25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Decatur (IL)

Decatur is a lovely city in Macon County, Illinois, United States. It is the county’s seat and largest city. The city’s population in 2021 was 69646.

Decatur is noted for being the first home of President Abraham Lincoln. The city’s symbol is the Transfer House, an early 1900s Victorian structure.

The city is renowned for its many festivals. The lush waterfront of Lake Decatur is one of its top attractions. The city is filled with parks and many fascinating attractions for visitors.

Here are the best things to do in Decatur, IL.

Things to Do in Decatur, IL 

1. Learn about the city’s past at the Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion

There is a saying that the easiest way to learn about a city’s history is via its most prominent citizens.

One of such people in Decatur is Richard J. Oglesby. He was a Civil War veteran, a US Senator, and a three-time Illinois Governor.

The place has gone through some repair and is now as close as possible to its first state. You will discover artifacts inside.

The library and dining room are in the same condition as when first constructed. The library even has the original books owned by the Oglesby family. 

The dining room contains the décor and wallpaper that was first put in during the governor’s time.

Address: 421 W William St, Decatur, IL 62522, United States

2. See the Train at Decatur Transfer House

Decatur is located between two railroads, which allowed the city to flourish as a manufacturing hub.

If you’re in the mood to experience this history, head over to the Transfer House in Lincoln Square.

When the Transfer House was constructed, it attended to passengers of the Illinois Traction System interurban trains and the City Electric ZRailway streetcars.

The Transfer House presently houses artifacts from its early days. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a significant historical landmark.

Address: Central Park, Decatur, IL 62523, United States

3. Marvel at the rare animals in Scovill Zoo

One of the best places to visit in Decatur, IL, is the Scovill Zoo.The Zoo, located in the 62-acre Scovill Park, houses rare wildlife. It has been operating since 1967.

Scovill Zoo is so special because it houses 400 animals from six continents. It also has an express train, an Endangered Species Carousel, and a Project Playground constructed by the community. 

Further activities include adult volunteers, summer camps, and mobile classroom programs.

When you visit, you will come across animals like cheetahs and timberwolves. Additionally, you’ll also learn how you can help in keeping the environment safe.

Address: 71 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL 62521, United States

4. Allow your kids to learn and have fun at the Children’s Museum of Illinois

Are you vacationing in Decatur with children? If yes, take them to the Children’s Museum for an enjoyable learning experience. It is one of the top things to do in Decatur, IL.

The Children’s Museum is an interactive museum designed for kids between two to ten years.

This Museum features activities and exhibits in art and science, which are also extracted from real-world scenarios.

Through delightful hands-on activities, your children can practice critical thinking and use their imagination.

Not only will your kids learn about science and art, but they will also have fun while doing so. 

Address: 55 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL 62521, United States

5. Marvel at the cars at the Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum

If you are a car lover, the first place you should see in Decatur should be the Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum.

Relive the golden age of American automaking by looking at the Museum’s wide collection of Chevys.

The Museum opened in 2009 and shows Chevrolet’s best cars and memorabilia, which goes as far back as the 1920s.

Visitors can spend the day gazing at the displayed race cars, show cars, and Indianapolis Pace cars.

With more than 55 vehicles on display, the Chevrolet Hall of Fame is a must-see destination for car enthusiasts.

Visiting the Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Decatur, IL, especially for car lovers.

Address: Decatur Plaza Shopping Center, 3635 US-36 East, Decatur, IL 62521, United States

6. Visit the Hieronymus Mueller Museum

Celebrate the American Dream by commemorating the legacy of a successful businessman, Hieronymus Mueller. 

The Museum, founded in 1995, houses artifacts and memorabilia compiled from the life of the pioneer German emigrant.

Hieronymus Mueller is a significant figure because he started multiple businesses that are still thriving now. One such business is the production of water pressure valves.

Through his accomplishments, you can learn about the significance of immigrants to American prosperity. 

Address: 420 W Eldorado St, Decatur, IL 62522, United States

7. Catch a performance at Kirkland Fine Arts Center

Do you crave some live entertainment? If yes, add a visit to the Kirkland Fine Arts Center to your checklist of what to do in Decatur, IL.

The Center hosts art galleries for those interested in paintings, or you can learn about art inside the lecture halls.

The Kirkland Fine Arts Center has seen multiple commendatory musical theater productions since 1970. This success has become important to the city’s thriving art and culture scene.

Some of the shows staged at the Center include Grease, Jesus Christ Superstar, Cats, and Rent. Kirkland Fine Arts Center has also produced concerts by famous musicians like Duke Ellington, Little Richard, and Ray Charles.

