The Lincoln Memorial Garden, also known as the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden, is a significant natural attraction in Springfield, Illinois. Spanning 100 acres, this woodland and prairie garden is owned by the city of Springfield and is managed by the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden Foundation. The garden is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural spaces and offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The Lincoln Memorial Garden is divided into two main sections: the 63-acre Jensen section, which borders Lake Springfield, and the newer 29-acre Ostermeier Prairie Center section. In addition to these, there are 19 acres of buffer properties. Each section offers a unique experience, with the Jensen section providing stunning views of Lake Springfield and the Ostermeier Prairie Center showcasing the beauty of the prairie landscape.
The Lincoln Memorial Garden is home to approximately five miles of footpaths, providing ample opportunities for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. The Jensen Unit features a variety of plantings, including the white oak, which is the state tree of Illinois, as well as the sugar maple, dogwood, and redbud. The Ostermeier Prairie Center, on the other hand, is characterized by prairie grasses such as big bluestem and fire-resistant tree specimens like the bur oak.
Nature & Natural History Botanical garden Garden & Park Plants
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Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Sunday | 13:00 – 16:00 |
2301 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield
No exhibitions in Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center have been found.
Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center has 1 rating.
The Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center in Springfield, Illinois, offers visitors a serene escape into nature with a connection to American history. This 100-acre site features six miles of trails winding through woodlands, prairies, and lakeshores, providing a peaceful environment for walking, bird watching, and enjoying native flora.
Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails and the opportunity to experience the landscape that would have been familiar to Abraham Lincoln. The garden's design, conceptualized by landscape architect Jens Jensen, incorporates native Illinois plants and provides seasonal beauty with spring wildflowers, summer prairies, fall foliage, and winter landscapes.
The Nature Center offers educational programs and exhibits that highlight local ecology and Lincoln's connection to the area. Many visitors find these programs informative and engaging, especially for children. The center also serves as a starting point for self-guided tours and provides helpful information about the garden's features.
While most reviews are positive, some visitors mention that signage could be improved to help with navigation through the trails. Additionally, some feel that the site could benefit from more frequent updates to exhibits and facilities.
The Garden is praised for its accessibility, with many trails suitable for visitors of various abilities. However, it's worth noting that some paths may be challenging during wet weather.
Overall, the Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center offers a valuable combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and educational opportunities. It's a worthwhile destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families looking for a peaceful outdoor experience in Springfield.
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