SOUTHERN ILLINOIS – Discover Downstate Illinois has partnered with six other local tourism bureaus to promote independent coffee shops in Southern Illinois.

The Southern Illinois Coffee Trail began Sept. 1 and features over 50 independent shops throughout 28 counties in Southern Illinois and spans 450 miles. Participants can pick up a free passport at any participating coffee shops or download the Discover Downstate Illinois app. Those who participate will receive exclusive deals and discounts at each shop, and if they visit eight, they will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win merchandise from the businesses on the trail. The trail will run until the end of the year to give participants enough time to explore the coverage area.

“Last year, the Coffee Trail was such a success that we decided to make it bigger and better this year. We decided to partner with the following Convention and Visitors Bureaus to create a more inclusive Southern Illinois Coffee Trail: Explore Mattoon, Lake Shelbyville, Enjoy Mt. Vernon, Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau, Visit Effingham, and visitSI,” explains Emily Titsworth, Content Creator at Discover Downstate Illinois. “We really hope that this trail encourages people to branch out and explore parts of Southern Illinois that they otherwise wouldn’t.”

Participants can keep track of their progress one of two ways: through the Discover Downstate app or with a passport book that is available for pick up at any of the participating locations. The app makes it easy to check into each location and can even map out the route to take participants to their next stop.

“visitSI believes that a win for Southern Illinois is a win for Williamson County, and who doesn’t want to taste all the local flavors?” states Ashlee Spiller, Executive Director at visitSI. “By showcasing the coffee shops of the entire region, we can offer visitors a fun road trip experience, while satisfying their love for caffeine. Win-win!”

To learn more about the Southern Illinois Coffee Trail and participating shops, visit https://www.downstateil.org/Dine/coffee-trail.