Historic Cities and Villages

Touring historic places of register, like Colonial Williamsburg or areas of historic Boston, can be a hands-on way to learn about the country’s history. They can provide more personal experiences than books and movies alone.

Springfield

Springfield, IL within an hour and half of Madison County with a ton of things to do.

• Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

• See the Lincoln Home National Historic Site – see what life was like when Lincoln lived here

Museums

• Visit the Lincoln Tomb & War Memorial – final resting place for Lincoln’s family

• Take a walk thru the Dana-Thomas House that contains over 400 pieces of original furniture.

• Old State Capitol State Historic Site

• Illinois State Capitol

• Washington Park – 150 acres of rolling hills and natural landscaping

Museums are ideal day trip destinations because many are indoors. That means weather never needs to be an issue while visiting. With historic artifacts, paintings, sculptures, or niche items like pop art or collectibles, there are museums for just about every interest. For example, railway enthusiasts can visit the National Railroad Museum in Wisconsin, one of the oldest railroad museums in the country.

American Farm Heritage Museum

Only quick drive across I-70 to Greenville, IL and is open Saturdays 10 am to 2 pm during the summertime

National Great Rivers Museum

Located in Alton is a great way to learn more about our waterways and take a stroll up to the Melvin Price lock and dam Museum at the Gateway Arch

Take a ride to the top and see for miles

Zoos and Aquariums

Interacting with wildlife is on the itinerary when visiting zoos and aquariums, and such establishments typically offer discounted admissions to seniors. From the famed San Diego Zoo to the Georgia Aquarium, it’s possible to get up close and personal with many species.

St. Louis Zoo

Paved walking paths that are wheelchair accessible, free admission

Tri-Township Park Zoo

Located at 410 Wickliffe St in Troy, IL offers a petting zoo fun for all ages open Monday – Friday 8 am to 4 pm and is right close to home.

St. Louis Aquarium

Located at Union Station, is a fun attraction at Union Station in St. Louis, if they station wasn’t fun enough with beautiful fountains, courtyards, trains, and food and shopping. Take a walk thru tour of the aquarium and pet stingrays.

• Lincoln Home Visitor Center

• Illinois State Museum

• Washington Park Botanical Gardens

• Illinois Governor’s Mansion

• Edwards Place Historic Home

Other Great Museums

Cahokia Mounds Museum

St. Louis Art Museum

City Museum

National Museum of Transportation

Plus many more local small museums!