Showing 1-96 of 2,083 items
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
One of the most-visited presidential museums in the nation allows visitors to experience the entire Lincoln story under one roof, from Abe's humble beginnings in an Indiana log cabin to his days as president in the White House. Be dazzled by two special effects theaters featuring historical ghosts and a Civil War battlefield, life-like vignettes that depict important moments in the president’s life, and artifacts that range from Lincoln’s stovepipe hat to an original copy of the Gettysburg Address.
CITY: Springfield
Nov 3
Haunted Decatur Ghost Tour
Travel throughout the city of Decatur in search of history, hauntings, crime scenes, scandals and spirits! Join us for a journey back into the history of one of America's most haunted towns and discover not only our favorite haunted places, but new locations of crime, infamy and spirits that have never been featured on the tours before. Re-invented in 2009, experience Haunted Decatur in a way that you've never done before! Popular with ghost buffs and history enthusiasts alike and includes new and favorite haunted locations! Lasts approximately 3 hours. $30 per person.
CITY: Decatur
Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
The experiences you’ll find here are as unique, fun and memorable as the road is long. Route 66 defined a remarkable era in our nation’s history - and it lives on today in Illinois Route 66’s many roadside attractions, museums, restaurants - and the shining ribbon of blacktop we call The Mother Road. Illinois’ stretch of this mythic road boasts the highest density of kitschy, interesting things to do you’ll find from here to California. So, join us for the far out journey that never ends on Illinois Route 66.
CITY: Springfield
Oct 31
Lincoln's Ghost Walks - Legends and Lore
Take a 90-minute nighttime tour of sites throughout Springfield that are linked to spirited stories about Lincoln’s life and death. Founder Garret Moffett based the tour partly on local lore about Lincoln’s visions and dreams, as well as on reported ghost sightings.
CITY: Springfield
Scheels
The 200,000-sq.-ft. Scheels is much more than a sports store, featuring attractions that include a 16,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, a 65-foot-tall Ferris wheel inside the store, an old-fashioned shooting gallery, and simulators for everything from NASCAR to golf and hockey. A deli and fudge shop serves gourmet soups and sandwiches, plus more than 20 flavors of homemade fudge.
CITY: Springfield
Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site
The Tomb is the final resting place of President Lincoln, his wife and three of their four children. It was constructed between 1869-1874 in Springfield's Oak Ridge Cemetery. Be sure to rub the nose of the bronze Lincoln bust at the entrance, which is said to bring good luck. Dogs are allowed on the site; they are not allowed inside the monument. Dogs must be under their owner's control, leashed, and cleaned up after at all times.
CITY: Springfield
Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum
Free admission to the finest collection of memorabilia associated with the history of the Mother Road in Illinois. Featuring Route 66 Artist and Icon, Bob Waldmire's bus and van! Be sure to step around back where you will see the World's Largest Route 66 shield and other great murals.
CITY: Pontiac
Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site
Step back in time and explore historic New Salem just as Lincoln knew it. This meticulously reconstructed 1830s village is where Lincoln lived as a young adult, studied law and began politics. Everything from the people to the blacksmith’s workshop gives visitors a glimpse into what pioneer life was really like when young, burly Abe was throwing down his axe.
CITY: Petersburg
Illinois Amish Country
The town of Arthur is located in the heart of Amish country, home to more than 2,000 Amish residents and hundreds of charming countryside businesses, Illinois' Amish Country offers shopping, dining, special events and guided educational tours (some of which feature meals in actual Amish homes).
CITY: Arthur
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Get an intimate look at Lincoln during a tour of the Lincoln Home, the only house he ever owned. The Lincoln family lived here from 1844 until they left for Washington. The Lincoln Home is located in a historic four-block neighborhood that looks much as it did in the mid-1800s, complete with wooden sidewalks. A visitor center and restored neighboring homes display exhibits that tell the story of Lincoln’s time spent with his wife, children and friends in Springfield.
