Reviews of Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Tourist Attraction)

Craig Williams

An unbelievable museum dedicated to the most loved and best known American President Abraham Lincoln. The staff here are mostly volunteers who are passionate about bringing our hometown legacy to life for you. (shhh there is a secret at the end of this review) First check the schedule and see when the next showing of the "Ghost of the Museum" is, you do not want to miss it. He really is a ghost from the past and you will find it indescribable trying to tell others about him. Second check the theater times at the theater in the main lobby. This is the story of Lincoln told thru the eyes of the artists that paint him. It tells the story of the toll it took on this man as he went to Washington and took the country thru a difficult time. You will leave with an appreciation of the heartfelt decisions he made while President. Now go to the bathroom before you take the Journey. It takes you thru from when he was a boy to his burial. You will stand next to him in recreations of his cabin, see his store in New Salem, visit his law office, see the oval office, experience the election process and gain a sense of how difficult it was for the President at this time. When you reach the Display of the Civil War in 4 minutes, you will want to stop and watch as the entire civil war, the casualties the battles all appear on the map and time line and you will want to see it again. It is amazing and one of my favorite exhibits. Now if you have kid they have to visit the Attic where they can dress-up and play games like Lincolns kids would have. For historians, there are lots of artifacts and things on display and an entire library over the walkway with millions of items to review. There is a gift shop and you might get to meet a visiting author or guest as many do stop and sign autographs and books. *Secret clue, to the left of the ticket counter is the Foundation Desk. You should consider becoming a member of the foundation! With a member ship you can bring anyone, family/friends into the museum all year long at no charge depending on the level you join at. You will get invited to pre-opening events at the museum and can use the membership at other National locations as well. Don't forget to click like if the review helps

Wendy Klein

There is so much information you cannot possibly take it all in on one visit. The scavenger hunt for children definitely got my children (ages 12 and 13) more involved than I thought they would. That was definitely appreciated. The movies are wonderful technology that way exceeded my expectations. Not only was there so much information about Lincoln, but it was a great Civil War museum also. We were there for approximately 3 hours and definitely needed more time. Will have to go back to absorb more information.

Chris Bloomfield

Excellent museum with two good shows and lots of displays. It is chilly inside the building. We parked several blocks away to get free parking. Gift shop was pricey. (can you tell we are frugal?) This was a great place to learn about Lincoln and our family thoroughly enjoyed our visit.

Tammy Myers

We love the museum and the creative layout and the music sound track is amazing! We are disappointed that it didn't mention more about his faith and prayers that guided him.

K BM

Well organized, very good presentation. Loved both theatre shows!!! Very thought provoking and interesting. Being a Lincoln fan I think it is well worth the money. The staff were amazing!!! A very good place to just explore even for my 4 year old.

Aggie Kai

Abraham Lincoln was the greatest President and this museum does a good job of inspiring people with his greatness. They have several audio video presentations that introduce you to the mess of the Civil war. And how Abraham Lincoln helped shape the future of America. They have several life size replicas of Abraham Lincoln and people around him at that time. Wax statues bring surrealism to the Civil war situation.

Raagul N

A perfect place to learn about the life and struggles of Abraham Lincoln. All the sections are amazingly organised and the story is strongly conveyed.

Paranormal Society

This is a very neat place. There is a lot to see and do here and it is a great place for the whole family.

Aaron Gribbins

First, I love the museum and so do my kids. Im not sure how business is doing but i would suggest a much lower admission fee for adults with a springfield residency. I would bring my kids there every weekend because I love teaching them and watching them learn, but im not paying $6 a piece for them and then a relatively steep $15 for myself plus another relatively steep $12 to park in your garage just to follow them around teaching them the same stuff we can get online for free. I feel like you would get a lot more local frequenters if you lowered the price for springfield residents down to around $5-6. Just an opinion. Like I said, we love the museum and wish we could warrant coming more often.