Address: 1215 W Kirkland Dr, Decatur, IL 62522, United States

8. Bond with nature at the Rock Springs Conservation Area & Nature Center

The Rock Springs Conservation Area & Nature Center is another natural place in Decatur.

You can bring your children along the hiking trails. You can also allow your furry friend to wander along the big Oak Loop trail.

Furthermore, you can visit the indoor Museum to keep your children engaged even after hiking. 

The exhibit and interactive activities will educate your children on nature conservation. 

Address: 3939 Nearing Ln, Decatur, IL 62521, United States

9. Learn more about Decatur’s History at the Staley Museum

Decatur, IL, is dubbed the “Soybean Capital of the World” due to the success of A. E. Staley.

From 1920 to 1930, Staley erected multiple buildings and established groups. These include the Staley Office building, the Staley viaduct, and the Staley’s football team, later known as the Chicago Bears.

Nevertheless, Staley’s groundbreaking work on soybean cultivation and processing gave him his fame.

The Staley Museum, constructed in 2015, collects artifacts and memorabilia that explore the man’s assistance to the city.

Address: 361 N College St, Decatur, IL 62522, United States

10. Go riding and biking at the Sand Creek Conservation Area

The Sand Creek Conservation Area is the perfect place to go if you feel like experiencing horseback riding on the open plains.

The 755-acre area comprises forests and open prairie, which serve as homes for different wildlife.

You can ride horses along the 7-6 miles of trails that traverse Sand Creek or hike along the trails.

Sand Creek is also owned by the Paris-Springfield Road, where numerous historical figures journeyed back in the day.

One such historical figure was Abraham Lincoln. The site has signs that read “Mr. Lincoln’s Foosteps.” 

Address: 4314 S Franklin Street Rd, Decatur, IL 62521, United States

11. Drink a glass of beer at Golden Fox Brewing

Are you yearning to try craft beers in Decatur? Head to the Golden Fox now. 

The Golden Fox Brewing & Taproom, which started from a shared dream by three pals, now offers a rich selection of craft beer to beer lovers.

Some of their beers include English IPAs, New England IPAs and Stouts. You can also try the Rye Beer and Belgian Strong Dark Ales.

In case you don’t want beer, Golden Fox Brewing also has ciders on its drink menu.

Address: 2874 N Dinneen St, Decatur, IL 62526, United States

12. Go fishing with your kids at Lake Decatur

If you are searching for a great place to fish during your stay in Decatur, Lake Decatur is the place for you. It is one of the best places to visit in Decatur, IL.

The Lake offers an enjoyable fishing experience for novices and professionals. Due to the Lake’s extensive catfish population, you’ll always find a catch. 

If you have children, you can also educate them on the significance of patience through fishing. You could also teach your children fishing fundamentals if you are at the dock. 

Also, you can teach them how to use tinier fish near the dock to draw out the fish you want.

Fishing with your kids is one of the fun things to do in Decatur, IL. Start your trip in the early morning to increase your chances of catching fish.

Address: Lake Decatur, Illinois, USA

13. See a movie at the Historic Avon Theatre

The Avon Theater is another important landmark in American cinema history. It was constructed in 1916.

The Avon Theatre is a prominent landmark partly because of its grand designs and ornaments. It only shows “moving pictures.”

A local artist, Mr. CO Knapp of Bement, was responsible for decorating the place. Her pricey décor also added to the reputation of the Theater. 

Today, Avon Theatre still shows the newest films. Catch the latest movie there while enjoying the beautiful designs of the Theater. 

See a movie at Historic Avon Theatre: it’s among the fun things to do in Decatur, IL.

Address: 426 N Water St, Decatur, IL 62523, United States

14. Have a tour of the James Millikin Homestead

The James Millikin Homestead is a historic Gothic-style house listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This house was once owned by James and Ann Milikin, who established the self-named university in Decatur. The Milikins also established the Milikin Bank and Estate Trust.

Today, the home offers routinely scheduled excursions for tourists lured by the size of the house.

The mansion contains a large elegant hall, which stops at a high central staircase and a stained-glass window. Looking up at the ceiling, you will see a painting of cherubs.

Address: 125 N Pine St, Decatur, IL 62522, United States

15. Take your pals on a scary tour with Haunted Decatur

If you are not a fan of bland tours, why don’t you try a terrifying tour of Dectaur’s most haunted places?

Haunted Decatur offers history tours and excursions to the city’s infamous haunted spots. The longest-running tour of the group is known as the Haunted History Tour. It is a three-hour excursion that discloses the horrifying side of Decatur.

You will see old crime scenes, hear about unresolved murders and much more. If you are fortunate, you might even come face to face with a ghost.

