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

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

Splashdown at EastSide

The wettest and wildest family water park in Central Illinois. Play in Splashtower Island or ride the lazy river. There's even a splash and play area for the young ones in your family. www.fondulacpark.com

CITY: East Peoria

Par-A-Dice Casino

Docked on Peoria Lake, Par-A-Dice offers high-stakes casino action that includes blackjack, roulette, craps and more than 1,000 slots. Enjoy a steak at Boyd’s Steakhouse or unwind with live piano music and a cocktail at Bourbon’s. The Par-A-Dice Hotel offers 202 rooms, including deluxe suites, just steps away from the casino.

CITY: East Peoria

Lavender Creek Farm

Lavender Creek Farm grows fields of organic lavender plants. Walk the lavender fields, pick bouquets and browse the plants for sale. Lavender soaps, oils, lotions, candles and more are made at the farmhouse - the old fashioned way!

CITY: Mackinaw

Fon du Lac Park District

Experience what 1600+ acres of parks, natural areas, riverfront and trails have to offer. Enjoy 2 golf courses, a picturesque marina and campground, Splashdown Water Park, and a variety of recreational programs and activities for all ages.

CITY: East Peoria

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

Mackinaw Valley Vineyard

Experience a bit of Napa Valley in Central Illinois. Visit the winery, tasting room and gift shop. Enjoy the panoramic view available for weddings, receptions and meetings.

CITY: Mackinaw

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

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

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 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

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

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

River Trail of Illinois

This 10-foot wide asphalt trail winds 4.8 miles along the former Illinois Terminal Railroad Co. path. Build in 1991, the River Trail provides a safe scenic route for outdoor recreation year round, winter weather permitting. The trail affords patrons the opportunity to experience the natural preservation of wildflowers, grasses, trees and wildlife. With direct access at the Park Administration Center, Bunnell field, and Taylor Street ball diamonds, and in close proximity to Veterans Park, Central Jr. High, West Park, and local restaurants, the River Trail offers something for everyone!

CITY: East Peoria

Stoney Creek Inn

This Northwoods-themed lodge features a total of 165 rooms, including 13 theme suites, 17 fireplaces, and 4 Premiere suites. The extensive meeting facilities accommodate events for up to 350. The lodge also includes an enclosed "Wilderness Park" with an indoor/outdoor swim through pool, whirlpool, sauna, game room and two outdoor patio areas. The Cottages at Stoney Creek Inn, a 12 room extended stay property, including 2 Premiere suites. Each room features full kitchen, deck, high speed internet access, desk and laundry access. All guests at Stoney have access to our exercise room, in-room movies, evening Health Bar and hot breakfast served daily. Located on the marina, 3/4 miles from the Casino.

CITY: East Peoria

Route 66 Log Chapel

This hand-built chapel in Lincoln is open for prayer and meditation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

CITY: Lincoln

Embassy Suites

Full service hotel located in the area's premier entertainment district, the Peoria RiverFront. Spacious two-room suites with beautiful river and city views. Two restaurants, complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and nightly manager's reception.

CITY: East Peoria

Abraham Lincoln Long Nine Museum

Has electronic audio narrated dioramas that depict Abe the railsplitter, the self-taught scholar, the story teller, the lawyer and the politician.

CITY: Athens

Peoria Motorcycle Club

Professional motorcycle racing. Oldest continuing dirt track in the world. Featuring Spring Poker Run, Annual Busch 600cc National TT, AHRMA TT, Camel Pro Challenge Cup, TT Steeplechase and the annual Turkey Run.

CITY: Bartonville

Lincoln Christening Site/Watermelon Statue

A life-size statue of a watermelon commemorates the day the City of Lincoln was christened by Abraham Lincoln on August 27, 1853. The town's founders, John D. Gillett, Virgil HIckox and Robert B. Latham, were all personal friends of Lincoln.

CITY: Lincoln

Ackerman Farms

Ackerman Farms, celebrating over 100 years as a working family farm, invites everyone to join us from the 3rd week in August through the 3rd week in December. We feature over 150 different varieties of pumpkins and squash in all shapes and sizes, over 25 varieties of beautiful hardy mums, and over 15 varieties of apples from our orchard - everything you need for your fall decorations and for your table. Plan to spend the afternoon with us in our family friendly corn maze, ride a hay rack, browse the gift shop and visit our friendly farm animals. At Christmas, join us for hot cider by a cozy fire and leisurely shop our wonderful Christmas selection of gifts and decor. Don't forget to call us to schedule birthday parties or class field trips.

