Outside of his hometown of Springfield, Lincoln probably spent more time in Bloomington than in any other Illinois city. It was here that he cultivated many of his close personal and political allies and legal associates. Perhaps one of his closest friends was Bloomington's Judge David Davis. History has shown that Judge Davis played a pivotal role in both Lincoln's successful legal career and his run for the presidency. Here, you'll discover the stately David Davis Mansion. You'll get a rare glimpse into the daily lives of this wealthy Victorian family as you explore its beautiful room. Meet the people and hear the stories of this city during Lincoln's time when you visit the McLean County Museum of History.
For more information:
Bloomington-Normal Convention & Visitors Bureau
3201 Cira Drive, #201
Bloomington, IL 61704
309-665-0033
https://www.visitbn.org/
Location
Legend
8th Judicial Circuit
Courthouse
Friends of Lincoln
Good for Kids
Guided/Self-Guided Tours
Historic House
Historic Site
Lincoln-Douglas Debate
Museum
Passport Site
Recreational
Route 66
Top Destination
Underground Railroad
Visitor Information
Wayside Exhibit
Nearby Sites
Bloomington-Normal CVB
3201 Cira Dr. #201 Bloomington, Illinois 61704
The Bloomington-Normal area is a vibrant community, home to 167,699 people who exemplify the values of the Midwest and our remarkable quality of life. Our location in the heart of Illinois is at the intersections of 39, 55 and 74 and within two hours of Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis. Whether you are here for a weekend, attending an event or here on business, we hope you enjoy your visit and return often. We are proud of our Midwestern Hospitality.
Cruisin' with Lincoln on 66: Route 66 Visitors Center in Illinois
200 N. Main Street Bloomington, Illinois 61701
Cruisin' With Lincoln on 66 is a Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln themed Visitors Center and Gift Shop that celebrates Bloomington-Normal's rich, historical connection to both Route 66 and Abraham Lincoln through an interpretive exhibit. We also provide tourist assistance for travelers of today, along with many original gifts and souvenirs, often crafted by local artists and craftspeople.
David Davis Mansion State Historic Site
1000 E. Monroe Drive Bloomington, Illinois 61701
A visit to Judge David Davis' estate offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and powerful of his day. Davis, friend and mentor to Abraham Lincoln, served as a United States Supreme Court Justice and was a key contributor during Lincoln's bid for the 1860 Presidential nomination. The Davis Mansion, completed in 1872, combines Italianate and Second Empire architectural features and is a model of mid-Victorian style and taste. His Bloomington home, which remained in the Davis family for three succeeding generations, provided a focal point for the social, cultural and political life of the community. The mansion contains elegant furnishings and the most modern conveniences of the era. Call or visit the website for more information.
McLean County Museum of History
200 N. Main Street Bloomington, Illinois 61701
From Kickapoo Indians to early European settlers, from the small town where Lincoln practiced law to today's thriving community, the stories of this uniquely Midwestern community are told at the McLean County Museum of History. The museum traces its roots back to 1892, the year the McLean County Historical Society was founded. Housed inside the old McLean County Courthouse on the Downtown Bloomington square where an up-and-coming Abraham Lincoln practiced law, the museum features permanent and national, awardwinning rotating exhibits that explore the history of Central Illinois.
Abraham Lincoln Sites Narrated Tour
200 N. Main Street Bloomington, Illinois 61701
You can explore Lincoln sites throughout downtown and other sites in Bloomington-Normal using the McLean County Museum of History narrated tour. It is available on the McLean County Museum of History iOS and Android app, at the Cruisin' with Lincoln on 66 website, and also as a CD in the gift shop.
Begin the tour at the McLean County Museum of History