Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Washington Park

4th to 5th St., Maine to Hampshire St., Quincy, IL 62301

Parks

Located in Quincy's downtown "District", Washington Park was the site of the sixth Lincoln-Douglas debate in 1858 and is now the hub of farmers markets, free blues, local festivals, and boutique shopping & dining.

Washington Park is the city's original central square laid out by Quincy's founder, John Wood, in 1825. The square was formerly called John's Square, named in honor of President John Quincy Adams. In 1858, Washington Park was the site of the sixth Lincoln-Douglas debate. Laredo Taft's sculpture now marks the setting of the debate site. Today, a farmer's market is held in the park every Saturday morning from 7am-noon, May to October, and is home to free Blues in the District concerts the 2nd & 4th Friday, June-August.

What's happening nearby...

Quincy Festival of Lights

Moorman Park •  Nov 28 – Dec 31 @ 5PM

Enjoy the magical lights as you drive through Moorman Wavering Park as part of your annual holiday tradition!

Read more about Quincy Festival of Lights

John Wood Mansion Candlelight Open House

John Wood Mansion •  Dec 13 – Dec 26 @ 5PM

Get in the holiday spirit with free tours of the John Wood Mansion on Dec. 13, 14, 20, 21, & 26! Tours depart every 20 minutes…

Read more about John Wood Mansion Candlelight Open House

Quincy Shootout

Blue Devil Gym in Baldwin School •  Jan 24 – Jan 25 @ 9AM

Seventeen high school basketball teams from 7 states will meet up in the Quincy Notre Dame gymnasium and Blue Devil Gymnasium in Baldwin School on January…

Read more about Quincy Shootout

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.