The Historic Makanda Boardwalk Is Like Nowhere Else In Illinois
By Melissa Mahoney|Published August 11, 2021
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
The small village of Makanda, Illinois is best known as the home of Giant City State Park, but it has more to offer. Although the state park is a must-visit, so is the historic Makanda Boardwalk located downtown. Over the years, it has become a haven for artists and provides some of the most unique shops in Illinois.
Makanda's own Giant City State Park provides a beautiful backdrop to the historic Makanda Boardwalk found downtown.
The village of Makanda is home to approximately 600 residents. Its small-town feel and breathtaking natural surroundings have made it an idyllic place for many, including numerous artists, to live.
The Makanda Boardwalk provides unique shopping for all who visit. Featuring a variety of one-of-a-kind galleries and stores, the boardwalk offers a shopping experience unlike anywhere else in the state.
Makanda Trading Company features fair-trade art and gifts from all around the world. You can spend hours looking at all the fascinating rocks, minerals, artifacts, and more.
Each year, Makanda Boardwalk Events puts on its annual Spring Fest and Vulture Fest along the Boardwalk. These two events, each of which has been celebrated for over 20 years, draw visitors to the area for live music, entertainment, local vendors, artists, food, fun, and more!
Vulture Fest celebrates fall and the migration of vultures in the area and has become the town's most popular event. You can visit the Makanda Boardwalk Events Facebook page for event updates.
Have you visited the quaint and unique Makanda Boardwalk and experienced the local art and culture? Let us know in the comments! For more information, visit the Village of Makanda website and start planning your trip. To learn more about Giant City State Park, also located in Makanda, you can read this article.
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