Museums in Illinois

A lot of the museums located in Illinois are hailed as some of the best in the country. As a recognized political base of revered US President Abraham Lincoln, Illinois of course cannot do without a grand museum dedicated to him. Thus, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum was established. Opened in 2005, it features an extensive and state-of-the-art documentation of the life of Abe Lincoln. The museum is more than just a collection of yellowed documents and surviving artifacts; it also displays impressive lifelike figures, theaters, music, and presentations to give visitors as much of a full immersion into the life and times of its central figure.

This Illinois museum has become the most visited state-controlled museum in the country, generating a million dollars in its first six months. In less than two years, the Abraham Lincoln Museum has also welcomed its one millionth visitor. The Illinois museum has found favor among critics as well, earning an award for creative excellence from the Themed Entertainment Association and another one from the Lincoln Group of New York.

Another notable museum in Illinois is the Art Institute of Chicago. This art museum is considered as one of the most valuable cultural landmark in the city and in the whole state of Illinois as well. The art institute features extensive collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and American works. Aside from paintings, this Illinois art museum also displays furniture pieces, architectural designs, ceramics, and collections from the ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures.