Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park and Memorial
Walk in the footsteps of young Abraham Lincoln at his first Illinois home, a state park blending history and nature near Decatur.
Visit the site of Abraham Lincoln's first Illinois home at Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park and Memorial near Decatur. This 162-acre park on the Sangamon River offers a glimpse into the challenging pioneer life of the Lincoln family and the natural beauty of central Illinois.
A brief summary to Lincoln Trail Homestead
- Decatur, Illinois, 62522, US
- +1217-864-3121
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated picnic areas within the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails, as some areas can be uneven.
- Check out the informational plaques to learn more about Lincoln's time in the area.
Getting There
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Driving
Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park is located approximately 10 miles west of Decatur, Illinois. From Decatur, take Route 36 west to Lincoln Trail Memorial Parkway, then go south for four miles. The park entrance is on the east side of the road. Parking is available free of charge within the park.
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Public Transport
While public transportation directly to Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park is limited, you can take a Decatur Public Transit System (DPTS) bus to a location in Decatur and then take a taxi or rideshare service to the park. From the Decatur Public Transit, a taxi or rideshare to the park will cost approximately $15-$20. Check the DPTS website or Google Maps for current bus routes and schedules.
Discover more about Lincoln Trail Homestead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lincoln Trail Homestead
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Walk in the footsteps of young Abraham Lincoln at his first Illinois home, a state park blending history and nature near Decatur.
Lincoln Cabin State Historic Site
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Explore 1840s Illinois at the Lincoln Cabin State Historic Site: a living history farm and replica of Abraham Lincoln's father's home.
Abraham Lincoln's First Illinois Home
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Explore Abraham Lincoln's First Home in Decatur, Illinois - a historical landmark that unveils the early life of America's iconic president.
Lincoln’s First Illinois Home State Historic Site
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Discover where Abraham Lincoln's journey began: his first Illinois home near Decatur, offering a glimpse into his formative years on the frontier.
Griswold Conservation Area
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Hike to the top of a glacial kame at Griswold Conservation Area for panoramic views and a peek into Illinois' Ice Age past.
Decatur Transfer House
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Decatur 9/11 Memorial
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Visit the Decatur 9/11 Memorial for a poignant tribute to resilience, remembrance, and unity amidst tragedy in Decatur, Illinois.
Mount Pulaski Courthouse State Historic Site
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C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum
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Lincoln Watermelon Monument
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Niebuhr Family of Theologians Historical Marker
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Illinois State Historical Society
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Deskins Tavern State Historic Site
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Postville Park State Historic Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Governor Oglesby Mansion Inc
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Hieronymus Mueller Museum
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Sand Creek Conservation Area
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Original Geographic Center of Illinois
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Scovill Zoo
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Children's Museum of Illinois
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Geographic Center of Illinois
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Sangchris Lake State Park
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Weldon Springs State Park
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Henson Robinson Zoo
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Edward R Madigan State Park
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Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center
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Margery Adams Wildlife Sanctuary
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The Mill Museum on Route 66
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Essential places to dine
Beach House
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Star 66 Cafe
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Chesapeake Seafood House
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Smokey Bones Springfield
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Abe's Hideout
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Yummy Crab
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Old Luxemburg Inn
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Lulu's Diner
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The Chili Parlor
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Saputo's
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The Globe Tavern & Restaurant
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Springfield Carriage
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La Piazza Cucina Italiana
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Sangamon Antique Mall
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Cakeworld Boutique
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Rock Candy Minerals
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Unique Enchantments Salon & Gift Shoppe
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Wakery
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Whiskey Jack's
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Bar None
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Replay Lounge
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Buzz Bomb Brewing Co
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