CITY: Morton

Hampton Inn - East Peoria

Hotel offers deluxe accommodations.

CITY: East Peoria

Eastlight Theatre

A regional community theatre presenting 4 main stage musicals a year.

CITY: East Peoria

Lincoln League Souvenir and Book Shop

Books and souvenirs.

CITY: Petersburg

RiverBank Lodge

Be inspired by dramatic architectural details and our leather-packed northwoods lodge themed interior spaces. Located on the banks of the Sangamon River, we know you will remember this unique lodging experience!

CITY: Petersburg

Tea Room at the Depot

The Tearoom At The Depot offers a unique dining experience for all in a historic train depot. Our specials change with the seasons, and our building is a National Historic Site. Garden Gate Floral is a part of the Depot, which affords a variety of shopping pleasure. We're open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch, and are also available for private lunch or dinner parties.

CITY: Mackinaw

EastPort Marina

Public marina with two levels of accommodations. Beautiful view of downtown Peoria, nautical gift shop, full parts and service department along with five gas pumps, one diesel pumps, pump-out facility and detail shop on site (East Peoria Boat Works).

CITY: East Peoria

Elkhart Cemetery/John D. Gillette Memorial Arch

The cemetery is the final resting place of several notable figures, including Illinois Governor Richard Oglesby and John D. Gillette (Cattle King of the World). The Memorial Arch replaced the wooden bridge over which Robert Todd Lincoln walked during the Oglesby funeral procession in 1915.

CITY: Elkhart

Splashdown Water Park

Central Illinois' premier family water park is located at the Eastside Centre Sports Complex. Play in Splash Tower Island, ride the lazy river, or spend time in the splash and play area designed for little ones.

CITY: East Peoria

Irwin Dairy

This family-run dairy is located on the edge of Logan County. Call to set up an appointment to visit.

CITY: Beason

Carl Spindler Marina

Part of the Riverfront Greenway, Spindler Marina is a public gateway to the Illinois River, offering reasonable rates, parking and storage. Make Spindler Marina your launch today. Spindler Marina is a public gateway to the Illinois River. The Mar ina is available for public boat launch, slip rental and dry dock storage. Pick up your ice, boating or camping supplies at the Marina office. With a picnic and shelter area, rest rooms available seasonally, and the beautiful views from the River Trail Boardwalk, make Spindler Marina your next Illinois adventure.

CITY: East Peoria

Postville Courthouse State Historic Site

Reproduction of the first Logan County courthouse used from 1840-1847, which was one of the places where Abraham Lincoln practiced law. It features a period courtroom, offices and exhibits. It was the original seat of County Government in Logan County.

CITY: Lincoln

Edgar Lee Masters Memorial Museum

This museum honors American poet Edgar Lee Masters, author of "The Spoon River Anthology." Memorabilia of his life and works are displayed in the house where he lived as a young boy.

CITY: Petersburg

Coyote Creek Golf Club

Championship course with a country club atmosphere. A challenging 18-hole course designed by the late Bruce Borland, senior designer for Jack Nicklaus.

CITY: Bartonville

Pumpkin Glass Gallery and Studio

Welcome to Pumpkin Glass -- featuring exquisite lampwork glass beads, crystal, handmade jewelry, fused pendants, sterling silver jewelry, natural stone, and bead / jewelry making supplies and classes.

CITY: Morton

Lincoln Park District

The Lincoln Park District has been providing Central Illinois with quality programs and activities since 1961. The park District offers an Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis courts, golf driving range, sports complex with a weight room, basketball courts, volleyball courts, an area for walking, and vending machines for food and drink.

CITY: Lincoln

Samuel Park's Office

A friend of Abraham Lincoln, Samuel Parks shared a law office with the future president and served on the Eighth Judicial Circuit with him.

