
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Immerse yourself in the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln through captivating exhibits, lifelike replicas, and original artifacts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Best Time
Fewer school groups

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln through captivating exhibits, lifelike replicas, and original artifacts.
"An absolute must-see, one of the best museums I've ever been to. It was both interesting and entertaining."

⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
Don't rush! You'll want ample time to absorb the exhibits and enjoy the presentations. :stopwatch:
🅿️ Paid Parking Recommended
Parking across the street is convenient and worth the small fee. Street parking is unreliable. :parking:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ghosts of the Library
An amazing theatrical presentation that brings Lincoln's story to life with impressive staging and wax figures.

Lincoln's Home
Springfield, Illinois
Explore the actual home where Abraham Lincoln lived with his family before becoming president.

Interactive Exhibits
Engaging and educational displays that make history fun and meaningful for all ages, with live scenes and holavisions.

Lincoln Tomb
Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, Illinois
A solemn and historically significant site where Abraham Lincoln is laid to rest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Enough Time
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
Don't rush! You'll want ample time to absorb the exhibits and enjoy the presentations. :stopwatch:
🅿️ Paid Parking Recommended
Parking across the street is convenient and worth the small fee. Street parking is unreliable. :parking:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Kids of all ages will be captivated by the interactive displays and engaging storytelling. :children_crossing:
🎶 Music & Art
Enjoy the music and art installations within the museum, adding another layer to the experience. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
Don't rush! You'll want ample time to absorb the exhibits and enjoy the presentations. :stopwatch:
🅿️ Paid Parking Recommended
Parking across the street is convenient and worth the small fee. Street parking is unreliable. :parking:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Kids of all ages will be captivated by the interactive displays and engaging storytelling. :children_crossing:
🎶 Music & Art
Enjoy the music and art installations within the museum, adding another layer to the experience. :musical_note:
📚 Book Drive Events
Check for special events like read-a-thons that support local students. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum as an exceptional and highly engaging experience, often calling it one of the best museums they've visited. The interactive exhibits, theatrical presentations, and lifelike displays are frequently highlighted as major draws, making history come alive for all ages. While generally lauded, some visitors have noted occasional disruptions from noisy school groups, though staff are often commended for their helpfulness.
"An absolute must-see, one of the best museums I've ever been to. It was both interesting and entertaining, thanks to the wax figures and overall staging. Tons of good ideas. Don't miss Ghosts of the Library, it's amazing. I'd advise to allocate 2-3 hours to your visit."
Julie Verdalle
"A wonderful and educational experience for the whole family! I took my children (ages 9, 10, and 13), and they absolutely loved it. The exhibits are so engaging and interactive that they stayed interested the entire time — and they actually learned a lot about Abraham Lincoln and our nation’s history. The museum does an amazing job of bringing the past to life in a way that’s both fun and meaningful for kids and adults alike. Everything was clean, well organized, and the staff was friendly and helpful. We left feeling inspired and impressed — highly recommend visiting if you’re anywhere near Springfield!"
Talal Rehan
"Made a point to swing through here with the kids on our road trip.
Not too crowded and was able to get through it in about 2 hrs.
Parking is across the street for $5 which is worth it. Street parking is hut and miss.
We all enjoyed the Museum.
The theatrical presentation with a live performer was pretty cool.
The live Lincoln scenes in and throughout the museum are very well done.
The life and death of Lincoln in the Capital section was fab. Especially liked where he was in repose.
Would come back."
LindsayJames A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Springfield, Illinois. If driving, parking is available across the street for a fee. Public transportation options may vary depending on your starting point.
Yes, there is paid parking available across the street from the museum, which is highly recommended. Street parking can be difficult to find. :parking:
Absolutely! Lincoln's Home is nearby and makes for a great addition to your visit. Many visitors combine the two.
Springfield is accessible by car, and Amtrak trains also serve the city. Many visitors opt for a road trip, combining it with other Illinois attractions.
Yes, Lincoln's Home, the Lincoln Tomb, and the Old State Capitol are all in close proximity and offer a comprehensive historical experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary for adults, seniors, and children. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is a good idea, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
The museum typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
The museum often hosts special exhibits and events. Check their website or social media for announcements about read-a-thons, historical talks, or temporary displays.
Yes, there is a fee for parking in the lot across the street from the museum. This is generally considered a worthwhile expense for convenience.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum to fully appreciate the exhibits and presentations.
Yes, the museum features many interactive exhibits, wax figures, and theatrical presentations designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Don't miss 'Ghosts of the Library,' the holavisions, and the life-size replicas of historical scenes. The 'Capital' section detailing Lincoln's life and death is also highly recommended.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly, with engaging exhibits that keep children interested and educated about history.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light refreshments and snacks. For full meals, there are numerous restaurants in the surrounding downtown Springfield area.
Outside food and beverages are usually not permitted inside the museum exhibits. There may be designated areas for consumption.
The cafe usually offers grab-and-go items, sandwiches, salads, and beverages. It's a convenient option for a quick bite during your visit.
Yes, the downtown Springfield area surrounding the museum has a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
While not directly at the museum, there are parks and public spaces in Springfield where you could enjoy a picnic before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, non-flash photography is allowed in most areas of the museum. However, always look for specific signage or ask staff for clarification.
The museum offers many visually rich exhibits, including wax figures, historical dioramas, and the 'Ghosts of the Library' presentation, which are great for photos.
The recreated scenes, the 'holavisions,' and the exhibits detailing Lincoln's life and death are particularly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by local regulations.
Short videos for personal use are usually permitted, but commercial filming or extensive video production may require special permission. Check with museum staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to allow kids to explore at their own pace. The paid parking across the street is convenient and worth the small fee. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to potentially avoid larger school groups.
📚 History Buffs & Students
Students, in particular, will find the museum incredibly educational. The interactive elements and engaging narratives help solidify learning, making complex historical events more digestible. The museum's focus on storytelling and bringing history to life ensures that even challenging topics are presented in an accessible manner.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Remember to check the museum's photography policy regarding flash usage and extensive filming. The nearby Lincoln's Home and Lincoln Tomb also offer excellent photographic opportunities, allowing for a comprehensive visual story of Lincoln's life and legacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lincoln's Legacy in Springfield
These historical sites are not just static displays; they are living testaments to a pivotal figure in American history. The museum itself uses innovative techniques like holavisions and theatrical presentations to make history accessible and engaging. The goal is to connect visitors with Lincoln's story on a personal level, making his challenges and triumphs relatable. The surrounding area also boasts other historical landmarks, such as the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln served as a legislator, further enriching the historical tapestry of Springfield.
Interactive and Engaging Exhibits
A standout feature is the 'Ghosts of the Library' presentation, a highly recommended theatrical experience that uses advanced staging to tell Lincoln's story in a compelling way. The museum also incorporates elements like augmented reality, aiming to further enhance visitor engagement and learning. This commitment to innovative presentation ensures that even younger visitors, often prone to distraction, remain captivated and learn valuable lessons about American history and leadership.
Community and Educational Initiatives
The museum also emphasizes the importance of diverse historical narratives. Dr. Brian Mitchell, Director of Research and Interpretation, highlights the effort to make Black history and the contributions of minority groups more visible and relevant to visitors. This inclusive approach ensures that the museum tells a more complete and nuanced story of American history, reflecting the contributions of all its people.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit