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At the Center of It All...
Shopping & Dining

As home to a major university, a regional health care center and to many from the Southern Illinois professional community, Carbondale has attracted a unique blend of one-of-a-kind specialty shops and restaurants, as well as popular national chains.

In Carbondale, you can dine in style, eat foods from around the world or relax in a casual atmosphere. Carbondale has an active downtown that's attracting more dining and shopping options each year. It also has convenient shopping centers on both ends of the city. Whichever you choose, you're never too far away from stores or dining when in Carbondale.

Downtown Carbondale

In 1996, Carbondale received the coveted distinction of being named an Illinois Main Street community by the state of Illinois. Carbondale is one of 36 Illinois communities participating in this national program that promotes the traditional downtown area through historic preservation and economic development. The Carbondale Main Street organization is committed to attracting new business and customers to the downtown area.

The citizens of Carbondale are committed to making their downtown the best that it can be. Already, the area around Carbondale's Town Square has been restored. Historic buildings have been and are being returned to their original luster, and the old Illinois Central Railway freight depot has been converted into a Pavilion. The Pavilion is used for several public events including the 10-week Brown Bag Summer Concert Series.

In essence, Downtown Carbondale is a 12-block community of businesses offering specialty products and services. There are more than 180 retail stores, restaurants and professional offices ready to serve you. You will find women's clothing, shoe stores, groceries, travel agents, photo shops, florists, computer equipment, hair salons, bookstores, gift shops, outdoor recreation gear, bicycle shops, doctors, lawyers, architects and much more.

If you have a discriminating appetite, Downtown Carbondale is the place to satisfy your taste buds. More than 30 restaurants and nightclubs are scattered throughout the downtown area serving a variety of ethnic delights including American, Chinese, French, Greek, Italian, and Mexican. Some of these establishments are located in buildings that are as old as Carbondale itself.

As the center of the community, Downtown Carbondale has something to offer everyone.

Malls & Shopping Centers

On the east side of Carbondale, retail growth has been anchored by the 704,000 square foot University Mall. With major retailers including Famous Barr, JC Penney, and K's Merchandise, as well as 100 specialty shops and restaurants, it's a convenient and comfortable place to shop or dine.

Around the mall are other shopping centers and restaurants, making the area Carbondale's fastest growing retail center.

On the west side of town, Murdale Shopping Center, one of the first of its kind in America, is home to 27 specialty stores. Opened in 1958, the concept of one-stop shopping drew crowds from a four state area.

Murdale continues to be a strong and convenient retail complex for Carbondale residents.

For Fun & Attractions...
Carbondale is Second to None!

If being active is your style, then Carbondale will suit you perfectly. Outdoor recreation and activities abound in and around the city. From the natural splendors of the 273,000 acre Shawnee National Forest to the events and festivals held year round, Carbondale offers a lifetime of experiences.