CITY: Lincoln

Lincoln Heritage Museum

The museum houses many rare Abraham Lincoln artifacts, including an 1860 campaign poster, a lock of his hair, Mary Lincoln's jewelry and Tad Lincoln's rocking chair. Also includes 9/11exhibit and other presidential artifacts.

CITY: Lincoln

Logan Lanes

Bowling alley, pool tables, and video games. Open grill for food and drinks. Bar- for adults 21 and over.

CITY: Lincoln

Lincoln Speedway

The Lincoln Speedway is home to Logan County's only dirt track racing track, where summer evenings can be spent watching a variety of races.

CITY: Lincoln

Pink Shutter Thrift Shop

Pink shutter is a great place to get great finds. They offer a wide variety of home decor, clothing, glassware, and other essentials all at a discounted price. You're sure to find something you like.

CITY: Lincoln

Super 8 - McLean

The McLean Super 8 is conveniently located just off I-55, 15 miles south of Bloomington-Normal. The hotel provides free high speed wireless internet, complimentary Super Start breakfast, guest laundry facilities, and a heated indoor pool. The rooms feature micro-fridges, 27 inch TVs, hair dryers and AM/FM alarm clock radios. Try one of our Jacuzzi Suites for a relaxing evening away from home.

CITY: McLean

The Rose Cottage

Country antiques, Yankee candles, crafts, garden accents, jewelry, TY, and Tolen garden flags.

CITY: Petersburg

A to Z Antiques and More

Offering you a wonderful experience while you shop. This antique store gives a shoppers a lot to consider.

CITY: Elkhart

Sand Ridge State Forest

The largest of all the state forests in Illinois. Covers 7,100 acres of native oak-hickory forests and pine plantations. Supports diverse desert flora and fauna in its sandy landscape as well as also offering a variety of recreational facilities.

CITY: Forest City

Willett's Winery and Cellar

A family-owned and operated winery nestled in a small-town atmosphere. Experience European charm with a glass of wine in our Market Street Courtyard.

CITY: Manito

Lincoln House Hotel Marker

The Lincoln House Hotel, one of the grandest hotels between St. Louis and Chicago, stood in Lincoln from 1854-1870. Political luminaries who crossed its threshold included Abraham Lincoln, Stephen Douglas, David Davis and Richard Oglesby.

CITY: Lincoln

Lincoln Lot Site

The site marker describes how Abraham Lincoln once owned this lot, after it was deeded to him in recompense for a large debt.

CITY: Lincoln

Big Bill's RC Raceway

This authentic dirt racetrack offers minor races from May to mid-September.

CITY: Broadwell

Fon du Lac Golf Course

This nine-hole course is challenging for the experienced golfer, but also beginner-friendly for the novice. Great for a quick round and easy on your pocketbook.

CITY: East Peoria

Hill Prairie Winery

Hill Prairie Winery is a great place to relax, enjoy some great wines and reunite with nature in the rolling vineyard. Bring your friends to take in live entertainment each weekend as we are open all year. We offer over 15 award winning wines (along with beer and soft drinks) by the glass or the bottle. Enjoy our rural environment with rolling hills, ponds, our 100 year old barn, windmill and acres of delicious grapes. We even offer tours of our wine making process. Our facilities are available for special occasions, weddings and corporate meetings.

CITY: Oakford

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Brand new beautiful hotel with 89 rooms, complimentary deluxe continental breakfast, complimentary high speed and wireless internet, complimentary shuttle service from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, indoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center, board room, business library, market. Easy access to I-74, Peoria Civic Center, EastSide Centre, Bradley University, Illinois Central College, Peoria Riverfront. Close to many local restaurants.

CITY: East Peoria

Menard County Historical Museum

Housed in an 1890 Victorian building, the Menard County Museum contains documents, records, clothing and artifacts related to Menard County.

CITY: Petersburg

Country Pickens II

Antiques, crafts, gifts and a bargain basement.

CITY: Petersburg

Estep & Associates Mercantile

Nestled in the historic Robins building, on the square in Petersburg Illinois, Estep & Associates have spent 20 years bringing the past to life. Filling the former dry-goods store is everything from "Antiques to Yuletide". Among the aisles of this quaint step back in time you'll find big items, small items, personal mementos and commercial oddities. With more than a dozen additional dealers showcased, Bill & Betty guarantee an encounter not to be missed as you stroll through rustic heirlooms, collectibles, antiquities, craft projects and unlimited possibilities for discovery. Overlooking the Menard county courthouse, there's a real sense of yesteryear awaiting your adventure. Come explore our treasures and enjoy the rich texture of the town Abraham Lincoln, while living in nearby New Salem, surveyed as a young man.

