Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden

The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden offers a tranquil escape into the natural landscapes that shaped Abraham Lincoln. This 100-acre woodland and prairie garden serves as a living memorial, showcasing plants native to Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, the three states where Lincoln resided. Designed by renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen, the garden is a testament to naturalistic design, aiming to recreate an idealized vision of the Midwestern woods and prairies.

Visitors can explore six miles of interconnected trails winding through diverse ecosystems, including restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Key botanical highlights include majestic white oaks, vibrant sugar maples, delicate dogwoods, and striking redbuds in the Jensen Unit, while the Ostermeier Prairie Center features tallgrass prairies with species like big bluestem and fire-resistant bur oaks. Unique features like eight council rings, stone fire circles designed for communal gathering, and benches inscribed with Lincoln quotes offer spots for reflection and connection with history. The garden also boasts a dedicated Native Wildflower Garden and a Children's Woodland Garden.

Beyond its historical and botanical significance, the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden is a haven for wildlife, especially birds and turtles. The varied habitats make it an excellent spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species documented. The garden provides a peaceful environment for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families to learn about native ecosystems and enjoy the serene beauty of the Illinois landscape. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.