Day Trip: Carlyle Lake (tours/attractions/lunch/winery)

Join us for a fun-filled day exploring some of Southern Illinois' most unique attractions! We'll begin with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Carlyle Lake Dam, then visit the home of the famous Ski soda, enjoy lunch at a classic drive-in restaurant, learn about the history of Illinois' largest man-made lake, take a scenic nature walk, and finish the day with wine, food, and live music.
Please note that all times are approximate and may vary slightly based on group size and travel conditions.

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## 8:30 AM – Meet at Carlyle Lake Dam Gatehouse

801 Lake Road, Carlyle, IL 62231
https://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Carlyle-Lake/
We'll meet at the gatehouse atop the Carlyle Lake Dam before our scheduled tour. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early so everyone is checked in and ready to begin promptly at 9:00 AM.

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## 9:00 AM – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Carlyle Lake Dam Tour

Our day begins with a guided tour of the Carlyle Lake Dam led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Constructed between 1958 and 1967, the dam created Illinois' largest man-made lake and serves several important purposes, including flood control, water supply, recreation, and fish and wildlife habitat.
During this approximately one-hour tour, we'll learn how the dam operates, explore portions of the control facilities, hear about the engineering behind the project, and, conditions permitting, walk the catwalk beneath the roadway for a unique view of the structure that's normally inaccessible to the public. Corps staff will also discuss the history of the lake, its role in managing the Kaskaskia River watershed, and the day-to-day operation of one of Southern Illinois' most important public works projects.
Estimated visit time: 1 hour

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## Drive to Excel Bottling Company

Distance: Approximately 17 miles
Drive Time: About 25 minutes

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## 10:30 AM – Excel Bottling Company

488 S. Broadway, Breese, IL 62230
https://www.excelbottling.com
Our next stop is the historic Excel Bottling Company, home of the legendary Ski citrus soda. Founded in 1936, Excel is one of the few remaining independent soft drink bottlers in the United States and operates Illinois' last returnable glass bottle bottling line.
Visitors can watch an informative video tour explaining the bottling process and the history of the company, browse the gift shop for Ski merchandise and memorabilia, and enjoy complimentary samples of Ski and other Excel beverages. Whether you're a longtime fan or have never tasted Ski before, this is a uniquely Southern Illinois experience.
Estimated visit time: 45–60 minutes

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## Drive to Lunch

Distance: Approximately 1 mile
Drive Time: About 3 minutes

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## 11:30 AM – Lunch at Wally's Drive-In

711 N. 4th Street, Breese, IL 62230
https://wallysdrivein.com
A Clinton County institution since 1951, Wally's Drive-In is one of the region's last surviving classic drive-in restaurants. Originally serving travelers along nearby U.S. Route 50, Wally's has become a beloved local landmark known for its burgers, fries, shakes, and nostalgic atmosphere.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch while experiencing a piece of roadside Americana that has remained largely unchanged for more than seventy years.
Estimated visit time: 45–60 minutes

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## Drive to Carlyle Lake Visitor Center

Distance: Approximately 17 miles
Drive Time: About 25 minutes

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## 12:30 PM – Carlyle Lake Visitor Center & Museum

801 Lake Road, Carlyle, IL 62231
https://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Carlyle-Lake/
Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, covering more than 26,000 acres and attracting millions of visitors annually. At the Visitor Center, we'll explore exhibits covering the construction of the lake, the area's natural history, local wildlife, recreation opportunities, and flood-control operations.
The museum provides an excellent introduction to the history and significance of one of Southern Illinois' premier outdoor destinations.
Estimated visit time: 45–60 minutes

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## Drive to General Dean Suspension Bridge

Distance: Approximately 3 miles
Drive Time: About 5 minutes

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## 2:00 PM – General Dean Suspension Bridge & Loop Trail

Dam West Recreation Area, Carlyle, IL 62231
We'll stretch our legs with an easy walk across the General Dean Suspension Bridge, one of Carlyle Lake's most recognizable landmarks. Named in honor of Major General Richard G. Dean, the pedestrian bridge spans the Kaskaskia River near the Carlyle Lake dam and offers excellent views of the river, lake, wildlife habitat, and surrounding woodlands.
We'll follow the scenic loop trail that crosses the bridge, providing plenty of opportunities for photos, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Estimated visit time: 60–75 minutes

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## Drive to Bretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery

Distance: Approximately 7 miles
Drive Time: About 10–15 minutes

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## 3:30 PM – Bretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery

15469 State Route 127, Carlyle, IL 62231
https://www.bretzwildlifelodge.net
We'll conclude our adventure at one of Southern Illinois' most distinctive destinations. Bretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery combines a winery, restaurant, entertainment venue, and wildlife-themed lodge into one unforgettable experience.
Known for its rustic Northwoods atmosphere, extensive wildlife displays, locally produced wines, and frequent live music performances, Bretz is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
This will be our longest stop of the day. Feel free to enjoy dinner, sample wines or other beverages, listen to live music, and socialize with fellow Meetup members. You're welcome to stay as long as you'd like before heading home.
Beginning around 4:30 PM, downtown Carlyle will also be hosting the Carlyle Cruise-In, featuring classic cars, hot rods, trucks, and other specialty vehicles. Anyone interested is welcome to stop by after leaving Bretz to enjoy the festivities. Please note that this is not an official part of the Meetup, and attendees who choose to visit the Cruise-In will be doing so on their own.
Estimated stay: Several hours

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## What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Camera or smartphone for photos
• Money for lunch, beverages, merchandise, and optional purchases

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## Total Driving Distance

Approximately 45 miles

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## Total Driving Time

Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes (not including stops)
We hope you'll join us for a day of local history, unique attractions, beautiful scenery, great food, and good company!