CITY: Petersburg

Atlanta's Abraham Lincoln Interpretation Site

The site of an early political rally during Abraham Lincoln's campaign for President, now showcasing an interpretive sign explaining the historic significance.

CITY: Atlanta

Mackinaw River State Fish and Wildlife Area

This site offers a diversity of landscape covering 1,448 acres over timbered hills, open meadows, and river bottoms. Canoe access enables visitors to float the scenic Mackinaw River. Other activities include fishing, hunting, hiking, and picnicking.

CITY: Mackinaw

Salvation Army Thrift Store

The Salvation Army offers a wide variety of below-cost items. From dining ware to clothing, a person is able to find anything they need.

CITY: Lincoln

Carl Spindler Campgrounds

Nestled adjacent to the beautiful Illinois river and Spindler Marina. On the bank of the picturesque Illinois River, you will find Spindler Campground and Marina in East Peoria. Spindler Campground is open year round. We offer 52 paved sites with electric and varying combinations of water and sewer hookups and 26 primitive sites with electricity. Shower and laundry facilities are available to campers along with a shelter, fire rings and playground equipment.

CITY: East Peoria

Rustic Inn Marker

This private residence was once a historic inn where a group of counterfeiters met to hatch a plot to steal Abraham Lincoln's body from his tomb in Springfield. Walk up to view the marker only.

CITY: Lincoln

Mission Mart of Lincoln

This local thrift store, conveniently located on the square in Downtown Lincoln, offers a wide selection of items. They have anything and everything you might need, including books, clothing, furniture, toys, and glassware.

CITY: Lincoln

The Oaks

An 1875 Italionate home - 7 rooms with private baths, 2 rooms are suites. The house sits on 5½ acres on a hilltop that overlooks Petersburg.

CITY: Petersburg

Atlanta Heritage Waysides

Located at the Atlanta Museum, these three exhibits and 20 other prints depict a variety of Lincoln and Logan County events. It is located at the site of an early political rally during Abraham Lincoln's campaign for President.

CITY: Atlanta

RJD Hobbies & Raceway

This motor raceway located in Lincoln allows a field of 18 different cars, including big buggies, electric bugs, trucks, sprinters and modifieds.

CITY: Lincoln

Atlanta Public Library & Museum

Built in 1908, this octagon-shaped building is one of the few of its kind in the state. The museum in the basement of the library houses pieces of local history. The library and museum are both on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Atlanta

Route 66 Murals

These murals bring back the memories of the heyday of Route 66 in Atlanta, Illinois.

CITY: Atlanta

New Beginnings Thrift Shop

This store is located on the Lincoln Square. It is a great place to find clothing, glassware, furniture and other things you might need for your home. Have a great shopping experience on the square at New Beginnings.

CITY: Lincoln

The Mill

Built in 1929, The Mill Restaurant was a highlight of Route 66 in Lincoln. The building sat empty and was in danger of destruction, but is now on the way to recovery. Come see The Mill, a famous landmark related to Route 66. As this landmark is currently being renovated it is not open to the public; however, special tours will be given upon request and appointment.

CITY: Lincoln

Logan County Genealogical & Historical Society

The genealogical and historical society encourages the preservation of Logan County's history and maintains a research center that treasures and collects Logan County family histories. They're the only research center that includes ALL of Logan County. Their research resources include historical books, maps, obituaries, cemetery records, marriages, births, family surname genealogy and more! Stop by for a visit to see the artifacts, old photographs, museum pieces, veteran's exhibit, as well as the new "Abraham Lincoln Room."

CITY: Lincoln

Land of Lincoln Goodwill

Stop into this great thrift store where you can find many bargains and new merchandise as well.

CITY: Lincoln

Old Jail and Old School House

See the local Historical Society's authentic preservation of an 1800s school and town jail. Tours by appointment.

CITY: Manito

Sudden Impact

Paintball.

