Elks Lodge #1243 is a association or organization in Carbondale, IL. Open: Mon, Sat, Sun Closed; Tue–Thu 5:00 – 9:00 PM; Fri 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM. Phone: (618) 457-4455. Average rating is 4.8 stars from 39 reviews. Website: https://www.elks.org/lodges/home.cfm?LodgeNumber=1243.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemCarbondale, IL Elks Lodge #1243
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Entrance of Elks Lodge #1243 with brick facade and signage.
4.8 39 reviews Today Closed

Brotherhood, Community, and Cold Beer in Carbondale

Elks Lodge #1243 has served Southern Illinois for generations, opening its doors for events, meals, and genuine connection.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

Exterior view of Elks Lodge #1243 with American flag.
Exterior view of Elks Lodge #1243 with American flag.

On West Jackson Street, just a few blocks from the heart of Carbondale, there's a building where strangers become neighbors and neighbors become family. Elks Lodge #1243 has been doing this quietly and consistently for decades, earning a 4.8-star reputation not through advertising, but through the kind of generosity that shows up in reviews: free pizza handed out during the Lights Fantastic Parade, offered to anyone who walked through the door and asked only for a voluntary donation in return.

This is a member-driven organization, which means the people you meet here actually care about this place. Members have stayed involved for 20 years or more, which tells you something real about what keeps them coming back. The lodge hosts regular meals, community events, and private rentals in a space large enough to hold a serious crowd, staffed by people who are consistently described as courteous and accommodating.

Membership opens the full calendar of dinners, social events, and Elks programs. But the lodge also welcomes guests of members and opens select events to the broader Carbondale community. If you've never set foot inside, the next community event is the easiest first step.

What We Offer

The lodge offers a range of activities anchored around its spacious event hall and active membership calendar. Member dinners are a regular fixture, bringing people together over a shared meal in a no-fuss, genuinely social setting. The kitchen and bar operate for members and their guests, making it a reliable spot to unwind after work or catch up with people you actually want to see.

Beyond the social side, Elks Lodge #1243 is available for private event rental at rates that won't send you hunting for a cheaper alternative. Past renters have praised both the capacity of the space and the helpfulness of the staff. The lodge also participates in Elks National Foundation charitable programs, youth initiatives, and local community outreach that extend well beyond the four walls of the building.

Interested in membership? The process is straightforward and the community is welcoming to new faces. Reach out through the national Elks website or stop by during an open event to get a feel for the place before you commit.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“I just joined and I really enjoy it. Inexpensive drinks and a great bacon cheeseburger!”

— Barry Cupp

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 years ago
"Very kind and welcoming people. Offered free pizza during the lights fantastic parade for nothing but volunteered donations, they were so accommodating and friendly."
— Megan Middleton
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 years ago
"I've been involved with the Carbondale Elks for 20+ years. While some events are open, membership is required to participate in the meals... unless you are a guest of a member. This is a fabulous organization and the volunteer cooks are passionate about feeding you!!"
— Nik Davis
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 years ago
"We have events at this location and the staff are very courteous. The rental is not too expensive and the space is large enough for holding the capacity of people that we are hosting..."
— Lolita L. Mack
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8 years ago
"I just joined and I really enjoy it. Inexpensive drinks and a great bacon cheeseburger!"
— Barry Cupp
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"Great people and fun atmosphere"
— Tammy Harshbarger

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member to visit Elks Lodge #1243?

Some events are open to the general public, and guests of current members are always welcome. Full access to meals, the bar, and the complete event calendar does require membership. The best way to experience the lodge before joining is to attend an open community event or come as a guest of a member.

How do I become a member of the Carbondale Elks Lodge?

Membership applications can be started through the national Elks website at elks.org or by contacting Lodge #1243 directly. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, believe in God, and be sponsored by a current member. The process is welcoming and the lodge actively encourages new members to get involved.

Can I rent the lodge for a private event?

Yes. The lodge hall is available for private rentals and has been used for a wide variety of events. Reviewers note that the rental rates are reasonable and the space is large enough to comfortably accommodate a significant number of guests. Staff are described as courteous and helpful throughout the process.

What kinds of events does the lodge host?

The lodge hosts regular member dinners, social gatherings, charitable fundraisers, and community-facing events. It also participates in local parades and outreach activities. The event schedule varies by season, so checking with the lodge or the Elks national website is the best way to stay current.

Where is Elks Lodge #1243 located?

The lodge is located at 220 W Jackson St, Carbondale, IL 62901. It sits in central Carbondale and is accessible from most parts of the city and the surrounding Southern Illinois region.

Is the lodge connected to a national charitable organization?

Yes. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) operates the Elks National Foundation, which funds scholarships, veteran support programs, and community grants across the country. Lodge #1243 participates in these programs and contributes to local charitable efforts in the Carbondale area.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens Tuesday at 5:00
Monday Today Closed
Tuesday 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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