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My favorite things to do in my small hometown of Murphysboro, Illinois
19
items My personal favorites of things to do in my small rural town of Murphysboro, Illinois. I have lived here my entire life, so I know my way around.
Map
Sections
4
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Arts & Entertainment
My Murphysboro Photography
Outdoor Activities
Some of my favorite outdoor activities to do in Murphysboro is hike and watch the wildlife. Please here enjoy the many playgrounds, trails, fishing, and scenic parks.
This is my favorite place to go in town for a peaceful walk, taking in nature, or a relaxing kayak. There is also a small playground at the main park area.
Lake Murphysboro State Park (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
Scenic waterfalls, swimming, fishing, picnic tables. A must see if you are in the Murphysboro area. It is about a 15 minute drive from Murphysboro.
Kinkaid Lake Spillway
Riverside Park has a playground, picnic areas, a pond, a walking track, golf frisbee, a dog park, and a veterans memorial. The dog park features a small dog section and a large dog section. My favorite thing to do here is walk and enjoy nature. There...
Riverside Park - Murphysboro, IL
If you are into hiking, the little grand canyon is great. It is more difficult, especially after a rain, because things can get slippery. You should try to go on a dry day and dont go when it's raining or recently had a heavy rain. The little grand c...
Little Grand Canyon Loop Hiking Trail, Murphysboro, Illinois
Longfellow Park has things to do. There is a playground for children, a small splash park for kids in the summer, a tennis and pickleball court, and a large field.
Longfellow Park in Murphysboro | Map and Routes
Restaurants
A few of my favorite local places to eat.
My favorite locally owned pizza place in Murphysboro. I usually get the veggie pizza with free cheese sticks (use the coupon) or a salad with breadsticks on the lunch menu.
Whiffle Boy's Pizza
A nice locally owned breakfast & lunch restaurant. I love the French toast!
Faye
Locally owned Mexican restaurant. I usually get the veggie fajita.
MI PATIO MEXICAN GRILL
A locally owned ice cream shop that also now serves lunch!
Small Town Scoop - Murphysboro, IL
Arts & Entertainment
Murphysboro has a historical museum, theater, library, art, and festivals.
A museum dedicated to the life of General John A. Logan and the civil war. Admission is free but donations are accepted.
John A. Logan's Museum
This movie theater is on the National Register of Historic Places. While it is not your typical “new movie release” movie theater, the theater often hosts older movies, locally-made movies, and events.
The Historic Liberty Theater | Murphysboro Movie Theater
I love our local library. They have a good selection of books & movies. They also host plenty of activities for children & adults. Also, check out the small park area next to the library (it is called Carl Lee Park) for a pleasant little walk...
Sallie Logan Library
A 4 day festival featuring fair rides, a pageant, food & art vendors, a huge parade, and entertainment. It is a must see if you are in Murphysboro the 2nd week of September.
Murphysboro Apple Festival
A Murphysboro art fair. This art fair features local artists, music, and food vendors.
Oak Street Art Fair
Murphysboro has a big muddy monster legend. This newly built big muddy monster statue is a quick and fun photo opportunity.
Big Muddy Monster Statue
My Murphysboro Photography
I love taking photos. Here are some photos I have made available for purchase at Zazzle. These were all taken in or just right outside of Murphysboro. Since Zazzle is a print-on-demand shop, the photos can be transferred to any product you like. It c...
I took this photo of a dragonfly at Lake Murphysboro State Park.
Dragonfly Photo Print
This photo of wildflowers was taken at the Kinkaid Lake Spillway which is just right outside of Murphysboro.
White Daisy Wildflowers Poster
This beautiful lady bug was hanging out on this grass blade right in my backyard in Murphysboro.
Lady Bug Photo Print
A picture I took of the pond area at Riverside Park.
Riverside Park Murphysboro Illinois Scenic Pond Postcard