Middletown IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Middletown, Illinois.
1. Route 66 Model Raceway
INDOOR RACING FUN
Route 66 Model Raceway provides exciting entertainment for racing enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can enjoy fast-paced slot car racing in a friendly, competitive environment with well-maintained tracks. It's a unique spot in Middletown that brings together the community for hobbyist fun and friendly tournaments.
2. Railsplitter Covered Wagon
QUIRKY ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
The Railsplitter Covered Wagon is recognized as the world's largest covered wagon and features an enormous Abraham Lincoln figure seated at the front. It serves as a quirky and classic photo opportunity for travelers exploring historic Route 66. This whimsical roadside attraction is a beloved symbol of Lincoln, Illinois, celebrating local history and Americana.
3. Knapp Library and Museum
LOCAL HISTORY ARCHIVES
The Knapp Library and Museum preserves Middletown's remarkable history, including Abraham Lincoln's connections to the town. Housed in the oldest brick building in Logan County, the museum offers insights into early settler life and features a collection of local artifacts. It serves as the community's hub for historical research, genealogy, and educational exhibits.
4. Stagecoach Inn and Tavern (Dunlap House)
HISTORIC TRAVELER'S STOP
The Stagecoach Inn and Tavern, also known as the Dunlap House, stands as the oldest wooden building of its kind in Illinois. Dating back to the 1830s, it once accommodated travelers—including Abraham Lincoln—along the old Post Road. Today, it tells the story of early American hospitality and the town's roots as a transportation hub.
5. Lake Middletown
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Lake Middletown offers visitors opportunities for fishing, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. The serene setting provides a quiet getaway for outdoor enthusiasts within the community. Its peaceful shores make it a favorite for picnics, water sports, and nature appreciation.
6. Logan Lanes
CLASSIC BOWLING ALLEY
Logan Lanes is a longstanding entertainment venue offering bowling fun for families and groups. Well-maintained lanes and a vibrant atmosphere make it a popular destination for casual outings and friendly competitions. The alley also features a snack bar and hosts regular events and leagues for all ages.
7. Atlanta Route 66 Park
ROUTE 66 NOSTALGIA SPOT
Atlanta Route 66 Park celebrates the town's connection to the historic Mother Road with unique signage, photo ops, and picnic areas. Visitors can relax in the park, admire the Route 66-themed sculptures, and learn about the highway's legacy in central Illinois. It's an ideal rest stop for those exploring the famous Route 66 corridor.
8. World's Largest Railsplitter Axe
GIANT ROADSIDE ICON
The World's Largest Railsplitter Axe stands as a towering tribute to Abraham Lincoln's early days as a railsplitter. This impressive monument attracts both history buffs and fans of unusual roadside attractions. Its outsized scale makes it a memorable highlight along the area's Route 66 path.
9. The Mill Museum on 66
ROUTE 66 ROADHOUSE
The Mill Museum on 66 was once a bustling roadhouse and now serves as a museum celebrating Route 66 heritage. Visitors explore exhibits on local culture, road history, and the once-famous fried schnitzel sandwich. The restored building provides a nostalgic glimpse into roadside America from the highway's golden age.
10. Lincoln Heritage Museum
ABRAHAM LINCOLN LEGACY
The Lincoln Heritage Museum offers an immersive experience into the life and impact of Abraham Lincoln. With interactive displays, original documents, and artifacts, this museum educates visitors on Lincoln's journey from frontier lawyer to President. The engaging exhibitions make it a must-see for American history enthusiasts.
11. Postville Courthouse State Historic Site
RESTORED LINCOLN-ERA COURTHOUSE
Postville Courthouse State Historic Site brings to life the 1840s legal circuit Lincoln once traveled. The faithfully restored building allows guests to walk through a courtroom where the future president argued cases. Interpretive programs and period furnishings create an authentic historical atmosphere.
12. Atlanta Murals and Giant Paul Bunyan Statue
WHIMSICAL PHOTO STOPS
Atlanta's giant Paul Bunyan statue, wielding a hot dog, and its vibrant murals pay tribute to the quirky side of Route 66. These whimsical installations entertain passersby and contribute to the town's artistic spirit. Visitors often stop for playful photos and enjoy the visual storytelling found throughout the downtown.
13. Elkhart Hill and Historic Elkhart
CHARMING HILLTOP VILLAGE
Elkhart Hill offers panoramic views and is home to the picturesque village of Elkhart, known for its 19th-century charm. The village features unique shops, heritage buildings, and peaceful walking paths. Seasonal events and the local landscape draw visitors seeking small-town hospitality and scenic tranquility.
14. Lincoln Public Library
BEAUX-ARTS LIBRARY LANDMARK
The Lincoln Public Library stands as a classic example of early 20th-century Beaux-Arts architecture. Visitors can admire the building's elegant design while exploring its historical archives and community programs. The library continues to serve as an educational and cultural cornerstone for the city.
15. Mount Pulaski Courthouse State Historic Site
CIVIL WAR-ERA JUSTICE CENTER
The Mount Pulaski Courthouse is one of only two surviving Illinois courthouses where Abraham Lincoln practiced law on the Eighth Judicial Circuit. This stately Greek Revival building offers guided tours and exhibits that detail its role in 19th-century legal proceedings. Its preservation provides direct insight into the region's judicial and civic history.
16. Orlando A. Powers Local History Museum
POWERS' LEGACY PRESERVED
The Orlando A. Powers Local History Museum showcases artifacts and stories from the pioneer era to present day Atlanta. Exhibits highlight the contributions of local citizens and the impact of the railroad in the region. It is an essential stop for those seeking to learn about the cultural roots of Logan County.