BN Life

McLean County Museum of History and Visitors Center Re-Opening!

The McLean County Museum of History and Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center will reopen to the public at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 1! To make it even more exciting, they are opening their doors again on the first Saturday of the Outdoor Farmers’ Market Season that takes place on the Museum Square!

Housed inside the old McLean County Courthouse where an up-and-coming Abraham Lincoln practiced law, the museum features permanent and national, award-winning rotating exhibits that explore the history of Central Illinois. The Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center combines two of McLean County’s most significant attractions: President Abraham Lincoln and Route 66. Visitors can compare the travels of Lincoln with those of tourists and automobilists during the golden era of Route 66. Interactive exhibits, video monitors, visitor information and a gift shop are also included in the center.

In preparation for reopening with guidance from State, City, and public health authorities, the Museum will reopen with new operating hours, adhering to standard health and safety measures, including social distancing throughout the facility and the wearing of masks.

New Museum safety protocols include:

• The Museum, in accordance with the Restore Illinois Phased Plan for reopening and following Illinois State Mandates, requires any individual over the age of 2 to wear a face covering while inside our building. If you are unable to do so for any reason, you can still engage with the Museum by accessing our online resources at mchistory.org.
• If you are exhibiting any symptoms or have a temperature above 100.4 degrees, please https://www.mchistory.org/visit do not visit the Museum. A checklist of symptoms will be provided at the Visitor Center desk upon entry.
• Physical distancing of at least six feet is required inside the building when possible. Please follow directional flow arrows and floor markers throughout the building. Please visit:   https://www.mchistory.org/visit  for more details.

The Museum will be monitored by staff. Each exhibit will be limited to a maximum of 10 guests, and no more than 20 guests will be allowed to occupy the building at one time. Mondays and Wednesdays are reserved for patrons and/or groups who wish to schedule visits in advance. Should you wish to make a reservation on either of these days, please email education@mchistory.org or call 309-827-0428.

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