Sure, it's not exactly "hidden" to us in the Tri-State, but it's certainly one of the most gorgeous places in the state of Illinois!

What is a Hidden Gem?

A "hidden gem" can mean something different to different people. Cambridge Dictionary defines a hidden gem as:

something, especially a place, that is very good, pleasant, or useful, that not a lot of people know about:

To me, a hidden gem is a place that's worth way more hype than it gets.  Usually, a hidden gem is off the beaten path, and a place that has something unique or different about it that makes it worth the visit.

The Best Hidden Gem Destination in Each State

Recently, Cheapism went state by state and named the best hidden gem destination in each state.  The list is interesting because some hidden gems were entire towns, like, for instance, Cheapism named Paducah as Kentucky's best hidden gem.  However, in Illinois, they named a place that many of us Tri-Staters like to visit, because it's not too far away, and the views are STUNNING.

The Best Hidden Gem to Visit in Illinois is Garden of the Gods

Cheapism named Garden of the Gods in Southern Illinois as the best hidden gem destination in the state, and honestly, I can see why.  If you've never been to Garden of the Gods before, it's well worth the short drive, because the views are beautiful.

Here is what Cheapism has to say about Garden of the Gods, and why they dubbed it the best hidden gem in Illinois:

While Chicago hogs attention in the Land of Lincoln, downstate Illinois is a whole different world. There you will find the massive 280,000-acre Shawnee National Forest, a stunning wilderness landscape of rolling hills and scenic bluffs. The most iconic sight within the national forest is the appropriately named Garden of the Gods Wilderness. Take in the panoramic views over sunset, then head to nearby Murphysboro for some world-class barbecue at Pat's BBQ.

 

What is There to Do at Garden of the Gods in Illinois?

The best part about Garden of the Gods is quite literally the views.  There is an Observation Trail that will wind you through natural sandstone and incredible views.

According to the Forest Service, Garden of the Gods Observation Trail will take you about an hour to walk, but honestly, it'll take longer if you want to soak in the views and take some photos.

The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

See some photos I took at my last Garden of the Gods visit below.