CITY: Springfield
Knight's Action Park & Caribbean Water Adventure
The theme park offers miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages, carnival rides and an arcade. While the water park features a wave pool, bumper boats, water slides, paddle boats and a lazy river. Catch a movie at the old-fashioned drive-in, adjacent to Knight's.
CITY: Springfield
Cozy Dog Drive In
Cozy Dog Drive In is home of the one and only Cozy Dog. Similar to a corn dog-on-a-stick, the Cozy Dog is made from a Waldmire family recipe at Springfield’s Route 66 landmark. Inside the diner, which has been located on Old Route 66 since 1949, visitors will find a whimsical selection of Route 66 memorabilia and souvenirs.
CITY: Springfield
Blind Pig Brewery
Located in downtown Champaign, Blind Pig brews its own craft beers. With its beautiful wood interior, casks full of local brews and friendly locals, this bar is a must-see. When the weather is nice, venture outside and enjoy the large outdoor beer garden.
CITY: Champaign
Allerton Park & Retreat Center
Allerton Park was the private estate of Robert Henry Allerton, who donated it to the University of Illinois in 1946. It features 1,500 acres of woodlands, formal gardens and more than 100 sculptures. The park is open to the public for hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing and leisurely garden strolls.
CITY: Monticello
Doc’s Soda Fountain
Located on historic Route 66, this was originally a pharmacy built in the 1880’s. The soda fountain was added to the business in the 1950’s. Stop in for an old-fashioned treat or ice-cream. Doc’s is also open for lunch and dinner.
CITY: Girard
Here I Have Lived Exhibits
View over 40 outdoor interpretive exhibits placed throughout the downtown area to experience Springfield as Abraham Lincoln knew it. Each exhibit is intended to capture a moment in time for Lincoln and how he was affected by the people, places and events he encountered in his hometown. Each story is accompanied by graphics or photographs and a medallion that is symbolic of that particular story. Visitors are encouraged to collect rubbings of each medallion.
CITY: Springfield
Shea's Gas Station Museum
Take one look at the guest book and you’ll see that this unique spot attracts visitors from all over the globe. A former Texaco gas station owner, Bill Shea has amassed an impressive collection of Route 66 memorabilia during his more than 50 years on the Mother Road. Shea's is closed during the Illinois State Fair, held every August.
CITY: Springfield
Original Brick Road
This beautiful 1.4 mile long piece of restored hand-laid brick road is a segment of 66 done in 1931 and placed over a concrete roadbed. Route 66 at its best.
CITY: Auburn
Old State Capitol State Historic Site
The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. It is here that Lincoln practiced law, served as a legislator and gave his famed House Divided speech on slavery in 1858. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839-1876. The current State Capitol Building is the center of state government, where visitors can watch Illinois politics in action when the legislature is in session.
CITY: Springfield
Amish Country Tours
A step on guide will accompany your tour of the Amish countryside. The tours will also include meals in Amish homes, and Amish home, buggy shop, dairy farm and woodworking tours. Additional highlights include an Amish museum, local attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.
CITY: Arcola
David Davis Mansion
The David Davis Mansion was the home of Judge David Davis, the friend, mentor and campaign manager for Abraham Lincoln. The elegant 36-room Victorian home tells the story of the generation that led the United States through the Civil War and early years of Reconstruction. Take a tour of the lavishly decorated mansion, where you’ll learn about the important friendship between Davis and Lincoln, and get a peek at what life was like for a wealthy Victorian-era family.
CITY: Bloomington
20 - 21
Lincoln’s Bloomington Festival and Civil War Days
The McLean County Museum of History, David Davis Mansion, and other sites will host Civil War re-enactors, traditional craft demonstrations, children’s activities, musical performances, talks and tours.
CITY: Bloomington
Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site
One of the best-preserved examples of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie design, this 35-room mansion contains some 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture and stunning art glass. Photo copyright Doug Carr, courtesy of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.
