You might know one of the best, if not, the best president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. He was an American politician who served as the 16th President of the United States in 1861. Before becoming a president, a city in Illinois was named after him where he practiced law from 1847 to 1859. Lincoln city is the county seat of Logan County and the home to the world’s largest covered wagon - a form of transportation during the pre-industrial America.
There are numbers of attractions to see in the city despite having only 14,000 residents. A combination of culture, history as well as indoor and outdoor activities in one vacation. So, if you happen to visit Illinois, don’t forget to stop over at Lincoln! Let’s check out the best things to do in the city of Lincoln, Illinois!
1. Visit the Lincoln Heritage Museum
First attraction goes to all the history buffs out there. The museum is located in Lincoln College, the only college named for the late Abraham Lincoln. This museum displays a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of the life and death of the former US president. One of these artifacts is “The Head of Lincoln” which was donated by a renowned artist named Sacha Newly in the year 2008. The artwork portrays the young Abraham Lincoln which also contains the words used in the Gettysburg Address.
Lincoln Heritage Museum
Address: 1115 Nicholson Rd, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
Website: Lincoln Heritage Museum
2. Have a quick stop at the Railsplitter Covered Wagon
Lincoln city is the home to the world’s largest covered wagon and there’s full proof to that. This attraction is located at the roadside and is worth a quick stop for a short photo op. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the largest covered wagon in the world! Besides, it’s easy to find and well, free! Plus, you can come here anytime you want. So, there’s really nothing to worry about.
Railsplitter Covered Wagon
Address: 1750 5th St, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
Website: Railsplitter Covered Wagon
3. Relax at Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area (former Railsplitter State Park)
This park is the ideal location if you want to find peace and tranquillity throughout your vacation or just want to have a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The state park is located along Salt Creek on the south edge of Lincoln in Logan County. Aside from the wildlife and native birds in the area, several species of trees can also be found in the park. In fact, Railsplitter State Park is home to the largest Sycamore tree in Illinois. The place could also be enjoyed with a picnic with the family with its many trees surrounding the park. Picnic tables, toilets, and outdoor stoves are available for convenience.
Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area
Address: 1366 1010th Ave, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
4. Visit Lincoln Park District
This park is being led by five elected park commissioners with a mission to take care of the facilities of the park and the availability of recreational programs to its residents. The good news is that these facilities are not limited to the residents but also accessible to the visitors of the city. Different programs are available in the park for all ages and will just depend on what you want to do. If you think of staying longer in the city, volunteer work is also available in the park. If you meet their requirements, you can be one of the people there working together to maintain the services that they offer.
Lincoln Park District
Address: 1400 Primm Rd, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
Website: Lincoln Park District
5. Have some exciting activities at Kickapoo Creek Park
This park is located just north of the city of Lincoln. This park is part of the Logan County Park and Trails Foundation which is responsible for receiving funds for the development and beautification as well as in preservation and operation of the park. Kickapoo Creek Park provides recreational activities that are available during summer and even winter. These sports and outdoor activities include trails for hiking, bicycling, snowshoeing, skiing, and water activities such as canoeing, fishing, and kayaking.
Kickapoo Creek Park
Address: 2000 N Jefferson St, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
Website: Kickapoo Creek Park
6. See the Postville Courthouse State Historic Site
If you want more of the historical sites in Lincoln, you should also try visiting Postville Courthouse. This courthouse is where Abraham Lincoln tried a case and the place where he was struggling to make a name for himself. Built in an austere Federal style, the courthouse not only contained a circuit room but also the offices of the sheriff, county clerk, the county recorder of deeds, the coroner, and the county surveyor. This place might only be a replica, but it is still interesting to visit!
Postville Courthouse State Historic Site
Address: 914 5th St, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
7. See the Mill Museum
This is yet another one roadside attraction in Lincoln. What used to be a restaurant is now one of the famous attractions in the city. The Mill has gone through a lot from its different owners down to the almost demolition of the property. Thanks to the good guys Ernie Edwards and then Logan County Tourism Director Geoff Ladd, they teamed up together with their supporters to save the building. Nowadays, the Mill is being supported through fundraising for the continuation of the building’s renovation.
Mill Museum
Address: 66738 S. Washington (Route 66) Lincoln, IL 62656
Website: Mill Museum
8. Buy local products at Scully Park Farmers Market
How can your friends also enjoy your vacation even though they are not with you? Buy them souvenirs! That’s not a problem because Scully Park Farmer’s Market is here to help you. You can buy local products to bring home to your friends and family. The best thing about buying local products in this market is not by only buying things to bring home but also helping the local farmers of the city. As their campaign goes, “Buy fresh, buy local!”
Scully Park Farmers Market
Address: 316 S. Kickapoo St. Lincoln, IL 62656
Website: Scully Park Farmers Market
9. See a movie at Lincoln Grand 8 Theatre
This is one thing that I have always wanted to try when I visit a different place or a new country, but I don’t know why I can’t. I hope you do not miss the chance to experience this theatre house too! Lincoln Grand 8 Theatre is the newly renovated theatre in the city of Lincoln. Aside from their whopping 8 large screens, the theatre is beautiful, comfortable and clean! Such a nice place to cap off the day exploring the city and ending it with a movie date.
Lincoln Grand 8 Theatre
Address: 225 S Kickapoo St, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA
Website: Lincoln Grand 8 Theatre
A historical city you shouldn't miss
As we can see, Lincoln is truly a place rich in history, thanks to the late former US President Abraham Lincoln being one of the major contributors to the city’s history. Hope you can visit Lincoln, Illinois very soon!