Michelle F

This is our 6th visit here over the years. We bring everyone here and have the yearly Museum membership. It’s definitely a place to see at least once in your life. They continually change out and feature different exhibits and attractions so you see something different aside from the anchored exhibits. The lay out of the museum is spot on as it takes you through Lincoln’s life as well as a little about Mary Todd as a First Lady.

Albert Chaharbakhshi

As I studied each exhibit and put myself in the shoes of our great president, Abraham Lincoln, I was truly moved. They have done a remarkable job here to help patrons experience the pain, the emotional weight, and the difficult decisions he was forced to make during the civil war. Visiting here was a life-changing experience.

n c

what an interesting museum! We were there for hours, it was not crowded. We did not need nobody to explain, every thing tell the story. The time just go by, looking and reading. It is so full of history. I love it.

Ken Wilhelm

This is so real. The figures of the people and the holo- graphic presentation were great. The only negative was there was no seating anywhere. Even the the larger "outside" area. I recently had back surgery so a place to recuperate would have been nice.

Carl Johnson

I always enjoy the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, I generally bring out of town guests over to see it. I do wish they would display, the more important documents more often as I think many people would like to see them as opposed to the less important ones that Lincoln scholars might want to see.

Abner Shoemaker

First of all, technically the Presidential Library and Museum are two separate buildings. The Library is free and open to the public. It is across the street from the museum. The average public is allowed only on the first floor. Those researchers wanting to study A. Lincoln can gain access to the upper floors. For those who are not doing historical research, but would like to look at some of A. Lincoln archives, there is a room the security guard will provide access upon request. Bags, etc must be locked up in lockers prior to entering. The first floor ‘open’ area has the ranking of the Presidents by historians. (Don’t wander around looking for #44, Grover Cleveland was President for two separate terms.). There were also a few interesting statues and paintings as well. Security personnel were extremely pleasant and willing to share anything they could to make your stay worthwhile.

Eric Johnson

Very interesting museum about a remarkable President. One show of civil war had cannons fire with a strobe light a loud boom and the seats shook. Definitely worth visiting. Eric from Lombard IL

Daniel DeRenzy

We are foundation members and visit frequently. It is always a learning experience. Definitely bring a jacket or sweater.

Monica Kang

I was so pleased with my visit here!! Wow. What a hidden gem. What a delightful surprise. Staff was super friendly and this small gallery is a thoughtful thorough experience in understanding Lincoln's history. I was sad the Lincoln house was close due to government shutdown so was not sure what to expect when I came here. Staff immediately welcomed us and informed what show and gallery was available during our visit there. Totally check out the history shows they prepare. Still amazed at the acting work they did during the ghost show (you'll know what I mean when you get there!). Glad we had a solid 90 mins before the museum closed. Thank you to all at the museum who help us better remember and appreciate the work Lincoln has done.

Kristina Webb

What a phenomenal museum! The volunteers are pleasant and knowledgeable. The museum is well put together and makes a quite emotional tour! I learned so much about our country’s history and how amazing Lincoln and his wife were! I will be back again. Also this tour will take you some time, I was there for 3 hours and it was worth it!

Randy Eccles

Well conceived. Modern technology. Great interpretation. I realized negative politics is nothing new going through the political cartoon exhibit from over 100 years ago.

Rebecca Briesmoore

Even if you're not a museum person, this is the place to go. It's very life like, and easy to stay engaged in the exhibits. The two movies they show are definitely worth watching. Easy to spend a day with there. Great for kids too!

Carolyn Headley

Very friendly,Very informative and friendly. We enjoyed it very much.

Chelsea Niemi

An excellent museum. The exhibits are all amazing, everything flows logically, and the building is obviously well-maintained. It's also just about the right size to have a good experience without being overwhelmed - expect to spend 2-3 hours if you want to see everything. Admission & parking are reasonably priced, too.

Roembke Family

Amazing family experience! The timeline of everything opened our eyes to a greater respect for Abraham Lincoln. God's hand was definitely on his life.