The Ghost Hunter’s Tour is another tour they offer. It is a four-hour trip to the most haunted places in the city.

Haunted Decatur only offers a small number of these tours yearly, so be sure to add joining the tour to your itinerary of what to do in Decatur, IL.

Address: 141 N Main Street, Decatur, IL 62523, United States

16. Attend an event at Nelson Park

Nelson Park is one of Central Illinois’s oldest and most gorgeous parks. About 80,000 people enjoy the Park throughout the year.

The Park includes a pavilion, fitness park/ trail, disc golf course, dog park, rock garden, Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, etc.

Nelson Park is the city’s most visited park. It hosts many events and activities like the 4th of July Festivities, Shake the Lake Summer Concert Series, Staley Firecracker Road Run, Shoreline Classic Race, Special Olympic Polar Plunge, and hundreds of family gatherings.

Address: 2475 E Pavilion Dr, Decatur, IL 62521, United States

18. Dine at the Gin Mill

The Gin Mill is a refined restaurant and bar that offers an enjoyable culinary experience. Its grand, dimly lit space sets an incredible atmosphere for an enjoyable experience.

You can look forward to fast and efficient services at the Gin Mill. The restaurant offers a diverse menu with delicious steaks, comfort food, and seafood.

Their remarkable cocktail selection is not to be missed; it complements the tasty dishes perfectly. Satisfy your sweet tooth with their alluring dessert options, a pleasant ending to your meal.

The Gin Mill provides different options to suit your preferences, including cocktails, beer, alcohol, wine, and coffee. They also offer healthy options alongside small plates and quick bites.

Whether you are looking for a simple lunch, a pleasant dinner, or a sweet treat, you will find them all at the Gin Mill. Dining at this restaurant is one of the best things to do in Decatur, IL.

Address: 124 E Prairie Ave, Decatur, IL 62523, United States

19. See the Railsplitter Covered Wagon

The Railsplitter Covered Wagon is a site that commemorates the pioneering spirit of America. It’s a wonder to behold and is situated on Best Western Lincoln Inn’s front lawn.

The enormous wooden wagon standing 24 feet tall is home to a monument of Abraham Lincoln reading a law book.

According to the World Record declaration, this humorous and unique attraction is the largest covered wagon in the world.

The Railsplitter was created by David Bentley in 2001 to pass the time while he was recuperating from surgery. A significant storm that hit the area in 2014 impaired the wagon. 

Local volunteers showed heroic drive, pushing America beyond the frontier and mending it quickly. 

The Railsplitter Covered Wagon is in Lincoln, IL, 40 minutes from Decatur, IL.

Address: 1750 5th St, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

20. Attend a performance at Maple Club Dinner Theater

Are you interested in a little bit of mystery? If yes, head over to the Lincoln’s Maple Club. 

You will find the Maple Club in Lincoln’s downtown area. It has two stages, a 225-seat auditorium, an amphitheater, two stages, and a bar.

The Theater has a renowned history: local lore claims a tunnel was previously linking it to a house next door. 

According to this myth, club customers would exit via the tunnel when cops raided during Prohibition.

Visitors can enjoy the Theater’s supper-club ambiance during shows or drop in for lunch at Vintage Fare.

Address: 1458 State Route 121 Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

21. Spend a fun day with your loved ones at the Logan Lanes

Logan Lanes is an excellent spot to host your event or get the gang together for a night of bowling. 

This entertainment center has everything you need to have a memorable time with your family and buddies, including indoor golf simulators, bowling, pool tables, an arcade, and more. 

If you get peckish after the fun, drop by The Bar & Grille for a large luncheon menu. You could also have a seat in their lounge area, which has many TVs.

The Bar & Grille also offers a free meeting room for birthday parties, meetings, fantasy league drafts, and more. 

If you want something longer to do at the lanes, check out their indoor golf, pool, and leagues for bowling.

Logan Lanes also has bowling tournaments and their yearly Summer Bash and Golf-n-Bowl tourney.

Address: 1700 5th St, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

22. Visit the Postville Courthouse

If you are looking for a place to visit that will teach you about the famous citizens of Lincoln, the Postville Courthouse is perfect for you.

Postville Courthouse, a few blocks from Lincoln’s city center, is among Illinoi’s most lovely and significant locations.

This courthouse site is the first center of the Logan County government. It imitates the first courthouse where Abraham Lincoln practiced law. 

Leading up to the courthouse from the street is a brick sidewalk. A convenient brick ramp also goes to the building’s back entrance.

If you have loved ones with special needs, that’s not an issue, as motorized accessibility devices like wheelchairs and scooters are available. 

