Lincoln Park

A Glimpse into History

Located in Springfield, Illinois, Lincoln Park stretches across 88.4 acres of land that blends historical significance with everyday recreation. This park offers something for just about everyone - from history buffs to sports enthusiasts.

The Lincoln Park Pavilion is a step back in time. Built over a hundred years ago, it features original woodwork, massive eight-foot windows, and chandeliers that illuminate the open banquet hall. The pavilion is often used for intimate weddings and family celebrations.

What You'll Find

The park is essentially split into two distinct areas. Head to the northern section and you'll discover soccer fields, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, shuffleboard courts, and horseshoe pits - plenty of options to get your game on.

The Nelson Center is home to an outdoor pool, two indoor ice rinks, and spaces for events. If you're a hockey fan, you might catch a game at the rink when open to spectators. Meanwhile, the southern half of the park showcases the historic stone bridge, a beautifully renovated Lincoln Park Lagoon, and disc golf courses for those who prefer flying discs to traditional golf balls.

Natural Spaces & Getting Active

If you're looking to connect with nature, Lincoln Park has several options. The extensive trail system winds through open meadows and shaded areas, ideal for a peaceful stroll. The historic Lincoln Park Bridge and bandstand aren't just pretty to look at - they make for great photo backgrounds too.

Need to work up a sweat? The FitLot Fitness Park near the pavilion offers modern outdoor exercise equipment that's free to use. Runners and cyclists particularly appreciate the park's figure-eight road layout, which creates a natural training route with two gradual hills - just enough challenge without being overwhelming.

Picnics & Playgrounds

The park offers vast green spaces where you can fly kites, toss a frisbee, or simply lie back and watch the clouds drift by. You'll come across picnic tables scattered throughout, and two pavilions are available to reserve for larger gatherings.

Mature trees create natural canopies across the park, offering plenty of shaded spots to enjoy your outdoor meal. Families with kids will appreciate the playground with its newer, well-maintained equipment suitable for children of all ages, including programs for those with special needs.

Gathering & Celebrating

Perched atop a hill within the park, the pavilion represents a focal point for community activities. With its picturesque views that include the lagoon, it creates a charming backdrop for weddings, showers, and meetings.

Beyond recreation, Lincoln Park holds cultural and historic significance, situated near Abraham Lincoln's tomb and other heritage sites. During summer months, the park hosts camps that blend fun activities with historical surroundings.

Practical Information

You can bring your four-legged friends along - the park is dog-friendly with plenty of roads and green spaces for leashed walks. When nature calls (for humans), public restrooms are available in the main building during operating hours, with additional facilities in a small brown pavilion building to the southwest.

If you're up for extending your exploration, you can connect your Lincoln Park walk to the nearby Illinois State Fairgrounds, which is generally accessible year-round. Or take a neighborhood stroll toward Oak Ridge Cemetery for a more extensive outing.