CITY: Springfield
Dec 31
To Kill and to Heal: Weapons and Medicine of the Civil War
The exhibit covers Civil War weaponry, its evolution and the adaptation of medicine for the wounds caused by these weapons. Artifacts & vignettes include guns, explosives, diseases, wounds, medical personnel, ambulance corps and anesthetics.
CITY: Springfield
Scovill Zoo
This zoo overlooking Lake Decatur is home to animals from around the world, the Z.O.&O. Express train, the Endangered Species Carousel and the Zootique Gift Shop. Family events and activities are offered regularly.
CITY: Decatur
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Do some star gazing at the second-largest planetarium in Illinois, located at Parkland College. More than 7,000 stars are projected onto the planetarium’s 50-foot dome. The Planetarium also features special children’s presentations and rock-and-roll light shows.
CITY: Champaign
24 - 25
Sweet Corn Blues Festival
Sidewalk sales, arts, crafts, flea market vendors and over 50,000 ears of sweet corn fill the streets of Uptown Normal each August to welcome back the students at Illinois State University. Come out and enjoy the fun, food and some of the best blues music around!
CITY: Normal
World's Largest Covered Wagon
The Railsplitter Covered Wagon, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest covered wagon in the world, is located on the front lawn of the Best Western Lincoln Inn, near historic Route 66. A statue of Abe Lincoln reading a law book sits in the huge wooden wagon, which stands 24 feet tall.
CITY: Lincoln
Lake Shelbyville
The 11,000-acre Lake Shelbyville offers plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, biking and swimming. Sun yourself on one of the public beaches or dock your boat at one of three marinas located around the lake.
CITY: Shelbyville
14 - 15
Glorious Garden Festival
The Glorious Garden Festival offers self-guided tours through eight incredibly diverse, high-quality private gardens in the Bloomington-Normal community, along with guided tours of Sarah Davis’s heirloom garden at the David Davis Mansion. These gardens provide solitude and sanctuary, where one can soothe the spirit while enjoying the quiet pleasures of an outdoor retreat. The walk begins on the grounds of the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site where walkers pick up their maps and programs. The Garden Walk is held rain or shine.
CITY: Bloomington
Children's Museum of Illinois
Kids can shimmy up Luckey's Climber, make a giant bubble and pretend to be whatever they can imagine, from a pilot to a scientist. The museum's permanent exhibits complement temporary exhibits and projects.
CITY: Decatur
Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site
This is the only remaining structure where Abraham Lincoln maintained working law offices. Lincoln and his final law partner, William Herndon, operated from the top floor of the building from 1843 to 1852. Filled with clutter and makeshift furniture, the offices draw a vivid picture of what a normal day was like for Lincoln and Herndon. Today the building includes a visitor center, federal courtrooms and attorney offices.
CITY: Springfield
12 - 13
Candlelight Tour of New Salem
Bring the family to experience New Salem village after dark. Interpreters in period clothing will welcome you into the reconstructed log homes of the historic village where Abraham Lincoln lived for six years.
CITY: Petersburg
11 - 13
Touchstone Energy Balloon Fest
Come and enjoy watching as these balloons are filled and then take off for various areas. Friday night is a launch from Forest Park, Saturday morning, they will launch from various locations and try to hit their targets as they float through the air. There will be a Balloon glow and basket burn at the Dam Spillway area Saturday night with food and entertainment. You can meet the pilots on Friday evening. Sunday morning will be another opportunity to watch. These colorful balloons will be launched daily (weather permitting) and you can watch as they fly and do tasks around the Lake Shelbyville area.
CITY: Shelbyville
Tanger Outlet Center
Factory outlet mall with over 40 brand name outlets. Shop Coach, Harry and David, Reebok, Nike, Gap, Bass, Polo Ralph Lauren, Old Navy, Bath and Body Works and much more! Check out our monthly special events, coupons and sales. Tanger Outlet Center is conveniently located off of I-57, exit 212 in Tuscola. Locations nearby include Champaign and Amish Country.
