The Shawnee National Forest is the main draw for visitors to Carbondale, with 280,000 acres of rugged terrain offering rock climbing, rappelling, kayaking, canoeing, backpacking, and hiking. If you want a guide, Shawnee Adventure Guides in nearby Makanda leads trips throughout southern Illinois.
In town, the Buckminster Fuller Dome Home is a National Historic Landmark that draws architecture and design enthusiasts. The Woodlawn Cemetery has a strong claim to hosting the first Memorial Day observance in the country. The Southern Illinois University campus has good walking and the university's exhibitions and performances are open to the public.