Woodlawn Farm - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Beecher Hall, is a historic Italianate home that dates back to the late 1800s. Built by Samuel Nesbitt of Jacksonville, the home features charming ceramic tile fireplaces and an impressive wood stairway. The surrounding grounds are breathtaking and feature a large brick barn and granary, picturesque landscaping and gardens, as well as a three-story carriage house. Beecher Hall is a popular spot for weddings and photoshoots due its grandeur beauty capabilities.

Clayville is the site of the once thriving town which grew up around a grist mill in 1836. The settlement was home to merchants specializing in small-town services and offerings such as a post office, blacksmith shop, general store and schoolhouse. It serves as an important reminder of everyday life during the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore many original artifacts from the period including log cabins, outbuildings and other structures scattered around the grounds.

This 4,000-acre area near the Sangamon River. Visitors can go canoeing or boating on a 25-acre lake, take advantage of numerous fishing opportunities, hunt waterfowl, explore nature trails that crisscross the property or try their hand at archery. People with off-road vehicles can find miles of ATV trails throughout the park or take a self-guided auto tour around the grounds. The park has something for everyone from campers to birdwatchers and naturalists.

Starhill Forest Arboretum, is a stunning display of natural beauty. Stretching across 625 acres of lush forest, this arboretum not only has a wide variety of amazing plants and trees but also hosts educational activities to foster understanding and appreciation for the environment. Visitors to the arboretum can enjoy the diverse plant life including oaks, maples, hawthorns, hickories and beeches as well as wildflowers like trilliums and ferns during hikes throughout the park.

Lincoln's Old Salem, is a beautifully preserved little town gives an incredible insight into the United States of America in its formative years, with many 19th century buildings and features still intact. You'll feel as if you've stepped back in time during your visit, with plenty to explore such as the Busey-Hanna log house and living history museum. Of particular interest to Abraham Lincoln enthusiasts is the preservation of his circuit court where he practised law when visiting old Salem.

The Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon is an impressive sight. The 75-bell carillon tower stands over 100 feet tall and houses the largest set of bells in the Midwest. Tuned to concert pitch and equipped with original wind-powered machinery, these bells produce a sound that carries for miles around. The extensive system of cables within the tower allows for a variety of musical selections from classic sacred hymns to patriotic songs.