CITY: Tuscola
Henry's Ra66it Ranch
This quirky must-see Route 66 attraction, information center and souvenir gift shop is home to rabbits of all kinds, bunny and VW, as well as Mother Road memorabilia.
CITY: Staunton
Looking for Lincoln Exhibits
Pontiac’s historic connections to Abraham Lincoln date back to Lincoln’s early days as a young lawyer traveling the 8th Judicial District. Lincoln visited Pontiac many times, represented a number of local citizens in legal actions, and made connections here that helped him to rise to prominence in state and national politics. Nine outdoor story boards help tell the stories associated with Lincoln's many visits to Pontiac. Pick up a map at the Visitor Center.
CITY: Pontiac
Hardy's Reindeer Ranch
The North Pole has moved to Central Illinois. Try your luck at the 6+ acre corn maze, the Grand Prix style race track, pick a pumpkin or a Christmas tree (depending on season), stop by the fascinating gift shop and, of course, see the reindeer!
CITY: Rantoul
14 - 16
General Grierson Days Civil War Reenactment
The midwest's largest mounted Civil War reenactment gets better every year in this, the hometown of General Benjamin Grierson, famous Civil War leader and cavalry officer. Authentic battle reenactments, period vendors, lots of food and fun - free event for the whole family.
CITY: Jacksonville
The 200 Acres
Located in the heart of Illinois' Amish country, The 200 Acres is a working farm that features beautiful gardens, including a spectacular collection of more than 5,000 mums, and offers its heirloom seeds for sale. The 200 Acres is especially known for its more than 300 varieties of rare pumpkins, squash and gourds from around the globe that are grown right on the farm and displayed in its Great Pumpkin Patch from mid-September through October 31 every year. The on-site Homestead Bakery sells made-from-scratch goodies such as pies and angel food cake during spring, summer and fall.
CITY: Arthur
Grady's Family Fun Center
As Bloomington-Normal's only amusement park, Grady's features an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts and kiddie rides.
CITY: Bloomington
Historic Swinging Bridges
Three bridges which cross the Vermillion River. Built as early as 1898 and one of the most popular attractions in Pontiac. Bridge 1 connects Riverview Drive and Play Park. It was built in July 1898 by Joliet Bridge Company with an iron structure, 190 feet long and 4 feet wide and supported by cables swung from masonry piers. The current bridge is a wooden structure. Bridge 2 connects the Play Park and Chautauqua Park - Eden M. Johnson Memorial circa 1926. Bridge 3 connects the south side and Riverside-Humiston Park. It was built in connection with the adjoining park, circa 1978: Illinois Contractors, Inc.
CITY: Pontiac
27 - 29
12th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
Come take part in a celebration of America's Highway, Route 66, at the 11th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival. More than 1,000 cool cars will roll into the heart of Springfield's historic downtown this September. Enjoy music, entertainment, great food and a great time as well as visit some of the nation's most popular automotive aftermarket vendors. It's a great time for the whole family!
CITY: Springfield
Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame and Museum
See the finest collection of memorabilia from the historic Mother Road in Illinois. The free-admission Hall of Fame features nostalgic photos and displays, plus attractions that include Route 66 artist and icon Bob Waldmire's bus and van, and the world's largest Route 66 shield.
CITY: Pontiac
McLean County Museum of History
Founded in 1904, the museum is housed in a magnificent courthouse that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located in downtown Bloomington, the museum reveals the lives of the people who shaped McLean County, including those who encountered and knew Abraham Lincoln.
CITY: Bloomington
Firefly Grill
Firefly Grill is a modern roadhouse restaurant located on the shores of Lake Kristie. This wonderful place operates on an oasis of American fresh cuisine in the heart of the Midwest. Firefly's menu changes daily and boasts fresh seafood, oak fire steaks and brick oven pizzas. Firefly uses local ingredients whenever possible and fresh herbs and vegetables from their garden. The beautiful facility and grounds make this the perfect place for a wedding or group event. Cooking demonstrations and tours are also available.
