Decatur, IL

Travel Guide
Decatur featuring golf as well as a small group of people
This Central Illinois city offers a range of wholesome activities, from history to nature to shopping and an amazing agricultural show.

Abraham Lincoln’s family lived near Decatur in the 1800s. Look for 19th-century buildings and 15 historic sites tied to the man who became a revered president. From a more modern perspective, enjoy the city’s great shopping and dining.

Downtown Decatur features a pleasant mix of historic buildings and revitalized shopping areas. Find boutiques and restaurants along Merchant Street and in West Main Village. Take advantage of the convenient free trolley and free parking to make multiple visits to the area. Central Park in Downtown Decatur is a popular venue for art shows and concerts.

Visit Scovill Zoo on Lake Decatur’s shores to see more than 400 animals from 100 species from six continents. Plan an extended stay to let kids enjoy the carousel, playground and zoo train. Walk to the nearby Children’s Museum of Illinois for fun and learning, with hands-on, interactive activities.

Decatur has more than 2,000 acres (800 hectares) of parks and recreation areas. Breathe in fresh, clean air as you enjoy walks, jogs, bike rides and picnics in the shade of the city’s tall trees. Rock Springs Conservation Area and Nature Center offers eco-education, quiet walks and fishing on the Sangamon River. Play golf on the area’s three courses.

In the Hieronymus Mueller Museum, be inspired by the story of an enterprising immigrant who obtained more than 500 patents and created a thriving business. Nearby, see your favorite cars from the 1920s to today in the Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum.

Decatur has more than 130 annual festivals and events. During August in odd years, visit the 3-day Farm Progress Show. It’s billed as the largest outdoor farm equipment show in the United States. When you’re hungry, try Decatur’s local dish, a horse shoe, with layered Texas toast, hamburger patty and fries, all smothered in cheese sauce.

Decatur is in central Illinois, less than a 3-hour drive from Chicago, Indianapolis or St. Louis. Plan a visit for relaxation, education and diverse athletic and cultural events.

Where to stay in Decatur

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Larkdale

While Larkdale isn't home to many top sights, Hickory Point Mall and Children's Museum of Illinois are some notable places to visit nearby.

Larkdale
Baymont by Wyndham Decatur
Baymont by Wyndham Decatur
2.5 out of 5
5100 Hickory Point Frontage Road, Decatur, IL
The price is NT$1,870 per night from Mar 31 to Apr 1
NT$1,870
per night
Mar 31 - Apr 1
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Decatur. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Hickory Point Mall and Hickory Point ...
7/10 Good! (748 reviews)
No Towels In Bathroom
"Noone at the front desk multiple times! No towels in the bathroom. Called front desk, no answer twice. Third call got an answer and asked for towels. 40 minutes later left hotel and came back a few hours later and a single towel had been delivered to a room with two people in it. If their that stingy ..."

Reviewed on 2024/2/18

Baymont by Wyndham Decatur
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Decatur
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Decatur
2.5 out of 5
2370 S Mount Zion Road, Decatur, IL
The price is NT$1,985 per night from Apr 4 to Apr 5
NT$1,985
per night
Apr 4 - Apr 5
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Decatur. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (935 reviews)
"Yay free breakfast"

Reviewed on 2024/3/26

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Decatur
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decatur, IL
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decatur, IL
2.5 out of 5
5150 Hickory Point Frontage Rd, Decatur, IL
Fully refundable
The price is NT$2,709 per night from Apr 10 to Apr 11
NT$2,709
per night
Apr 10 - Apr 11
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Decatur. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
7.8/10 Good! (862 reviews)
Will stay again
"King bedroom pristine and fresh . Breakfast average.. Hot eggs, sausage, briscuit, gravy, pancake maker, etc. Will stay again"

Reviewed on 2024/3/21

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decatur, IL
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hidden Gem in Decatur - Historic Main St Location
Hidden Gem in Decatur - Historic Main St Location
Decatur
Stay at this apartment in Decatur. Enjoy free parking, a kitchen, and 1 bedroom. Popular attractions Kirkland Fine Arts Center and Nelson Park are located nearby. ...
Hidden Gem in Decatur - Historic Main St Location
Bloomington Family Home - Private Deck & Yard
Bloomington Family Home - Private Deck & Yard
3.5 out of 5
Bloomington
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Bloomington. Enjoy free parking, a balcony, and a TV. Popular attractions Grady's Family Fun Park and Prairie Aviation Museum ...
Bloomington Family Home - Private Deck & Yard
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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