Near Giant City State Park, Makanda Inn offers a charming getaway with a fireplace in the lobby and al fresco dining at the on-site restaurant. Treat yourself to spa services or simply unwind on the terrace with free WiFi.
Stone Creek Golf Club and Resort - 9 min drive - 6.2 km
Southern Illinois University - 15 min drive - 17.4 km
Blue Sky Vineyards - 31 min drive - 19.8 km
Getting around
Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) - 35 min drive
Carbondale Station - 20 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 18 min drive
Fuzzy's Tavern - 21 min drive
The Iron Whisk Bistro & Bar - 22 min drive
Giant City Lodge & Restaurant - 11 min drive
Taqueria Pequena - 22 min drive
About this property
Makanda Inn
Makanda Inn puts you within a 10-minute drive of Giant City State Park and Stone Creek Golf Club and Resort. Guests indulge in massages, then grab a bite to eat at the coffee shop/cafe. A bar/lounge and a terrace are other highlights.
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
8 rooms
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out time is 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
DONE
Special check-in instructions
The property charges 3 percent for credit card payments
The front desk is open daily from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 6:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 21
DONE
Children
Children (13 years old and younger) not allowed
No cribs (infant beds)
DONE
Pets
Pets not allowed
Service animals welcome
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
Free WiFi in rooms
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free uncovered onsite self parking
Electric vehicle charging point on site
DONE
Other information
Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
Property amenities
Food and drink
Full breakfast (surcharge) each morning 9:00 AM–9:30 AM
Restaurant
Bar/lounge
Coffee shop
Shared microwave
Water dispenser
What to do
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horse riding nearby
Ziplining nearby
Winery tours nearby
Fishing nearby
Working away
Conference center
Services
Front desk (limited hours)
Facilities
Terrace
Fireplace in lobby
Television in common areas
Accessibility
Well-lit path to entrance
Room amenities
Be entertained
Satellite TV channels
Home comfort
Climate-controlled air conditioning and heating
Sleep well
Blackout drapes/curtains
Soundproofed rooms
Premium bedding
Pillowtop mattress
What to enjoy
In-room massage
Furnished balcony/patio
Yard
Individually decorated
Freshen up
Private bathroom
Designer toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Stay connected
Free WiFi
Food and drink
Champagne service
Free bottled water
More
Connecting/adjoining rooms available
Access via exterior corridors
Guidebooks/recommendations
Local maps
Restaurant dining guide
Special features
Dining
Makanda Inn Bar - Overlooking the garden, this bar serves dinner only. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining (weather permitting).
Fees & policies
Optional extras
Full breakfast is offered for an extra charge of approximately USD 15 per person
Credit card charges are subject to an extra charge of 3 percent
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
Reservations are required for massage services and can be made by contacting the property before arrival at the number on the booking confirmation
Policies
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
Some facilities may have restricted access. Guests can contact the property for details using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
This property does not have elevators.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector on site.
This property accepts credit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Diners Club
Also known as
Makanda Inn Cottages
Inn Cottages
Makanda Cottages
Bed & breakfast Makanda Inn & Cottages Makanda
Makanda Makanda Inn & Cottages Bed & breakfast
Bed & breakfast Makanda Inn & Cottages
Makanda Inn & Cottages Makanda
Cottages
Makanda Inn Makanda
Makanda Inn Cottages
Makanda Inn Bed & breakfast
Makanda Inn Bed & breakfast Makanda
Frequently asked questions
Are pets allowed at Makanda Inn?
Sorry, pets aren't allowed, but service animals are welcome.
Is parking offered on site at Makanda Inn?
Yes, there's free self parking. Electric vehicle charging is available.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Makanda Inn?
Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Contactless check-out is available.
What is there to do at Makanda Inn and nearby?
Have fun with nearby activities like fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Additional recreation nearby includes spelunking and hunting.
Are there restaurants at or near Makanda Inn?
Yes, Makanda Inn Bar offers alfresco dining and garden views.
Does Makanda Inn have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, every room features a furnished balcony or patio and a yard.
What's the area around Makanda Inn like?
Makanda Inn is a short 1-minute walk from Shawnee National Forest and 13 minutes' walk from Makanda Boardwalk.
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
10
Cleanliness
10
Location
10
Staff & service
10
Property conditions & facilities
Popular mentions
Breakfast
Cottage
Forests
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 25, 2025
Big thank you to the team at the cabin! Great people, great service, and great food!
Charles
Charles, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
May 20, 2025
Peaceful and relaxing.
Amy Cristine
Amy Cristine, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 4, 2024
Nothing beats the Indigo Cottage at Makanda Inn
Another amazing stay at the Indigo Cottage. Clean and beautiful as always. Only wish I could stay longer!
Ashley
Ashley, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Nov 12, 2023
The actual Inn, not the cabins, is a cute rustic lodge. The couple is super sweet and the surrounding area is amazing. They were great and everything was clean. No complaints
Kristina
Kristina, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 26, 2024
This visit was a time of reset that I needed after loosing my mom. I could not have found a better place of peace to do just that. The calm that surrounded me was nothing short of a little piece of heaven where mom has finally reached in full splendor 😇
The room was exceptional, along with the beauty of the wood working of the lodge, the patio area and wrap around porch along the wood line is beautiful. Rather your looking for a time to just be still or a couples retreat or a family getaway I highly recommend you consider Makanda Inn, you will not be disappointed ❤️
Sherry
Sherry, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 3, 2026
Friendly staff that met our needs.
Michele
Michele, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 17, 2023
I had a great stay - wonderful hosts and yummy breakfast.
Julie
Julie, 5-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jan 21, 2026
This is such a warm and inviting place to stay! The caretaker was very kind and available for any questions or needs, and made a great breakfast! It is clean and well-stocked with anything you might need. Will definitely be back!