CITY: Effingham
Springfield & Central Illinois African American History Museum
Gathers, interpretes, and exhibits featuring the history and culture of African Americans living in the Springfield and Central Illinois area durin the 19th and 20th centuries. Open only Saturdays 9am-5pm until February 23, 2012. Tours and lectures available other times by request.
CITY: Springfield
Fort Lamotte
Fort Lamotte is a construction of a civilian style early 19th century American fort, featuring a two story block house and small log cabin. Construction began in spring of 2007 with all volunteer labor, donations of materials by various people and businesses. The block house is mainly constructed of popular logs as is the cabin. Local hickory was used for the cantilever logs, between 1st and 2nd stories with a puncheon 2nd story floor and persimmon trusses. The stockade walls are of locally grown hedge and black locust. This is the third fort to bear the name Lamotte.
CITY: Palestine
Lake Decatur
The state's largest artificial body of water, Lake Decatur spans 2,800 acres, with 30 miles of shoreline offering recreational opportunities and wildlife vistas at lakeside parks and the city marina. Water sports include boating, fishing, sailing and jet skiing. While shoreline locations surrounding Nelson Park Marina offer miniature golf, dining, public gardens and picnic facilities.
CITY: Decatur
Krannert Art Museum and Kinkead Pavilion
Located on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus, Krannert is the second-largest fine art museum in Illinois, and places among the top tier of university art museums nationwide. The museum’s diverse permanent collection contains some 10,000 works of art, and represents the cultures of African, Asia, Europe and the Americas. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum features outstanding temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
CITY: Champaign
17 - 18
Cultural Festival
Now in its 34th year, the Cultural Festival continues to provide a wide variety of live entertainment, mouth-watering food and community services in a festival and family atmosphere. This event draws nearly 15,000 to Bloomington-Normal each August.
CITY: Bloomington
Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum & Resource Center
The history of the Oakland and Pontiac car brands as seen through 15 classic cars, dealer artifacts, a complete print library and memorabilia. Free admission-open year round.
CITY: Pontiac
Union Station Visitors Center/Union Square Park
Located in a historic train depot across from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, here you'll find tourism information for the whole state. The adjacent Union Square Park hosts many free events and performances throughout the year.
CITY: Springfield
6 - 7
Sugar Creek Arts Festival
The streets of Uptown Normal are painted with artists and art lovers alike during this annual festival held each July. The festival only allows original pieces of artwork to be shown, so be ready for a one-of-a-kind experience!
CITY: Normal
Arthur Amish Country Information Center
This visitor's center offers maps and information on the entire Amish area, including the 150 Amish craft shops that dot the countryside surrounding the village of Arthur.
CITY: Arthur
The Palms Grill Café
The Palms Grill Cafe was a well-known restaurant during the heyday of Route 66. Recently the cafe was revitalized and reopened, and is serving up delicious nostalgia from the fabled Route 66 era. Conveniently located right across the street is the towering Bunyon’s Statue, another one of Route 66’s famous Muffler Man Statues.
CITY: Atlanta
Kickapoo State Park Campgrounds
Kickapoo has two major campgrounds for tent and trailer camping, with 184 sites. About half the sites have electrical hookups, two shower buildings are available to all campers and a sanitary dump station is available. Campers occupying electrical sites are required to pay for the availability of electricity even if the service is not used. A limited number of walk-in sites are available for primitive campers. The shower buildings are closed by November 1 (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen May 1 (may be earlier - weather depending).
CITY: Oakwood
Aug 10
Illinois Shakespeare Festival
The Illinois Shakespeare Festival exemplifies a long-established tradition of professional theatre devoted to performing the plays of William Shakespeare. The festival has been named one of the ten best theatre festivals anywhere by National Geographic. In addition to the mainstage show, theatre-goers can also enjoy behind the scenes tours, live jazz music, nightly Green Shows, fine art fairs and ice cream socials with the cast and crew. Spend a pleasant summer’s evening on the grassy lawn of the Festival grounds with a picnic basket, bottle of wine and great friends before the show.
