Museum of the Grand Prairie

Situated in beautiful Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, the Museum of the Grand Prairie collects, preserves, and interprets the natural and cultural history of Champaign County and East Central Illinois. The museum offers four permanent exhibits: The Grand Prairie Story, Blacksmithing on the Prairie, Champaign County’s Lincoln and an all hands-on Discovering Home.  An additional outdoor exhibit, Vanishing Acts: Trees Under Threat, can be found in the inviting Botanical Garden just to the south of the museum. And just as the seasons change in the surrounding natural setting, each year the museum has special exhibits, so be sure to check their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube for updates.

In Champaign County’s Lincoln the visitor enters the county as Lincoln did, in a virtual buggy ride. One can visit the photographer’s studio where Lincoln had his likeness made or the Goose Pond Church where he spoke! Visitors can even chat up B.F. Harris, Lincoln’s Mahomet friend. This exhibit is an immersive and informative experience! Join us!

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