Ten Kentucky Tourist Places: Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park (#7)

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Time to continue on with a look at some of the great things that Kentucky has to offer (other than myLotters Lori Moore and myself ). I'm counting down ten great places to visit to tell everyone about my state, and also to hopefully convince John Roberts that he must see this place in person. (Working yet, John?) Here's the next spot on the list. #7: Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park Yeah, Illinois claims "the land of Lincoln," but he was born here! Just outside of Hodgenville (closest bigger town: Elizabethtown; closest town you've heard of: Louisville [or Rooster Run, whichever ]) is the National Historical Park that is situated on the Sinking Spring Farm where the family lived when our 16th president was born. The highlight, of course, is the marble memorial building, accessible to the healthy by 56 steps (one for each year of Lincoln's life), which houses a replica of a period-era log cabin similar to that in which the Lincoln family lived. If you aren't healthy, or even if you are and want the scenic route, there is an accessible walking trail that also will take you to the top of the hill. It's a gorgeous walk through the woods on a wooden pathway with handrails, where you'll usually see little critters like chipmunks and squirrels. Additionally, the "sinking spring" is also viewable. It's the "well" that provided drinking water for the family. The visitor's center has movies, facts about Lincoln's life, and gifts. Outside, the grounds are beautiful for a walk, a picnic (no picnic tables that I remember seeing), or just enjoying the shade in the summer. An interesting footnote: Confederate States of America president Jefferson Davis was also born in Kentucky. Admission is free. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park Located near Hodgenville (about 60 miles south of Louisville) A video about the park: