In 1912, the Lincoln Highway project was started in short, mile-sized pieces called seedling miles to illustrate the benefits of paved roads. The scheme worked, and today the Lincoln Highway connects America as the first transcontinental highway. As you drive the original alignment of the Lincoln Highway, crossing seedling miles along the way you'll take a jaunt through historic areas, shop and dine in unique establishments, and delight in some stunning scenery on a river or a scenic trail.
Stop in Illinois and hail to bygone days on an excursion to some old-time traveler amenities. See everything from a 1918 Standard Oil Filling Station to lavish 20th Century theaters. Explore history in museums or wander around living farms to get a taste of the past. Continue your journey back in time with a tour of historic main streets, buildings, and shopping centers. Stop by the Lincoln Highway's interpretive exhibit at the welcome center. The center offers interactive displays and great photo opportunities.
Enjoy the many recreational opportunities available along the byway. Spend a day shopping at the Historic Geneva Shopping District. After an exhausting day shopping, eat dinner and enjoy some entertainment at Aurora's finest restaurants and comedy clubs. Have a good laugh while you savor regional cuisines like jalapeño shrimp.
For some relaxing scenery take a cruise on the Pride of Oregon, an authentic paddle wheel boat. Lean over the railings, and gaze at the beautiful Rock River as it flows past. After watching the sun set across the river's waters, enjoy a moonlit dinner cruise.
Once on land again, travel the area's scenic trails and bike paths. The Fox River trail is a 32 mile paved biking and hiking trail that takes you along the river's banks. Amble around the scenic parks, play on the playgrounds, and relax in the picnic areas. See more grandiose scenery at Castle Rock State Park, famous for its towering rock formations, sandstone buttes and deep ravines. Take a lunch as you hike the park or rest as you fish in the cool waters of the Rock River.
The Lincoln Highway doesn’t just connect America. In Illinois it connects the people to the fascinating national, natural, and local history of the area. It connects historic towns to lavish shopping centers, restaurants, and theaters. It connects lush parklands to rivers teeming with wildlife. It connects you with the past and the present Illinois.
Snowmobiling on the Lincoln Highway
Hitting the Links on the Lincoln Highway
Experience More On and Off the Lincoln Highway