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Shedd Aquarium

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...

Alton Midwest Nationals F1 Powerboat Racing

Alton Riverfront Park •  Jul 17 – Jul 19 @ 2PM

Alton, get ready! The F1 Powerboat Championship is making waves once again as the 3rd Annual Alton Midwest Nationals returns to Riverfront Park July 17-19!

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Rock the Hops 2026

Downtown Alton •  Aug 08 @ 2PM

Get ready to rock out in Downtown Alton for Rock the Hops 2026, where music, art, and craft beer collide for an electrifying celebration of creative…

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Confederate Cemetery and Memorial

Alton

Remember those who died in the infamous Alton prison in 1863 as you visit the Confederate Cemetery and Memorial in Alton, IL.

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Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Alton

Visit the monument of an amazingly persistent and inspirational freedom fighter, Elijah P. Lovejoy.

Read more about Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Western Military Academy Monument

Alton

Originally founded as Wyman Institute by Edward Wyman in 1878, it was reorganized as Western Military Academy in 1896.

Read more about Western Military Academy Monument

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