Attractions and Recreation

One of Marion's biggest assets is its proximity to numerous recreational sites. Marion is in the center of the region's paradise of natural beauty and outdoor recreation and is the gateway to the Shawnee National Forest. Nearby Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge encompasses 44,000 acres and boasts the largest man-made lake in Southern Illinois. Other nearby lakes include Devil's Kitchen, Little Grassy, Lake of Egypt, Rend Lake, Cedar Lake and Kinkaid Lake.

Two spectacular state parks are located only minutes from Marion. Ferne Clyffe State Park is a 1,000 acre park in a scenic wooded area with unique rock formations. Giant City State Park features 3,694 acres of wooded and sandstone foundations. Both parks offer an abundance of fascinating plants and wildlife.

Marion is home to Kokopelli Golf Club. This championship-level facility will challenge the most experienced golfers. Marion is also home to Shawnee Golf Course, a course rich in history and newly refurbished. Other courses nearby include Crab Orchard Golf Course, Stone Creek, The Gambit, Lake of Egypt Country Club, Franklin County Country Club, Rend Lake Golf Course, Benton Country Club and numerous other public courses.

The largest retail development in Southern Illinois, Illinois Centre mall, offers visitors such anchor stores as Sears, Target and Dillard's plus many unique specialty stores.