Lincoln Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Lincoln? Read our comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Lincoln

Located in Central Illinois, Lincoln is a charming city known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity. Home to numerous museums, art galleries, and historic sites, Lincoln is a perfect destination for history buffs and art lovers alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Lincoln. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this fascinating city!

List of Places to Visit in Lincoln

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor adventures, Lincoln has something for everyone. Here’s a list of must-visit places in Lincoln:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: This world-class museum showcases the life and legacy of America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. With interactive exhibits, live performances, and historical artifacts, this museum offers an immersive experience of Lincoln’s life and times.

  • Lincoln Heritage Museum: This museum tells the story of Abraham Lincoln’s life in Illinois, from his early years as a lawyer and politician to his presidency. With exhibits on Lincoln’s family, his political life, and the Civil War, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Illinois.

  • Postville Courthouse State Historic Site: This beautifully restored courthouse was the site of some of Abraham Lincoln’s earliest cases as a lawyer. With exhibits on Lincoln’s law practice and the legal system of his time, this historic site offers a fascinating look into Lincoln’s legal career.

  • Railsplitter State Park: This park is named after Abraham Lincoln, who was known as the “railsplitter” for his early jobs splitting rails for fences. With hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing ponds, this park is a great spot for outdoor adventures.

Natural Attractions of Lincoln: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kickapoo Creek Park: This park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing ponds, picnic areas, and a disc golf course. With scenic views of the Fall Creek Valley, this park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Sugar Grove Nature Center: This 550-acre nature preserve features a variety of habitats, from prairies to woods to wetlands. With educational programs, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing areas, this nature center is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Illinois.

  • Lincoln Park District: This park district offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, tennis, and golf. With beautifully landscaped grounds and well-maintained facilities, this park district is a great spot to relax and unwind.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lincoln

If you’re looking to explore Lincoln on foot or by bike, there are plenty of great trails to choose from. Here are a few of the best:

  • Constitution Trail: This 24-mile trail runs from Normal to Bloomington and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. With paved paths for biking and walking, this trail is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • The Salt Creek Trail: This 10-mile trail runs from Lincoln to the nearby town of Greenview. With scenic views of the Salt Creek and plenty of wildlife along the way, this trail is a great spot for hiking and birdwatching.

  • Lincoln to Railsplitter State Park Trail: This 2.4-mile trail runs from downtown Lincoln to Railsplitter State Park. With views of the Lincoln skyline and the surrounding countryside, this trail is a great way to explore the area on foot or by bike.

Best Things to Do in Lincoln: Activities and Tours

In addition to its many museums and natural attractions, Lincoln offers plenty of other activities and tours. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Lincoln Speedway: This dirt racetrack hosts weekly races from April to September. With a variety of race classes and events, this speedway is a great spot for racing fans.

  • Lincoln Balloon Festival: Held annually in August, this festival features hot air balloon races, live music, and food vendors. With activities for all ages, this festival is a fun way to experience the local culture and community.

  • Route 66 Heritage Foundation of Logan County: This nonprofit organization offers guided tours of the historic Route 66, as well as educational programs and events. With a focus on the history and culture of the iconic highway, this organization is a great resource for visitors looking to explore the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lincoln

If you’re planning to spend a week in Lincoln, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Lincoln Heritage Museum
Day 2 Explore the Postville Courthouse State Historic Site and the Railsplitter State Park
Day 3 Go hiking at Kickapoo Creek Park and spend the afternoon at the Sugar Grove Nature Center
Day 4 Play a round of golf at the Lincoln Park District and take a tour of the Route 66 Heritage Foundation
Day 5 Attend a race at the Lincoln Speedway and have dinner at a local restaurant
Day 6 Take a hot air balloon ride at the Lincoln Balloon Festival and experience the local culture
Day 7 Relax and unwind at your hotel or explore the city at your own pace

Food and Drink Scene of Lincoln

Lincoln has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local dishes and beverages to try. Here are a few of our favorites:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Horseshoe: This local dish consists of bread topped with meat, fries, and cheese sauce. With a variety of meat options and different toppings, this dish is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

  • Bratwurst: Lincoln has a strong German heritage, and as a result, bratwurst is a popular local dish. With a variety of sausage options and different toppings, this dish is a great way to experience the local culture.

  • Sweet Corn: Illinois is known for its sweet corn, and Lincoln is no exception. Whether you’re enjoying it on the cob, in a salad, or in a soup, sweet corn is a must-try for foodies.

