A Journey Through Time: Visiting the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum

By Ahmad | Week 3 | Wednesday | 18 June 2025

After a lovely library visit, we crossed the street to one of Springfield, Illinois’ must-see spots the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. Visiting nearby museums is something I always make time for when traveling to a new place, and this one was truly special. Before stepping into the exhibition area, we were given visitor stickers for this self-guided adventure.

The lobby instantly set the tone, with life-sized statues of Abraham Lincoln and his family warmly welcoming us. Of course, we couldn’t resist taking a photo first!


One quote displayed in the museum really stayed with me:
“Stories have to be told or they die, and when they die, we can’t remember who we are or why we’re here.” – Sue Monk Kidd
It’s a powerful reminder of why places like this matter.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was the holographic theatre show that brings history to life with ghostly images, live actors, and cinematic effects. We were lucky to catch Ghosts of the Library, a 9-minute feature that uses Holavision special effects to deliver an emotional, magical storytelling experience. The show beautifully connects the past to the present, with a historian guiding us through the importance of preserving stories and artifacts. It’s a brilliant blend of theatre and history, perfect for all ages.


The museum itself is stunning. Every detail has been carefully crafted to tell the incredible story of America’s 16th President. Unlike any other museum I’ve visited, this one is packed with high-tech exhibits, interactive displays, multimedia shows, and even a full-scale recreation of the White House from 1861. The Lincoln Collection is world-class, featuring tens of thousands of priceless items that rotate through the Treasures Gallery. Some of the highlights include galleries on Lincoln’s early years, a Civil War surgeon’s tools, a display of a slave auction block, and a soldier’s story.


This visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is truly one of the most memorable museum experiences I’ve ever had. It’s more than just a museum it’s a living storybook where history comes to life in the most personal, moving, and unforgettable way.
I am especially grateful to the Mortenson Center for making this visit possible. Their thoughtful planning and dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences gave me and my fellow associates the opportunity to explore Lincoln’s life and legacy in such an immersive and impactful way.
If you ever find yourself in Springfield, Illinois, make sure this incredible place is on your list. It’s a stop you absolutely can’t miss. Trust me, it’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve walked out the door.