6 Fun Places to Visit in Marion, IL
Are you looking to move to Marion, IL? Marion is a growing town in Southern Illinois, right in the heart of the Shawnee Forest. Many new businesses have opened in recent years and there is even a new entertainment center planned to open in the Illinois Centre Mall. Read more about the new development here. While there is so much to explore in this trendy town, this list showcases a few of my favorite spots. If you want to move to Marion, give me a call and/or text at (773)-879-0397 so we can find your perfect new home.
Crab Orchard Refuge Center
Crab Orchard Refuge Center has plenty of trails to explore. You can also go kayaking, canoeing and fishing on the lake. Nsture enthusiasts can enjoy sight seeing native bird and butterfly species. My grandpa, who is from Chicago, enjoys driving all the way down here just to come fishing. The sunsets on this lake are remarkable and I enjoy driving down Route 13 to pass the lake everyday on my way to and from work. Learn more about Crab Orchard Lake here.
2. Marion Civic Center
This is the place for families, couples, friends or a night out to enjoy theatre, live music and more! I have small children, so I appreciate that the civic center offers shows geared for kids such as the Encanto Sing Along and Exotic Reptile Shows. The Civic Center has plenty of wonderful events to enjoy for any age. Stay tuned with their event calendar here.
Listen to Her Heart: The Tom Petty Experience at Marion Cultural & Civic Center
3. Mandala Gardens
It’s truly a treat that a place like this exists in Southern Illinois. Mandala Gardens is a sanctuary for peaceful gatherings, nature and tranquility. Anyone can come enjoy its beauty by leaving a visitor’s donation. The sanctuary is also a place where people hold get togethers, weddings and more. Every fall the Mandala Gardens partners with Union Street Arts & Project Human X Art Center for an “Art in the Garden” arts festival. Hundreds of people from counties all around visit this festival to meet artists, enjoy food trucks, live music, aerial dance and more. To keep up with their events, follow The Mandala Gardens on facebook here.
4. YummyS
Yummys is the go to place for an event space or a night out on the town. Often people say they feel like they’re having “a night in the city” after having fun at Yummy’s. You can book your own private party here such as wedding receptions, brunches, paint and sips, birthday parties and more. Yummys also holds special public events such as R&B nights and Entrepreneurs Nights. This is the place to go to if you want to go out to dance. My favorite part about this venue is that is is so spacious, so if you need a social break there are plenty of spots to chill out at. They even have games to play with friends if you’re not in a dancing mood. This place is great because there’s a vibe for everyone.Our business, Project Human X, partners with Yummys every so often for paint and sip parties. Check out Yummys’ Facebook page here.
5. Lavish Bath Box
When you walk into Lavish Bath Box, you can’t help but to take in the calming aroma of their handmade products. From soaps, bath bombs and lotions, Lavish Bath Box has much to offer if you love to smell and feel good. My favorite part of their store is their “Pop Culture” product lines. They handmade Taylor Swift “Eras” bath bombs that even come with a small pin! When I recently visited, I purchased my daughter a Hello Kitty bath bomb for her birthday. The best part was that it was made locally. If you’re grabbing coffee with a friend in downtown Marion, stop by Lavish Bath Box to see for yourself! Visit their website here.
6. Little Egypt Arts Association
The space has wonderful handmade art created by all of its members. When I visited last Monday, their current art exhibit showcased weather. I learned about the Tornado storm of 1982 that had an impact on Marion, IL. That is my favorite part about art; how educational it can be and the stories art holds. Little Egypt Arts Association even has art classes for people to join. Located on town square, you can walk over and create your own masterpieces alongside a teacher. Visit their website here.
