As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our privacy policy disclosure for more information.
Believe it or not there are many wineries in Illinois with some very nice wines to be tasted and enjoyed. A lot of the wineries have nearby shops, parks, bike trails and hiking to also be explored. And, as an added bonus, some wonderful scenery!
We’ve always enjoyed taking a day trip or a weekend outing to explore our local wineries. We have several within close distance and can be sitting down with a glass of wine within 20 minutes. We like the atmosphere and it slows us down from hectic schedules and honey-do-lists and chores around the house.
We have a nice setting to enjoy a glass in our backyard but sometimes find it hard to relax – instead start looking around and seeing something that needs to be done!
Many of these wineries are open year-round with indoor seating so you can go during the winter months. During the rest of the year and on a nice, pretty day, there is also a lot of outdoor seating with tables and chairs, fire pits, and even yard games (like Corn Hole). So, off we go to explore a winery!
The Weingarten
Belleville, IL
618-257-9463
Bella Vista Winery
Maryville, IL
618-365-6280
Hidden Lake Winery
Aviston, IL
618-228-9111
Schorr Lake Vineyards & Winery
Waterloo, IL
618-939-3174
The Pour Vineyard
Red Bud, IL
618-304-4516
Grafton Winery & Brewhaus
Grafton, IL
618-786-3001
The Winery at Aerie’s Resort
Grafton, IL
618-786-7477
Bretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery
Carlyle, IL
618-594-8830
‘
The wineries below are located on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Southern Illinois. There is a total of 11 wineries within a very close proximity of each other.
Listed are only the ones we have personally visited:
Alto Vineyards
Blue Sky Vineyard
Kite Hill Vineyards
Owl Creek Vineyard
Von Jakob Vineyard
Peachbarn Winery and Cafe (Hedman Vineyards)
I would suggest calling the wineries before striking out on an adventure. Especially these days with the stay-at-home orders still in place in certain areas. But if you get the chance to visit one of these wineries, we have found there is plenty of room for social distancing with placement of chairs and tables. And you can always take your own chairs, sit outside and enjoy some scenery and a glass or two of wine!
Many of these wineries also have lodging on-site! Live entertainment can be found at most all locations. And all the above wineries either serve food or you can bring your own picnic. What a great way to spend a night or a weekend – a cozy room, food and WINE all in one location!
Cheers!
Dixie
