Lerna IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lerna, Illinois.
1. Lincoln Log Cabin
HISTORIC PRESIDENTIAL FAMILY HOME
Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site preserves the 19th-century home of Thomas Lincoln and Sarah Bush Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln's father and stepmother. The site offers living history programming between May 1st and October 31st, allowing visitors to experience life as it was in the 1840s on this historic homestead. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved grounds year-round from 8:30 am until dusk, with the main site open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm throughout most of the year.
2. Thomas Lincoln Cemetery
PRESIDENTIAL FAMILY BURIAL GROUND
Thomas Lincoln Cemetery is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln's father and stepmother, offering a peaceful and historically significant site for reflection. The cemetery provides visitors with a tangible connection to the Lincoln family history and their roots in central Illinois. Located near the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, this burial ground completes the historical narrative of the Lincoln family in the area.
3. Moore Home State Historic Site
PRESERVED HISTORICAL LANDMARK
The Moore Home State Historic Site stands as a testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage in the heart of Illinois. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved architecture that dates back to a time when this home was a vibrant center of activity. The site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the life of its past inhabitants through insightful narratives that bring history to life.
4. Ashmore Estates
HISTORIC FORMER ALMSHOUSE
Ashmore Estates is a historic building near Lerna that has evolved from an almshouse to a popular destination for those interested in history and the paranormal. The imposing brick structure, built in the early 20th century, features distinctive architecture and a compelling backstory that attracts visitors from across the region. Tours of the property reveal its varied past and the many stories associated with this landmark of local significance.
5. Embarras River
SCENIC NATURAL WATERWAY
The Embarras River offers outdoor enthusiasts a picturesque waterway for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife observation near Lerna. Winding through the eastern Illinois landscape, the river provides a serene escape with its tree-lined banks and gentle current. Visitors can access various points along the river for recreational activities or simply to enjoy the natural beauty of this important regional waterway.
6. Thompson Mill Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN CROSSING
Thompson Mill Covered Bridge stands as a charming reminder of 19th-century engineering and architecture in the vicinity of Lerna. The wooden covered bridge, spanning a local waterway, provides both a functional crossing and a nostalgic glimpse into the area's transportation history. Photographers and history enthusiasts particularly appreciate this well-preserved structure for its rustic appeal and historical significance.
7. Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum
POLITICAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum commemorates the historic 1858 debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas that took place in Charleston. Exhibits detail the political climate of pre-Civil War Illinois and the significance of these debates in shaping American history. Interactive displays and original artifacts help visitors understand how these rhetorical contests propelled Lincoln onto the national stage and eventually to the presidency.
8. Lake Charleston
RECREATIONAL WATER RESERVOIR
Lake Charleston provides a refreshing recreational destination for boating, fishing, and shoreline activities near Lerna. The reservoir, created by damming the Embarras River, offers year-round opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of central Illinois. Visitors can take advantage of boat launches, fishing piers, and adjacent parkland that make this water feature a focal point for community recreation.
9. Fox Ridge State Park
WOODLAND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Fox Ridge State Park encompasses over 2,000 acres of wooded terrain featuring hiking trails, camping facilities, and picnic areas just a short drive from Lerna. The park's rolling landscape offers scenic vistas of the Embarras River valley and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy activities ranging from casual nature walks to overnight camping experiences in this natural retreat.
10. Eastern Illinois University
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Eastern Illinois University's historic campus features distinctive architecture, academic facilities, and cultural attractions open to the public near Lerna. The university's Doudna Fine Arts Center regularly hosts performances, exhibitions, and events that enrich the cultural landscape of the region. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, which include the Tarble Arts Center, sporting venues, and historic Old Main, a castle-like structure that has become an iconic symbol of the institution.
11. Tarble Arts Center
REGIONAL ART MUSEUM
The Tarble Arts Center at Eastern Illinois University showcases diverse exhibitions of contemporary art, historical works, and cultural artifacts of regional significance. The center's permanent collection emphasizes Illinois folk arts and contemporary Midwest artists, providing visitors with insight into the artistic heritage of the area. Regular rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events make this cultural institution a vibrant destination for art lovers near Lerna.
12. Lincoln Springs Resort
FAMILY RECREATION DESTINATION
Lincoln Springs Resort offers families a variety of recreational activities including mini-golf, fishing, and outdoor games in a pleasant countryside setting near Lerna. The resort's Lincoln theme pays homage to the area's connection to the 16th president while providing modern amenities for day visitors and overnight guests. Dining options and special events throughout the year make this a popular gathering place for locals and tourists exploring central Illinois.
13. Mattoon Peterson Park
URBAN GREEN SPACE
Mattoon Peterson Park offers extensive recreational facilities including sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths just a short drive from Lerna. The park's large lake provides opportunities for fishing and observing waterfowl in a tranquil setting within city limits. Seasonal festivals, concerts, and community events are often held in this versatile public space that serves as a green hub for the region.
14. Coles County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Coles County Historical Society preserves and presents the rich heritage of the region through exhibits, archives, and educational programs near Lerna. Collections include artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of settlement, development, and notable events in the county's past. Visitors interested in genealogy, local history, or the broader context of Lincoln's connections to the area will find valuable resources and engaging displays.
15. Charleston Square
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Charleston Square features the historic Coles County Courthouse surrounded by locally-owned shops, restaurants, and businesses in a traditional Midwest town square layout. The district's 19th-century architecture has been preserved and adapted to modern uses, creating a charming atmosphere for shopping, dining, and community gatherings. Regular events including farmers markets, festivals, and holiday celebrations bring this central public space to life throughout the year for visitors from Lerna and beyond.