Address: 914 5th St, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

23. Experience nature at Edward R. Madigan State Park

It’s tough to beat the serenity and charm of Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area.

At Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area, you can go boating, camping, or hiking as much as you desire.

There are wetlands and riparian trees along the waterways, native prairie, and crops. The chances of coming across all types of organisms are extremely high.

The Lincoln / Logan Correctional Center of the Illinois Department of Correction is located on the park’s western end.

In addition to fishing and electric boating, the Edward R. Madigan State Park offers running, hiking, and biking. 

Address: 1366 1010 Ave, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

24. Have a picnic at Kickapoo Creek Park

Are you looking for a small break from the holiday rush? If yes, a great option for you is the Kickapoo Creek Park.

This Park contains over 10 miles of trails ranging from deep woods to upper prairie land and an asphalt walking path around the central road.

Kickapoo Creek Park is a portion of the Logan County Park & Trails. It runs through the wood and approximately half of the park’s 160 acres.

You’ll see wildlife and native plants as you connect with nature. After hiking, relax at one of the picnic areas.

You can also see rentable picnic pavilions, perfect for picnics with friends or family gatherings.

Address: 2000 Jefferson St, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

25. Learn about the USA’s 16th President’s life at the Lincoln Heritage Museum

If you are a history buff visiting Lincoln, you shouldn’t miss the Lincoln Heritage Museum. This Museum, located in the center of downtown, is a must-see for history lovers.

While the Museum focuses mainly on President Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy, it also explores the 1800s rural Midwest’s history and culture.

In 1941, an expansive collection of antiquities was donated to the school by Lincoln University alumni and Judge Lawrence Stringer. This resulted in the creation of the Lincoln Room.

The Museum has over 200 rare books and documents, including a few signed by Abraham Lincoln.

It gained fame, and in 2003, it was reallocated its own building. An interactive display allows guests to admire the attire from the period and pose for pictures.

Address: 1115 Nicholson Rd, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

26. Have a tour of the Heritage In Flight Museum

Preserving aviation history is the goal of the Heritage In Flight Museum. This Museum is home to military objects and memorabilia that date back to WWII.

Contributions from veterans and their families help to maintain the collections. Guests can learn how aviation has shaped history and pay respect to the country’s air force heroes.

What makes the Heritage In Flight Museum unique is the display of multiple artifacts from all American history utilized by veterans. Every item narrates a tale of a veteran’s journey.

The objective is to provide a place where these stories can be told and listened to for a long time. The Heritage In Flight Museum is always free to the public. You can also see the gift shop or dine at a nearby café.

Whether you are an aviation fan or just searching for something to do during the weekend, visiting this Museum is an excellent choice.

Address:1351 Airport Rd #1, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

24. Walk around at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Farmers Market

When you have a craving for locally-grown produce, drive over to the Abraham Memorial Hospital Farmers Market, which is held on the Logan County Fairgrounds. 

From April to September, you’ll see everything from vegetables and fresh fruits to baked goods, eggs, meat, flowers, and more. 

The local farmers are dedicated to supplying produce with the best quality, so you are assured of getting only fresh stuff. 

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Farmers Market is open from 8 am to midday on Saturdays.

With numerous vendors selling a large variety of products, it’s guaranteed an adventure that ends with some amazing food.

Address: 1086-1298 N Postville Dr, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

25. Explore local shops and restaurants at Logan Square

Logan Square is one of the most stunning places in Lincoln. The historic downtown district encircles the beautiful courthouse, constructed in 1854.

Grab coffee and baked items at the Guest House. You could also pick up caramel corn and candy at Abe’s Caramelcorn Shoppe.

If searching for antiques, head to The Copper Penny or visit Sorrento’s, the city’s favorite pizza shop, for a slice of pizza.

If you are in the mood for outdoor dining, try Guzzardo’s, an Italian dining institution.

Multiple events take place throughout the year at Logan Square. They host a very famous farmer’s market every week on Saturday. 

They also hold a yearly festival named “Taste of Logan Square” every June. This festival comprises fantastic food selections from restaurants on the Square and live music from local bands.

Additional events, such as Christmas in the Square with hot chocolate and carolers, occur yearly. 

Address: 601-699 Broadway St, Lincoln, IL 62656, United States

Have time in Illinois?, take to exploring other Alabama cities, here is our list of things to do in Schaumburg, things to do in Bloomington, and things to do in Naperville.

Plan Your Trip to Decatur

Decatur, IL, has a rich history and a profound connection with nature. Tourists will find many memorable sites in the city.

Spice up your vacation by combing every corner of Decatur and enjoying everything the city offers. Don’t hesitate to make Decatur, IL, your next vacation destination.