Location of Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, a national public research university with over 14,000 students. SIU is the largest employer in the county with over 6,000 employees.
Important crossroads of region and logistical hub. Intersection of Interstate Highways 57 and 64 with an average daily traffic count of over 37,000 vehicles.
Easy access to recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping in nearby Shawnee National Forest and Garden of the Gods Recreational Area.
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail located in the county . There are eleven wineries located along a 40 mile trail that attracts visitors from outside the region.