Decatur Attractions

Birks Museum was established to house the vast arts and craft collection of Millikin University. The collection of china, ceramics and glassware dates from the 14th century to the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

The Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum features Chevrolet automobiles combining various race cars, Indy 500 Pacecars, and original unrestored examples of some of the finest automobiles built. This is combined with one of the most extensive Chevrolet memorabilia collections available to the public.

The Children's Museum of Illinois offers hands-on interactive exhibits for visitors to explore and discover. Exhibits include a supermarket, my backyard, an area to learn about electricity and bubble mania.

Richard J. Oglesby is best known both as a friend and political ally of Abraham Lincoln. Oglesby helped form the "Railsplitter Candidate" image which put Lincoln in the national spotlight during the 1860 presidential election. Oglesby was also with Lincoln when he died in 1865 and as Governor of Illinois he lead the effort to build Lincoln's Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois.

Pioneers in the development of the automobile, Hieronymus Mueller and his children held patents on the water cooled radiator, spark plug, and variable speed transmission. The Mueller family also invented plumbing and gas equipment. Displays at the museum highlight his inventive genius and the successful business he developed. Exhibits, artifacts, and research library document the life and business of the Mueller family.

The James Millikin Homestead is the former residence of James and Anna Millikin, founders of Millikin University, Millikin Bank, and Millikin Estate Trust. In June 1974, the Millikin Homestead was added to the National Register of Historic places. Banker James Millikin built this brick mansion in 1876, the year of the United States centennial. The fully restored landmark is known for its woodwork, elegant fireplaces, plasterwork as well as etched and stained glass. 

Indoor and outdoor exhibits highlight the history of Macon County and Central Illinois at the Macon County Historical Museum. The museum is located in the former Excelsior South School. The grounds are home to an historic prairie village is featured with artifacts that date back to 1829.

The Mari-Mann Herb Company originated as Mari-Mann Herbs in the kitchen of Mari Beth King in the 1970's. From there it expanded to one of the largest herb gardens in the Midwest, a large retail gift shop, health food store, greenhouse, warehouse and gourmet kitchens where "herbalicious" high teas, brunches and luncheons are prepared by expert chefs.

Rock Springs Center offers cycling, hiking, fishing, and jogging opportunities as well as programs and events. On the grounds is the Trobaugh-Good House, circa 1860.

Scovill Zoo has over 500 animals from six continents featured along with an Oriental garden, petting zoo and playground. Scovill Farm opened to the public in 1967 with pigs, ducks, chickens, calves, goats and other farm animals. Today the zoo is home to cheetahs, camels, meerkats, wolves, and monkeys.

Scovill Zoo's Endangered Species Carousel features 30 colorful, hand-carved wooden animals that represent endangered species from around the world.