Marion, Illinois

Marion is a city in Williamson County, Illinois, United States. The population was 16,035 at the 2000 census. A census update in 2007 found the population to be 17,011. It is the county seat of Williamson CountyGR6. Marion was named for Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox" in the Revolutionary War. The County's namesake, Hugh Williamson served as a physician in the same campaign. It is also the home to the first supermax prison in the U.S., United States Penitentiary (USP) Marion. Marion's slogan is "Marion: Hub of the Universe." The most recognizable feature of Marion is the clock tower in the center of the city square that replaced the court house. The tallest building in Marion is First Baptist Church of Marion, with a steeple reaching a height of approximately 105 feet.

Marion, Illinois is located at the intersection of Interstate 57 and State Route 13 in southern Illinois.

From quaint antique stores to a regional shopping mall, residents and visitors will find a wide variety of retail products and services from which to choose.

Marion's growth is phenomenal. It has become the fastest growing town south of St. Louis, and one of the fastest growing cities in Illinois. Its location, at the crossroads of Rt. 13 and Interstate 57 make it a prime candidate for future growth. One of the largest Wal-Mart Supercenter Stores in the world opened on September 20, 2006. It measures a staggering 206,000 sq. ft in area, with 36 separate departments and over 500 employees. An equally large Menards store opened on The Hill in November, 2006, adding to further development of Marion's newest commercial district. Other restaurants, such as McAlister's Deli, Asian Bistro, and 17th Street Bar And Grill are also located here, as well as banks, hotels and stores.

The newest attraction to open is a minor league baseball stadium, which opened in May 2007, home to the Frontier League's Southern Illinois Miners.

Popular local restaurants in Marion include Walt's, Bennie's, The Asian Bistro, 17th Street Bar and Grill (The only 3-time World Champion in BBQ), La Fiesta, and Tequlias, among many others. Easy access to I-57 has made Marion a market of choice for several popular chain restaurants like Applebee's, Red Lobster, and Cracker Barrel.