Steve C

Great place with lots of things to see and more to learn. Admission prices are reasonable as well as the parking. Give yourself enough time to see all there is. Don't rush through this stop.

Meredith Dean

Warning for small kids- I will first say this is a beautiful museum and really well done. The exhibits were engaging and well organized. Just be aware when you have small kids that the museum has exhibits about slavery, the civil war violence, and the death of Lincoln’s son. They are historically accurate and tastefully presented but it was overwhelming for an aware 4 year old. There is a beautiful kids space. Worth the trip.

M. Wallace

Very well done, informative museum with lots of eye catching exhibits. Our history loving family had a great time.

Jacklyn Bouillon

It was absolutely amazing. Great setup and friendly staff. If you plan on visiting Springfield and have never been, add this to your things to do.

Robby Chiramel

I like the movies. This is really good place to visit

Reid Johnson

Awesome museum that gives you great perspective on the life and history surrounding Abraham Lincoln. Price was not bad for what to you get to see. Parking right across the street. Subway on site for lunch. This is actually a great history museum for kids and adults. Won't be disappointed!

Dinesh Shrestha

This is one of the best museums that I have ever been to. I liked the 3D theater the most.

Pauline Steele

My experience was wonderful. I got the research materials I needed for school with the help of a very friendly professional staff!! Thank you!!!

M S

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPM) honors the most influential President of all-time. The museum tells an American story through Abe's life. Each exhibit is carefully crafted to give the visitor a full sensory experience. In particular, the American Civil War, the Gettysburg address, the Emancipation Proclamation and the overwhelming pride in freedom and equality made possible for all. There is so much to see - a preservation of history.

Danielle Larson

This was a beautiful museum. It captured many of the events going on while Lincoln was presisent. Very educational. Great place for gatherings.

Jaime Trader

Great museum! Our kids (between 5-10 years old) loved it. There is a lot to see and learn, with a lot of great exhibits.

O Gandek

Very Informative and nice staff.

Amy Truesdale

The history was told in such a way that anyone could get a sense of the times in which A. Lincoln lived.

Rosalyn Berry

Had a great time. Good place to take kids to learn about Abe Lincoln. Everyone was very friendly.

Mrs. Sparling

This is a fabulous museum which is well run and beautifully presented. Don't miss the ghosts show. The exhibits are interactive in many places and even my right year old had fun. We loved the private investigator thing they do for kids.

Jen Cam

Museum campus and parking easy to navigate and close together. Wonderful layouts for exhibits, and watching the shows are well worth the time. Ghosts of the library is one of only a handful of theaters in the world with Holovision technology (according to museum book). I would highly recommend a trip to Springfield just for the museum if you're tight on time. It has been a wonderful addition to Springfield.

Amy Montoya Thomas

Went on a field trip with 14- 7th graders. Museum is excellent. Staff is horrible and rude. It’s uncalled for. Treated us like inmates and if you took a step too close, alarms went off and they acted like we were criminals. Change of a atmosphere than when we went a year ago with a different class.

LAOS 67

Make sure to watch the shows in the museum!! Awesome

joanna pecina

My sisters, nephew, and myself thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Such a well planned out museum. One room leads to another, so just keep going. So much history to take in. They have a detective activity for children who'd like to participate. Pictures aren't allowed everywhere, so be mindful of the signs. Take your time. Expect to spend at least 2hrs plus quite a few dollars for souvenirs!

J Rose

This is a terrific museum. Lots of Lincoln and Civil War artifacts and a couple awesome theatre presentations, one is holographic and the other is interactive. A must see if your coming to Springfield.

Spartan Filip 117

Great place to visit. The two shows are great.(I would recommend ghosts of the library.) However, my one complaint was that I saw everything in the museum in about an hour, and that was with a group of about 25 people. However, it was still a fun time, and I would recommend a visit.

Allan Hilgendorf

This is an interesting and informative place for the whole family. Really enjoyed it. Don't miss the theater presentations!

