A day of antiquing in Southern Illinois begins with a relaxing morning at the Davie School Inn. Enjoy the big breakfast as this day of antiquing looks to be a fun treasure-hunting adventure. Before setting out, take a short stroll through downtown Anna. The brick storefronts, historic library, and quiet streets set the tone for a day rooted in history. A stop at Kiki's Coffeehouse, Davis Pastry or any of the many boutique shops, and the town's friendly pace makes it easy to imagine the generations who once walked these same sidewalks.
From the inn. a short drive east on Highway 146 just past the Highway 51 intersection, lies Oldies But Goodies antique store. Don't let the exterior fool you, the store is full of items from the past. On more than one occasion, we have found that perfect item for the inn.
From Anna, a scenic drive east leads to the Vienna (Pronounced VI-enna) town square, where sever,al inviting antique shops cluster around the courthouse. The square feels like a step back in time, with its classic Midwestern architecture and locally owned storefronts. Inside the antique stores, visitors can browse through carefully arranged displays of vintage glassware, primitive furniture, collectible advertising signs, old books, quilts, and farmhouse decor. Each shop has its own personality—some are neatly curated with themed booths, while others offer the joy of digging through unexpected finds. The friendly shopkeepers are often eager to share stories about unique pieces and the history behind them.
Continuing the adventure, a stop at White Cotton Antique Mall offers a larger-scale browsing experience. With multiple vendors under one roof, the mall provides aisle after aisle of varied treasures. From mid-century modern furniture and retro kitchenware to Civil War-era artifacts and rustic barnwood pieces, there is something for every collector's taste. The spacious layout allows visitors to take their time, wandering slowly through booths that feel like miniature museums. It's the kind of place where you might arrive looking for one specific item and leave with something entirely unexpected.
The next leg of the trip heads north to Marion, Illinois, a city that blends modern conveniences with a strong antique scene. Marion's antique shops range from charming storefront boutiques to expansive multi-dealer malls. Here, shoppers might uncover vintage vinyl records, antique tools, estate jewelry, or beautifully refinished furniture ready for a new home. The variety makes Marion an ideal stop for both seasoned collectors and casual browsers. Between shops, there are plenty of places to grab a quick refreshment, making it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon exploring.
As the day winds down, the final antiquing stop takes place in Murphysboro, Illinois (about 30 minutes west of Marion). Known for its historic charm and welcoming downtown, Murphysboro offers additional antique stores filled with character and well-preserved relics of the past. After one last round of browsing, it's time for a well-earned dinner at 17th Street Barbecue. The aroma of slow-smoked meats and tangy sauce provides the perfect contrast to a day spent among aged wood and vintage treasures. With plates of ribs, brisket, and classic Southern sides on the table, the meal becomes a celebratory finale to a successful hunt. As evening settles in, the short drive back to the Davie School Inn offers a peaceful return. Unpacking the day's finds in a former classroom turned guest suite feels especially fitting—a full-circle end to a day devoted to preserving and appreciating the past.
