, watch other events that are hosted in the stadium.

You can catch high school games and even live concerts depending on when you’re in the city.

Also See: Things to Do in Pontiac, IL Arcola, IL Things to Do Fun Things to Do in O’Fallon, Illinois

9. Marion Park District Aquatic Center

500 E Deyoung Street Marion, IL 62959 (618) 997-1115 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Marion Park District Pool is a public swimming pool facility inside Ray Fosse Park.

Splashing around inside the huge pool is one of the fun things to do in Marion and an excellent way to cool down on a hot day.

The outdoor swimming pool has a separate area for casual swimmers and those who want to do some laps.

Go here with your friends and do swim relays in the lap pool.

This part is wide enough for groups of people to race each other.

10. AMC Centre 8

3107 Civic Circle Boulevard Marion, IL 62959 (618) 993-5102 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The AMC Classic Illinois Centre 8 is a local movie theater that shows the latest films to watch.

Watching the current box office hits from this cozy theater is always on the list of favorite things to do in Marion at night.

After all, what can beat a night in front of the big screen while munching on popcorn and sipping soda, right?

Watch a movie in this theater’s RealD 3D cinema for a more immersive experience.

Catching 3D movies are definitely up the list of the best things to do in Marion, IL, especially if you’re an avid film fan.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Marion

Also See: What to Do in Effingham Things to Do in Mt Vernon

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

Marion has a lot of fun and meaningful things in store for visitors like you and me.

Let’s talk about my three favorite spots in town.

Hiking boots on and binoculars in hand, my family and I stepped into Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. 

Birdsong greeted us like an old friend, and we lost count of the deer prancing through the woods. 

Spoiler: If you’re a nature buff, this is your jam.

The next stop is the Williamson County Historical Museum and Library. 

Picture walking through a time machine. 

The kids stared at vintage trinkets, puzzled but intrigued. 

I found myself captivated by the old maps—talk about a trip down memory lane. 

This place is a win for the history nerds among us.

Then, we stumbled on Mandala Gardens, a gem hidden away from Marion’s hustle and bustle. 

Zen is the word here—koi ponds, gazebos, you name it.

My youngest found a newfound fascination with stone sculptures.

So, how do they stack up? 

Crab Orchard feels like an outdoor classroom, teaming with life.

Williamson County Museum is a nostalgia trip that will make you appreciate the now.

Mandala Gardens, however, gives you that pause, a break from the digital world. 

They all offer their own magic, so pick based on what your soul craves that day. 

You can’t go wrong.

How I Picked The Activities

I get it—vacation planning can be overwhelming. 

But don’t worry because I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. 

Living in the state and being an adventure junkie myself, I’ve personally experienced these activities. 

I’ve also done my homework, chatting with locals and fellow travelers to ensure you get the real deal. 

My hands-on analysis confirms that these picks are golden, no need to doubt.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is marion, il, worth visiting.

Marion, IL, is worth visiting for its charming small-town atmosphere and proximity to exciting outdoor adventures. Its welcoming community and access to Shawnee National Forest offer a great escape for families looking to explore nature or simply unwind in a peaceful setting.

What Are Some Family-Friendly Activities In Marion?

Marion offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Explore the beauty of nature at Pyramid State Park, where you can hike, fish, and enjoy picnics, or visit the Marion Carnegie Library for engaging children’s programs and a cozy reading corner. Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Williamson County Fair for exciting rides and delicious fair food, making it a great destination for families in the area.

Are There Any Outdoor Activities In Marion?

Marion offers a range of outdoor activities for families. You can explore the beautiful Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, go hiking and picnicking at the Giant City State Park, or enjoy boating and fishing at the nearby Rend Lake.

Are There Any Historical Sites To Explore In Marion?

Marion boasts several captivating historical sites waiting to be explored. One of the highlights is the Marion Carnegie Library, a century-old architectural gem offering a glimpse into the town’s past. Additionally, history enthusiasts can visit the Williamson County Historical Society and Museum, housing a treasure trove of artifacts and stories from the region’s rich heritage.

Conclusion 

We’ve toured Marion together and soaked up everything, from hidden gems to local favorites. 

If you’re like me and love a mix of adventure, history, and chill vibes, Marion’s your playground. 

While each spot on the list brings its own charm, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge steals the show. 

Trust me, there’s nothing like seeing your kids wide-eyed at the sight of migratory birds or laughing as they spot a deer peeking through the trees. 

Hands down, it tops my list of the best things to do in Marion.

So, pack your bags and maybe some trail mix—your next adventure awaits in Marion. 

No matter what you pick, you’re in for a treat that will make your Instagram followers jealous and your family scrapbook a page-turner.

Top Things to Do in Marion, IL - Marion Must-See Attractions

Things to do in marion.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Williamson County Historical Museum and Library

2. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

3. Rent One Park

4. Mandala Gardens

5. Marion Carnegie Library

6. Marion Antique Mall

7. Target Store Marion

8. Warehouse Antique Mall

9. Kokopelli Golf Club

10. The HUB Recreation Center

11. Loyd's Antiques & Treasures on Market

12. southern illinois raceway, 13. loyd's antiques & treasures on market st, 14. full house slots, 15. little egypt arts association, 16. ashley park, 17. marion park district, 18. marion park district - the bark park.

