Illinois has more Lincoln historic sites than anywhere in the country! Start your Lincoln experience in Springfield at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum where interactive exhibits and original artifacts help bring Lincoln's legacy to life. Then explore the many other Lincoln attractions in Springfield before a visit to Illinois State Museum.
Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area
DISCOVER THE LAND OF LINCOLN
Forty-two counties of Central Illinois make up the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area (ALNHA). The only National Heritage Area named for an American President, the ALNHA was designated by Congress in 2008 to highlight the 30 years of Lincoln's life in which he grew up, raised his family, and cultivated the courage and wisdom that would prepare him to lead the nation through some of its most trying times.
Springfield
Presidential Library & Museum
Located on historic Route 66 in Springfield, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is another gem in the living museum that is US Route 66. Here you’ll travel from the humble beginnings of a young pioneer to the halls of the White House, as the story of Lincoln comes to life as captured through original artifacts, special effects theaters and much more.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Here you’ll step into the daily life of the Lincoln family as you enter the only home the Lincoln’s ever owned. A stroll through the lovely historic neighborhood surrounding the home will give you a rare glimpse of Mr. Lincoln as a husband, a father, a neighbor and a friend. Tours of this national treasure are conducted by National Park Service Rangers. Free tickets are required for house tours.
Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site
Head north of Route 66 in Lincoln country and you'll discover Oak Ridge Cemetery and the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site. The 2nd most visited cemetery in the US, behind only Arlington Cemetery in our nation’s capital, Oak Ridge is home to a majestic monument that is the final resting place for our 16th president, his wife, and three of their four children.
Lincoln
Railsplitter Covered Wagon
Lincoln, Illinois is a perfect mix of Lincoln history and Route 66 nostalgia. Here you’ll find a great Lincoln/Route 66 photo op at the giant Railsplitter Covered Wagon – a tribute to the city’s favorite son.
Postville Courthouse
Get a glimpse into the life of Lincoln the lawyer. Step back in time as you imagine yourself arguing a point of law in this rugged, brown frame building – a replica of the building that served as the Logan County government from 1840-48.
Lincoln Heritage Museum
Here you'll fin a remarkable collection of Lincoln-related artifacts. Treasures include china, books and mourning clothing that belonged to Mary Lincoln, as well as original correspondence from President Lincoln.
Bloomington
McLean County Historical Museum
Visit the McLean County Historical Museum – inside a beautiful old courthouse on the town square. In the first floor visitor center, you’ll find out all about the rich Route 66 history in McLean county – as well as all the info you need for discovering the Lincoln story on Illinois Route 66. Upstairs in the Museum, you’ll find the many stories of the people and the landscapes of McLean County through the years, including many of the local residents who were Lincoln’s contemporaries as he rose from prairie lawyer to the man who would be president.
David Davis Mansion
Stop at the magnificent David Davis Mansion, which was once owned by Lincoln confidante and close friend, Judge David Davis. This stately 19th century mansion, and its beautiful grounds, will give you a glimpse of the social and political life Lincoln knew. History credits the influence and support of Judge Davis as an important factor on Lincoln’s success in becoming the Republican nominee.
You’ll also want to make a stop at the Sprague Super Service Station for some iconic Route 66 photos.
Pontiac
Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum
Stroll around the town square to take in all of the spectacular Murals on Main Street and be sure to stop by the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum & Resource Center to see some of the world’s finest, and rarest, examples of the former Pontiac autos.
Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum Complex
In this charming slice of Americana, you’ll find the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum Complex – including the International Wall Dog Mural and Sign Art Museum, the Bob Waldmire Exhibit, as well as a tribute to Mr. Lincoln with the Music of the Civil War exhibit.