A landmark in downtown Marion has begun a new chapter as Downtown Marion Suites, a two-unit vacation rental above Seasonings Bistro on the Marion Tower Square Plaza. The restored building now offers visitors a place to stay in the heart of the city, combining modern amenities with connections to the property’s past.
Key takeaways
- Downtown Marion Suites occupies one of the city’s oldest downtown buildings.
- The property includes two private, self-contained suites.
- Each suite has multiple bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchen.
- The restoration is designed to attract visitors to Marion’s restaurants, attractions and historic square.
From deteriorated property to destination
Steve Fowler purchased the space about six years ago, when the building was in poor condition and faced an uncertain future. Rather than allow it to deteriorate further, Fowler and his team undertook an extensive restoration.
The completed project preserves the building’s character while adapting it for short-term lodging. The result is a downtown accommodation intended to feel more personal and independent than a traditional hotel room.
Two suites with distinct identities
The rental consists of two private suites, each designed as a self-contained living space. Guests have access to several bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchen, making the units suitable for families, groups and longer weekend stays.
The suites’ names and themes draw on the building’s history. Research into the property revealed ties to earlier owners, including the Goddard family, while another suite references a colorful chapter of southern Illinois history involving Charlie Birger’s gang and a former hangout in the area. Those stories are reflected in the spaces’ design details.
A base for exploring southern Illinois
Allison Waller, founder of Southern Illinois Vacation Rentals, manages the property. She said the goal is to give visitors a distinctive place to stay while introducing them to Marion and the broader region.
The suites are located near Seasonings Bistro and within walking distance of the downtown square. Nearby attractions include restaurants, the Vault Cafe and Little Nashville, as well as entertainment destinations such as the Marion Cultural and Civic Center. Guests can also reach regional outdoor attractions, including Rend Lake and Shawnee National Forest, by car.
Supporting downtown Marion
The new lodging option comes as Marion continues to promote its square as a destination for dining, shopping and entertainment. By placing overnight accommodations directly in the downtown district, the project could encourage visitors to spend more time—and more of their travel dollars—locally.
For Fowler, the restoration represents both a preservation effort and an investment in Marion’s future. The building’s transformation gives travelers a reason to stay on the square while keeping one of the city’s older properties active for a new generation.
Sources
- Historic Marion building restored as vacation rental | Life & Entertainment, Southern Illinoisan.