Local Beverages

  • Hand-Crafted Beer: Lincoln has several local breweries, each offering a variety of hand-crafted beers. With options ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there’s a beer for every taste.

  • Illinois Wine: Illinois has a growing wine industry, and Lincoln is home to several wineries. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there’s an Illinois wine for you to try.

Where to Stay in Lincoln: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly guesthouse, Lincoln has a variety of accommodation options to choose from. Here are a few of our recommendations:

  • Lincoln Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Lincoln and offers elegant rooms and suites. With on-site dining options and a rooftop bar, this hotel is a great choice for travelers looking for a luxurious stay.

  • Best Western Lincoln Inn: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, as well as a free breakfast buffet. With a location close to many of Lincoln’s top attractions, this hotel is a great option for travelers looking to save money.

  • Pine Lakes Lodge: This cozy guesthouse offers charming rooms and a peaceful setting. With access to a nearby lake and ample outdoor space, this guesthouse is a great choice for travelers looking to relax and unwind.

What to Buy in Lincoln: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Lincoln, here are a few ideas:

  • Route 66 Memorabilia: Lincoln is located on historic Route 66, and as a result, there are plenty of Route 66-themed souvenirs to choose from. From T-shirts to keychains to magnets, there’s something for everyone.

  • Local Art: Lincoln has a vibrant art scene, and there are several galleries and shops selling locally-made art and crafts. Whether you’re interested in paintings, sculptures, or pottery, there’s a piece of local art for you to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Lincoln

Visitors to Lincoln will find a friendly and welcoming community that values history and tradition. Here are a few customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Respect for Abraham Lincoln: As the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, Lincoln residents have a deep respect for the former president. Visitors should be mindful of this reverence and treat Lincoln-related sites and artifacts with respect.

  • Love for the Outdoors: Lincoln residents are passionate about the outdoors, and many locals spend their free time hiking, biking, and fishing. Visitors who share this passion will feel right at home in Lincoln.

Best Time to Visit Lincoln

The best time to visit Lincoln is during the spring and fall months, when temperatures are mild and the scenery is beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy. However, no matter what time of year you visit, Lincoln has plenty to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lincoln

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Lincoln:

Do:

  • Do visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
  • Do try the local cuisine
  • Do explore the natural beauty of Lincoln

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful to Abraham Lincoln-related sites or artifacts
  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas
  • Don’t underestimate the importance of sunscreen and bug spray when exploring the outdoors

Safety and Health

Lincoln is a safe and healthy city, with plenty of medical facilities and emergency services. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Lincoln

  • Lincoln is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions such as locking their car doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

  • The Lincoln police department can be reached at 911 in case of emergency.

Health in Lincoln

  • Lincoln has several medical facilities, including the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital and Memorial Medical Center.

  • Visitors should take precautions against tick bites and sunburn when spending time outdoors in Lincoln.

Getting to Lincoln: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lincoln is easily accessible by car or bus, and there are several airports located within driving distance. Here are your transportation options:

Airports Near Lincoln

  • Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport: Located in Springfield, Illinois, this airport is a 30-minute drive from Lincoln.

  • Central Illinois Regional Airport: Located in Bloomington, Illinois, this airport is a 40-minute drive from Lincoln.

Bus Stations Near Lincoln

  • Greyhound: Located in Bloomington, Illinois, this bus station is a 40-minute drive from Lincoln.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Amtrak service is available in the nearby city of Normal, Illinois.

  • Rental Cars: Several car rental companies are located in the Lincoln area.

How to Get Around in Lincoln

Lincoln is a walkable and bike-friendly city, and many of its top attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you need transportation, there are several options:

  • Taxis: Several taxi companies operate in Lincoln.

  • Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Lincoln.

  • Rental Cars: Several car rental companies are located in the Lincoln area.

Where to Go Next from Lincoln: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring more of the Midwest, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Springfield, Illinois: The capital city of Illinois is located just 30 minutes from Lincoln and offers several museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.

  • St. Louis, Missouri: Located just two hours from Lincoln, St. Louis is a vibrant city known for its iconic Gateway Arch, world-class museums, and delicious food.

  • Chicago, Illinois: Located three hours from Lincoln, Chicago is a must-visit destination for travelers to the Midwest. With its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and famous deep-dish pizza, Chicago has something for everyone.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Lincoln has something to offer. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty, Lincoln is a must-see destination in the Midwest. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this fascinating city!