Inspiration Point is a scenic point in a local trail near Wolf Lake, IL. It is a relatively short drive from our venue, but be prepared for a twenty minute hike from the parking lot to the viewpoint. This is one of Southern Illinois' hidden gems and can be somewhat difficult to find. Feel free to ask one of the local guests to accompany you or use the following coordinates to find the parking lot!

(37.58568° N, 89.43623° W)

FUN FACT: This photo was taken the first time Jared visited Elle's hometown in October of 2021.

Voted the most hippie town in Illinois, the small town of Makanda, IL is a must see. It has a variety of stores, art galleries, and even an ice cream shop. Exploring the boardwalk is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Please do not miss out on visiting the Rainmaker's Art Studio! Dave Dardis aka “The Rainmaker” is a local metal artist who’s studio and garden is located on the Makanda Boardwalk. The sculpture garden is free to visit and open during daylight hours. He also sells his art in store, which would make the perfect gift or souvenir to bring back home from your travels.

530 Makanda Rd, Makanda, IL 62958

FUN FACT: The Rainmaker's Studio contains some of Elle's favorite sculptures. Look out for his pieces titled "The Last Supper" and "The Anthropocene".

The Potter's Shed is only a few minutes down the road from the venue. Take a drive down Milligan Hill Rd. in Alto Pass and keep an eye out to the right for the shed and purple open sign! Inside you will find a local artist's collection of pottery for sale, so be sure to bring cash with you!

Jeremy "Boo" Rochman Castle Park is a fantasy wonderland in Carbondale, IL. This is the place to explore castles, climb dragons, and awaken your inner child! It is also the perfect place to have a picnic in the grass or bring your furry friends for some time in the sun!

101 Homewood Dr #99, Carbondale, IL 62902

FUN FACT: There is a hidden trap door within the castle. See if you can find it!

The Iron Whisk is a small brunch location in Cobden, IL. It is a trendy restaurant with a tasty menu in a former auto garage. Give their seasonal cocktails and famous dutch babies a try!

200 South Front Street, Cobden IL 62920

FUN FACT: Two bridesmaids, Lily and Jenna, are former employees of this restaurant!

Visit Taqueria Pequeña, known commonly as "The Taco Shack", for some authentic Mexican food. Check out their menu here!

105 S Appleknocker Dr, Cobden, IL 62920

FUN FACT: This restaurant has been open since Elle was a small child, and she would visit often as it is a short walk from her former high school.

The restaurant at the Giant City Lodge offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. They have a full menu for each meal, but are best known for their all you can eat chicken dinner!

460 Giant City Lodge Road, Makanda, IL 62958-3218

FUN FACT: Elle worked her first serving job here with her bridesmaid, Harleigh!

The Bourbon Bar in Alto Pass is the perfect place to enjoy a few deliciously crafted cocktails during the wedding weekend. The upscale atmosphere is unparalleled to any other small town bar! During your visit, take some time to explore Alto Pass, a small town with scenic trails, bluff overlooks, and the famous Bald Knob Cross.

260 Main St, Alto Pass, IL 62905

FUN FACT: The bride and groom had their engagement party in the lower level of this bar! Also, bridesmaid Lily is currently a bartender at this establishment.

Fuzzy's Tavern is everyone's favorite local dive! The perfect place to have a drink, play some pool, or shoot some darts. Make sure to check out the beer garden in the back and order an "Appleknocker shot" at the bar to feel like a true Appleknocker during your stay!

106 N Front St, Cobden, IL 62920

FUN FACT: The groom cannot refuse a pool challenge at this bar, feel free to try! He is "undefeated".

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is composed of twelve wineries along a 40 mile trail. Each winery offers their own individual style and winemaking techniques that creates a unique experience at each location. Some of our favorites are Alto Vineyards, Blue Sky Vineyard, Owl Creek Vineyard, Peachbarn Winery, and Starview Vineyards!

much love,

the bride and groom