Nature lovers unite! The only way to improve upon a day or two spent on the Illinois wine trail is to add waterfalls to the mix! This Illinois wine trail and waterfalls day trip is chock full of adventure. Embark on a wonderful outing that’s full of refreshing beverages and breathtaking views.

You’ll never forget a day like this. Invite beauty and wonder into your life with this spectacular excursion. Check it out:

With a drive time of just an hour and 40 minutes, this amazing wine and waterfalls road trip through southern Illinois makes for the perfect day trip with your friends or loved ones. You'll get to enjoy three of the best waterfalls and two of the area's premier wineries all in one go.
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You can follow along with our itinerary as you go.
Burden Falls, Stonefort
Burden Falls, Illinois 62987, USA
Alltrails/Jeff Osia
The trip begins with a short hike. This .8-mile loop trail through the Burden Falls Wilderness near the town of Stonefort leads to a marvelous oasis that is worth the trek. This moderate hike is a hidden gem that takes you along the bluff tops for the most magnificent views. This is a great way to either start or end your day trip.
Jackson Falls, Shawnee National Forest
Jackson Falls, Illinois 62985, USA
Alltrails/Jeff Osia
Find one of the Shawnee National Forest's best waterfalls on the 3.7-mile Jackson Falls Trail. This grand rock formation is located near the town of Ozark. It is great if you love slightly rugged trails. It features bridges, lovely views, and plenty of things to climb on. Learn more about this unforgettable spot.
Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, Belknap
Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery

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Once you've thoroughly worn yourself out with the first waterfall portion of the best day trip ever, it's time to relax at your first winery. This three-in-one wine resort has been in business since 2001 and features a restaurant, overnight cabins, and a vineyard. At the restaurant, you'll enjoy salads, chicken, seafood, burgers, steak, desserts, and appetizers. The cabins have saunas and hot tubs. Learn more about all the amenities and wines at Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery.
Ferne Clyffe State Park, Goreville
Ferne Clyffe State Park, Goreville Rd, Goreville, IL, USA
Facebook/Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Along a 2.1-mile loop trail in this 2,430 acre park is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. The main part of it is 50 feet high while smaller parts of it cascade over the rocky bluffs below. Get more details about this Illinois waterfall hike.
Feather Hills Vineyard and Winery, Makanda
Feather Hills Vineyard and Winery, 410 Thorn Ln, Makanda, IL 62958, USA
Facebook/Feather Hills Vineyard and Winery
Facebook/Feather Hills Vineyard and Winery
This place has been around since 1988, and is known for its lovely views and vintage wines. Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, it is the perfect vineyard to visit to wrap up the best day trip ever. The wine is nationally recognized and comes in reds, whites, and blushes.

The tasting room is open Monday - Thursday by appointment only. On Fridays, the tasting room is open from noon to 5 p.m. It is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. To learn more, visit the vineyard's website.

If you’re looking for more day trips combining a tour of the Illinois wine trail with visits to the Prairie State’s most spectacular waterfalls, check out some of our other wine and waterfalls itineraries in Illinois.

What is your favorite winery day trip in Illinois? Would you like to take this wine and waterfalls day trip in Illinois? Share your thoughts with us below in the comments.

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wine and waterfalls day trip in Illinois

Elisa Regulski | December 28, 2019

What are the best day trips to take in Illinois?

There are so many fun and easy day trips in Illinois. Aikman Wildlife Adventure offers a full afternoon of family fun. No matter where you live in this great state, this destination is worth the journey. Drive through the park and get an up-close view of zebras, wallabies, and more. You can even visit the petting zoo and play with some of the adorable animals. Mississippi Palisades State Park is another fantastic day trip destination in Illinois. Soak up the state’s stunning nature and watch the sun set over the water. Here are more of the best day trips in Illinois.

What are the best wineries in Illinois?

There are so many gorgeous wineries in Illinois. Fergedaboutit Vineyard and Winery, located in Hanover, is such a great place to relax and unwind. The green countrysides will make you feel like you’re walking through Napa Valley. All of the wines are made from Illinois grapes, but the beverages are made in the Tuscan style. It’s easy to see why they’ve won so many awards! Their wines are superb. Berryville Vineyards, located in Claremont, is another must-visit winery in Illinois. In addition to lovely grape wine, this vineyard makes wine from raspberries, blackberries and gooseberries. Learn more about the best wineries in Illinois.

What are the best waterfalls in Illinois?

There are so many stunning waterfalls in Illinois. If you really want to see them all, embark on this waterfall road trip! This adventure will take you to Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve in South Elgin, Matthiessen State Park in North Utica, Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, and so many more astonishing places. Gather up your friends and family and enjoy the splendid sights. This is one adventure you’ll never forget.

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