Just two hours southeast of St. Louis, Carbondale, Illinois, offers an unexpected but unforgettable family getaway. Outdoor adventures meet an eclectic live music scene, and cultural vibrancy blends with small-town charm.
Tucked alongside the scenic Shawnee National Forest, Carbondale is a must-visit destination for families looking to unplug, unwind, and explore.
Free Live Music
Carbondale has long been known for its artsy spirit—but it is carving out a reputation as a Southern Illinois music hub. Thanks to a trio of free outdoor concert series from spring through fall, live music is always just around the corner in this energetic college town.
“We offer free concert programming for six months out of the year, ranging from local talent to national acts,” says Dena Haun with the City of Carbondale, Illinois Tourism. “Our community is a multicultural hub, and the events we bring in reflect that. From visionary local artists and vendors to iconic food trucks, our city is fueled with good times and creative energy.”
Brown Bag Concerts: Noon–1 p.m. Wednesdays (May & June)
Brown Bag Concerts offer a perfect midday break for visitors and locals alike. Held in the historic Town Square during the lunch hour, the series features local musicians in a relaxed, inviting setting. Families and coworkers can grab takeout from nearby eateries and enjoy an alfresco concert.
Sunset Concerts: 7 p.m. Thursdays (June & July)
For a classic summer evening tradition, Sunset Concerts deliver. Now in its 46th year, this beloved Thursday night series rotates between Carbondale parks and the Southern Illinois University (SIU) campus. It welcomes a mix of regional acts, with rotating food trucks and wide-open spaces for dancing and relaxing. The series also invites guests to bring their own chairs and drinks while enjoying perfect summer evenings.
Off the Rails: 7–10 p.m. Saturdays (August–October)
Rounding out the lineup is Off the Rails, a newer fall series designed to amplify the city’s downtown entertainment and events district. Off the Rails pairs nationally touring artists with local talent. The city is currently building a permanent venue space for the series, as well as more events and festivals, to foster support for the ever-growing arts and music scene.
Biking, Kayaking & More
Beyond the stage lights, Carbondale offers access to some of the Midwest’s most awe-inspiring natural landscapes. For outdoor-loving families, it’s the gateway to unforgettable adventure.
Cedar Lake, just minutes from downtown, is a 1,750-acre reservoir surrounded by Shawnee National Forest. It features fishing, hiking, and mountain biking trails, along with a kayak launch and self-service rental system that makes getting on the water a breeze. There’s even a serene family-friendly beach to relax and recharge after a morning of paddling.
Families who prefer to stay grounded can explore Green Earth Trails, a network of trails that weave through Carbondale’s city limits—making it easy to go from forest to festival in a single afternoon. For seasoned hikers and explorers, nearby Shawnee National Forest offers miles of trails, towering rock formations, and scenic overlooks that feel worlds away from city life.
Biking is big, too. Carbondale is home to a welcoming and active biking community, with accessible trails and routes for all levels. From downtown Carbondale to Touch of Nature Mountain Bike Trails to Shawnee National Forest, guests have myriad options.
Culture & Events
Carbondale’s downtown is a lively entertainment district filled with local restaurants, bars, music venues, and family-friendly cultural events. Whether you’re sipping locally roasted coffee, browsing handmade art, or enjoying open mic nights, you’ll feel the creative energy that defines the community.
The dining scene is refreshingly local and proudly multicultural. From quirky cafés and international cuisines to Southern comfort food and sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Carbondale is also a city that celebrates the arts, hosting frequent gallery shows, community festivals, and pop-up events.
“We always like to tell people, ‘If you feel like you haven’t found your community, you’ll find one here,’” Haun says. “We are a very unique multicultural town, full of nonprofits and grassroots organizations, and a constant flow of diverse events and happenings.”
Family-Friendly Draws
For families in the St. Louis area, Carbondale offers the perfect blend of convenience and escape. It’s close enough for a weekend getaway—or even a spontaneous day trip—but far enough to feel like a true change of pace. The town is walkable, welcoming, and packed with hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered.
With its deep musical roots, expansive outdoor offerings, and community-first spirit, Carbondale is not only a stop—it’s a hub. Whether you’re watching the sunset to the sound of live music, hiking beneath the forest canopy, or enjoying a scoop of local ice cream after kayaking, the message is clear: Carbondale is where nature, music, and connection begin.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Carbondale, Illinois. Ready to plan your visit? Start your adventure at explorecarbondale.com, and see why more and more St. Louis families are calling Carbondale their new favorite escape.
