Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Presidential History in Illinois

Visit presidential places in Illinois and learn all about American Presidents who have called Illinois home, including Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama.

A boy and man sitting on chair in a room

The Story of Abraham Lincoln

The Land of Lincoln

Discover the fascinating history of one of America's most revered presidents. Explore historic sites throughout Illinois in the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area.

Exterior of the Obama house in Hyde Park

Barack Obama's Family Home

A Presidential Neighborhood

Nestled along the tree-lined streets of the historic Hyde Park neighborhood is a low-key piece of presidential history: the private residence of Barack Obama and his family.

Looking for Lincoln

Finding Honest Abe in the Prairie State

Court rooms

Road (trip) to the Whitehouse

Presidential History

Presidential history comes alive at the homes, museums, parks and other landmarks associated with the 16th, 18th, 41st, and 44th presidents of the United States. Follow the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, George H. W. Bush and Barack Obama and see how Illinois shaped their path to our nation's highest office.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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