Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail

Citywide, Alton, IL 62002

Historic Sites

Walk in the footsteps of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, and Civil War soldiers from both North and South.

Experience the life of young Lincoln as a lawyer, duelist and orator. It was here that the final Lincoln-Douglas Debate took place, with the issue of slavery on the minds of spectators. It was here that Confederate soldiers were held captive, died and were buried. It was here that Alton resident and U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull authored the 13th Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the United States. Experience the 11 historic sites interpreted along the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail.

What's happening nearby...

Javapalooza 2026

Great Rivers & Routes Region  •  Sep 01 – Nov 30

Javapalooza 2026 is brewing Sept. 1-Nov. 30! Sip signature drinks, explore coffee shops, join scavenger hunts, follow the Coffee Trail that celebrates the bean, baristas and…

Read more about Javapalooza 2026

Vintage Voices Tours 2026

Alton City Cemetery  •  Oct 03 @ 12noon

Step back in time at the 25th season of Vintage Voices! Stroll through Alton City Cemetery on a guided tour and meet costumed actors portraying notable…

Read more about Vintage Voices Tours 2026

Rocky Horror Picture Show at ALT

Alton Little Theatre  •  Oct 29 – Nov 01 @ 7:30PM

Experience the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show live on stage with outrageous fun, unforgettable music, and interactive audience participation.

Read more about Rocky Horror Picture Show at ALT

You might also be interested...

Haskell Playhouse

Alton

A Victorian-style playhouse built for the daughter of Dr. William A. Haskell, a physician and one of the wealthiest residents of Alton, as a present for…

Read more about Haskell Playhouse

Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Alton

Visit the monument of an amazingly persistent and inspirational freedom fighter, Elijah P. Lovejoy.

Read more about Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Lincoln-Douglas Square

Alton

Stand the same ground once stood as Abraham Lincoln and Stephan A. Douglas near the Alton riverfront.

Read more about Lincoln-Douglas Square

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.