Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium
Lincoln in front of large building

Central Illinois

Land of Lincoln

Central Illinois invites you into the very best of America's heartland

Presidential History & Route 66 in the Land of Lincoln

Walk through Lincoln's home in Springfield, cruise original Route 66 pavement, and discover university towns that buzz with energy year-round. Here, prairie meets history, culture, and innovation. You'll find world-class museums steps from working farms, craft breweries in historic downtowns, quirky roadside giants guarding small-town main streets, and Amish buggies clip-clopping through the modern world. Every town tells a story worth hearing, and locals always have time to chat.

Towns and Cities in Central Illinois

Springfield lets you walk in Lincoln's footsteps, and roll down Route 66. Bloomington-Normal serves up Insurance City heritage alongside ISU energy, craft breweries, and Constitution Trail adventures. Champaign-Urbana combines Big Ten spirit with exceptional culinary depth, where farm-to-table restaurants thrive between research labs and prairie paths. Decatur delivers lakefront beaches, Millikin University performances, Children's Museum discoveries, and easy access to Lake Shelbyville recreation.

Horse Carriage going past an an Amish building

Other Towns in Central Illinois

Heartland charm

There's more to explore! Effingham will delight you with its sprawling antique malls and locally loved restaurants. In Jacksonville, see some pristine Victorian mansions, and in Arthur and Arcola you'll discover real Amish Country life, with handmade furniture shops, pie bakeries, and, of course, buggy rides. Monticello will charm you with Railway Museum train rides and Allerton Park's formal gardens. Danville goes all out for sweet corn season, and its Fischer Theatre hosts performances that are worth the drive.

Discover Abraham Lincoln's Legacy

Explore Historic Sites

The Land of Lincoln is home to the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area. Throughout the region you can visit key historical sites from Lincoln's life and learn more about his legacy at museums.

Central Illinois Road Trips

Central Illinois road trips take you past Route 66 gems, Lincoln sites, roadside oddities, and genuine small-town diners. Pick your adventure style: family road trips past corn fields and ice cream stops, romantic getaways to B&Bs, or buddy trips between breweries. Every route shows you the real Illinois, with working farms, main street shops, and spots that locals love.

  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Deep in the Heart of Illinois

    Ride a horse and buggy in Amish Country. Have an outdoor adventure in Lake Shelbyville. Or pop by Champaign-Urbana and Decatur for some of the most highly-acclaimed food, arts, and... Read more about Deep in the Heart of Illinois
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Best of Springfield

    Experience the best of Springfield! Explore Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln. Indulge in family fun, the arts, and outdoor activities. Read more about Best of Springfield
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Lake Hop Adventure in Decatur Area

    Escape to Lake Decatur and Lake Shelbyville for some fun and a cool view. Read more about Lake Hop Adventure in Decatur Area
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Girls’ Weekend to Springfield

    Planning a girls weekend? This 3 day Springfield and New Berlin itinerary is perfect for relaxing, unwinding and reconnecting. Read more about Girls’ Weekend to Springfield
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    The Birthplace of the Road Trip

    It's the things you see along the way that you remember most. The giant statue of the guy holding a hot dog. The drive-in where it’s not a day past... Read more about The Birthplace of the Road Trip
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    48-Hour Family Getaway to Champaign County

    Explore the greater Campaign County with the family! A whole lot of fun on this planned 48-hour trip for families. Read more about 48-Hour Family Getaway to Champaign County
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Fun in Bloomington-Normal

    Beyond the bustling breweries and cozy coffee shops, Bloomington-Normal is an experience that will suit the tastes of every visitor. Our charming communities are both historic and modern, celebrated by... Read more about Fun in Bloomington-Normal
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    A Starry Night in Champaign County

    If you're ready for an amazing weekend, then the greater Champaign County area is calling! A visit to our Outside of Ordinary area has something for everyone, including world-class food,... Read more about A Starry Night in Champaign County
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    A Guide to a Guys Getaway in Bloomington-Normal

    A getaway for the guys. Enjoy some good craft beer, golf, and a shooting range with friends. Read more about A Guide to a Guys Getaway in Bloomington-Normal
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Roadside Distractions

    Things can get a little unusual in Illinois. White squirrels, pink elephants, sasquatches, giants, supermen—they all call our state home. So if you’re the type of traveler who thinks normal... Read more about Roadside Distractions
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Road (trip) to the White House

    Four presidents have hailed from our great state, and their history comes alive at the homes, museums, parks and other landmarks associated with our 16th, 18th, 41st, and 44th commanders... Read more about Road (trip) to the White House

Get Unique Local Products and Experiences from Illinois Made Makers in Central Illinois

 

Travel Inspiration for the Land of Lincoln

  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Road (trip) to the White House

    Four presidents have hailed from our great state, and their history comes alive at the homes, museums, parks and other landmarks associated with our 16th, 18th, 41st, and 44th commanders... Read more about Road (trip) to the White House
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Family Friendly Illinois Route 66 Road Trip

    Route 66 is peppered with kid-friendly activities that the whole family can enjoy. Photo opportunities, a mural, an arcade museum, a drive-in theater, a gondola and chairlift, and more. Whatever... Read more about Family Friendly Illinois Route 66 Road Trip
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Best of Springfield

    Experience the best of Springfield! Explore Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln. Indulge in family fun, the arts, and outdoor activities. Read more about Best of Springfield
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Fun in Bloomington-Normal

    Beyond the bustling breweries and cozy coffee shops, Bloomington-Normal is an experience that will suit the tastes of every visitor. Our charming communities are both historic and modern, celebrated by... Read more about Fun in Bloomington-Normal
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Illinois' African-American History and Heritage

    Discover sites that reflect the legacy of African-Americans on the history and culture of Illinois, from museums to music. Read more about Illinois' African-American History and Heritage
  • Show more in category of Inspiration

    Drive-In Movie Theaters

    Cruise back in time and enjoy an unforgettable night at one of Illinois' drive-in theaters. Read more about Drive-In Movie Theaters

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.