CITY: Bloomington
Ewing Cultural Center
Located on the wooded Sunset Hill estate of the late Hazle Buck Ewing, the Ewing Cultural Center encompasses the open-air Theatre at Ewing (summer home of the Illinois Shakespeare Festival), the elegant Ewing Manor (which is open for tours) and the beautiful Genevieve Green Gardens.
CITY: Bloomington
Stier Trolley Express
Climb aboard the Trolley, sit back and relax as we bring the history of historic Petersburg Illinois and the surrounding area to you. We will take you past several points of interest along your journey back in history. Petersburg is rich in Victorian Homes, most of which were built in the 1860's and 1870's. During your journey into history, you will be entertained by points of interest along the way. We will stop for a short while in downtown Petersburg. At this time, you may choose to disembark and enjoy the downtown area on foot. There are a variety of shops and eateries to wander through. Don't worry, the trolley will return to pick you up. Your ticket includes a round trip back to Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site. The Trolley runs on an hourly schedule. Consult with your conductor as to the return pick up times as well as the time of the last trolley of the day. Charter Available.
CITY: Petersburg
Lincoln's Family Pew
Abraham and Mary Lincoln maintained a family pew in their place of worship. You can quietly view the pew and beautiful Tiffany stained glass windows in the First Presbyterian Church.
CITY: Springfield
Lincoln Memorial Garden Nature Center
Located on the shores of Lake Springfield and designed by landscape architect, Jens Jensen, five miles of wooded trails lead you on a journey through the Illinois landscape Lincoln walked.
CITY: Springfield
Joe Roger's Original Recipe Chili Parlor
Voted Springfield's best chili since 1945. The restaurant also serves hot dogs, sandwiches, tamales and their famous, "Denburger."
CITY: Springfield
Jun 2
Funfest for Air-cooled VW
This FunFest is Mid America Motorworks way of saying "Thank You" to all VW enthusiasts. The three-day event is the best Air-Cooled enthusiasts party anywhere. Expect to see more than 1,000 VWs and 8,000 enthusiasts. This is not your typical car show. With non-juried fun judging, one of a kind expert seminars and a guest list including some of the best-known names in the VW world, it's no wonder that Funfest has become a must-attend event.
CITY: Effingham
Paul Bunyon Hotdog Statue
Standing 19 feet tall and clutching a giant hot dog, this Paul Bunyon statue, purposely spelled with an “o”, is one of Route 66’s mythic Muffler Man Statues. A few of these giants still proudly grace the roadsides of historic Route 66. This one is located in Atlanta, Illinois, just across the street from the Palms Grill Café, which features fine fare from The Mother Road’s golden age.
CITY: Atlanta
Mansion View Inn and Suites
Conveniently located across from the Governor's Mansion, within walking distance to State Capitol and all state offices in downtown.
CITY: Springfield
Funks Grove Pure Maple Syrup
Guided tours offered during February and March that show syrup making by the "Boiling Down" process. Gift store stocked with syrup as well as Route 66 memorabilia.
CITY: Shirley
Illinois State Capitol
The center of state government houses the offices of the Governor, the Secretary of State, the Comptroller and the Treasurer, as well as the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers. Visitors can watch Illinois politics in action from balcony-level seating when legislature is in session.
CITY: Springfield
Lincoln Ledger
Abraham Lincoln's original account ledger with the Springfield Marine and Fire Insurance Company is on display at Chase Bank during banking hours.
CITY: Springfield
Cowboy Monkey
Nightlife Bar for casual chatting with friends and family. Dining options during the day as well as full service bar during dining hours.