Owen Miller

Very well kept and just a lot of fun for the kids

Jessica Miller

This museum is really different. The experience was highly educational. We learned a lot. But that doesn't mean it was boring! Actually, it was really fun. The wax figures made it even more exciting. All the artifacts on display were very cool, too.

Husaini Syed

Nice place to visit with the family! Very well layed out. If you are into history, definitely worth a visit. The theater have good films playing through out the day. Lots of parking close by, cafeteria on site and restrooms are clean. Very cool to see era specific clothing, uniforms, furniture and the sort.

Dhruv Syngol

Very nice, informational exhibits. You will definitely learn more about Abraham Lincoln by coming here.

Yvonne Everett

Great place to visit!!!!

Cor Neg

Really enjoyed the museum! I loved the videos and show! They were great. I also really enjoyed the place for kids 3-12. It was really helpful with a 10 year old.

Doug Wells

Not sure if this is for the Lincoln Museum or not? The Library is mainly for research, but the Museum is worth it! If you're a history, Civil War or Lincoln enthusiast, you'll like this museum!

Emma Rightnowar

One of the finer things in life is taking your family to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential museum it's a blast from the past

kiasu Lang

Fantastic & highly recommended to every American (whether born here or naturalized). Great piece of history for all of us. Visit his house too. Will return again with grandkids this time.

Greg Sparling

Highly recommended for adults and children. Great history!

Margaret D

Well organized, interesting, clean. Staff friendly and good oriented. MUST attend to two shows - those are amazing!

Edward Johnson

Fun, interesting place. Much more than just a museum.

Jinhwan Kim

Quality contents, friendly volunteers, and well-managed facility make this place great for family. After the visit, my kids begin to ask thoughtful questions regarding the American history. Highly recommended.

Heather Ledeboer

Our family of 6 (with 4 kids ages 13, 10, 7 and 5) spent over four hours at the Lincoln Presidential Museum. The caliber of interactive displays was astounding and the two hologram movies that they showed truly amazed us (some of us even opted to watch one of them a second time). A highlight was seeing one of the three remaining hats that Lincoln owned on display. The brim was worn thin in two distinct places where his fingers gripped it to tip to passers by and the inner band was stretched (mostly likely from storing speeches and notes inside). Many things were new to me as we toured the museum. I was shocked to learn that Lincoln let his kids run amuck playing games with the ink wells and stacking books into towers before playing atop them while he sat idly by. Outside of the White House, I never realized the amount of mixed support and outright opposition that Abe was up against during his time in office especially from the media. Most felt he was either not doing enough to end slavery or pushing the issue of emancipation too far, too fast. It was not until after his assassination that people truly came together in support and admiration of his leadership. Also new to me was the realization that his second son to die did so while Abe was living in the White House, one year after the Civil War began. I cannot fathom the weight of grief that laid upon Abraham at this time in his life. That said, the number of tragedies that Mary, his wife endured was beyond imaginable. After losing two of her sons, her husband was shot and six years later a third son died. It’s quite honestly beyond my comprehension. Our entire family was completely impressed by this museum. We opted to purchase the annual family pass for around $85 which will allow us to use the Time Travelers Passport granting a free or discounted admission to many other places we may visit as part of a reciprocal relationship. We parked in the nearly library parking lot for $0.75/hour. Plan to stay at least 3-4 hours (we stayed about 4.5). Also note: Lincoln's home is a short distance away in case you wish to visit that as well.

Cheri Fry

When people hear Springfield Illinois, most people think about Abraham Lincoln. The Abraham the Presidential Library and Museum is absolutely amazing! Just when I think what I just saw was the most amazing part, I take ten steps and find something else that's just as amazing. Well worth the admission price. It's definitely something you don't want to miss if you are in Springfield. . . I'm just thankful they don't have a limit to how many times you can visit, I need a frequent flyer card.

