City of Lincoln, Illinois

“Lincoln Memorial Hospital (LMH) continually takes its mission to improve lives and build stronger communities through better health outside of the walls of the hospital. In 2017, the Lincoln Memorial Foundation the Wellness Trail and conservation wetlands were gifted to the community as a way to offer physical activity, time outdoors and spaces for contemplation. The paved trail is available for non-motorized activity and is pet-friendly. The trail gives a 360-degree view of a pond and fountain and provides multiple benches and a pergola area for sitting and relaxation. Three loops around the pond measures one mile. Fishing is allowed. Vaping/smoking, alcohol and swimming is prohibited. The trail is open from dawn to dusk.”

This 974-acre state park, nestled along Salt Creek just south of Lincoln in Logan County, offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and fishing. With its playground and picnic areas, it's also a perfect destination for family outings.

Kickapoo Creek Park is a public wildlife park designed to remain as natural and secluded as possible. Spanning 160 acres, about half of the park is covered in dense woods, with Kickapoo Creek winding its way through the landscape. Visitors can explore over 10 miles of trails that showcase deep forests, open prairie land, and an asphalt walking and biking path that follows the main road. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and reservable pavilions—ideal for family outings and gatherings.

Latham Park is one of the original parks established when the City of Lincoln was first laid out in 1853, along with Scully Park. Each park spans exactly one square block—Latham Park lies two blocks northeast of the courthouse, while Scully Park is two blocks to the southwest.

Shaded by mature trees, Latham Park offers a welcoming open space ideal for family gatherings and picnics. At its heart stands the historic Band Stand, a charming focal point for the park. Latham Park also serves as a hub for community events, including the popular Concerts in the Park presented by the Lincoln Area Music Society.

The Lincoln Park District features a modern indoor fitness center equipped with courts for basketball, volleyball, and tennis, along with a variety of exercise classes. Outdoors, you'll find well-maintained baseball and softball fields, as well as a newly constructed aquatic center. This family-friendly facility includes a zero-depth pool for toddlers, a spacious lap pool, and an exciting giant water slide. Guests can unwind in lounge chairs by the pool and grab a snack or drink from the convenient concession stand.

This historic park, along with Latham Park, was among the original parks mapped out when the City of Lincoln was first established in 1853. Both parks are exactly one square block in size. Originally, Scully Park was known as Washington Park. Latham Park is situated two blocks northeast of the courthouse, while Scully Park lies two blocks to the southwest.

Scully Park offers a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of space for family fun.