Along the Sangamon River, the Rock Springs Land and Water Reserve encompasses floodplain and upland forest, restored prairie, and a planted walnut grove along a 1.88-mile stretch. In Macon County, these varied landscapes are as much a part of the picture as places where history is visible through buildings, art, and historic markers.
Prairie, Forest, and Trails
The Spitler Woods State Natural Area spans 200 acres and preserves one of the largest areas of old-growth forest in Central Illinois. The 621-acre Friends Creek Conservation Area offers a different landscape, with two branches of Friends Creek, open meadows, and tallgrass prairie. The three areas represent different facets: forest, river landscape, and open prairie.
The Macon County Conservation District offers more than 3,600 acres in total, with prairies, wooded areas, historic sites, and scenic trails. Descriptions of individual conservation areas also highlight different features: trails wind through varied terrain at Fort Daniel Conservation Area. At Griswold Conservation Area, a trail crosses a glacial kame to an overlook with views across the prairie. If you choose trails based on their described landscape features, one highlights varied terrain, while the other has a specific destination in the form of an overlook.
History and Cultural Heritage
Homestead Prairie Farm illustrates rural life on the Illinois Grand Prairie in 1860 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park and Memorial offers a different historical connection: it commemorates the approximate site of Abraham Lincoln’s first home in Illinois.
The Macon County African American Heritage Trail explores African American heritage throughout Macon County. It includes historic markers, murals, and other sites related to African American heritage. Meanwhile, public art in Preston Jackson Park reflects the legacy of Preston Jackson, an artist born in Decatur.
Located on the western edge of Decatur, the Governor Richard J. Oglesby Mansion is a mansion. Check seasonal dates before you arrive if you plan to take a tour. The Hieronymus Mueller Museum celebrates the achievements of inventor Hieronymus Mueller, who held more than 500 patents. It is located on Eldorado Street, which is also designated as U.S. Route 36.
Museums, the Lake, and Things to Do
The Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum displays Chevrolet automobiles, including various race cars, Indianapolis 500 pace cars, and original unrestored models. The Children's Museum of Illinois offers more than 60 interactive exhibits and activities that recreate everyday situations. Scovill Zoo is home to 400 animals from six continents; it also features the Z.O.&O. Express train and the Endangered Species Carousel.
Lake Decatur is a man-made lake covering 2,800 acres, with 30 miles of shoreline. Boating, fishing, sailing, and jet skiing are available there. You can also choose based on what you’re looking for: water sports take center stage at the lake, while museums and the zoo offer different cultural and animal-related themes.
If you plan to visit between June and October, the Central Park/Downtown Market takes place in downtown Decatur on Saturdays. Since dates may change, check the latest market dates before your visit.
More Destinations
Explore more destinations: Decatur, Mount Zion, Fayette County, Effingham, Edgar, Vermilion, Boone County, Williamson County.
For the main travel overview: Illinois.
