Land of Lincoln: St. Louis, MO & Springfield, IL

Land of Lincoln: St. Louis, MO & Springfield, IL

Trip Duration: 7 Days

 

 

Trip Inclusions:

• Meals: 6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach transportation

• Baggage handling and related gratuities

• Taxes

 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

St. Louis Gateway Arch

A trip to the Gateway Arch National Park Riverfront isn’t complete without ascending to the top of the United States' tallest national monument, standing an impressive 630 feet. From the highest point in downtown St. Louis, you’ll take in breathtaking, panoramic views of the city and the mighty Mississippi River. The tram ride to the top travels at a smooth 4 mph, offering a quiet, comfortable, and safe journey. Most passengers find the short ride to be enjoyable and easygoing.

 

Gateway Arch Museum

Step into history at the Gateway Arch Museum, where six interactive story galleries immerse you in the past, present, and future. Explore over 200 years of pivotal events, multi-cultural influences, and the inspirtation behind the Gateway Arch.

Challenge yourself to consider different perspectives and discover previously untold stories that shaped the city of St. Louis and the nation's westward expansion. With each exhibit, you'll be inspired to rethink and reimagine the remarkable journey of America's growth and transformation.

 

Missouri Civil War Museum

The Missouri Civil War Museum, located at historic Jefferson Barracks, stands as the state’s premier institution dedicated to honoring the thousands of men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during this pivotal chapter in American history. Through a remarkable collection of weapons, equipment, personal items, and uniforms, the museum brings to life the stories of those who experienced the Civil War, offering an unbiased interpretation of the events that shaped our nation’s future.

 

Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site

Ulysses S. Grant is best known as the victorious Civil War general who preserved the Union and the 18th President of the United States. The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site honors his life, military achievements, and presidency.

The estate, originally owned by the family of Grant’s wife, Julia Dent Grant, was later acquired by Grant after the Civil War. Visitors can tour the historic home and explore the museum, where an informative orientation film offers deeper insights into Grant's leadership during the Civil War and his two terms as president.

 

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum

Covering an entire city block in downtown Springfield, Illinois, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is the largest presidential museum in the country. Spanning over 50,000 square feet, it features cutting-edge, full-immersion exhibits, special effects theaters, and displays of original artifacts, making it the first major Experience Museum of its kind.

Breaking away from traditional museum designs, this innovative facility uses 21st-century technology to bring 19th-century history to life. Bringing education, storytelling, and advanced entertainment technology together in a truly innovative way, the museum invites, guides, and envelops visitors in the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.

 

Abraham Lincoln Visit

Dine with our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln! Step back in time as "President Lincoln" (a professional reenactor) welcomes you to Springfield for an unforgettable evening. Enjoy lively conversation, capture a photo with the legendary leader, and experience his famous wit and wisdom.

 

Springfield, IL Sightseeing Tour

Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Springfield and learn about Lincoln's life. Highlights include:

 

New Salem State Historic Site

Step back in time to Lincoln's New Salem, where you can experience the days of a young, pre-bearded Abe, who served as Postmaster from 1833 to 1836. This historic site is a reconstructed version of the village where Lincoln lived and worked before relocating to Springfield in 1837. Explore the charm and history of New Salem, and gain a deeper understanding of the early influences that shaped one of America's greatest leaders.

 

Lincoln Home

Abraham Lincoln is known as the sixteenth president of the United States, but he was also a devoted spouse, parent, and neighbor who faced the same hopes, dreams, and challenges that resonate with many people today. The National Park Service offers guided tours of the Lincoln Home, providing visitors with an intimate look at the Lincoln family during the seventeen years they lived there. Explore Lincoln’s life as a family man while witnessing his rise as a successful lawyer and politician, all set against the backdrop of this historic home.

 

Old State Capitol Historic Site

Take a guided tour of the Old State Capitol, where Abraham Lincoln practiced law. This historic building offers a fascinating glimpse into Lincoln's legal and political career, showcasing his time in the state legislature, his trials before the Supreme Court, and the site of his renowned "House Divided" speech delivered in the Hall of Representatives.

 

Lincoln's Tomb

In the heart of our nation, on the outskirts of the city he called home, lies the final resting place of President Abraham Lincoln, his wife, and three of their children. Built with generous donations from across America, the Lincoln Tomb stands as a powerful tribute to the legacy of our greatest president and to all who fought alongside him for a new birth of freedom. Legend has it that rubbing the nose of the bronze bust at the front of the tomb brings good luck.

 

Ward Hill Lamon Visit

Join us for a special visit from "Ward Hill Lamon", who will share memories of his time with Abraham Lincoln. As Lincoln's former law partner, best friend, and White House bodyguard (though he was off duty that fateful night), Lamon offers a unique perspective on the iconic leader. A historic interpreter will meet our group during dinner on our first night in Springfield, IL, providing an unforgettable connection to history.

 

 

Meal Information:

 

Lunch on Day Three is included at The Old Spaghetti Factory 

Choices are:

• Famous Baked Lasagna: layers of noodles, marinara sauce, ground beef and pork, and four delicious cheeses

• Chicken Marsala: freshly seasoned breast of tender chicken with mushroom and marsala wine sauce. Served alongside spagetti with Mizithra cheese & browned butter.

• Marinara Sauce Pasta: from scratch receipe of fresh onions, carrots, tomatoes,and garlic sauteed in olive oil and Italian seasonings

Lunch is served with bread and garlic butter, salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, vanilla ice cream for dessert along with soft drinks, coffee or tea.

 

Dinner on Day Five is included at Maldaner's Restauran

Dinner will be served buffet style and features a mixed green salad, vegtable medley, mashed potatoes, Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce, Pistachio Encrusted Salmon, Vegetable Lasagna. Also included Brownie topped with ice cream and chocolate sauce, soft drinks, coffee and tea.

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

 

Need to Know:

 

 

Accessibility:

Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

 

The top of the Gateway Arch is not fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments.

Accomodations Day 1: Hampton Inn, Zanesville, OH

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness room. Guestrooms include mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, iron/board, and hair dryer.

 

Accomodations Days 2 & 3: Drury Plaza Downtown, St. Louis, MO

The hotel features an indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness room. Guestrooms include mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, iron/board, and hair dryer.

 

Accomodations Days 4 & 5: President Abraham Lincoln Springfield Hotel - Doubletree, Springfield, IL

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness room. Guestrooms include coffee maker, hair dryer, iron/board.

 

Accomodations Day 6: Drury Inn Convention Center, Columbus, OH

The hotel features an indoor/outdoor pool and fitness room. Guestrooms include hair dryer, coffee maker, and iron/board.