Visit Carbondale

Welcome to Carbondale, Illinois! This awesome city down in southern Illinois is famous for Southern Illinois University (SIU), our beautiful university that brings a vibrant and diverse community to our doorstep. Carbondale sits pretty in the beautiful Shawnee Hills region, giving us breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. With around 26,000 residents, we’ve got a tight-knit community that’s all about living life to the fullest. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or just soaking up the fall colors, our location has got you covered.

We’re not just about nature though—our downtown area is packed with historic charm, local shops, and plenty of places to grab a bite or catch some live music. Plus, we’ve got loads of cultural events happening year-round, from parades to concerts. So, come on down and experience the magic of Carbondale for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

And while you’re here… You should visit our Southern Illinois University campus.

In-person campus visits are now open! On-campus visits are now available Monday through Friday and select Saturdays. Register online through the SIU Undergraduate Admission’s Campus Visit Registration Portal and to see what SIU can do for you!

SIU Undergraduate Admissions
SIU's Touch of Nature 2024 Eclipse Packages
DuQuoin State Fair Campgrounds

Carbondale Area Lodging

When it comes to lodging options around Carbondale, Illinois, you’ll find a variety of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Here are some options:

Residence Hall

Stay on campus for the Eclipse! University Hall has a 5-day/4-night option to stay on campus in the middle of all the action. Within walking distance of campus Eclipse events, University Hall is the perfect location to stay. Check out our virtual tour of University Hall and visit SIU Housing Portal for pricing, information and to make your reservation.

Eclipse Festival Residence Hall Room Reservation

5 days / 4 Nights @ $750 (plus tax) – Friday, April 5 through Tuesday, April 9                                                                                                 Maximum of 3 people per room (including children)                                                                                                                                             1 person per room must be 18 years of age.                                                                                                                                                          Meals may be purchased at the door of Trueblood Dining Hall for around $12.50 per meal.                                                                   Parking pass available for $25/vehicle for the entire stay for lots by University Hall.
Package Price: $795.00 (room plus tax – parking at an additional cost)
Make Your Reservation

For any additional questions about staying at University Hall, check out our FAQ section!

Eclipse Festival Parking

Friday, April 5 through Tuesday, April 9
Package Price: $25.00

Hotels

Carbondale has several hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to upscale accommodations. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, amenities like Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and sometimes on-site dining. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Holiday Inn, Comfort Inn, Best Western, and Hampton Inn. Many hotels have special rates the weekend before and day of the Eclipse, please call the hotel if reservations aren’t available online. A lot of special rates aren’t available to be reserved online.

There are also great hotel options outside of Carbondale. For a listing of hotel options in Southern Illinois, please visit SouthernMostIllinois.

Bed & Breakfasts

If you prefer a cozier and more intimate atmosphere, you can consider staying at a bed and breakfast in or around Carbondale. These charming establishments often offer unique rooms, personalized service, and a home-like ambiance. They are great for travelers seeking a more personalized experience.

For a listing of bed and breakfasts in Southern Illinois, please visit SouthernMostIllinois.

Vacation Rentals

Another option to consider is vacation rentals, which can be found in and around Carbondale. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO list a variety of rental properties, including apartments, houses, and cottages. Vacation rentals provide more space and privacy and can be an excellent choice for families or groups.

Campgrounds

If you enjoy camping and the great outdoors, there are campgrounds available near Carbondale. Evergreen Park, Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park and Crab Orchard Refuge offer camping facilities with scenic surroundings. These campgrounds typically provide spaces for tents and RVs, along with amenities like picnic areas, showers, and hiking trails. Many campgrounds have specific dates and timeframes for which they open reservations and many do not open reservations for April until January 1, 2024. Giant City State Park opens up their reservations for dates 180 days prior to arrival (early October).

We also have the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center available for camping as well. Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, our center offers a unique and immersive outdoor educational experience like no other.

There are also affordable camping options available within the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds. They offer over 1,000 sites with water and electric hookup and access to paved bike paths.

For a full list of IDNR campgrounds in the path of totality to stay, please visit IDNR – Path with Parks.

Extended Stay Options

For visitors planning a longer stay in Carbondale, extended stay hotels or corporate housing options can be a good choice. These accommodations are designed for more extended periods and offer amenities such as kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and separate living areas.

Whatever your preference, Carbondale offers a range of lodging choices to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Book your stay now and experience the warmth and hospitality of Carbondale!
Campgrounds
Explore Shawnee Forest Country

Residence Hall FAQs

For those looking to stay at University Hall, please see these frequently asked questions for more information!

Are the rooms private?

Rooms are private. A room will offer two twin beds and include linens, two sheets, pillow, pillowcase and blankets. Guests may provide their own inflatable mattresses and sleeping bags for a maximum of three people per room, including children. Extra and rollaway beds will not be available, and at least one person per room must be at least 18 years old.

Are the bathrooms private?

University Hall bathrooms are community-style with private showers and toilet stalls within each bathroom and will include towels and washcloths for two people and extras for up to three people if needed.

Is the floor completely Eclipse visitors?

Yes! Only Eclipse visitors are staying in University Hall.

What is the address of University Hall?

The address of University Hall is 1101 S. Wall Street, Carbondale, IL 62901.

How does parking work for University Hall?

Parking passes are available for $25/vehicle for the entire stay for Lots 80 and 106 by University Hall. These passes can be purchased with the room reservation.