Mike Oliveri

A powerful experience. Very well done. I think I learned more in this visit than I did back in school. Baseball fans: be sure to visit the Illinois gallery for a lot of Cubs/Cards history, too.

Paii Jinchuta

This museum is well-planned and organized. It’s like walking in the movie. I enjoyed it very much. Totally worth the admission fee.

Aidan Murphy

The museum exhibits are fantastic but impossible to enjoy with the security guards breathing down our necks and interrupting our experience. Completely ruined the experience for us

Giant Catbass

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum documents the life of the 16th U.S. President, Abraham Lincoln, and the course of the American Civil War. Combining traditional scholarship with 21st-century showmanship techniques, the museum ranks as one of the most visited presidential libraries. Its library, in addition to housing an extensive collection on Lincoln, also houses the collection of the Illinois State Historical Library, founded by the state in 1889. The library and museum is located in the state capital of Springfield, Illinois, and is overseen by as an agency of state government. It is not affiliated with the U.S. National Archives and its system of Presidential Libraries.

Andrew Taylor

Excellent museum and staff/volunteers. Makes a lot of the relatively small collection it seems to have. The way the exhibits are separated into childhood and beyond is well done and there is a though provoking film about going beyond the myth.

Laura Rabe

Fantastic hostorical visit and special events venue! Be careful driving around the area with all the one-way streets.

Matthew

This is my favorite presidential library so far. The way the library was organized was amazing. It created a Disney World like experience and a tour of President Lincoln's life. Everyone at the museum was great. The movies were incredible. This is definitely a must visit Presidential Library for anyone ever interested in presidential libraries.

Vivienne

Well displayed and well informed, well done!!

Ben Wilson

One of my favorite places I've ever visited. The museum is incredibly well done, better then any other presidential museum. It is a must see for everyone.

Onesimus Barnor

A very exhilarating experience

Mark K. Clotfelter

This place is awesome & amazing! It will take at least 3 hours to go through the whole thing. Not only do they have amazingly detailed replicas and recreated moments of history, but they also have two really cool movies; one is holographic, and the other has an interactive quality to it.

Todd Uhlman

As much as I liked the museum, the walking areas as you go through the exhibits are a bit tight with an average crowd occupancy. Overall it is worth the effort to visit the museum. I was a bit surprised at how some of the exhibits portrayed white people as evil rather than just present facts.

KB

Fantastic facility, amazing staff!! So many awesome events, amazing artifacts. A true gem of the Midwest! (The “Party” is across the street at the museum though!!)

Anne Marie Timpe

It was so cool!

Cedric Johnson

Great Museum good for tours for schools and more!

Kendra Ellegood

I'm leaving a 3 star only because during our field trip visit, a HUGE majority of the workers are so freaking rude it was kind blowing!! They didn't allow the kids to make any purchases at the gift shop, they were kicked out. Great for history. But most unfriendly place!!! SO RUDE!!

Ken Gordhamer

Truly remarkable. If you're within a few hours of this place, make the trip. It's worth it.

Lynn R. Peters

Really a terrific experience! Presents a pretty fair story of Lincoln and his family. Exhibits are impressive and experiential. Ample parking is available in a ramp about a block away. And don't forget that your museum ticket also gets you into the railway station right across the street! The Lincoln home and old state capitol are an easy walk away. Insider tip: DO NOT SKIP the "Ghosts of the Library" show at the Lincoln Museum. It's interesting and quite powerful!

Laramie Perez

I'm not a historian so I got to see the first floor. Nice sculptures.

Jacque Bursott

Incredible! Beautiful! Historical experience! Bought a membership so we can enjoy this several times a year. Staff is warm & helpful. Always plan at LEAST 2 hours there. Never tire of it's gorgeous displays and programs. Children's special area. Something for everyone to see. On-site gift shop a wonder if it's own, a must visit even if you don't see Museum.

Andrea Wallace

-1 star because the venue was not very stroller/infant friendly. We were asked to leave/go outside if we need to feed the baby (even with a bottle). Great for adults and toddlers+!!