CITY: Champaign
Donnie B's Comedy Club
Welcome! The NEW, BIGGER AND BETTER Donnie B’s Comedy Club is located in the Route 66 Hotel on South Sixth Street. Come check out the new bar, Donnie B’s Den!
CITY: Springfield
Spirits of Bloomington Historic Ghost Tours
The Spirits of Bloomington Historic Ghost Tours feature guides dressed as President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln who reveal fascinating tales, myths and paranormal accounts of McLean County.
CITY: Bloomington
Historic Petersburg
Surveyed by Abraham Lincoln in 1836, the Petersburg Historic District is included on the National Register of Historic Places and has many outstanding examples of architectural styles.
CITY: Petersburg
The Chocolatier, Inc.
The Chocolatier, Inc. in Downtown Bloomington specializes in fine chocolates and candies. Stop in and pick out the perfect treat!
CITY: Bloomington
The Farm
The Farm includes 23 theme gardens, a rustic shop in the barn featuring herbal gifts and supplies, picnics, hayrides and a greenhouse.
CITY: Petersburg
Danville Dans at Historic Danville Stadium
Built in 1946 as part of the Brooklyn Dodgers farm system, during the summer the field is home to the Danville Dans, a college summer wooden bat team. This NCAA-sanctioned, Major League-sponsored wooden bat collegiate league plays at Danville Stadium.
CITY: Danville
Henson Robinson Zoo
The Henson Robinson Zoo is home to animals native to Australia, Africa, Asia and North and South America. Over 90 species of native and exotic animals are housed here among naturalistic exhibits. Special events are held throughout the year and provide many hands-on experiences for children and adults alike. Also, take a "Zooper Edventure" with the zoo’s education programs for children ages 2 to 17. Facilities include a gift shop, concessions and a petting area.
CITY: Springfield
Downtown Springfield
Stroll downtown Springfield and check out shops that carry everything from Lincoln souvenirs to one-of-a-kind jewelry and fresh-made fudge. See the latest antique finds from Europe and Asia showcased at the upscale Widow at Windsor Antiques on Fifth Street.
CITY: Springfield
Becky's Barn
Antiques, collectibles, Route 66 info center, located on the last brick Route 66 in Illinois.
CITY: Auburn
15 - 18
Windsor Harvest Picnic
Come and enjoy this family-friendly festival which is in its 117th year. Entertainment comes to you in gospel, country and rock, with entertainers from as far away as Australia and Country Star "Eddie Raven". Fountain City Amusements provide a carnival atmosphere with plenty of food served by various organizations as well as the Ice Cream Social. There is also a 5K run/walk, a pedal tractor pull, parade, and a raffle drawing.
CITY: Windsor
Tuscan Hills Winery
Tuscan Hills Winery, recently opened in 2011, is located on Historic Hills Drive, directly behind the Harley Barn. This winery is located on eight picturesque acres which helps bring an Old World Tuscan feel to the heart of Effingham. The owners are focused on creating elegant, approachable, and perfectly balanced wines of the highest quality. Wine tastings, along with space available for reservations makes this a must stop for group tours. Tuscan Hills Winery wants you to "Come as our guest, but leave as our friends."
CITY: Effingham
The State House Inn - An Ascend Collection Hotel
Located in downtown Springfield, the State House Inn is right across the street from the Illinois State Capitol complex. The hotel is within walking distance of many historic sites, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, as well as gay-friendly bars and restaurants.
CITY: Springfield
Grand Army of The Republic Memorial Museum
A cornucopia of Civil War memorabilia, the museum features "Tinytype" by Civil War photographer Matthew Brandy. It was donated to the National Woman's Relief Corps in tribute to the Union Veterans of the war between the states.
CITY: Springfield
Illinois Executive Mansion
Home of the Illinois Governor, the mansion is the third-oldest, continuously occupied governor's home in the nation. Filled with antiques and historic artifacts. Built in 1855 the mansion contains 16 elegantly appointed rooms open for viewing, including the state dining room, a library and the Lincoln bedroom.
