Springfield
Located on historic Route 66 in Springfield, the 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 with high action and ghostly images, and so much more. Afterward step outside where you can look for Lincoln in the many authentic historic sites and stories told throughout the city.
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.
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
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 and the iconic kitsch that is Route 66.
Step back to Lincoln’s day for a glimpse into the life of Lincoln the lawyer, visit the Postville Courthouse State Historic Site. 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. You’ll find exhibits that tell the story of the 8th Judicial Circuit – where Lincoln honed his skills as a successful prairie lawyer.
You also won’t want to miss a remarkable collection of Lincoln-related artifacts and documents at the Lincoln Heritage Museum, on the campus of Lincoln College. Treasures include china, books and mourning clothing that belonged to Mary Lincoln, as well as original correspondence from President Lincoln, as well as every member of his cabinet and Civil War military leaders.
Just as we preserve the legacy that is Abraham Lincoln, communities all along US Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles are trying to preserve that iconic legacy of America’s Main Street. And, Lincoln, Illinois is no exception. Check out The Mill on Route 66 – a recently saved and restored original Route 66 restaurant – now featuring a museum that tells the story of the county’s ties to the legendary road.