Roxanne
Roxanne, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Apr 16, 2025
Super sweet lady owns the property. If you stay at the inn check in is only for a few hours. You will receive room and front door key since staff is not on site all day and night.
Kelci
Kelci, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 29, 2022
Very friendly staff and close to nice activities like hiking and wineries.
Fortunato
Fortunato, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 6, 2022
We had an amazing experience. The owners are wonderful, the room was great, and the town is an experience all in of its own. We will be back.
Kim
Kim, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 3, 2021
Quaint cottage in the forest!
Quaint little cottage in the forest! We really enjoyed our stay! We loved the unique look of the cottage from the living plants on the roof and adorable front door to the unique backsplash of found glass in the kitchenette The location was right in or next to Giant City State Park and we were not near many people. The shower room was nice. Things to help you prepare for your stay: you have to walk a little bit from the car to the door so just fyi, I did not have cell coverage (AT&T) but my partner did (T-Mobile), the stairs going from the bedroom to the living area/kitchen are very narrow (however, you can get there from a door to the downstairs), and there is an air conditioner in the bedroom but we brought a fan for the living/eating area. There isn't a dishwasher. I don't know if they wash the dishes in a dishwasher between guests, we just washed them with soap and a sponge but it would make me feel better if I knew they washed them in a dishwasher in between. Overall it was a great experience, and we would probably stay there again if it was less expensive (we did book last minute, so that may have made a difference).
ALISON
ALISON, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 28, 2021
Highly Recommended!!
Verified traveler
1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jun 10, 2021
Off-the-beaten-path place for a getaway
Stumbled across this place by browsing on Hotels.com and we were pleasantly surprised about our stay. Such a quaint, off-the-beaten-path place. If you are looking for peace and quiet nestled in the heart of the forest you will find it. The owners are so friendly and welcoming. You do need to plan ahead for food or snacks as it's not a regular hotel and there isn't much nearby. If you request in advance you can have breakfast - Greg made us a delicious breakfast both mornings of our stay. There is no wifi in the cottages but they do have it in the main house and the owner mentioned they are trying to get it soon. We also had no cell service so be prepared to unplug - which isn't necessarily a bad thing. It was a perfect place for a short getaway. Would definitely stay here again and highly recommend.
Julie
Julie, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
May 6, 2021
Beautiful area. Kind reception, environment friendly and respectful..relaxing..best night's sleep in a long time!
Verified traveler
1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 6, 2020
Wonderful stay at the Wakanda Inn with our very gracious hosts. Deep in the woods this lovely lodge which had all the amenities we could ask for. Took a walk to the town of Wakanda and the people there I appreciate for being a wonderful example of southern Illinois hospitality. The inn itself is in a quiet and calm area with a beautiful wooden charm that highlights the forests around. Thanks again for having us there.
BertShurt
BertShurt, 3-night trip
Verified
8/10 Very good
Aug 7, 2020
Solid Stay at the Makanda Inn
Lorraine was easy to communicate with to set up my check in time. She was entertaining another guests family who lived locally in the house for dinner when I arrived. The house was immaculate, built with natural building materials and sustainable building practices. The house was very clean and the room was adequate. I enjoyed sitting on the porch reading my book. The house is immersed in a nature setting with butterflies and wildlife all around. The breakfast in the morning was good and the hosts were nice. Overall I would recommend this place.
James
James, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 6, 2020
The Makanda Inn was wonderful. We were visiting SIU on a reminiscing vacation, and the Inn was our home away from home. The surrounding woods were very peaceful. And the Inn, beautiful.
David
David, 4-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Jul 4, 2020
My room was really beautiful. The host Lorraine is very kind & hospitable. There is a breakfast served in the morning and I had a nice balcony. Be warned, u are truly in the middle of nowhere. WiFi is almost non existent. Take a pic of the directions for wherever ur headed before u leave the room. At some point u will find urself driving w/out WiFi, therefore having no navigation.
Verified traveler
1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Mar 10, 2020
Treat yourself
Wonderful place. Nice bar, great drinks, engaging hosts. Cottage had super comfy bed and pillows, very nice shower, high end linens, and fresh coffee beans from a local roaster for the in-room grinder. Just superb service all around -- we enjoyed our stay immensely. So relaxing and serene.
Carol
Carol, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Dec 30, 2019
Quiet get-away
This unique inn and cottages deep in the quiet woods offer many pleasant surprises, from ecologically sound construction to delicious home-cooked breakfasts. The innkeepers are marvelous.
Verified traveler
2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 18, 2019
The inn is in a beautiful, quiet setting and has many unique features, including river stone showers and fresh-ground coffee for your suite upon check-in.
Hosts Lorraine and Malcolm are very charming and make you feel at home, but provide plenty of space and privacy. They also cook a delicious breakfast with locally-sourced food.
While the location is serene, it’s very close to all of the wineries on the Shawnee Wine Trail, state parks and the Shawnee National Forest, and delicious dining.
A restaurant will be opening on the lower level of the inn within a few months - excited to try it!
Susan
Susan, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Oct 6, 2019
We were so fortunate to book last minute here, they were so warm and inviting, the food was great and they had a nice beer list too, which was a great respite from the day of wine tasting. 😁
D.May
D.May, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Sep 23, 2019
Absolutely great!
Celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary here... what a charming place! Ate dinner on site and food was outstanding, local, and so fresh. Room was clean and cozy. Appreciate the eco-friendliness of this spot.
Libby P.
Libby P., 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
Aug 12, 2019
The whole experience was unique and is designed to be..but not “odd or awkwardly “ unique...it’s a wonderful place that seems out of the way but is just minutes from major highways. Hosts are welcoming and engaging.