Gay Shawnee National Forest

Explore the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, featuring 11 award-winning wineries along a scenic 35-mile drive through the Shawnee National Forest. Enjoy picnics, hiking, shopping, and cozy stays in B&Bs or cabins, with special events throughout the year and a winter passport program offering incentives to visit in January and February.

Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour features eight thrilling zip lines, including one over 1,100 feet long, crossing bluffs and valleys. The tour includes 11 tree-top platforms, three aerial suspension bridges, and two short hikes. It’s an exciting and safe way to explore the area's natural beauty and get an adrenalin boost.

Scratch Brewing Company is a unique, farmhouse-style brewery located in Ava, Illinois, known for its innovative use of foraged ingredients. Situated in the forests of southern Illinois, Scratch Brewing creates beer with locally sourced ingredients like roots, flowers, tree bark, herbs, and fruits, which are often foraged directly from the surrounding land. Their approach to brewing emphasizes the connection between beer and the natural environment, offering a range of distinct and earthy flavors. Scratch Brewing’s taproom also features a rustic, cozy atmosphere, making it a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts looking for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Open at weekends.