The best methods we know of are as follows: If you're further away from Carbondale than Chicago or greater Cincinnati, get to one of those places, or get to St. Louis, MO, and then drive. If you have time, and are renting a car, the nicest trip to Carbondale is probably the Amtrak train from Chicago. An Amtrak train or a drive from Cincy or Chicago take 5.5 to 6 hrs. Driving from STL airport takes closer to 2. Chicagoans can fly to Marion, IL for shorter drive time. Seats going to Marion may be limited.

Yes, if you can. Or drive your own. And please reach out to us if getting a vehicle for the trip will be a challenge. Carbondale is fairly rural; a car is generally a must outside the downtown strip. (We use the term "downtown" loosely, but there are some restaurants/bars!)

Please see our travel page for hotel and AirBnB info. We plan to rent a block. That and other rate information will be added to the page. AirBnB may be a better option for those who like nature, "rustic charm", etc.