19. Ray Fosse Park

20. John Brown's on the Square

21. Pyramid Acres

22. Goofy Golf

23. Magnus Fear

24. emery bros skating rink.

25. Log Cabin Tavern

26. AMC Centre 8

27. McKinney's Western Store

28. Tombstone Gun Range and Training Center

29. Aspire Yoga

30. sara mccurdy licensed massage therapist, what travellers are saying.

THE BEST Marion Sights & Historical Landmarks

Marion landmarks.

• Arenas & Stadiums
• Auto Race Tracks
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Rent One Park

2. Southern Illinois Raceway

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Marion

Things to do in marion.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Williamson County Historical Museum and Library

2. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

3. Rent One Park

4. Mandala Gardens

5. Marion Carnegie Library

6. Marion Antique Mall

7. Target Store Marion

8. Warehouse Antique Mall

9. Kokopelli Golf Club

10. The HUB Recreation Center

11. Loyd's Antiques & Treasures on Market

12. southern illinois raceway, 13. loyd's antiques & treasures on market st, 14. full house slots, 15. little egypt arts association, 16. ashley park, 17. marion park district, 18. marion park district - the bark park.

19. Ray Fosse Park

20. John Brown's on the Square

21. Pyramid Acres

22. Goofy Golf

23. Magnus Fear

24. emery bros skating rink.

25. Log Cabin Tavern

26. AMC Centre 8

27. McKinney's Western Store

28. Tombstone Gun Range and Training Center

29. Aspire Yoga

30. sara mccurdy licensed massage therapist, what travellers are saying.

• Rainy Day Activities

Indoor Activities in Marion, IL

• TripBuzz found 21 things to do indoors in the Marion area. From Marion Public Library & Museum to AMC Centre 8, Marion offers a variety of rainy day activities and other fun things to do indoors — including 13 indoor attractions with ratings over 90%.
• There are 17 different types of things to do inside in or near Marion, Illinois. Some of the most popular types of these activities include: Family Fun Center, Movie Theaters, History Museums and Libraries.
• There are 4 indoor activities in Marion, and 17 indoor attractions in nearby cities within 25 miles, including: Carbondale, Cobden and Makanda and Carbondale, Cobden and Makanda.

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Marion public library & museum, amc centre 8, pirate pete's family entertainment center, williamson co historical society museum, honker hill winery, monte alegre vineyard & cellars, amc university place 8, amc showplace carbondale 8, science center of southern illinois, science center the.

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Parks and tourist attractions to consider in the Marion, Illinois area are listed below. Click on the name of any sightseeing attraction or park for more information.

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Search marion (includes harrisburg) attractions, 380 attraction result s, more info 1102 rondevous day spa.

• 1102 E 5th St, Metropolis
• 618-524-8696

More Info Official Website 17th Street Bar & Grill

• 2700 17th St, Marion
• 618-998-1114

More Info A Touch of Paradise

• 1809 Walnut St, Murphysboro
• 618-565-2550

More Info African Amrc Mseum Sthern III

• 1237 E Main St, Carbondale
• 618-457-2217

More Info Official Website African-American Museum of Southern Illinois

• University Mall, Carbondale

More Info All Sk8

• 1645 S Washington St, Du Quoin
• 618-542-5634

More Info Official Website Amber's Gift's & More

• 290 Nimmo Rd, Dongola
• 618-614-0421

More Info American Fluorite Museum

• RR 1 Box 11, Elizabethtown
• 618-285-3513

More Info Andy's Country Club

• 1602 Old Creal Springs Rd, Marion
• 618-997-6989

More Info Annie-Em's Antiques & Gifts

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• 573-335-2591
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Top Things to Do in Marion, IL - Marion Must-See Attractions

Things to do in marion.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Williamson County Historical Museum and Library

2. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

3. Rent One Park

4. Mandala Gardens

5. Marion Carnegie Library

6. Marion Antique Mall

7. Target Store Marion

8. Warehouse Antique Mall

9. Kokopelli Golf Club

10. The HUB Recreation Center

11. Loyd's Antiques & Treasures on Market

12. southern illinois raceway, 13. loyd's antiques & treasures on market st, 14. full house slots, 15. little egypt arts association, 16. ashley park, 17. marion park district, 18. marion park district - the bark park.

19. Ray Fosse Park

20. John Brown's on the Square

21. Pyramid Acres

22. Goofy Golf

23. Magnus Fear

24. emery bros skating rink.

25. Log Cabin Tavern

26. AMC Centre 8

27. McKinney's Western Store

28. Tombstone Gun Range and Training Center

29. Aspire Yoga

30. sara mccurdy licensed massage therapist, what travellers are saying.