Abraham Lincoln Historic Sites in Illinois

Presidential Library & Museum

Located on historic Route 66 in Springfield, the Abraham Lincoln 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 and much more.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

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. Tours of this national treasure are conducted by National Park Service Rangers. Free tickets are required for house tours.

Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site

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.

Railsplitter Covered Wagon

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.

Postville Courthouse

Get a glimpse into the life of Lincoln the lawyer. 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.

Lincoln Heritage Museum

Here you'll fin a remarkable collection of Lincoln-related artifacts. Treasures include china, books and mourning clothing that belonged to Mary Lincoln, as well as original correspondence from President Lincoln.

McLean County Historical Museum

Visit the McLean County Historical Museum – inside a beautiful old courthouse on the town square. In the first floor visitor center, you’ll find out all about the rich Route 66 history in McLean county – as well as all the info you need for discovering the Lincoln story on Illinois Route 66.  Upstairs in the Museum, you’ll find the many stories of the people and the landscapes of McLean County through the years, including many of the local residents who were Lincoln’s contemporaries as he rose from prairie lawyer to the man who would be president.

David Davis Mansion

Stop at the magnificent David Davis Mansion, which was once owned by Lincoln confidante and close friend, Judge David Davis. This stately 19^th century mansion, and its beautiful grounds, will give you a glimpse of the social and political life Lincoln knew. History credits the influence and support of Judge Davis as an important factor on Lincoln’s success in becoming the Republican nominee.

You’ll also want to make a stop at the Sprague Super Service Station for some iconic Route 66 photos.