Constitution Trail, named in honor of the U.S. Constitution's bicentennial in 1987, is built on the abandoned Illinois Central Gulf Railroad. Thirty-seven miles of pristine trails join the communities of Bloomington and Normal and offer year-round hiking and biking. You can also cross-country ski during the winter. Guideposts along the way feature key sections of the Constitution. The mid-19th century comes to life as you tour the David Davis Mansion, the former estate of Lincoln's law partner, with its 36-room mansion, outbuildings and exquisite ornamental gardens. Botanical garden aficionados will marvel at Sarah's Starburst Garden. The McLean County Museum of History is tucked inside a beautiful architectural structure dating back to 1892 where a young Lincoln litigated cases. Today it houses an excellent historical library and award-winning exhibits, along with a bench where Lincoln once sat.
Air and space buffs can tour military and commercial aircrafts as well as space exhibits at the Prairie Aviation Museum. The all-volunteer museum staff shares stories of the individuals who flew the aircraft and also restore aircraft on loan from the military. The Children's Discovery Museum entices toddlers through preteens with a world of hands-on learning and discovery. From a farm exhibit to a physics exhibit, children are drawn into the world of science. The Miller Park Zoo is a child's paradise featuring a snow leopard, Sumatran tiger, Galapagos tortoise and more. Save time for the Tropical America Rainforest and the ZooLab, and be sure to catch one of the feedings.
After a full day of cultural and outdoor adventures, get a peaceful night's rest at one of our Bloomington, IL hotels and wake up feeling refreshed for another adventure ahead.