The Lincoln Home National Historic Site Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Tours of the house are also free, but require a ticket obtained at the Visitor Center.
From St. Louis, take I-55 North to Springfield, exit 92A at 6th Street, and stroll through a historic neighborhood to a beautifully restored 19th-century home.
Parking is available in a lot outside the site, $2/hour, credit/debit card only. On-street parking and downtown garages are also available. No overnight parking. No specific RV or motorcycle restrictions mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
In the heart of Springfield, Illinois, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site stands as a testament to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. This historic enclave, spanning four blocks, is centered around the only home Lincoln ever owned, a beautifully restored two-story Greek Revival house painted white with green shutters.
The home, where Lincoln lived with his family from 1844 to 1861, is set within a meticulously preserved 19th-century neighborhood. The site includes a visitor center and the surrounding historic district, offering a glimpse into Lincoln’s life as a husband, father, and politician. The house itself, with its 12 rooms and outdoor privy, has been restored to its 1860 appearance, evoking the era in which Lincoln resided there.
Surrounded by period-specific architecture, the site is a living museum that brings the past to life. Although the grounds lack the lush gardens one might expect, given Mary Lincoln’s love of flowers, the simple yet elegant setting reflects the humble yet dignified life of the Lincoln family.
Visitors can explore the nearby Lincoln Depot, from which Lincoln departed for his inauguration in Washington D.C., adding another layer of historical significance to the site. The area is also close to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and Lincoln’s Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery, making it a comprehensive destination for those interested in Lincoln’s life and legacy.
This historic site, now a National Historic Landmark since 1960, offers daily tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history and ambiance of the time. For those seeking a deeper connection to the past, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site is an unparalleled destination, providing a rich and evocative experience that transcends mere historical significance.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 200 000
- Established year
- 1971
Top 3 Facts about Lincoln Home National Historic Site
The house, built in 1839, contains 12 rooms spread over two floors and was the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, where three of his children were born and one died, spanning 17 years of his life before he became president.
In this historic enclave, Eastern chipmunks and fox squirrels scamper through shrubs and trees, while red-tailed hawks soar overhead. European starlings and cardinals add vibrant hues to the skies. Virginia opossums occasionally appear under porches, and red bats flit through the evening air. The landscape, once a tallgrass prairie, now supports a diverse array of flora and fauna, offering a unique glimpse into the natural world of 19th-century America.
In the heart of the Midwest, this historic site is set amidst a landscape that was once a vibrant tallgrass prairie, dotted with wildflowers and grasses that sway gently in the breeze. The area’s gently sloping topography contrasts with the majestic hardwood trees that line the floodplain forests, creating a serene and natural backdrop to the historic homes. Here, the rich earth and diverse flora evoke a sense of the region’s untouched past.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a half-day visit, especially during peak season or holiday events like Christmas in the Village. Secure free tour tickets at the visitor center early, as tours fill quickly. Utilize the small parking lot or street parking. Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the historic neighborhood and anticipate limited on-site dining options.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, and a waterproof jacket. For longer stays, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and camping essentials. Check seasonal amenities before your trip.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the urban wildlife by keeping a safe distance from animals like eastern cottontails and red-tailed hawks. Avoid feeding or disturbing them, especially during breeding seasons. Keep the area clean and free of litter to maintain the habitat of species like fox squirrels and Virginia opossums.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions and park rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 217-492-4241. Exercise caution and stay informed.
Seasons
Visit in spring as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, with mild weather perfect for strolls. Don’t miss Junior Ranger Day and Earth Day celebrations in April, offering interactive experiences amidst blooming landscapes. Ideal time to immerse in historical charm and outdoor activities.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid days. Enjoy Living History reenactors and special events like historic demonstrations, immersing you in 19th-century life amid a historic neighborhood.
Visit in fall, September to November, with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant foliage. Enjoy the annual Halloween Walks and historic house tours, immerging in 19th-century charm amidst the cozy autumn atmosphere. Ideal for a serene and culturally rich experience.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for a serene, snow-clad landscape, with temperatures often in the 20s-30s°F. Despite cold weather, the historic home’s interior warmth and guided tours make for a compelling winter escape.【】
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lincoln Home National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in Springfield, Illinois, to visit this historic site, which is located at 413 South Eighth Street in the city. Springfield is where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1844 to 1861 before becoming the 16th President of the United States. The site includes a four-block historic neighborhood and a visitor center.
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Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times when in the historic neighborhood. The leash should be less than 6 feet long. Pets are not allowed inside the historic buildings or the Visitor Center, except for service animals.
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Yes, there are parking fees of $2 per hour per vehicle. The parking lot is located near the visitor center.
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You can take a free guided tour of the Lincoln Home, a two-story Greek Revival house where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1844 to 1861. Explore the four-block historic neighborhood with various exhibits and historical buildings, including the Dean House which is open for self-visitation. The site also offers a visitor center with a gift shop, restrooms, and theaters showing films, as well as special events and living history demonstrations throughout the year.