There's A Trail Of Abraham Lincoln Attractions In Illinois That Belong On Your Bucket List
By Elizabeth Crozier|Updated on December 06, 2023(Originally published January 05, 2018)
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
There’s nothing Illinois is more proud of than its first contribution to the White House. Follow this Abraham Lincoln trail for a historic journey you’ll never forget. From ancient structures to museums, this path will lead you to all the best Lincoln-themed attractions. Keep scrolling for directions to some of the most fascinating Lincoln sites in Illinois:
With a drive time of just over half an hour, this Abraham Lincoln trail takes you straight through Springfield, the state's capital since 1839. Learn all about one of the city's most historical residents who lived there from 1837 until 1861.
Your journey to the Lincoln historic sites in Illinois begins at the end. In addition to Abe, his wife, Mary, and three of their sons are also buried at this memorial. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Lincoln's death is one of the most famous in history. He was shot by a well-known actor of the time in April of 1865 at Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C.
Take a look at this video of Lincoln's Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery by @HappyTrailsHiking:
This antebellum mansion was often the location of many extravagant dinners and galas, of which the 16th President was often invited, making this a great second stop on the Abraham Lincoln trail. This was the center of culture and social life in Springfield at the time. Today, it is a museum full of antiques and archaeology, perfect for those who love visiting historic sites in Illinois. Visit the Edwards Place website for more information.
This gorgeous spot along the trail will take some time. It is both a library full of history as well as a museum that tells the story of Lincoln's life. Follow the story of a poor boy reared in an Indiana cabin who went on to turn the world upside down. Visit the website of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to learn more.
4. Lincoln Home National Historic Site
426 S 7th St, Springfield, IL 62703, USA
Lincoln Home National Historic Site, 413 S 8th St, Springfield, IL 62701, USA
Delve even further into the life of Lincoln with this immersive experience where you'll see just how people lived in Springfield in the 1800s. See the actual house Lincoln resided in from 1844 to 1861 as well as several other historic buildings that will amaze you. This is one of the best Lincoln historic sites to visit. Head to the National Park Service website to learn more about the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.
The oldest surviving house in the city, this structure is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is on the Abraham Lincoln trail because the popular man frequently visited the estate. Today, it is a museum of Springfield history that celebrates everything Lincoln-related. Visit the Elijah Iles House Foundation website for more information.
6. Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center
2301 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL 62712, USA
Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center, 2301 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL 62712, USA
Once you've learned all the history, it's time to take a trip to this nature center where the paths look like those that Lincoln would have walked in his day. The garden represents the Midwest landscape he would have grown up with, and it is home to plants native to the states in which he lived (Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois). Visit the website of the Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center to learn more.
