Central Illinois

Land of Lincoln

Presidential history meets Americana in this central region of Illinois. Visit towns that honor their legacies with museums, festivals and American-sized helpings of roadside nostalgia.

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Abraham Lincoln lived in Illinois. An actor reenacts his life.

  • Central Illinois

    Springfield

    History comes alive in Springfield, home to more Lincoln sites than anywhere else in the nation. Explore everything from Abe’s house and law offices to his must-see presidential museum. Don’t miss the Route 66 classic diners and kitschy roadside attractions.
    Things to do near Springfield
  • Central Illinois

    Bloomington-Normal

    Home to Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University, Normal buzzes with a younger vibe in its Uptown neighborhood, full of record stores and beloved pizza places. Check it out during the summer for the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
    Things to do near Bloomington-Normal
  • Central Illinois

    Champaign-Urbana

    Eclectic restaurants and wine bars cater to your most refined tastes, with several making their homes in stunning art and science museums. Check out the booming farm-to-table scene or enjoy handcrafted brews in local pubs near the University of Illinois. Pay a visit to the ornate 1,517-acre Robert Allerton Park, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and one of the American Institute of Architects' 150 Great Places in Illinois.
    Things to do near Champaign-Urbana
  • Central Illinois

    Decatur

    Discover everything from alligators to camels at Decatur’s Scovill Zoo. Visit a hands-on children’s museum. Go fishing on beautiful Lake Decatur and take a historic walking tour for a lighthearted look at Decatur’s colorful past.
    Things to do near Decatur