Nestled in the serene countryside of Central Kentucky is the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth president of the United States, who was born here on February 12, 1809. Today, visitors from around the globe come to explore the modest origins of this remarkable figure. Here are some top tips for planning an unforgettable visit to the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace.
The First Lincoln Memorial
The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace is the first memorial dedicated to the 16th president, built to honor his modest beginnings. Construction started in 1909, coinciding with Lincoln’s centennial, and was funded by public donations from across the country. Located in LaRue County, Kentucky, on the very spot where Lincoln was born, the memorial was designed by John Russell Pope to capture the significance of this historic site. Today, it stands as a National Park, inviting visitors to explore the early life of this remarkable leader. It’s also about a thirty-minute drive from Bardstown and makes a great addition to any Kentucky road trip itinerary.
Begin at the Visitor Center
The Visitor Center at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace is the perfect place to start your visit. You can explore exhibits about Lincoln’s early years, check out fascinating artifacts, and watch a film about his life. The center also has a museum shop and friendly staff who can answer any questions you might have. It’s an ideal spot to get a thorough introduction to Lincoln’s story before you explore the site.
I especially enjoyed the museum shop. They have a number of great books on Lincoln, the Civil War, and the Lincoln family. I picked up Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker – A Novel by Jennifer Chiaverini which proved to be educational, entertaining, and a wonderful summer read!
Touring Abraham Lincoln's Birthplace
At the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace, you can join guided tours led by knowledgeable rangers who give you a deep dive into Lincoln’s early life and the site’s history. A number of tours is offered including favorites such as Walk Around the Sinking Spring Farm Tour, Into the Forest Nature Hike, Lincoln and the Kentucky Frontier, and Little Abe’s Adventures to name a few.
For our visit, we timed it to arrive in time to join the I, Too, Am a Kentuckian tour. This tour is a one-hour, half-mile adventure that takes you from the Visitor Center to the First Lincoln Memorial. You’ll see the Symbolic Cabin and gain insights into what life was like at Sinking Spring Farm.
The tour uses a wheelchair-accessible wooden boardwalk, making it perfect for those who prefer a shorter, more accessible route. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to explore the site without worrying about long distances or stairs, and it all starts at the Visitor Center.
The Memorial Building
The highlight of the visit is exploring the Memorial Building. It was constructed between 1909 and 1911 to honor the 16th president. Designed by architect John Russell Pope, this grand structure features a neoclassical style with 56 steps leading up to its entrance, symbolizing Lincoln’s 56 years of life. Inside, you’ll find a replica of the original log cabin, which was once thought to be Abraham Lincoln’s actual birthplace. However, it has since been discovered to have been built later and nearby, so it’s now considered a symbolic representation of his early home.
The cornerstone ceremony took place on February 12, 1909, the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth, with President Theodore Roosevelt in attendance. The grand opening was celebrated on November 9, 1911, with President William Howard Taft presiding over the event, which drew a crowd of 3,000 people. The Memorial Building remains a powerful testament to Lincoln’s legacy and the nation’s respect for his contributions.
Tips for Getting There
To reach the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace from Bardstown, take Highway 31E south for about 30 minutes. If you’re coming from Louisville, head south on Interstate 65, then take Highway 31E south to your destination. Both routes are straightforward and offer a scenic drive through central Kentucky, making your journey as enjoyable as the visit itself.
The weather was overcast and misty the day we visited so naturally, I took the opportunity to play a little Elvis Presley on the ride. You guessed it, Kentucky Rain.
Practical Tips
The Visitor Center at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during busy times. You can also visit the Memorial Building during these hours to see the symbolic log cabin and the sinking spring is adjacent to the parking lot just a short walk from the center.
Additionally, the Knob Creek Boyhood Home, where Lincoln spent part of his childhood, is just a short drive away, so you can easily combine these two places and explore more of his early life.
If your visit doesn’t line up with the scheduled tour times, you can still enjoy an audio tour using the National Park Service App on your smartphone for added convenience.
Keep in mind that this is a popular spot for field trips. If you’re visiting during the school year, you might want to avoid arriving right at opening time. When we visited in May, a large school group was at the Visitor Center, making it a bit crowded, especially at the restrooms. A helpful staff member suggested we check out the Sinking Spring and come back once the group had left. We took his advice, and sure enough, the group left soon after. We still had plenty of time for exploring the museum and to join the 11:00 AM tour, which started outside the center.
Abraham Lincoln's Birthplace has a range of educational programs and field trip options, and educators can access excellent curriculum materials on their website. Plus, it's a budget-friendly spot—there's no entrance fee or pass required, making it a great choice for anyone looking to explore without breaking the bank.
Nearby Attractions
There is plenty to discover and explore near the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace. In addition to the Kentucky Boyhood Home at Knob Creek and the Knob Creek Tavern Visitor Center, downtown Hodgenville, Kentucky, offers a charming blend of history and local flavor.
You can explore the quaint shops and eateries, enjoy a stroll through the picturesque town square, and visit the Abraham Lincoln Statue, a notable landmark. The area also features historical sites and museums that delve into the local heritage, making it a delightful spot to soak in small-town charm and learn more about the region’s significance.
We grabbed a latte and scones at Vibe Coffee in Hodgenville, and it was the perfect way to wind down after our tour. I absolutely loved the décor and the laid-back atmosphere—it has a really awesome vibe.
Where to Stay
When you’re visiting Hodgenville, Kentucky, you’ve got some great places to stay. You can book a room at the Best Western Plus in nearby Elizabethtown or check out local bed and breakfasts. If you’re up for something different, consider renting a cabin or vacation home. There are also campgrounds and RV parks if you prefer to stay outdoors. All these options offer a comfy place to relax while you explore the area.
We stayed at the Talbot Tavern in Bardstown, a historic B&B that provided an unforgettable and charming experience. You can read more about our time there HERE.
Pair Your Visit with a Trip to Bourbon Country
As mentioned, Hodgenville is just a short drive from Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Thus, making it a perfect complement to your visit to the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace. From here, you can easily explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, with nearby distilleries like Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam offering a taste of the region’s famous spirits.
We enjoyed checking out the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience for an in-depth look at bourbon history and tasting. Combining a trip to Hodgenville with bourbon country lets you enjoy both the historical and flavorful sides of Kentucky.
Take Aways
Our visit to the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace was truly memorable. I gained a deeper appreciation for how the site provides insights into Lincoln’s early life and how his humble beginnings influenced his later achievements. The museum and rangers do an excellent job preserving and sharing this important history. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a great experience, this place offers valuable perspectives on Lincoln’s formative years and is well worth the visit.
Likewise, downtown Hodgenville itself is charming and just a short drive from the birthplace. If you enjoy small towns, this picturesque place is imbued with character and embraces its connection to the Lincoln legacy.
In summary, the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace is the perfect addition to any Kentucky road trip, offering a presidential touch to your journey through the Bluegrass State.
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