CITY: McLean

Frank Farms

Find scotch and white pine, douglas and fraser fir trees, along with wreaths and farm-raised whole sausage.

CITY: Athens

8th Judicial Circuit Marker

One of the last remaining markers erected in 1922 marks the 8th Judicial Circuit on which Abraham Lincoln practiced law.

CITY: San Jose

Quail Meadows Golf Course

This 18-hole championship golf course features a pro shop, a PGA professional on staff, and an all-grass driving range and target area.

CITY: East Peoria

Dowell Farm

Stop by and pick your own sweet corn.

CITY: Greenview

Kickapoo Creek Park

This 80-acre park has two fitness trails and seven miles of walking trails that wind along Kickapoo Creek. Picnicking, bird watching and fishing are enjoyed here.

CITY: Lincoln

J.H. Hawes Elevator

This restored grain elevator is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Free tours are offered Sundays in June, July and August.

CITY: Atlanta

Wall Dogs Mural

Eleven different, beautifully painted murals. Main Street Lincoln was instrumental in bringing these murals to our community.

CITY: Lincoln

Heritage In Flight Museum

The Heritage in Flight Museum is dedicated to the preservation of aviation history. The museum displays memorabilia and artifacts from all the military conflicts dating back to WWI. These mementos have been donated by both veterans and their families. The museum also offers tours and hosts flying events at the airport.

CITY: Lincoln

Atlanta Inn

Atlanta Inn is the only hotel located in Atlanta, Illinois. You can explore the historic town of Atlanta in central Illinois with the last great frontier of the modern world through exit No 140 off I-55 and save the memories for life. Pass through Logan County and see the rise of Abraham Lincoln from surveyor to legendary lawyer by traveling through historic Route 66 which crosses 8 states and 3 time zones.

CITY: Atlanta

Bass Pro Shops

We offer outdoor enthusiasts 3 1/2 football fields of shopping excitement with the area's largest selection of equipment and clothing for hunting, fishing, hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, camping, outdoor cooking and more. A gift and nature center will also serve up a wide variety of outdoor-related items from lamps and dishes to bird feeders and furniture. A restaurant and themed bowling facility. An expansive boat showroom will feature Tracker, Nitro, Mako and SunTracker boats built by Tracker Marine Group-the world's largest manufacturer of fishing boats. A boat service center will also be available. Unique exterior and interior motifs have branded Bass Pro Shops as visually appealing, high quality outdoor stores. The outdoors is brought indoors with massive log and rock work, large aquariums and water features stocked with native fish species, along with an extensive collection of museum quality fish and wildlife exhibits.

CITY: East Peoria

Talk of the Town

Talk of the Town is a little slice of heaven in Elkhart. If you are looking for a place that gives you great home-cooked meals at a reasonable price you have found the place you want to eat. Talk of the Town employees will welcome you in and you will feel like you have been a part of the town forever.

CITY: Elkhart

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Pekin

Seventy-room property with indoor pool, jacuzzi, exercise room, business center and continental breakfast, suites, jacuzzi rooms and meeting facilities.

CITY: Pekin

Granite City Food and Beverage

Granite City Food & Brewery is a casual dining restaurant with an on-site brewery. We offer a broad menu of items that are prepared and served in generous portions at reasonable prices. Our handcrafted beers are moderately priced and offer unique styles and flavors not typically produced by major breweries.

CITY: East Peoria

Deskin's Tavern & Postville Well

Abe Lincoln often stayed at Deskin's Tavern when he traveled to Postville. A well where he is said to have quenched his thirst is also located on this site.

CITY: Lincoln

Logan County Courthouse

This 1905 Neo-Classical building features a stained glass dome, the longest-serving courtroom in Illinois, a mosaic of the state seal, a statue of Abraham Lincoln and murals of Logan County.

CITY: Lincoln

Serendipity Stitches

Offering great hand-made items with quality, this store offers a little piece of homemade heaven. They also offer custom framing and sewing supplies and are located directly on the square in Lincoln.

CITY: Lincoln

Chad's Blind Bar

Chad's Blind offers a full service bar.They also have a 7,000 square foot beer garden, a full banquet facility and 3 big screen tv's in the bar area.

CITY: Lincoln