Matt Collins

What a fantastic place. It is not what you think...and kids, even young kids will not be board. It is well laid out and very easy to navigate yourself. If you like details, there is plenty to read and learn as you go through, but it is not necessary (hard to do with kids) and you still get the WOW factor. You can easily spend a couple hours, and if you get the chance go see their hologram show, super impressive and you you will be scratching your head thinking "how did they do that, it looked so real". If you like my review give it a thumbs up so others will see it too.

Jenn Durham

Very neat museum to see and to learn more about President Abraham Lincoln. There are 2 shows to see, one is a movie a our history. The other show is very interesting and amazing how they can use technology. The have exhibits that you can look at and explore. One goes through out his life, one focuses on Mary and the dresses back in those days, etc. I really loved the new exhibit that just opened up called Fro. Illinois to the White House. It has the history & random obje re from President Abraham Lincoln, President Grant, President Reagan, & President Obama. Very neat museum and beautiful gift shop.

Sagar Rao

Abraham Lincoln was the greatest President and this museum does a good job of inspiring people with his greatness. They have several audio video presentations that introduce you to the mess of the Civil war. And how Abraham Lincoln helped shape the future of America. They have several life size replicas of Abraham Lincoln and people around him at that time. Wax statues bring surrealism to the Civil war situation.

David

So I’ve been to the museum plenty of times. Know a lot of people that work there. I will no longer be going because of a girl named Jennifer D who works at the front selling tickets who likes to bad mouth guest and employees to other employees. When I tried to file a complaint I have gotten no response from management. I have text messages from another employee stating they have overheard rumors that Jennifer has been spreading. I’m now taking my complaint to the state of Illinois.

Hanna Kong

An amazing museum. It's a must go.

Julie Pedro

This is about the Library, not the museum. I have such a negative memory of my attempted visit. Presidential libraries should be welcoming, but upon entering I was encouraged to leave. I guess I looked too much like I was solely a tourist, but I was interested in using the library - for research - and seeing any other exhibits that Presidential libraries have. This guard that met me at the entry came across rudely as he “mansplained” that it was a library and not a museum. I was willing to pay for use of the resources. I had to leave without being allowed to do the work I needed to do. All in all- Springfield did not come across as a friendly place.

Shawna T

Major Lincoln Buff and I am in love with the museum . Wonderful staff. They hand out kids activity sheets to do while going thought the museum which was really help full. I LOVE "Through Lincoln's eyes and Ghosts of the Library. This was our second time there..

Rocky G

The Lincoln museum is a must see when coming to Springfield. The exhibits are too notch and they provide great insight to Lincoln's life. The staff is friendly and are committed to their jobs.

Lakshmanan. JPS

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPM) honors the most influential President of all-time. The built model of White House.... sure you can feel the real experience of White House. First time I have seen the 4D movie. It’s really amazing... 3D movies also good with really amazing... The museum tells an American story through Abe's life. Each exhibit is carefully crafted to give the visitor a full sensory experience. In particular, the American Civil War, the Gettysburg address, the Emancipation Proclamation and the overwhelming pride in freedom and equality made possible for all. There is so much to see - a preservation of history.

Stephanie Sanchez

Very informal about life during Lincoln's time period. Would highly recomend going to their theaters and watch their movies.

hiplike_kayla 00

great 10/10

Robert Lemond

Very nice place to educate yourself about the life of one of the most loved presidents

Jason Cadell

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701 is a great place to really get to know US President Lincoln. Lots of history all over the museum and library. Your group will love this and wish you had days to through everything. Photography isn't allowed outside of the main area in the center of the museum. I look forward to my next trip back to Springfield, IL to see this museum.

License2Diva. Com

Nice Addition To Central Illinois Great informational museum and gives Springfield an amazing gift of history.

Ashley

Really neat exhibits with lifelike models and cool shows to watch! Loved exploring here.

Venkat K

Amazing, hologram show was astonishing and wax statues are really real.