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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…

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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.

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Alton Halloween Parade 2026

Broadway Street, Downtown Alton •  Oct 31 @ 7PM

Ghost and goblins beware! The "Most Haunted Small Town in America" will be out in full force at this year's annual Halloween Parade!

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Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Alton

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

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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…

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Western Military Academy Monument

Alton

Originally founded as Wyman Institute by Edward Wyman in 1878, it was reorganized as Western Military Academy in 1896.

Read more about Western Military Academy Monument

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