Havisham House

02/08/2025

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we know some of you are gearing up to pop the big question—and we’re already swooning. 💍✨

We can only imagine the 'ask-day' jitters—the racing heart, the deep breath before the big moment, the mix of nerves and excitement. Whether it’s an intimate proposal or a grand surprise, it’s a moment you’ll never forget!

To those prepping to get down on one knee—we’re raising a toast to you!

02/04/2025

✨ Dreaming of a destination wedding?✨

Located in the quaint town of Alto Pass, IL (population: under 400!), we offer a secluded, storybook setting for your wedding weekend. Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, with access to incredible hiking, outdoor adventures, and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, it’s the perfect mix of elegance and escape.

📍 Easier to get to than you'd expect:

St. Louis, MO – 2 hours
Nashville, TN – 3.5 hours
Indianapolis, IN – 4.5 hours
Kansas City, MO – 5 hours
Chicago, IL – 5.5 hours
With on-site accommodations, a variety of gathering spaces, and the charm of a historic estate, here your wedding can be more than a single day—it becomes an immersive experience for you and your guests. 🌿💍✨

01/31/2025

Some of our recent guests hosted a wellness retreat, and it was a beautiful reminder of how versatile our space is! ✨ Whether for a retreat, wedding, or special gathering, our grounds offer:

▪️ Multiple lodging options for a full weekend experience
▪️ Indoor & outdoor spaces to suit any event style
▪️ Manicured grounds & historic charm for a stunning backdrop
▪️ Proximity to the Shawnee National Forest for added adventure

We love seeing the creative ways our space is used!
Photo .photography

01/28/2025

We LOVE how every palette comes to life against our timeless backdrop. Whether you're drawn to light and airy tones or dark and moody vibes, our historic grounds provide the perfect canvas to frame your unique color story!

01/25/2025

One of our favorite modern amenities at the pavilion? The rolling doors! 🌿 These beauties give you the best of both worlds—an outdoor wedding vibe with the option to stay protected if the weather decides to get a little spicy.

Whether you envision an indoor ceremony, outdoor “I dos,” or a celebration that flows seamlessly between the two, the rolling doors have you covered. Plus, you can make that “let’s enjoy the sun” decision at the last minute. 🌞

Peace of mind and flexibility? Key to a smooth and unforgettable day.

01/22/2025

In celebration of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail 30th Year, we are giving away a WINE TRAIL PASSPORT for each reservation we receive in our overnight rentals, staying now until February 9, 2025. Call 618-697-7534 to book your reservation, and mention this offer. With the passport, you will receive generous discounts at our local wineries. Read more about the program at https://shawneewinetrail.com/passport-program/

Passport Program January 2, 2025 – February 28, 2025   Winter is a great time to enjoy the slower, quieter side of Illinois wine country and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail has provided you with great incentives to do so. Enjoy the excitement of visiting your favorite wineries, savoring their wines ...

01/21/2025

We know lighting sets the stage for unforgettable moments. Lighting was a key focus in creating a venue that feels both timeless and inviting. Our chandelier adds a touch of elegance, while the café lights create a cozy, inviting vibe—just right for any celebration!

01/18/2025

Winter weddings at Havisham House! We love them.
Country Roads Flowers & Gifts
Blush & Ivory Bridal Boutique
Crockette's Images - Photography
Simply Graceful Events
For Goodness Cakes
Mystify Music Service, LLC
Katt Films
Pasta + Sauce

01/17/2025

Timeless Elegance, Modern Luxury ✨

We pride ourselves on being more than a venue—we’re an experience where history and sophistication intertwine. 🌟

Our superpowers include:
🏛️ Stunning historic fixtures preserved with care.
🌿 Indoor and outdoor event options, perfect for all seasons.
🍸 Full-service, in-house bar packages.
📸 Picture-perfect moments everywhere—from our manicured grounds to the natural beauty of the nearby Shawnee National Forest.
🏠 Flexible lodging and hosting options, including the renowned Havisham Bourbon Bar just steps away.

📅 Schedule a tour and let us make your dream event a reality.

01/11/2025

Being snowed in calls for the ultimate cozy vibes: a Pinterest-worthy day of wedding planning from the comfort of your couch, wrapped in your favorite PJs, and sipping something warm.
Let the pinning begin!

01/06/2025

What a winter storm this has turned out to be! While we're grateful to be safe and cozy at Havisham House, our hearts go out to those facing the elements today. A special thank you to the incredible linemen and first responders working tirelessly to keep our communities safe and warm. 💙

Pictured here is a snowy throwback of Havisham House, a serene moment amidst the winter wonderland. Stay safe and take care during this chilly day!

01/02/2025

Escape to Southern Illinois and let Havisham House be your home base for adventure! Here are just a few of the incredible experiences waiting for you:
🍷Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Sip and savor at award-winning stops like Blue Sky Vineyard and Alto Vineyards, offering gorgeous views and unforgettable flavors.
🍯Honey Heist Mead Co.
Try bold and unique handcrafted meads in the cozy village of Cobden.
🌄Bald K**b Cross of Peace
Soak in stunning panoramic views from this iconic hilltop landmark.
🌲Zipline the Shawnee Bluff Canopy Tours
Feel the thrill as you soar through the lush Shawnee National Forest.
🍎Rendleman Orchards
Stroll through this historic farm for u-pick flower fields, seasonal offerings, sweet treats, homemade goodies, and a taste of tradition.
🍺Scratch Brewery
Experience craft beer like never before, brewed with foraged ingredients straight from the forest.
🏀Catch a Game at Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Cheer on the Salukis at Southern Illinois University and soak up the energy of a lively college town.
And that’s just the beginning! Havisham House is perfectly situated to explore everything this enchanting region has to offer—all just 2 hours from St. Louis and 3 hours from Nashville!

12/30/2024

✨ Thank you for an unforgettable 2024—Havisham style!To everyone who celebrated and gathered with us, we’re deeply grateful.
💍 Cheers to even more beautiful memories in 2025. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

12/28/2024

Spill the tea—who put a ring on it over the holidays? 🎄✨ If your answer is "me!" then congratulations! 🎉 We’re over here swooning over sparkly rings and daydreaming about your happily ever after.
PhotoFully Focused Photography

12/24/2024

Here’s to the holiday season—a time for gathering with loved ones, celebrating traditions, and creating memories to last a lifetime!

12/22/2024

Did you know the wedding arch dates back to ancient Roman times? Originally a symbol of strength and unity, the arch represents resilience—just like the foundation of a great marriage. 🌿💍

We love the beauty of history and tradition and whether it’s beneath an elegant floral arch or within the charm of our historic grounds, your ceremony will be steeped in meaning.

12/19/2024

We love to see the unique ways our couples incorporate our antique server buffet into their wedding decor. Many choose to transform it into a dessert display and we're so inspired by the creative ways they frame their sweet treats.
From decadent cakes to charming cupcake towers, this piece adds a touch of timeless beauty to every wedding.