Central Illinois

Land of Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln lived in Illinois. An actor reenacts his life.

Presidential history meets Americana in this central region of Illinois. Visit towns that honor their legacies with museums, festivals and American-sized helpings of roadside nostalgia.

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  • Central Illinois

    Springfield

    History comes alive in Springfield, home to more Lincoln sites than anywhere else in the nation. Explore everything from Abe’s house and law offices to his must-see presidential museum. Don’t miss the Route 66 classic diners and kitschy roadside attractions.
    Things to do near Springfield
  • Central Illinois

    Bloomington-Normal

    Home to Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University, Normal buzzes with a younger vibe in its Uptown neighborhood, full of record stores and beloved pizza places. Check it out during the summer for the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
    Things to do near Bloomington-Normal
  • Central Illinois

    Champaign-Urbana

    Eclectic restaurants and wine bars cater to your most refined tastes, with several making their homes in stunning art and science museums. Check out the booming farm-to-table scene or enjoy handcrafted brews in local pubs near the University of Illinois. Pay a visit to the ornate 1,517-acre Robert Allerton Park, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and one of the American Institute of Architects' 150 Great Places in Illinois.
    Things to do near Champaign-Urbana
  • Central Illinois

    Decatur

    Discover everything from alligators to camels at Decatur’s Scovill Zoo. Visit a hands-on children’s museum. Go fishing on beautiful Lake Decatur and take a historic walking tour for a lighthearted look at Decatur’s colorful past.
    Things to do near Decatur