Visit the Past and Present in Petersburg

Nestled in a crook of the Sangamon River, the charming town of Petersburg adeptly walks the line between past and present. Elegant Victorian homes and architecturally significant downtown buildings remind visitors of nearly two centuries of history, while colorful window displays and delightful aromas hint at the modern experiences every traveler loves.

Located in Lincoln country, it’s no surprise Petersburg serves as a home to important sites and documents dedicated to the nation’s 16th president. However, the city also takes pride in its agricultural roots. Connect to the land by picking the perfect fall pumpkin, getting spooky down on the farm or sampling locally grown grapes at area wineries. Mix in shopping, dining and natural beauty and Petersburg could make for the perfect fall getaway.

1. Edgar Lee Masters Home

Abraham Lincoln wasn’t the area’s only famous resident. The childhood home of noted poet Edgar Lee Masters stands on the corner of Eighth and Jackson in Petersburg. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, this unassuming cottage welcomes guests inside to view many of the author’s first editions, letters and photos. His most famous work, “Spoon River Anthology,” draws from the places and people he encountered while living in Petersburg and Lewistown.

2. Stay and Play

In addition to local sights, Petersburg makes an excellent home base to visit other nearby areas and attractions, including Springfield and Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area. There are several lodging options, from the 24-room RiverBank Lodge on the Sangamon River to unique Airbnb offerings, including The Loft and The Flat, both on the downtown square, and Three Pines and Sheridan House in lovely historic homes.

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3. Indian Creek Farmstead

Have some fun on the farm with activities for the whole family at this 120-acre “agritainment” complex. Get a little mud on the tires on the Jeep Crawler Course, pick the perfect pumpkin or scare up some Halloween hijinks. Guests enjoy browsing through historic buildings, wagon rides and shopping for farm products. For children, the enclosed barnyard includes a roping corral and interactive play stations. Offerings and hours change with the season. Call ahead for a schedule of events at (217) 717-4401.

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4. Shopping on the Square

Charming antiques, boutiques and gift stores along the square entice shoppers on the hunt for the perfect treasure. Take home a bit of history at Past Charms Antiques, Country Pickens or The Crazy Daisy Gift Shop. Make a fashion statement at Proud Souls and Thea Boutique. Wrap up your shopping spree at 1st & 3rd Boutique and Wine Bar, where you can check out the latest clothing, accessories and gifts before relaxing with a cocktail and charcuterie board.

5. More Presidential Prizes

History buffs will relish opportunities to learn more about Lincoln. Anchoring the downtown district, the beautiful beaux-arts style Menard County Courthouse displays many relevant historical documents and artifacts. Across the street is the first of a trio of “Looking for Lincoln” storyboards that share local stories and feature insights into the president’s life in Illinois, including his work surveying the land that would become Petersburg.

6. Sip and Sup

When it’s time to unwind, sip an award-winning vintage from local grapes at West of Wise Winery, sample a flight of craft beers at Hand of Fate Brewing Company or pick your poison at Lucky’s on the Square. From quick bites to upscale fare, plenty of tempting choices exist for lunch and dinner. Local favorites include Broadgauge, Rahl’s Landing, Parkside Tavern, Leo’s Pizza and Corner Cafe. Live music is also on the menu at several stops. For coffee, tea and a sweet treat, check out Talisman.

7. Menard County Historical Society

The former Frackelton Bank, built circa 1865, is now home base for the Menard County Historical Society. This lovely Victorian building on the west side of the downtown square houses artifacts, photos, books and memorabilia bringing the area’s vibrant history to life. Additionally, it serves as the site of the Museum of Land Surveying, with early instruments like those used by Abraham Lincoln.

8. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site

Tour this reconstructed historic village where Abraham Lincoln spent part of his early adulthood. Enamored by the growing community of New Salem, it was here Lincoln transformed from an unskilled laborer into a merchant, surveyor, postmaster, local militia captain and law scholar. The living history village features a dozen log homes plus workshops, a mill, tavern, school and stores that take guests back in time as interpreters showcase life in the 1830s. New Salem also features Theatre in the Park, where guests enjoy a taste of Broadway under the stars each summer.

9. Take It Outside

Petersburg’s natural beauty invites guests to explore the outdoors. Follow in Lincoln’s footsteps on hiking trails through New Salem. Across from the Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site’s entrance, mountain bikers can choose from two trails at varying levels of difficulty. For those who prefer the challenge of a par 4, Petersburg features two outstanding golf courses, Shambolee and Country Hills, open to visitors. And new this fall, RiverBank Lodge and Menard County Tourism Council have teamed up to offer “Field Trips for Grown Ups,” a series of interactive nature and history tours. Call (217) 632-0202 for dates and details.

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