Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center

Beautiful fall trails along Lake Springfield. Quiet Sunday trail hike to encounter nature and serenity. Lots of places to stop along the trail to rest thanks to donated memorial benches. 3 Thomas Dambo inspired troll art installations add some whimsy to the experience. If you’re willing to drive a little off the interstate for a break from the road, it’s great place to stretch your legs and would have been perfect for a picnic!

What a beautiful memorial, beautiful top to bottom, every tree every flower, the water and the wind, every trail and every name. Susan was delightful at the visitor center, offering a plethora of information and direction. The Troll artwork on display is every bit of magic to go hand in hand with the magic of the land. Every bench and quote more delightful and profound as the next. Honest Abe Lincoln was a beautiful human being and the world definitely needs more men like him, that is a fact. So glad to be able to pass through and experience this gem, thank you Illinois and Springfield for being so delightful for your history. 444* the play areas are a spectacular and incredible innovation reusing the fallen trees and wood as play elements. Can really create a great connection for kids and adults alike to connect and appreciate the land, as well as good old Abe. The wooden Xylophone was quite the delight for me, and the cherry on the top of an adventure I never knew I needed.

I went here on a Sunday afternoon in late June. I was seeking some quiet and nature. The trees and plants were abundant and grown out. It felt very natural and not overly maintained. I walked along the lake shore trail. I enjoyed the sayings on the benches. There weren't many people. The parking was on a busy road. I wore sandals. I recommend sneakers. Bug spray is also good for summer walking. There were a bunch of motorboats on the lake; this added some noise, but overall I came away feeling good about the visit.

Beautiful setting right off Springfield Lake. Plenty of trail under dappled sunshine.. we saw Carp spawning in the grassy part of the lake. Also enjoyed watching a deer, eating tree leaves and grasses. There were also squirrels. Huge trees lined the pathway. One tree was estimated to be there since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Alas three is dead but still standing, towering over the younger trees. Can you imagine all the stories the old timer could tell?

Trails well kept. Trolls were fun and great to see. They have 2. Was told by employee they are getting another this summer. A girl troll with braids of willow. Plenty of benches to rest on while walking on trails. Beautiful!