CITY: Springfield
Edwards Place
Built in 1833 this Italianate mansion entertained prominent solialites and politicians at many lavish dinner parties, summer picnics and political rallies in mid-19th century Springfield, Hold hands with your honey next the the authentic "Lincoln Courting Couch" still present in the home.
CITY: Springfield
The Branson House Bed & Breakfast
Enjoy your nights stay in a beautiful 1876 “Eastlake” Victorian Bed and Breakfast located in Historic Petersburg, Illinois near Lincoln's New Salem State Park. This large frame house stands at the top of what is known as "Brahm's Hill", and is located where once stood the home of Dr. and Mrs. John Allen, friends of Abraham Lincoln, who moved to Petersburg from New Salem. A two-storied square pillared porch extends to the roof line. Behind the imposing facade lie an equally imposing series of rooms. This house boasts seven marble fireplaces, four downstairs and three in upstairs bedrooms plus a magnificent wood sculptured fireplace in the main entry hallway. An elevator installed in the 1950’s allows for easy access to the second floor bedrooms. Central air and heating has also been installed throughout the house.
CITY: Petersburg
Walnut Street Winery
The Walnut Street Winery plus Saunas is unlike many other wineries. We make fine wines in small batches using the best raw materials available from some of the best vineyards all over the world. Our wine garden features a bocce ball court that is 60 feet long and 13 feet wide. You can enjoy your wine out in the open air, along with a delicious Isabell's Pizza or some of the great Wisconsin cheeses that we have available. The wine garden is a unique setting for hosting wedding receptions, class reunions, office parties, Christmas parties and other group events.
CITY: Rochester
Hilton Springfield
Explore Springfield from the contemporary Hilton Springfield hotel, located in the heart of downtown Springfield and just minutes from many popular attractions. The excellent downtown location of the hotel allows guests to enjoy the many historical attractions, quaint shops and cozy bistros that downtown Springfield offers.
CITY: Springfield
Miller Park Zoo
Miller Park Zoo is the only Illinois zoo to feature the endangered Sumatran tiger. This zoo also features several indoor and outdoor exhibits of exotic animals, special events, and is open year round.
CITY: Bloomington
Assembly Hall
From rock shows to Broadway to family shows to Fighting Illinois basketball and much more, the Assembly Hall has hosted the top names in show business, as well as, numerous University and community events.
CITY: Champaign
Route 66 Park & Tourism Center
This small park is right on Route 66, and it's a great place to check out the town of Atlanta. It is a great park, including flat area to run and playground for the kids to climb and run on, you and your family are sure to enjoy.
CITY: Atlanta
Hilton Garden Inn
Hotel is just 5 miles from the State Capitol, Convention Center and Lincoln Attractions. Shopping, over 20 restaurants and movie theater within 4 blocks. Lake Springfield with parks, fishing and boat ramps within 1 mile. Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, Hilton Garden Inn can accommodate you. And, for your family's comfort and convenience the hotel offers cribs, high chairs, playpens and a kid-friendly menu.
CITY: Springfield
7 - 9
Civil War Medical Encampment
The Old State Capitol grounds will be transformed into a Civil War Medical Encampment, complete with re-enactors, camp life and activities for the entire family, including authentic Civil War living history programs on the grounds of the Old State Capitol and history education programs in the site's historic rooms. Sponsored by Memorial Medical Center.
CITY: Springfield
8 - 18
Illinois State Fair
Make plans now to bring the entire family for adventure, thrills, top name entertainment and the best agriculture exhibition in the country! Each August, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to Springfield for the Illinois State Fair. Enjoy 10 days of Illinois excitement and entertainment, with everything from top name stars to carnival rides, food, contests, concerts, livestock shows and auto racing.
CITY: Springfield
Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center
The Indoor Aquatic Center has a recreational and competition pool, a beach-like entry and a water playground.
CITY: Urbana













