- (217) 423-7000
- tourism@decaturcvb.com
- Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 4:00pm
Menu
Welcome to the Museum and Art Gallery page, your gateway to the rich cultural heritage of Decatur. Our city is home to a remarkable collection of museums and art galleries that celebrate a diverse range of artistic expressions and historical narratives. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of art as you explore thought-provoking exhibitions, awe-inspiring installations, and masterful works by both local and internationally renowned artists. Delve into the past through our meticulously curated museums, where you can discover fascinating artifacts, explore significant moments in history, and gain a deeper understanding of our community’s heritage. From interactive displays to immersive experiences, our museums and art galleries offer something for everyone, from art enthusiasts and history buffs to families seeking educational and engaging outings. Join us on a journey of discovery and inspiration as you explore the vibrant cultural tapestry of Decatur’s museums and art galleries.
AACGS promotes and provides resources and education on the history of the African American. Embracing all cultures, it offers (in part), genealogy workshops, museum displays, storytelling, essay & poetry contests and the promotion of Cultural Arts. Three main annual community events sponsored are Black History Month, Juneteenth National Freedom Day, and Kwanzaa Celebration.
235 W. Eldorado St. Decatur, IL 62522
(217) 429-7458
A museum of Chevrolet automobiles combining various race cars, Indy 500 Pacecars, and original unrestored examples of some of their finest automobiles built. This is all combined with one of the most extensive Chevrolet memorabilia collections ever viewed by the public. It is a must-see experience for automobile or race car buffs!
3635 US Route 36 East
1-(888) 926-9843 or (217) 454-4583
Children’s Museum of Illinois is a hands-on, interactive museum for children ages two to twelve, with exhibits and activities that complement and enhance children’s educational opportunities. The Museum is located on the shores of Lake Decatur in Scovill Park, adjacent to Scovill Zoo.
It is ranked as one of the top 25 children’s museums in the United States.
Closed on all major holidays.
55 S. Country Club Road Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-5437
You can’t turn on your faucet, go roller skating, get a drink at a public fountain or drive your car without thinking about Hieronymus Mueller. Visit this interesting and award-winning museum, showcasing all this amazing inventor’s contributions to modern technology! Decatur’s “unsung genius” held over 500 patents. Among this exceptional facility’s treasures is the seventh of only eight cars manufactured by Mueller.
Special group tour rates and appointments are available.
420 W. Eldorado Decatur, IL 62523
(217) 423-6161
The Prairie Years and Victorian Era in Central Illinois come to life in exhibits at the Macon County History Museum. “The Lincoln Connection Exhibit” tells the story of Abraham Lincoln’s connection to Decatur and Macon County, and displays one of only two matching chairs that Lincoln owned and used in his Springfield, IL law office. Extensive Lincoln papers and reference materials can also be found in the Museum’s library.
5580 North Fork Road Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 422-4919
Housed in the restored Staley Mansion, the Staley Museum preserves the history of the A. E. Staley Family, the Staley Historic Home and the A. E. Staley Manufacturing Co., especially as it pertains to the history of the city of Decatur and the larger agricultural community. The Museum serves as a repository of information, historical documentation and memorabilia, as well as a cultural and educational contributor to the community of Decatur.
361 N. College Street Decatur, IL 62522
(217) 422-1212
The warm, welcoming and slightly funky Madden Arts Center is a richly renovated hub where the Decatur Area Arts Council makes its home. The building houses galleries, classrooms, an art shop, photo lab and rehearsal spaces. The Anne Lloyd Gallery showcases local exhibits as well as extraordinary traveling collections. The gallery spotlights an International Arts Experience exhibition over an 8-week period each summer.
The “Art of Entrepreneurship” program (of which the Blue Connection Gallery is an integral part) has been developed to unite the strengths of two of Millikin’s Professional Schools: the Tabor School of Business and the College of Fine Arts. You will find all types of art displayed at The Blue Connection. Be sure to stop in and browse. Who knows…a promising student’s work purchased today, could turn out to be a valuable masterpiece tomorrow!
The David Erlanson Art Gallery is located in the center of the Richland Community College campus and is used to display artwork of students, faculty, and professional artists. Each month, a new artist is featured and the public is invited to a reception honoring the artist.
This intimate space showcases a wide range of works from regional artists, while enhancing the college’s art program.
The Second Floor Gallery, in partnership with Gallery 510, showcases local and regional artwork year-round. Frequently local and national traveling exhibits are displayed. In conjunction with the featured exhibits the library presents topic-specific programs and events.
Second Floor Gallery 130 N. Franklin Street
Decatur, IL 62523
In 2005, Gallery 510 sold its original home at 510 West Decatur Street, and Gallery 510 Arts Guild, Ltd. moved into downtown Decatur for increased visibility and service to participating artists.
Located a few steps around the corner from the Madden Arts Center, this gallery is a cooperative venue for professional and emerging artists, displaying varying works from paintings and sculptures to glass, textiles, pottery and fiber art.
Three galleries on the Millikin University Campus feature changing artist exhibits during the academic year. The Perkinson Gallery and The Lower Gallery display works from Millikin student artists and nationally-known artists.
Millikin University 1184 W. Main Street
Decatur, IL 62522