Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail
Citywide, Alton, IL 62002
Historic Sites
Walk in the footsteps of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, and Civil War soldiers from both North and South.
Experience the life of young Lincoln as a lawyer, duelist and orator. It was here that the final Lincoln-Douglas Debate took place, with the issue of slavery on the minds of spectators. It was here that Confederate soldiers were held captive, died and were buried. It was here that Alton resident and U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull authored the 13th Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the United States. Experience the 11 historic sites interpreted along the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail.
What's happening nearby...

Mississippi River Festival
Alton Amphitheater • Jun 27 – Jun 28 @ 6PM
The Mississippi River Festival brings tunes back to the Alton Amphitheater for its 2nd year along the Mighty Mississippi June 27 & 28, 2025!
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Alton Midwest Nationals F1 Powerboat Race
Alton Riverfront Park • Jul 18 – Jul 20 @ 2PM
Alton, get ready! The F1 Powerboat Championship is making waves once again as the 2nd Annual Alton Midwest Nationals returns to Riverfront Park July 18 -…
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Alton Rock the Hops
Downtown Alton • Aug 09 @ 2PM
Get ready to rock out in Downtown Alton for Rock the Hops 2025, where music, art, and craft beer collide for an electrifying celebration of creative…
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Western Military Academy Monument
Alton
Originally founded as Wyman Institute by Edward Wyman in 1878, it was reorganized as Western Military Academy in 1896.
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Mysterious Mineral Springs
Alton
Overnight paranormal retreats, ghost hunting, you name it! If you're ready to be spooked in Alton, IL, visit the Mineral Springs Mall.
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Confederate Prison Site
Alton
Visit first Illinois State Penitentiary and learn about the ghastly history of the overcrowded, often disease-infested prison. Today, it is a monument dedicated to those who…
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