The best bars & nightlife in Southern Illinois

8 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 8 places · showing the latest additions first

Blue Sky Vineyard anchors the eastern end of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail with Tuscan-inspired charm, award-winning Illinois wines, and…

3150 S Rocky Comfort Rd (Makanda)

Blue Sky Vineyard anchors the eastern end of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail with Tuscan-inspired charm, award-winning Illinois wines, and views of the Shawnee National Forest.

From the Southern Illinois newsletter, August 8, 2026

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Tasting Room at Walker's Bluff still has bottles ready to grab, and the estate is open for laid-back picnics and vineyard views this week,…

14250 Meridian Rd (Carterville)

Tasting Room at Walker's Bluff still has bottles ready to grab, and the estate is open for laid-back picnics and vineyard views this week, so pick your favorite and find a quiet spot. A simple, local reset that lets Southern Illinois breathe a little.

From the Southern Illinois newsletter, August 4, 2026

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Rural vineyard & winery with an on-site brewery, an American restaurant plus a 5-suite B&B.

230 IL-127 (Alto Pass)

Rural vineyard & winery with an on-site brewery, an American restaurant plus a 5-suite B&B.

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Steak, prime rib, seafood & other American classics in a refined setting with a garden-style patio.

501 E Walnut St (Carbondale)

Steak, prime rib, seafood & other American classics in a refined setting with a garden-style patio.

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Laid-back hangout providing a rotating craft-beer selection, plus locally sourced American grub.

717 S University Ave (Carbondale)

Laid-back hangout providing a rotating craft-beer selection, plus locally sourced American grub.

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Hangar 9

Nightlife

Hip hangout offering craft beer, live music, karaoke & cocktails in a spacious venue with a patio.

511 S Illinois Ave (Carbondale)

Hip hangout offering craft beer, live music, karaoke & cocktails in a spacious venue with a patio.

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Casual eatery and bar serving burgers and wings, as well as beer and whiskey (300-plus varieties).

213 E Main St (Carbondale)

Casual eatery and bar serving burgers and wings, as well as beer and whiskey (300-plus varieties).

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Brewpub offering its own beer, including seasonal options, in a relaxed setting.

12 N 13th St (Murphysboro)

Brewpub offering its own beer, including seasonal options, in a relaxed setting.

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