Decatur Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Decatur Area CVB
Photo provided by Decatur Park District
Photo provided by Decatur Area CVB
Photo provided by Decatur Area CVB
Photo provided by Decatur Area CVB

This Central Illinois city offers a range of wholesome activities, from history to nature to shopping and an amazing agricultural show.

Abraham Lincoln’s family lived near Decatur in the 1800s. Look for 19th-century buildings and 15 historic sites tied to the man who became a revered president. From a more modern perspective, enjoy the city’s great shopping and dining.

Downtown DecaturOpens in a new window features a pleasant mix of historic buildings and revitalized shopping areas. Find boutiques and restaurants along Merchant Street and in West Main Village. Take advantage of the convenient free trolley and free parking to make multiple visits to the area. Central Park in Downtown Decatur is a popular venue for art shows and concerts.

Visit Scovill ZooOpens in a new window on Lake Decatur’s shores to see more than 400 animals from 100 species from six continents. Plan an extended stay to let kids enjoy the carousel, playground and zoo train. Walk to the nearby Children’s Museum of Illinois for fun and learning, with hands-on, interactive activities.

Decatur has more than 2,000 acres (800 hectares) of parks and recreation areas. Breathe in fresh, clean air as you enjoy walks, jogs, bike rides and picnics in the shade of the city’s tall trees. Rock Springs Conservation Area and Nature CentreOpens in a new window offers eco-education, quiet walks and fishing on the Sangamon River. Play golf on the area’s three courses.

In the Hieronymus Mueller Museum, be inspired by the story of an enterprising immigrant who obtained more than 500 patents and created a thriving business. Nearby, see your favourite cars from the 1920s to today in the Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum.

Decatur has more than 130 annual festivals and events. During August in odd years, visit the 3-day Farm Progress Show. It’s billed as the largest outdoor farm equipment show in the United States. When you’re hungry, try Decatur’s local dish, a horse shoe, with layered Texas toast, hamburger patty and fries, all smothered in cheese sauce.

Decatur is in central Illinois, less than a 3-hour drive from ChicagoOpens in a new window, IndianapolisOpens in a new window or St. LouisOpens in a new window. Plan a visit for relaxation, education and diverse athletic and cultural events.

Where to stay in Decatur

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Larkdale

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Larkdale and surrounding area, you can visit Hickory Point Mall and Scovill Zoo.

Larkdale
Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Decatur
Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Decatur
2.5 out of 5
2370 S Mount Zion Road, Decatur, IL
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$131 per night from 31 July to 1 Aug
NZ$131
31 July - 1 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Decatur. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,003 reviews)
"A greatly quiet and spacious place to staff. My grandchildren never want to leave the room."

Reviewed on 7 Jul. 2025

Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Decatur
Decatur Conference Center & Hotel
Decatur Conference Center & Hotel
2.5 out of 5
4191 US 36 West (Wyckles Rd.), Decatur, IL
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Decatur. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
7.6/10 Good! (849 reviews)
"Only One elevator at the end of the bldg near the back door"

Reviewed on 8 Jul. 2025

Decatur Conference Center & Hotel
Hampton Inn Decatur Mt. Zion
Hampton Inn Decatur Mt. Zion
2.5 out of 5
4855 East Evergreen Ct., Decatur, IL
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$243 per night from 31 July to 1 Aug
NZ$243
31 July - 1 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Decatur. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (725 reviews)
"The hotel was overall very nice! The staff was friendly and accommodating. The pool and fitness center were nice and there was a variety of item choices for the complimentary breakfast. If we are ever back in the area, we would stay at this hotel again!"

Reviewed on 7 Jul. 2025

Hampton Inn Decatur Mt. Zion
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Modern 4-bedroom house near Lake Decatur
Modern 4-bedroom house near Lake Decatur
Decatur
Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Scovill Zoo and Children's Museum of Illinois are located nearby.
9.4/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
Great place
"It was a great stay and was perfect for our needs."

Reviewed on 16 Jun. 2025

Modern 4-bedroom house near Lake Decatur
Historic Charming 4BR on the WestEnd near Millikin
Historic Charming 4BR on the WestEnd near Millikin
Decatur
Stay at this vacation home in Decatur. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Kirkland Fine Arts Center and Hieronymus Mueller Museum ...
Softball Team Weekend
"We enjoyed the stay so much. There were a few hiccups, and due to the heat the house could greatly benefit from upgraded AC but we would definitely come stay again. The neighborhood was safe and quiet and we were close to everything we needed."

Reviewed on 23 Jun. 2025

Historic Charming 4BR on the WestEnd near Millikin
Your Home Away from Home
Your Home Away from Home
Decatur
Stay at this vacation home in Decatur. Enjoy an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Hieronymus Mueller Museum and Kirkland Fine Arts Center are located ...
Your Home Away from Home
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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