With leaves changing colors and pleasant temperatures, exploring the beauty of Pope County in southeastern Illinois makes for a fun fall getaway. In the county seat of Golconda, the historic buildings give off an enchanting vibe.
“Take a walk down Main Street and you feel like you could be walking in an old Western or an old-time movie,” says Cathy Stapleton, Main Street Golconda office manager. “There are so many things to do in town that we started a community calendar for locals to see what is going on in town and surrounding towns. Pope County has so much beauty to offer.”
When you spend the weekend in Golconda and the surrounding areas, you are immersed in the quaint town and stunning nature. Enjoy being on the riverbank with the cool, autumn air, breathtaking leaves and starry skies, while you experience the small-town charm.
1. Stroll Down Main Street
Main Street Golconda in the Historic District has a rich past and unique treasures. Lined with 19th-century architectural features, the street brings you back to a simpler time. The Pope County Courthouse has withstood history since the 1870s, and a monument sitting on its lawn honors Sarah Lusk, the pioneer woman who founded the town. In fact, Golconda was first called Sarahsville.
If you want to dive deeper, visit the Pope County Historical Society Museum roughly a block away to learn more about the area’s history. And if you time your visit right, you can be among the thousands who attend the Golconda Shrimp Festival, featuring live music, vendors and, of course, plenty of shrimp dishes. Celebrating local freshwater shrimp farming and raising funds for Main Street Golconda, the 25th annual event takes place downtown on Sept. 19.
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2. Fall in Love With Nature
The picturesque nature spots in Pope County are plentiful, including the additions of War Bluff Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve. Both dazzle with their scenic canyons and expansive forests while also protecting rare species of plants and animals. The state-threatened timber rattlesnake can be encountered in both areas, though preferably from a safe distance.
Just 30 minutes outside of Golconda is the stunning Garden of the Gods Recreation Area. Here you can hike along the Observation Trail to see extraordinary views of sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the beautiful landscape. This is the perfect place to see the brilliant hues of the fall leaves.
Bask in the great outdoors when hiking in the Shawnee National Forest. Burden Falls Wilderness Area is a hidden gem full of waterfalls, trails, camping, hunting, vibrant fall foliage and more, including one of the highest waterfalls in Illinois.
3. Catch River Views
Golconda Marina is known as “an oasis on the Ohio,” offering boating, kayaking and slip rentals for water-sport activities. If the weather gets too cold, park there for free and watch the sunset over the glittering water. The marina opens to Smithland Pool, consisting of more than 27,000 acres of fishing for anyone wanting a record catch.
If you just want to get outside for a little air and a cute picnic, head out to James E. Roper Memorial Bridge. The small park offers a dirt road to make a larger loop and enjoy the sound of the water as you look out from the bridge. There are grassy areas on either side to lay out a blanket and enjoy a picnic.
4. Listen to Historical Tales
Historic sites, including the John Thomas Davidson Cabin and the Buel House, take visitors back in time. The cabin’s logs and stones are original to the building, and the Buel House also has original structural elements dating back to 1840. The historic sites in Golconda are significant to the Cherokee Trail of Tears, as there are indications the Cherokee stopped here.
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5. Stay Inside History
Dams were constructed along the Ohio River in the early 20th century to control flooding and navigation, and operating crews needed housing. The Dam 51 homes were built in 1928 to house the crews and have since been restored as restful havens. If you are still looking for somewhere to stay or just want to get a look at local history, these beautiful Airbnb homes overlooking the river may be exactly what you need.
For a weekend trip, book at the Riverview Mansion Hotel, a boutique hotel from the Riverboat Era. Its eccentric vibe and authentic furnishings are perfect for a fun getaway along the Ohio River Scenic Byway. The hotel features the Levee Lounge and the Fork N’ Cork Bistro, both intended to help visitors relax during their stay. The bistro features local delicious cuisine while the lounge serves wine from southern Illinois wineries.
6. Sip at Sunset
If you want to visit a winery, head into the rolling hills to Hogg Hollow Winery. The small, family-owned and -operated winery offers handcrafted wines with local ingredients. You can walk through the heirloom garden, soak up vineyard views and enjoy wine on the patio during sunset. And if you want handmade chocolates and treats, head over to the Chocolate Factory Inc. to indulge a little.
For more information and additional travel suggestions, visit mainstreetgolconda.org.
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